SLU Launches Social Justice Computing Program

A new program at Saint Louis University’s School of Business is partnering two key SLU philosophies — service to others and sustainability —  to provide home computers to area students who don’t have them.

The idea for the “Social Justice Computing Project” began with Craig Van Slyke, associate professor of decision sciences and information technology management and associate dean of the business school, while he was involved in a year-long seminar on the Jesuit mission.

“The Social Justice Computing Project has been a great way for service leaders from the School of Business to combine their technological savvy with their altruistic values,” said Rob Boyle, manager of leadership programs. “Each time a computer is updated and delivered, there is a real sense of satisfaction that a significant difference has been made in the academic life of a young person in mid-town St. Louis.”

Student involvement goes beyond just dropping off a computer at someone’s house or setting it up at a youth center. From getting the word out to those who have computer equipment to donate to erasing all the data from the old hard drive and installing programs, it’s a hands-on experience.

“To me, the Social Justice Computing Project helps SLU live up to the culture of being men and women for and with others by helping those in need,” Thanh Truong, a junior majoring in accounting, said. “Every time I finish a computer delivery, it is very exciting for me. It only takes a little of our time to make such an impact on someone’s life.” [Saint Louis University]