The Annual Griot Student Leadership lunch has come and gone as student leaders gathered and extended hands of welcome and partnership to one another. Bucknell is a small liberal arts institution but boasts a robust culture of student activity showcased within various student-led clubs and organizations that embody the spirit of scholarship, community, and excellence. There is always, however, space and time for growth and this lunch endeavored to bring focus towards building connections between student organizations on campus.
The lunch began with an engaging conversation led by Dr. Cymone Fourshey, director of the Griot Institute, surrounding active and planned events in the organizations’ calendars. Although the campus is relatively small, it can be difficult to maintain knowledge regarding events that are not directly catered to the greater student body or to a student’s particular interest. The invitation of student leaders to share plans amongst themselves is an invitation to expand their community beyond what is present.
Notable events mentioned included the Night Market on October 18 th held by the Asian Cultural Association, the Black Student Union festival in the spring semester and the SASA (South Asian Student Association) dinner taking place during the first weeks of November.
Professor Fourshey put forth a question for the larger group: “What can institutes do to support your organizations?”
Marco Ortiz-Sanchez, the president of LACOS (Latine Alliance for Community & Opportunity for Students) thoughtfully answered: “As leaders of a cultural organization I believe opening up to mixed collaborations will really help in expanding our reach. This could mean more meetings like this that may include lunch, a game, or a group bonding activity like drumming.”
Professor Fourshey supported the sentiment and noted that the West African drumming lessons would be a great way to collaborate across organizations.
Student organizations are an intrinsic part of the college experience. The balance of academic life and intimate communal existence are what make college such a unique place and time for so many. Community comes naturally amongst those with shared identity and major interests, but it is worth putting in the effort to build a network of diverse relationships beyond familiarity, as such networks foster resilience, broaden perspectives, and lead to unexpected opportunities. The session closed with a shirt and book giveaway. This gesture of sharing not only marked the beginning of the semester but also symbolized the spirit of connection and collaboration that will continue to grow in the months and years ahead.
-Grace Ifiegbu