Lakeland University’s newly founded Biology Club is creating a community of students interested in science and environment on campus to spread interest in biology, nature and more through engaging activities.
Juniors Mary Johnson and Olivia Heling founded the Biology Club a year and a half ago after recognizing the need for a biology related club on campus. Johnson is majoring in biology and health sciences, with an emphasis in biochemistry. Heling is majoring in biology and health sciences with a minor in psychology. The main goal of this club is to connect students interested in biology and science to related activities and promote the environment.
Biology Club’s involvement is primarily on campus and in nature! They participate in events including nature walks, kayaking, biology-based games such as Pictionary, group study time and club bonding! Biology Club is open to students of all majors and interests, even outside of biology and science fields. Johnson agreed stating, “Since we accept any major, naturalistic education goes further than just science students, which is important because everyone has a chance to engage in these activities.”
Johnson and Heling serve as co-presidents of the Biology Club. They reported that those are the only leadership positions available at the moment, but they are open to considering new positions, such as treasurer, as the club continues to grow. Dr. Greg Smith, Professor of biology and chair of natural sciences, oversees this club as a faculty advisor.
Biology Club is motivated by connecting students and spreading the interest of biology and nature. They typically meet in the Chase Science Center once a month or three times a semester to accommodate students’ busy schedules. Johnson and Heling both agreed that this schedule allows them to have more time to discuss goals and plan more engaging activities for their members.
Biology Club will be participating in an upcoming fundraiser beginning the week of April 21. This fundraiser will be in collaboration with Lakeland’s Phi Delta Omega sorority. Both organizations will be raising funds for a local Sheboygan organization supporting the environment, that will be determined within the coming weeks. Members will be handing out informational packets, resources, pins, baked goods and offering a candy jar guessing game for a chance to win a prize! The fundraiser will take place April 21-24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day in the Campus Center.
The Biology Club welcomes students and encourages all to check out their club and support its growth and establishment throughout the Lakeland University community. Johnson said, “The biology club connects students with biology concepts outside of school.” The mission and need for this club is clear. Students who are interested in learning more about Biology Club, how to join or the Earth Day fundraiser may contact Johnson or Heling at: [email protected] or [email protected].
