This session explores the link between experiential learning (EL) and college students' awareness of their capacity for empathy. Together, we will examine what the scholarship says about empathy development within EL projects and experiences for college aged students, as well as the original research conducted by the presenter. Data presented will also include a brief meta analysis of what the scholarship says, as well as providing the methodology of the dissertation research and questions for examination. Pre-recorded presentation will be followed by examination of empathy and El and develop potential action items to dive deeper upon the conclusion of the session. Participants can expect to explore the connection between empathy and EL and how to support this type of work.

|Learning outcomes:

• Participants will understand the connections between empathy and experiential learning
• Participants will explore why empathy development is important
• Participants will discuss ways to support high-quality, equitable experiential learning that supports empathy development in students.