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Alpha
Phi Omega
Alpha
Phi Omega is a co-ed service fraternity with over 650 chapters in
the U. S. and 350 in the Philippines. The Nu Beta chapter was established
on the campus of Hope College in 1959. Nu Beta has one rush and one pledge
each semester. They are involved with the Red Cross by sponsoring blood
drives, and work closely with the local Boy Scouts of America when they need volunteers.
Other projects in which Alpha Phi Omega has participated include: Holland's Project
Pride, AIDS Walk, crop walks, and visiting nursing homes.
Amnesty International
Amnesty International is a nonprofit organization dedicated to international
relief efforts from torture and international promotion of human rights
as defined by the United Nations' Declaration of Human Rights. Amnesty
activities on campus have been directed towards generating interest and
awareness of international human rights issues. Amnesty has regular letter
writing meetings and also holds discussions with interested professors
about pertinent global issues.
Anchor
The Anchor has been the college newspaper since
1887, changing and evolving into the bi-weekly 12 page spread that
it is today. Staff ranges from
25-30 contributors with 17 full-time members. As a fully student run
publication, students are responsible for every aspect of production
from sports
reporting
to campus beat editorials as well as design and advertising. Each year
the Anchor releases a two page color spread of the Pull and continues
the tradition of an in-jest April Fool's Day paper, the Ranchor. To learn
new ideas and broaden their skills, the Anchor staff also attends
the National
College Media convention every year. Anchor contributors range from first-year students
to seniors, some studying in the areas of Communication or English
and
others just out to have fun. Anyone can get involved at any time and
the Anchor is always looking for fresh ideas.
Baker
Scholars
Much more than number crunchers, the Baker Scholars look for depth in their education. Striving for excellence in scholarship,
leadership, service,
and character, this group of Management, Economics and Accounting majors
works to prepare for the business world after graduation.
The group's mission is to provide educational opportunities for members
beyond
that which is possible in the classroom in order to fully develop the
leadership potential of members as they prepare to enter the business
community. Being active in the business community means connecting with
established leaders in the community. Baker Scholars travel to cities
through the United States to learn about business and interact with alumni
and other business leaders.
Biology
Club and BBB Honor Society
The Hope Biology Club and the BBB Honor Society and the BBB Honor Society are voluntary clubs in which
members participate in a variety of social and service events throughout
West Michigan. The Biology Club is open to all Hope Biology majors, prospective
majors, or persons with an interest in biology. The BBB Honor Society
is open to Biology Majors who meet certain academic criteria and who show
an active interest in participation in BBB activities. The club volunteers
its time with events such as a Beach Sweep with Environmental Issues Group,
natural disaster relief, and a Red Cross bone marrow drive. Social events
include camping at PJ Hoffmaster State Park, visiting the Chicago Art
Museum, and attending presentations such as a talk given by E.O. Wilson
and James Watson in Chicago. Their fundraising efforts include several
homemade bread sales throughout the year. Beta Beta Beta has also sponsored
the annual "Survival of the Fittest" 5K race.
Black
Student Union
The Black Student Union was established in 1967 and is currently located
within the offices of the Martha Miller Center for Global Communication. The mission of the group is to aid
in the establishment of diversity and to promote equality on Hope's campus
by utilizing African American history, experiences, issues, and perspectives.
The group holds events on campus to educate and stimulate the community
and strengthen the identity of members of the African American race. By
doing this they create an environment in which all cultures are visible
and accessible to fellow students, thereby opening an avenue for understanding,
learning, and appreciation of different cultures. The Black Student Union
welcomes anyone committed to, or interested in the mission of the Black
Student Union regardless of race, religion, sex, or nationality.
Car
Club
Formed from a group of car enthusiasts, the Car Club symbolizes everything
that any automotive fan should resonate with: socialization, car shows,
and working on cars.
Career
Advisor
The office of College and Career Planning knows that students can learn
a lot from each other. Career advisors are paraprofessional members of
the career services staff. Sophomores, juniors, or seniors with strong
academic standings and excellent interpersonal skills are hired by Career
Services to help other students get started in the career planning process.
Career Advisors hold workshops in the residence halls as well as coordinate
a Career Night during the fall semester and an Academic Majors Fair during
the spring semester. These are paid positions and advisors usually dedicate
seven hours a week to the job.
