This week, in honor of Women’s History Month, I sat down with Caryn Cruz (senior, English), president of the Women’s Empowerment Association of Andrews University (WEAAU), to discuss the club’s plans for this month and how the club has grown over the past couple of years.
What is your role as president of WEAAU?
I basically make sure that everything runs smoothly. From scheduling meetings to planning events, there are a variety of duties that presidents usually carry out. I am fortunate to have an excellent group of officers that contribute to executing the many tasks we set out to accomplish, so it makes my job easier when working with them!
How has the club expanded and grown since it was started a few years ago?
I first participated in the club my freshman year as WEAAU’s secretary. I remember feeling grateful for that opportunity because it gave me a chance to be active on campus and connect with other students that I wouldn’t have initially met. I believe that year was WEAAU’s first real and official appearance as a club, which means I’ve been fortunate enough to see the club grow during my time here. I’ve always been impressed with the positive reception that we have received from students and faculty, and these sentiments have only increased over the years.
What is the purpose of the club?
WEAAU was created to inspire change throughout our campus, striving to connect women of all backgrounds to one another. Through our events, we inspire this change by encouraging discussion, facilitating new learning experiences, and creating a fun and safe environment for our club members. We aspire to support and promote the growth and success of our female peers on this campus, though everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend our events!
What are some of the things WEAAU is planning for Women’s History Month?
Women’s History Month is such an important and commemorative time for the general public to officially recognize the hard work that many women have contributed to making our world a better place. Obviously, this means that the month of March is a significant moment for our club because we also want to lead the effort in empowering present and future women leaders. I think the best way to stay updated on our plans for this month and the rest of the year is to follow our Instagram!
What are some favorite memories you have from being a part of WEAAU?
A few weeks ago, the WEAAU officers and I gathered at our wonderful sponsor’s house (Dr. Stacie Hatfield) for an officer hang-out. I really enjoyed my time there because I felt like we got to bond outside of a club event and our scheduled meetings. Our day ranged from eating Sabbath potluck, baking cakes, debating the superiority of the West/East Coasts, and finally ending the afternoon with a heartfelt conversation about the frustrations we face as women. This specific day made such an impression on me because I really love social interaction with other people. I learned a lot about my fellow officers and some of their ambitions as well, which honestly left me inspired and hopeful.
Do you have any goals for the club this year? What is your vision for WEAAU?
I hope that WEAAU continues to promote the empowerment of our women on campus. I would also love to see more community involvement, as we seek ways to help other women who find themselves in unfortunate situations. Lastly, I see the value of building relationships and forming connections with people so my hope is that WEAAU will continue to contribute to this type of bonding on our campus.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.