Students gathered Friday, Sept. 18, on the lawn outside the coffee shop at Southern Nazarene University for the campus Club Fair. Those who attended were given the opportunity to learn about the many organizations and clubs at SNU and find new ways to become involved on campus.
The fair featured a variety of clubs focused on faith, creativity, service, and community. SNU students could meet club members, learn about upcoming events, and find organizations that matched their interests.
Will Strawn, a junior and president of Circle K International (CKI), said the fair is an important way for students to learn about different opportunities on campus. “The purpose of the club fair is to introduce students to some of the opportunities to connect around campus,” Strawn said. “Clubs are a great opportunity to meet new people with similar interests!”
CKI focuses on leadership development and community service. Strawn said the organization provides opportunities for students to improve their surrounding community while also preparing themselves for success after graduation. Since CKI is an international organization, members can also access additional leadership development and training opportunities.
Strawn strongly encourages students who may feel nervous and have doubts about joining a club to attend an event and give it a chance. “Knowing all of the people here at SNU, they’re all super kind and would be really excited to have you join their club,” Strawn explained. “If a club interests you, don’t be afraid to go to one of their events and try it out!”
Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) was another organization represented at the fair. President of FCA, junior Kane Springer, said the club welcomes both athletes and nonathletes. “We keep it all about the main thing, and it’s the name of Jesus,” Springer stated. “We bring in athletes and nonathletes into a place where they can play games, connect with others, and be encouraged to live their lives boldly for Jesus.”
Springer mentioned one of his favorite parts of FCA is creating relationships with other students. He recalled a meeting last year when Kelby Bales, a Tulsa based sports professional, competitive powerlifter and FCA volunteer, came to speak, and three students gave their lives to Jesus. Bales has volunteered with FCA at camps and other events, combining his involvement in athletics with his faith and service to students. For students who may be hesitant to join, Springer encourages them to take the first step. “The best thing you can do is just go all in,” Springer expressed.
Students interested in service and creativity could also learn about The Letters to Stormy Club. Sophomore Alexia Goossens serves as co-president, club sponsorship coordinator, and graphic designer. She said the club focuses on writing and crafting to encourage others, themselves, and the surrounding community.
Goossens explained the club hopes to partner with communities such as SNU alumni and Council Grove to spread encouragement and Christ-like love. “We hope they can come to the club knowing it’s a safe space where they can fellowship with others and build relationships with fellow peers,” Goossens remarked.
The Prayer Club also provided students with an opportunity to connect with each other. Olivia Dooley, a senior and a member of the club, said getting involved allows students to find community with others who share similar interests. Dooley said the Prayer Club is unique because it gives students time to “rest, reset, and talk to God in a small, close community.” She also enjoys that there is no pressure surrounding how students participate and pray. “Getting involved outside of class can help grow relationships and make campus feel more like a home and less like a school,” Dooley explained.
For students who attended the Sept. 18th Club Fair, the event offered more than a list of booths lined up. It provided an opportunity to find a community, build relationships, and become more involved and connected on campus.
Strawn encouraged students to take advantage of the opportunities available to them. “Nobody wants to look back on college and say, ‘I just sat in my dorm room and went to class,’” Strawn replied. “Being involved allows you to make memories and develop as a person.”
With so many opportunities available, the question remains: where will you find your place and purpose at SNU?
Photos provided by: SNU Creative