Club Sports
Hope College offers athletic club opportunities
in many areas not represented by varsity sports. These clubs are
student run and organized with the
support of the college. Each club sport plays club teams from other colleges both large
and small. Competition can range from very competitive to simply for fun
depending on the sport and opponent. Teams hold weekly practices and often
travel on weekends for tournaments. Club sports are open to all students
interested in the sport regardless of past experience. Clubs are created
by interest within the student body. A neat aspect of club sports is that
if a group of students has a strong commitment and determination, they
can start a new club team at any time. Club teams are a great way to continue
with a sport you love, meet new friends, and stay active. Current club teams
include Ice Hockey, Sailing, Ultimate Frisbee, Lacrosse, and the Pom Pon Squad.
Council
for Exceptional Children (CEC)
In 1987, Hope College started a student chapter of Council for Exceptional
Children. Over the years the CEC chapter has evolved into a strong service/learning
organization. The activities include service to the community as well
as providing special learning events. One of the focal points each year
includes student attendance at the annual Michigan CEC Conference. In
many instances, students are able to hear, see and meet leading
educators and celebrities from across the country.
Dance
Marathon
Each year, hundreds of Hope College students dance non-stop
for 24 hours straight to raise money for children at DeVos Children's
Hospital in Grand
Rapids during the annual Dance Marathon. It is the largest, longest, and most fun party on campus. Over
$325,000 has been raised to help kids in need during the past six years.
Many student organizations, residence halls, sororities and fraternities,
and members of the faculty and staff sponsor a family from the hospital. Hundreds of students
are needed to dance, be moralers for the dancers, and plan the non-stop
entertainment, food, public relations, website development, and many
other
jobs. If you like to plan events, have a ton of fun, and help kids in
need this is the organization for you!
Engineers Without
Borders
Engineers Without Borders - USA (EWB-USA) is a national non-profit
humanitarian organization established to partner with developing
communities worldwide in order to improve their quality of life.
The partnership involves implementing environmentally and economically
sustainable engineering projects while involving and training
internationally responsible engineering professionals.
The Hope chapter will be designing and implementing a water purification
system in Nkuf, a 300-member community in Cameroon in Africa, and will
also help the residents learn how to maintain the system once it is in
place.
Environmental
Issues
The Environmental Issues Group at Hope is a catalyst for environmental
action in the College and Holland commuities. Through education and action
the group seeks to motivate individuals to understand, care for, and improve
the ecological conditions in the areas in which they live. The group strives
to participate in events locally and globally that make the world a more
environmentally friendly place to live. EIG sponsors guest speakers, organizes
the campus recycling program, takes part in the International Coastal
Cleanup along the shore of Lake Michigan, and organizes Earth Week. Each
spring they hold the Earth Jam concert on campus in the Pine Grove. This
day starts with dune grass or tree planting in the morning followed by
an afternoon of local music, poems and articles about preserving the earth,
and opportunities to get involved in local environmental activities.
German
Club
The German Club is open to all students who enjoy or are interested in
German language, food, or culture. Typically, the German Club meets every other
week and also gathers for special events such as German dinners and film
nights. For almost 50 years the German Club has been successful bringing
both social and educational opportunities to campus.
Gospel
Choir
The Gospel Choir was initially an extension of
the Black Student Union and met on an "as-needed" basis. In 1992, the
choir was formally organized. The choir now meets every Monday night
and has over 150 members. Membership
is open to all Hope College students, faculty, and staff and has gained
quite a following among Hope students and the community alike. The choir holds
a number of concerts throughout the year around West Michigan and often takes
a long weekend to perform further away. Each year they hold a weekend of large,
very popular concerts on campus which pack Dimnent Memorial Chapel.
Greek Life
Six
fraternities and seven sororities comprise Greek Life on Hope's campus, emphasizing
values including leadership, service/social responsibility, character,
individual member development, brotherhood/sisterhood and faith. Most
are local, with two national existing as well. Many of these organizations have a college-owned
cottage which serves as living quarters and a center for activities.
Approximately 11 percent of the student body belongs to these Greek organizations.
Rush and new member education events take place in the spring semester.
