S.P.E.A.K Returns to Trine’s Campus with Opportunity
By Cooper Lee
S.P.E.A.K, or the Students Promoting Environmental Awareness and Knowledge club, has returned to the Trine University campus with the help of eager students and inspired faculty.
After being disbanded in 2020, it seemed as though the plight of students’ environmental awareness efforts would go unsatisfied. However, the club has returned this year, following a need for community engagement and student participation.
Kennedy Jester, co-president of S.P.E.A.K, stated, “We brought SPEAK back to Trine's campus with the hope to re-energize the movement for environmental sustainability in Steuben County as a whole.” Jester’s fellow members share a passion for advocacy and ensuring the wellness of our community. The group encourages all students to join, making recycling on campus and the construction of green spaces the forefront of their appeal to the student population. Jester and her fellow co-president Areeba Kazi, envision S.P.E.A.K acting as the communicator between students and administration when it comes to environmental issues and topics.
Jester explained, “The one thing that we as the executive board of S.P.E.A.K would really like campus to know is that we are always open to ideas and collaboration! We would love for more of Trine's students to join the club but even if they just have a proposal for nature beautification on campus or are in another club that would like to partner with S.P.E.A.K for an event, we are here for the communication!”
More student involvement is one of the reasons why the group was brought back, so they continue to plan activities and events that cater to students. For example, “Earth Fest” which is in its final planning stage, will be an event that celebrates local organizations while educating everyone about environmental sustainability. “We plan to host guest speakers, a local artisan fair, food trucks, and entertainment from both on and off campus,” stated Jester. This fantastic event will span two days, planned for Friday, April 29 from 4:00PM to 9:00PM and Saturday, April 30 from 12:00PM to 6:00PM in Best Hall 221 and 229.
Another opportunity for student involvement is the “Nature Photography Contest.” Submissions from all are accepted, and the winners will be announced during “Earth Fest” the 29th and 30th. Prizes will be awarded to the winners. Submissions can be sent via direst message on Instagram to @Trine.Speak.
Last Updated: 04/19/2022