By Tiernan Foley
Contributing Writer
A freshman transfer student from the University at Albany, Kori-Lynn Farris, recently developed a women’s organization called Sigma Rho Omega, which hopes to foster a better environment at the College of Saint Rose.
Going off to college is a difficult process in itself, but transferring to a new college is even more difficult.
“I came in as a transfer, and it is really hard to find somewhere to fit in if you are coming in as a transfer, so I just wanted to start up something that was inclusive,” Farris said.
This organization hopes to transcend the traditional aspects of a club, and instead facilitate friendships and a comfortable community among its members.
“Usually clubs on this campus are about making a difference, and yes, we do want to make a difference, but we also want to have bonds and friendships that we make through our college experience,” said Erika Fariselli, a sophomore member of Sigma Rho Omega.
The organization does not want its members to feel as if they are going to a club meeting, but rather a way to decompress with people who share interests.
Farris took a social media initiative to jumpstart the organization, by utilizing Facebook as a platform to attract interest. After receiving positive feedback, Farris orchestrated a tabling event to attract more attention, and to get an email list amongst women at the college.
Fariselli was ecstatic when she saw the pamphlets at the tabling event, as she described it as “a place on campus where you can make friendships, and not just a place where you do a certain part.”
So far the club has had only three meetings, but according to Farris the interest meeting was “overwhelmingly large.” However, the other meetings have shrunk in size, but it still remains compelling to some. The meetings have consisted of members getting to know each other, but they have also held activities to ease the stress of finals week by watching movies.
The group held their third meeting on Thursday, April 30, which focused on their fundraising objectives.
“The event is BYOC, for bring your own container, which is to help fundraise by recycling and collecting loose change just to put a little into our club,” Fariselli said.
Since the organization has not been approved by Student Association, they have had to take it upon themselves to raise money for future prospects.
Farris explained that the Greek name of the group translates to S-R-W, which stands for Saint Rose Women. However, Farris said that she is open to men joining the organization if they would like to, but the activities may not be tailored to their interests.
“I think that this organization is a good idea, but I would like to see guys take a similar step,” said Oscar Soliver, a freshman business major.
This inclusive club is something that this campus has not seen before, and hopes to better the Saint Rose community. Farris hopes that they are able to gain Student Association approval in the upcoming school year, as they are working on their early drafts of the constitution.