Habitat
for Humanity
With close to 100 students, Habitat for Humanity represents the fight against homelessness and the creation of decent
housing for low-income
families. One project the group took on consisted of a year long rebuilding
of the Mendoza House several blocks from campus. Habitat for Humanity
volunteers are much more than builders. They are a link between the Holland
community and the students of Hope College. Each Halloween, the chapter sponsors
a party with the Black Student Union for the children of Habitat families.
In order to raise money for their projects, the students do a fall cleanup
by raking and doing lawn maintenance for faculty members.
Each year Habitat gathers cardboard boxes
and invites all students to sleep in the Pine Grove at the center of campus.
This event gives students a feel for what it is like to be homeless and
creates a message of awareness for the entire Hope community.
Higher
Horizons
Higher Horizons is a Big Brothers/Big Sisters
Program located in Holland. The organization works to match both
Hope students and interested
community members with a "little" from the area who needs a positive
role model in their life. Over 70 Hope mentors participate in meaningful relationships
with area youth. The commitment is simple, 2-6 hours a week and a caring
heart. Since the idea is to spend time rather than money, local businesses
as well as the College provide coupons and discounts for recreation.
Throughout
the year, Higher Horizons holds programs such as an Easter egg hunt, a beach picnic,
and dog sledding.
History
Honor Society
Phi Alpha Theta, the national honor society in History, was established
in 1921. Since its inauguration the society has grown to more than seven
hundred chapters in all fifty states. In fact, it has more chapters than
any other accredited honor society. The mission of the society is to promote
the study of history through the encouragement of research, good teaching,
publication, and the exchange of ideas among historians. Phi Alpha Theta seeks to bring
students, teachers, and writers of history together for intellectual and
social exchanges. Members of Phi Alpha Theta are eligible for several
awards and scholarships to be put toward graduate study.
Hope
Democrats
The Hope
Democrats have three basic goals: to assist Democratic candidates,
to promote Democratic values, and to build a network of student Democrat
activists. Through voter registration, door-to-door canvassing, phone
banking, and other activities, the Hope Democrats provide much needed
assistance to Democratic politicians during the election cycle. Through
weekly meetings and frequent events, they do their best to ensure the
campus community is familiar with the ideals of all the Democratic party
and education on the issues that affect all lives.
Hope
Republicans
The purpose of the Hope Republicans is to provide
a forum in which political topics can be explored. Members are given
the opportunity to converse
with elected representatives at the federal, state, and local levels
and are encouraged to assist in campaign efforts. Faculty from the Political
Science Department also facilitate discussions of current political issues.
Perhaps most importantly, the Hope Republicans attempt to reflect and
advance
the conservative political values of the Republican Party through their
actions and by example.
Ice
Hockey Club
One of the most popular club sports at Hope College for both participants and
observers is the hockey team. Established in 1996, the inception of the
team added another dimension to Hope's sports scene as well as intensifying
rivalries with nearby schools. The team was an instant hit with the student
body and Hope community. Games often draw over 1,500 fans. The team plays
a 15 game schedule with games against hockey teams from both small and
large schools. Experience on the team ranges from Junior A hockey to beginners.
Everyone who wishes to play is welcome.
Independent
Music Club
The Independent Music Club exists as a means to connect those interested
in non-radio music genres and to expose others to those genres.
Intramural
Sports
Intramural Sports are available to all students
regardless of past experience or athletic ability. The sports offered
range from very competitive leagues
such as basketball to just for fun such as Walleyball or co-ed innertube
water polo teams. Teams can be composed of friends from a dorm, a lab group,
greek organizations, Bible study groups, and much more. At the start
of each semester there are open registration times. You can register
with
a team or meet people by being placed on a team. Champions in each sport
win a t-shirt and are publicized as the winners for the year on the Intramural
Website and info board in the Dow Physical Education Center.
International
Relations
Maintaining ties among the club's international students as well as with
its American student members is the main goal of the International
Relations Club. IRC exists to provide a social outlet for all students interested
in cultures through social gatherings and educational activities. The
International Relations Club provides a support structure for international
students studying in Holland as well as opportunities for American students
to interact with international students. IRC promotes cultural diversity
on campus and exposes the Holland Community to cultural traditions and
art through IRC sponsored events.
Investment
Club
Members of the Investment Club meet regularly to evaluate the stock market,
mutual fund performance, trends in investing and creating a sound economic
portfolio for their individual members. Speakers from the community regularly
come to meetings to share their insights. An emphasis is also placed in
investing from a Christian perspective.
