All groups deserve the same time in the spotlight, as campus and community engagement is one of the strongest driving forces here at the university. Covering all of the groups would prove to be quite the challenge though, so for now we’re giving spotlight to four groups specifically. From Sexuality and Gender Alliance’s open doors, to Rotaract’s community involvement and over to Authentically Me Natural Hair Club and African Student Association through the Multicultural Center. Every club and organization is almost always looking for more members, so why not give them a shot. 

Sexuality and Gender Alliance

Sexuality and Gender Alliance (SAGA) is a safe space and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community on campus. Their mission is to provide students with resources they need. They have general meetings every Wednesday at 6 p.m. in the Student Life Lounge in the lower level of University Center East, where they talk about resources and various LGBTQ+ topics, such as intersectionality and cultures. Javin Sonheim, president of SAGA, writes  “Anyone is welcome to our club whether you’re an ally or a part of the community!“

Rotaract

Rotaract is a new club on campus chartering through Rotary International, bringing college-level focus to values of leadership, service and networking. The organization establishes itself through service projects, including volunteering at the Evansville Rescue Mission and creating tie blankets for the hospital’s infusion center.

 The club plans to connect with Rotaract chapters like the University of Evansville and Indiana University while introducing students to prominent Evansville community members. 

Faculty advisor Abbas Foroughi, a computer information systems professor and active rotary member, provides invaluable guidance and community connections. 

“We want our members to know that we are ready to collaborate, and that if there are organizations or causes important to you, we want to help!” Mallory Friend, rotaract president, wrote to The Shield. “We want to grow into a strong, yet ever-changing student org.”

Authentically Me Natural Hair Club

Authentically Me Natural Hair Club provides a space for students to connect, empower themselves and celebrate their authentic identities through the art of hair. 

 This organization recognizes hair as a powerful form of self-expression.

“It has been a visual canvas since the beginning of time,” Jada Hogg, club advisor, wrote.

The club welcomes anyone interested in learning about their hair care. It focuses on essential components including styling techniques and maintenance practices, while creating space for open discussions about hair. Members have opportunities to learn practical skills while exploring how hair relates to personal and cultural identity. 

Throughout each semester, the club hosts various events. 

Interested students can connect with Jada Hogg, interim director of the multicultural center, to learn more about joining.

African Student Association

The African Student Association (ASA) brings together African students to promote socio-cultural diversity and create meaningful connections within the campus community. 

The organization’s comprehensive mission includes establishing a strong African student presence, developing cultural ties with other student organizations and fostering understanding within the broader American community.

 ASA is dedicated to educating students about Africa’s rich culture, complex history, diverse economies and political structures.

Originally founded as the African Cultures Club in the Center for International Programs, the organization was rebirthed in 2024 and now operates through the Multicultural Center. 

“As a university, we are seeing an increased population of domestic students from an African descent,” writes Jada Hogg, interim director of the multicultural center. The organization creates a welcoming space where students can maintain connections to their heritage while building community on campus. 

Students interested in joining ASA can contact Club President Oreoluwa Lemboye at [email protected].