Involvement fair to host at least 200 student groups

The largest annual Student Involvement Fair offered at IU will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m today in the Indiana Memorial Union parking lot. Students can expect colorful banners and display tables from more than 200 organizations and volunteer groups from the IU and Bloomington community.

The annual Involvement Fair gets students involved and is sponsored by the Commission on Multicultural Understanding, the IMU and Union Board, the Office of Orientation Programs and the Student Activities Office.

One of the hundreds of organizations to participate is Alpha Phi Omega, a national service fraternity that emphasizes leadership, friendship and service.

“The Student Involvement Fair is a great way to get your name out on campus as an organization,” said Andrew Schwenker, president of Alpha Phi Omega. “It allows you to interact with other organizations you may not know about because of the obscurity and size of the campus.”

Alpha Phi Omega focuses on service projects for the IU campus and Bloomington community such as the Hoosier Hills Food Bank. They also have a battle of the bands to raise money for WonderLab.

“We’re really open to anyone,” Schwenker said.

Student Organizations Coordinator Sarah Wilcox said the fair is “integral and historical involvement on the IU campus.”

“It’s never too late to get involved. Don’t be intimidated. Chances are, there is someone else like you,” Wilcox said.

Wilcox said she is anticipating a successful fair this year because of last year’s success. She added that this year, students could also expect the participation of 40 to 60 volunteer agencies from the Bloomington community.

Pamela W. Freeman, chair for the Commission on Multicultural Understanding, attributes the fair’s success to its timing.

“It happens at a time when students want to get involved,” Freeman said.

The Commission on Multicultural Understanding is not only a sponsor of the fair, but a participant as well. The group hosts events throughout the year, such as speakers.

“It’s important for students to be balanced,” Freeman said.

She also said involvement contributes to a sense of belonging to the IU campus.

The Commission on Multicultural Understanding is holding a welcome meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Leo R. Dowling International Center. Any interested students who cannot attend may contact the Student Activities Office at sao@indiana.edu.