I.VE
League
The I.VE League supports and encourages women students
as leaders on Hope's campus. It is named after a 1924 graduate of Hope,
Isla Van Eenenaam.
Mrs. Van Eenenaam returned to her alma mater in 1960 as a house mother
for Vorhees Hall. From 1963-1968 she was the Dean of Women. Throughout
her time at Hope she was influential in the development of women on campus.
I.VE League members are rooted in leadership, called to grow through
service
to others, and develop ways to connect our communities. I.VE League is
a place where students are grounded in a supportive environment enabling
them to discuss leadership issues relevant to women, learn from each
other, and develop leadership skills. Students are nominated for membership
either
by a professor or a current I.VE League member. The group meets every
other week, hosting speakers from the Holland and Hope community. Members
are required to participate in a community service activity during each
semester. Some of the organizations served in the past are Habitat for
Humanity, CROP Walk, Holland City Mission, Community Action House, Higher
Horizons, and Upward Bound.
Japan
Club
Japan Club is an active organization of individuals united by their interest
in Japan and other Asian cultures. The club plans and organizes several
activities throughout the year designed to expose and introduce anyone
interested to the many wonderful facets and mysteries of this wonderful
and truly unique island country. Japan Club is open to all Hope College
students and faculty.
Kings
and Queens Chess Club
Kings and Queens Chess Club holds weekly meetings. Whether a beginner
or experienced chess player, come join us for a game of chess and a chance
to socialize.
Knitting
Club
The Knitting Club allows students to be involved creatively through knitting. The members of the group have the benefit of
sharing ideas, patterns, needles, and techniques while socializing with
other knitters. All students are welcome.
La
Raza Unida
La
Raza Unida stives to promote an understanding
of Latino culture in the Hope College and Holland communities. La RU
serves the students of
Hope by introducing them to the richness of various Latino cultures (Cuban,
Dominican, Mexican, Puerto Rican, etc.) through activities and programs.
The purpose of this organization is to encourage students to look at
the issues beyond cultural differences and focus on the wonderful and
unique
qualities that make Latino and non-Latino students on the Hope College
campus work together for academic and social unity. La RU does not discriminate
in membership or events. We encourage all members -- regardless of race,
nationality, sex, or religion -- of the Hope and Holland communities
to
join us in sharing their presence, interest, questions, and ideas at
all the meetings and events.
Men's
and Women's Lacrosse
These men's
lacrosse and women's
lacrosse teams
provide opportunities for students to compete against other collegiate
and community lacrosse teams from across the Midwest.
Practices usually last for two hours and occur three times a week in
the fall and the spring. Knowledge of lacrosse is not required, but
helpful
for membership.
Milestone
As time and seasons change, so does the face of the college community.
To preserve a yearly segment of this change, the yearbook staff produces
the Milestone. The Milestone staff is made of about 20 people, including
editors, writers, photographers, and designers. Annual events for the
yearbook staff include a trip to the production plant to see the entire
process unfold as well as attending the National College Media Conference
where fundamentals of yearbook production are learned. The Milestone
is open to all students interested.
Model
U.N.
Model United Nations is sponsored through the Political
Science Department and gives its members the opportunities to learn
about international relations.
This group annual sponsors a large, regional Model U.N. conference for
area high school students.
Mortar
Board
Mortar Board was established in 1918 as a national
honor society for outstanding college students. There are over 205 chapters
located throughout the United
States. The Hope chapter has been in existence since 1961. The 1997 National
Vision Statement reads: "Mortar Board has historically selected as its
members those persons who have demonstrated scholarship, leadership, and
service. Such recognition is not only a statement of achievement but also
an affirmation of potential." Traditional Mortar Board events include
the Wearing of the Blue Breakfast to honor freshman and sophomore Dean's
List students, H.O.P.E. Professor Educator Award presented annually to a
Hope
professor, and National Mortar Board Week including events displaying
leadership, scholarship, and service. The organization also participates in many
service projects throughout the community including Canned Goods Trick-or-Treating,
Rake-a-thon, and Children's Book Drive.
Nurses'
Christian Fellowship
Nurses Christian Fellowship was formed for students pursing a nursing
degree and wish to integrate their service to others with their Christian
faith. Members actively participate in community service, weekly Bible
studies and fellowship about partnering their faith with their chosen
profession.
