By Elisa Regulski
Rotaract, a student professional organization, has started a new chapter on OCU’s campus.
Rotaract is one of several organizations partnered with Rotary Club, an international service organization. Rotaract is targeted toward young professionals ages 18- 30. OCU’s chapter works with Oklahoma City’s Club 29, the largest club in Rotary International.
“It’s a great networking opportunity, working with such highly educated, successful people in our fields of study,” said Matthew Maddamma, vice president of Rotaract.
Students of all majors can join Rotaract to develop leadership skills and serve the community.
Leigh Smith, religion junior and Rotaract president, became involved with the organization through the rowing team. After assisting Rotary Club 29 with the renovation of the Oklahoma River, rowers decided to create a Rotaract chapter at OCU.
Members are encouraged to suggest community service opportunities, Smith said.
“We can take it in any direction we want,” Smith said.
Rotaract will spend their first semester assisting with Moore tornado relief efforts.
The organization’s first community service project is this Fri. in Moore.
Rotaract hopes to expand their service efforts abroad because of the organization’s strong international presence.
Despite its early stages of development, OCU’s Rotaract chapter already has 25 members. Rotaract is open to all students. Members must attend bimonthly meetings that occur at 8 p.m. on Thursdays.
The organization does not collect any dues and there are no specific qualifications for membership.
The chapter’s first official meeting is this Thursday, September 12.
For more information, visit Rotaract OCU’s facebook page or contact Rotaract’s faculty advisor, Marty O’Gwynn.
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