The following is a list of student organizations at Lawrence University that address issues of culture and/or identity. Organizations that gather for meetings in the Diversity Center are indicated with an asterisk (*). For a complete, updated list of student organizations, please refer to the Involvement Guidebook.
Amnesty International *
Amnesty International's mission is to undertake research and action focused on preventing and ending grave abuses of the rights to physical and mental integrity, freedom of conscience and expression, and freedom from discrimination, within the context of its work to promote all human rights. Amesty International is independent of any government, political ideology or religious creed. It does not support or oppose the views of the victims whose rights it seeks to protect. It is solely concerned with the impartial protection of human rights.
Black Organization of Students (BOS) *
BOS strives to educate the LU community about the black experience through the celebration of black culture and progressive dialogue all the while functioning as an academic and social support system for its members.
College Democrats
The College Democrats organization provides a forum for students, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, ability, socioeconomic status or sexual orientation, to express liberal perspectives and offers opportunities to meet with local, state, and national political figures. Members often support various Democratic campaigns. The club also plays host to visiting candidates and encourages student voting.
College Republicans
The College Republicans strive to actively promote and uphold conservative principles at the university, community and statewide levels through grassroots activism. Through its work assisting Republican campaigns and promoting conservative ideals and principles with various events, the College Republicans are a voice on campus for lower taxes, less obstructive and fiscally responsible government and a strong U.S. foreign policy.
Downer Feminist Council (DFC) *
Downer Feminist Council is a feminist organization that invites students of all genders to work together to identify, assess and address gender issues on the Lawrence University campus and beyond. DFC promotes gender equality through discussion, education and political action.
Folk Dancers of the Fox Valley
Folk dancing from a variety of cultures is offered on campus each Monday evening and participation is open. The group includes community and campus members. Contact the Campus Activities Office for more information on this activity.
GLOW (Gay, Lesbian, Other or Whatever) *
The purpose of GLOW is to provide an outlet for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender students to discuss issues concerning politics, awareness, activism, education and queer culture. GLOW acts as Lawrence University's gay-straight alliance and organizes events on campus that range from raising awareness of and celebrating GLBTQ identities, to raising money for charities and working to create a safe campus environment for GLBTQ identified or allied students and faculty.
Greenfire *
Greenfire is a student activist group focused on affecting environmental change on campus, in the local community and nationally.
Hillel/Chavurah (Circle of Friends) *
Hillel/Chavurah welcomes all students to learn about Jewish cultural and religious traditions. In the past, members have come together to discuss world issues relating to Judaism. In addition, Hillel/Chavurah organizes holiday celebrations where everyone can take part in discovering a rich and ancient heritage. The organization has provided kosher meals and transportation to and from nearby synagogues for Jewish students and educational resources for those hoping to learn more about Jewish faith and culture.
Lawrence International (LI)
Lawrence International aims to help international students adjust to life at Lawrence and in Appleton, to provide a forum for international and domestic students to meet and engage in conversation, and to provide programs on world issues for Lawrence and the Appleton community. All interested students are welcome to attend meetings.
Lawrence Christian Fellowship (LCF)
Lawrence Christian Fellowship is affiliated with Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship and is an organization for all students interested in the Christian faith. Fellowship is offered weekly in addition to Bible studies. The group also arranges transportation to area churches, temples, and mosques and hosts discussions of faith issues centered on articles and readings.
Lawrence University Model United Nations (LUMUN)
The Lawrence University Model United Nations club is committed to increasing students' understanding of the structure and function of the United Nations, researching and debating the broad range of global issues addressed by the UN, accurately representing a specific UN member country in model UN conferences and simulations, developing the negotiation and communication skills of its members, and enhancing the Lawrence community's understanding of international relations and global issues.
Students for Leftist Action (SLA)
Students for Leftist Action is devoted to fostering awareness of many social and political issues. The organization strives to promote social justice, progressive economics, democracy, non-violence, protection of civil liberties, and freedom and equality for all. SLA hosts guest speakers, promotes awareness and letter-writing campaigns, and participates in conferences, assemblies, protests and vigils to peaceably make members' voices heard.
Student War Against Hunger and Poverty (SWAHP)
SWAHP is affiliated with a national campaign called The National Student Campaign Against Hunger and Homelessness (NSCAHH). SWAHP educates and actively engages the Lawrence community about hunger and poverty issues, both locally and globally. Members have the opportunity to be educated through movies, readings, and conferences, and can take part in a number of fundraisers and activities to raise funds that will benefit those who suffer due to hunger and poverty. The organization also works in collaboration with any other Lawrence organization that is interested in supporting our events and with the Volunteer and Community Service Center.
U LEAD
Run through the Campus Activities Office, the University Leadership Education And Development program encourages students to develop themselves as campus leaders and helps prepare them to become more effective agents of change in the community. U LEAD offers a series of certificate-based leadership initiatives including a Personal Leadership Certificate, an Organizational Leadership Certificate, a Civic Leadership and Community Service Certificate, and a Leadership in Diversity Education Certificate. Students are also able to design their own special and advanced leadership certificates to fit their unique leadership goals.
V-Day
V-Day is a worldwide organization concerned primarily with domestic violence and violence against women and children. V-Day is associated with the production of "The Vagina Monologues," part of an organized response against violence toward women. The organization welcomes all students interested in women's concerns.
¡Viva! *
The mission of ¡Viva! is to expand awareness of hispanic culture, reaching members both within the Lawrence campus and the greater community. The organization is open to any individual who is interested in participating regardless of race, gender, religion, class, creed, or national origin. Through campus programming, special events, speakers, field trips, and community service projects the organization hopes to promote a better understanding of hispanic culture.