Nykerk
The Nykerk Cup competition dates back to 1936
when Dr. Bernard Nykerk, professor of English challenged the women
of the freshman and sophomore
classes to a competition. The Nykerk cup is handed down from year to
year as the freshman women compete against the sophomore women in
song, drama,
and oration. The event becomes a campus-wide competition between the
even and odd year classes as members of the junior and senior classes
coach
the freshman and sophomore classes respectively. The Nykerk paradox molds
three frenzied weeks of preparations into a night of seamless performances.
Twenty-one days before Nykerk night, Song Women first see their music,
Play Women first make the images in their imagination a reality,
and the
Orator meshes word images into a twenty-minute creative performance.
The bond grows as the unprepared spend a couple hours each evening
to make
the performance perfect. In only three weeks, a myriad of voices becomes
one, an ensemble of actors sees the same vision, and the sum of
thoughts
becomes greater than the whole. It is an experience held dear by the
hundreds of women prepared for their night on the Civic Center stage.
Over 330
students are involved in this amazing event. The Nykerk Cup competition
takes place each year during Parents Weekend, typically the first
Saturday
of November. The event is open to the public.
Opus
Opus is the campus literary magazine and organization for the support
of creative writing and the arts. As a student-led organization, each
year Opus produces a fall and spring literary magazine, giving students
an opportunity for expression by presenting their prose, poetry, photography,
and art work. The Opus Board reviews materials submitted by students for
publication. In addition Opus sponsors regular artistic forums throughout
the year, giving students and faculty a chance to read their works as
well as hear those of others. Envied by colleges around the country, Opus
sponsors the very popular Visiting Writers Series, which brings poets,
fiction writers, essayists, new voices and old friends, jazz and folk
musicians to campus. The series hosts eight to ten artists each year in
free performances, open to the public.
Outdoor
Adventure Club
The members of the Outdoor
Adventure Club love the outdoors. This group
takes routing trips to climbing walls, mountain biking on Lake Michigan
trails, camping trips up North and canoe and kayak trips. All trips
are
partially subsidized by the Student Activities fee and reduce the price
of trips. Students can help to plan the trips or just sign up for the
adventures.
Panhellenic
Council and Interfraternity Council
The Panhellenic Council and Interfraternity Council (IFC) are two separate organizations made up of 3 representatives from
each sorority or fraternity
on campus, one from each grade. The purpose of these unique organizations
is to "initiate and correlate such action as is required to foster harmonious
and efficient inter-sorority/fraternity relationships, and to further
engender a cooperative spirit between the sororities/fraternities and
the college communities." In real life this means, act as a council of
greek women and men from all organizations to lead and promote Greek
Life
in ways such as the Infinity Newsletter, Greek Speakers, Fundraising,
and Leadership building as well as coordinate exciting events such as
Geek Week, service projects and Rush. The Pan Hellenic Council and IFC
are dedicated to Greek Life at Hope College and is working toward success
in all Greek organizations.
Phelps Scholars Program
The Phelps Scholars Program is a multicultural
program available to Hope College freshmen from all racial/ethnic backgrounds,
designed to facilitate
an enjoyable transition to Hope College and provide the foundation for
productive years as members of our student body. Phelps Scholars are
students
who: aspire to Hope's
high standards of academic excellence; participate fully in the life
of the
college community; and develop skills, attitudes, and values that prepare
them for lives of leadership and service in a culturally diverse society.
Pom
Pon Club
The Pom
Pon team raises athletic morale by performing
at halftime shows, during the football and basketball seasons. As a
team, they participate
in unity activities and fundraisers throughout the year. Through team
practices, the squad learns routines and pom/dance skills to get them
ready to perform. They pride themselves on adding a new element of school
spirit to the halftime shows.
Pre-Law
Club
The Pre-Law Club provides a unique experience on-campus
for those students interested in law or pursuing law-related careers.
Approximately 20-40
students each year participate in the club, which is led by a student
steering committee under the guidance of faculty advisor David Ryden.
