Day 9: Campus Connections

Campus life can be hectic, filled with early mornings, late nights, exams, and countless deadlines. But at universities across Indianapolis, students, faculty, and staff have discovered a special source of comfort and connection: Paws & Think therapy dogs.

Through partnerships with local colleges and universities, including our ongoing collaboration with the University of Indianapolis, our therapy teams bring stress-relief, encouragement, and joy to campuses in creative ways. From visiting during finals week to helping students take a mindful pause, to designing service projects that engage student organizations, our programs are tailored to meet the needs of campus communities while fostering intergenerational connection and compassion.

 “Our collaboration with Paws & Think continues to inspire our campus community,” says Marianna Foulkrod, the Director of Service-Learning & Community Engagement at the University of Indianapolis. “Each therapy dog visit brings comfort, joy, and a powerful reminder of the impact compassionate service can have. This partnership fosters meaningful opportunities for our students, faculty, and staff to connect, learn, and serve. Their therapy dog visits and engagement initiatives not only support well-being on our campus but also model the power of community collaboration in action. Through service-learning and volunteer initiatives, our students, faculty, and staff continue to gain hands-on experiences that strengthen both their well-being and their connection to the community.”

These visits don’t just offer temporary relief; they create lasting memories and opportunities for growth. Students gain hands-on experiences that strengthen their leadership, empathy, and sense of community. Faculty and staff benefit from moments of calm and encouragement, while everyone is reminded of the power of service, teamwork, and compassion in action.

Give Joy Today

Your support helps us continue bringing Paws & Think therapy dogs to campuses across the city, creating moments of joy, comfort, and connection for thousands of students, faculty, and staff.

Give today and help us bring more tails of joy to campuses across Indianapolis.