On a service trip, Macy Fleury ’26 helps build houses and better lives

Macy Fleury ’26, an exercise science major from Naperville, spends significant time training as a pentathlete and heptathlete for the North Central track and field program. Her desire to give her all and lead a team has led to contributing her physical skills to causes off the track, as well. After the spring 2024 semester, Fleury spent a week in Florida with a group from BREAKAWAY, a North Central student organization that hosts service trips all over the United States and abroad. Learn more about Macy, the service trip she went on, and the many ways she’s pursuing her passions at North Central.  

How did you get involved with BREAKAWAY?  

I joined BREAKAWAY during the fall semester of my freshman year. Community service has always been a huge part of my life. I’ve done everything from helping out with Special Olympics to creating my own non-profit running camp that raises money for cardiac research, so I wanted to find a way to carry that passion for service to NC. I joined BREAKAWAY as their event coordinator, and eventually became vice president. Since then, I have attended all of their events and service trips, and I look forward to serving as president this upcoming year!  

What was your most recent BREAKAWAY service trip like?  

From May 12-17, BREAKAWAY traveled with a group of 10 students, one graduate assistant, and one staff member to Punta Gorda, Florida. We worked with Habitat for Humanity to provide affordable housing to those in need. The majority of our time involved putting up the framing of two houses. We spent four days raising walls, putting up plywood, and installing hurricane braces. It was such a fulfilling experience, especially since we worked alongside the homeowners and learned about their lives. By the end of our trip, both houses were several steps closer to being move-in ready!   

Coincidentally, a unique aspect of the trip was that we had an all-woman group! Habitat for Humanity later expressed that most of their volunteers are male, so they have been trying to encourage more women to volunteer on the job sites. They were thrilled that we just happened to have an all-woman group!    

What are your three favorite things about North Central?  

First, I love how North Central gives me opportunities to succeed in all aspects of my passions. I am challenged in my academic, athletic, and leadership endeavors. I also love how our courses fit together. There is a lot of overlap, and it helps build connections between a variety of content. Lastly, I love the athletic community. It’s inspiring to see so many athletes working to achieve their goals!  

What would you tell someone who's considering enrolling at North Central?  

If you’re looking for somewhere that will allow you to explore your passions and interests, NC is the perfect place! Whether it’s academics, athletics, or student organizations, there is something for everyone here!