The club provides students with a wide variety of opportunities to explore
the legal profession, to get to know other students with similar interests,
and to acquire important leadership experience. Activities include interacting
with practicing attorneys and judges, visiting law firms, viewing legal
films, attending law school forums, debating legal issues, and preparing
for the LSAT. Students interested in this opportunity should contact
either
Dr. David Ryden, advisor for the Pre-Law club, or Dr. Janis Gibbs, supporting
pre-law advisor.
The
Pull
The Pull has been a tradition on campus for over
100 years. It started as a tug-of-war between the freshman and sophomore
classes for the freshmen
to earn their place on campus. Over the years it has evolved into a grueling
three hour match on the banks of the Black River bringing hundreds of
alumni, parents, and students to root on the "odd" or "even" year team.
Freshmen compete against Sophomores and are coached by upperclassmen
who
also participated during their first years on campus. The event, which is held in the
fall, is a great way to make a lot of friends and unites students for
the next four years on campus and beyond. Pullers and Moralers practice
for three weeks leading up to the pull to learn "heaves, strains, calls,
and lockins." This one of a kind event has been featured in Sports
Illustrated, an Australian documentary, and David Letterman's top ten
list of Craziest
College Traditions. You have to see it to believe it!
Sacred
Dance
Sacred Dance is an organization that was founded to learn liturgical dance
for worship. The members choreograph their own pieces and perform regularly
in the Hope College chapel program and in area churches.
Sailing
Club
This tough group of men and women do not limit
their boating to warm weather. While the rest of Hope is huddling under
blankets, the student-run organization
heads to Wisconsin, Lansing, and various other places for sailing regattas.
The sailing club was re-established in 1995 and has been flourishing
ever
since. Hope College hosted its own regatta in 1996. The season starts
in the fall as club members head out to Macatawa Bay Yacht Club to practice
several hours each week before the races. The races generally take place
on the weekends. The sailors race Lasers which were graciously donated
by the Macatawa Bay Yacht Club. Although sailing experience is helpful,
all students are free to join the club and sail for Hope.
Senior
Legacy
The Senior Legacy is made up of about ten people
from the graduating class. Their job has many components and is a lifelong commitment.
The organization plans
several events before graduation such as a traditional formal banquet
and a get-together at a local restaurant. After graduation their responsibilities
continue as they become the link between their class and Hope College.
The mission of the Senior Legacy is to remind the graduating class of
the impact that Hope College has had on their lives. They accomplish
this through planning events and a fundraising campaign aimed at creating
class
unity.
Sigma
Omicron
Sigma Omicron is open to all dance majors and minors who have achieved
academic success and involvement within the dance department. Sigma Omicron
exists to create connections both within the dance department and also between
the dance department and the college. The Greek letters stand for Strength and Beauty. The organization was founded in 1991 when the dance department
began and has since doubled in size. To celebrate the arts Sigma Omicron
organizes events such as dance lessons in swing, tango, and polka for
those heading to Fantasia, Hope's annual winter formal.
Silent
Praise
Members of Silent Praise learn American Sign Language and use sign language
to aid in worship at local churches throughout West Michigan. Many members
do not now sign language before joining the group, but quickly learn and
are able to go and minister to our community.
Social
Activities Committee
The Social Activities Committee (SAC) plays an
integral part in the social life of Hope students. SAC is responsible
for bringing activities and
entertainment to Hope and presenting large annual events for the entire
campus. Every weekend SAC invites comedians and other entertainers from
around the world to campus for performances. In addition to live entertainment,
SAC features new release movies three times on Friday and Saturday nights
and a matinee on Sundays for only $2.00 (including free popcorn!). SAC
is a totally student-run organization giving members the opportunity
to
work on advertising, event planning, marketing, and numberous other responsibilities.
SAC has been nationally recognized as one of the best Student Activities
programs in the entire country for the quality of entertainment and programs
they bring to campus. Several annual events include: Siblings Weekend,
The Show, Winter Fantasia Ball, Spring Fling outdoor festival, and the Homecoming
Hoedown. SAC received
the overall "Excellence in Programming Award" presented by
the National Association of Campus Activities (NACA) during its Mid America
regional conference. SAC also received recognition as an outstanding
delegation and an award for graphic design.
Student
Athletic Advisory Committee
This group of students is comprised of members of Hope's sports teams.
These students help to inform athletes about NCAA regulations, provide
support for the teams, and serve as an advisory board for the Athletic
Department.
