Black Students Work Together After several African-American stu dents recognized a need for greater unity among African-Americans on campus, they revived the African American Student Union. The union's first year of formal structure included a banquet, speakers, discussions, infor mal get-togethers and a year-end trip to King's Island. "Just like fraternities and sorori ties," said senior Donna Dunlap, "it's another group of people with whom you have things in common. It gives you a sense of belonging." The idea for the union came from SOUL, an African-American organiza tion existing on campus during the 1970s. The SOUL organization later died due to low minority enrollment, but recently, the number of minorities enrolled has increased making the un ion's revival a good idea. Dunlap saw the positive effect this would have on campus. She said, "It gives Otterbein something to offer to black students-an active union."
One particularly successful activity was the Parent-Student Banquet hon oring parents who have supported the union. Two parents, Mr. Frank Rich and Mr. Charles Weston, participated in the program. Rich gave the opening address, stressing the importance of staying in school and getting a good education. Weston said the opening prayer and gave achievement awards to the executive officers. Junior Mark Curtis, banquet coordinator, and Dun lap provided musical selections. "It was tremendous work, but it was worth it," said Curtis. Another challenge for the union was the election -Of the next year's execu tive officers. Anne Weston was select ed president, Mark Curtis vice-presi dent, Chris Owens treasurer and Jeff Goins secretary. The officers planned to work on in creased student involvement and sup port. Curtis said, "We're only as strong as our weakest link." By Anne Weston
Putting pen to paper, juniors Hillary Kline and Jennifer Panek write letters on behalf of a South African prisoner of conscience during an Amnesty International meeting. The letters are addressed to government and military officials. Photo by Marcie Hochwalt
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Amnesty International Row 1: C. Marker, S. Michelhaugh, C. Collins, J. Thomas, J. Pan Row 2: Dr. P. Laughlin, C. Martin, R. Chamberlain, C. Kepple, M. Mann. Row 3: Hochwalt, L. Houck, A. Dubbs, J. Howdyshell, Mr. H. Carrigan. Photo by Lori Patter,