Student
Congress
Student Congress serves as the liaison between
the administration and the students. Members represent their residence
such as a hall, apartment,
cottage, or off-campus. Along with the executive committee, the 25 representatives
set policies and hear student concerns. Within congress there are designated
boards such as the Congressional Task Force and Faculty and Administrative
Board. In addition to serving on campus, each semester the Congress
sponsors
a speaker. Past speakers have included educator Joe Clark featured in
the film Lean on Me, Robert F. Kennedy Jr, who spoke about our environment,
and prominent author Maya Angelou.
Swing
Club
Swing Club is an organization designed to provide
a relaxing easy going environment for novice through advanced dancers to practice
their moves. Events
occur during both the Fall and Spring semesters. All dances include a beginning
instructional time followed by several hours of open dance time. Other
Swing Club events have included: Swing Club Movie Nights, participation
in Dance Marathon, and special sessions of lessons prior to the Homecoming
Ball and Winter Fantasia. Membership is open to all Hope College students.
Ultimate
Frisbee (Men's and Women's)
Ultimate frisbee is a cross between frisbee, soccer,
football, and basketball and is becoming a big deal on college campuses nationwide.
The Hope teams play games across
the mid-west against schools including University of Michigan and Northwestern
University. Tournaments keep the team pretty busy as they travel to
about
five tournaments a year. The club is open to all students interested in
the sport. Practices are held when schedules
allow
and the group has a great deal of fun.
Union
of Catholic Students
The Union
of Catholic Students' (UCS) Mission Statement consists of four
areas of concentration: Spiritual, Educational, Service, and Social. The
group is committed to the spiritual growth of its members and plays an
active role in the overall Christian family at Hope College. UCS strives
to educate members as Catholic Christians, to serve within the Holland
Community, and to provide a solid Christian atmosphere for fellowship
and social interaction. The group works toward these goals in on-campus
Masses, regular meetings, fun social events, and community service opportunities.
Vanderprov
Vanderprov is an improvisational comedy group created to entertain Hope students. Vanderprov provides free, unscripted,
and off the wall comedy to the campus and greater community. Vanderprov
is also available for hire for various occasions and holds auditions periodically
for those interested in strutting their funnies on stage with a classy
team of Hope comics.
Varsity Athletics
Hope is also committed to excellence in its athletic
program.
Our students play as hard as they study, and the term student-athlete
is taken seriously by players and coaches alike. Hope students have
a chance to participate in 18 intercollegiate sports at the NCAA Division III
level. Hope is in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA),
which is the nation's oldest collegiate athletic conference.
Volunteer
Services
Volunteer Services at Hope College puts together one large service project
a month that is open to all students who would like to volunteer. Some
of these projects include Make a Difference Day, Operation Christmas Child,
Food Drives, bone marrow drives, and visiting nursing homes. In addition
to the large projects, they also try and help individuals who are interested
in volunteering to find a location that fits their needs. They also work
closely with several organizations throughout the Holland area to try
and fill any needed volunteer positions that they may have.
Women's
Issues Organization
Women's
Issues Organization is made up of both
women and men from the student body and faculty. WIN (Women's Issues
Newsletter) is produced
several times a semester showcasing poetry, artwork and accomplishments
of Hope women as well as interesting articles. WIO is a main contributor
to Women's Week on campus by organizing such events as a photography
show
called "Women's Reflections, photography of Women by Women and Women by
Men" and sponsoring speakers and discussions. The organization is a resource
for individuals interested in women's studies, getting involved with
faculty
and students, and finding a voice.
WTHS
WTHS, Hope's student-run radio station, holds
an FM license as 89.9 and is housed in the DeWitt Student Center.
With a staff of approximately
100 students, including student management, personnel, and disc jockeys,
the radio involves many students.
Broadcasts reach throughout the Holland area to inform students about
activities on campus, current events, the latest hits, remote broadcasts
from sporting events, news, and chapel services. Catering to many
musical
tastes, the station is on the air 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Student
DJs are allowed to pick specialty shows creating great diversity
such
as: 80's, Grateful Dead, Jazz, Christian Rock, Rap, Techno, and all female
performers. WTHS holds annual events such as Battle of the Bands
featuring
groups from throughout West Michigan. WTHS holds open auditions for on-air
positions in the fall and spring. Behind the scenes responsibilities
are
also available by application and interview.
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