(THE PICKET)—Shepherd University’s chapter of the College Republicans, a club for conservative-leaning students, held their first meeting Monday afternoon in White Hall.
In the past, the College Republicans have held talks, speeches and occasional debates against the Young Democrats. The group, under the advisement of Dr. Joseph Robbins, professor of political science, wants to return to its regular scheduling of events promoting their cause, even though debate scheduling may be difficult, as there is not an active chapter of the Young Democrats at Shepherd.
“I really wanted to come and check out the College Republicans group,” said Katelyn Sabol, 20, a junior majoring in political science. “I feel as though Republicans tend to be a minority on college campuses, and I feel it’s really cool to come and meet other people who have the same interests and points of view as you and to talk about it, because sometimes you feel like you’re surrounded by people who completely disagree with you.”
Hannah Mansell, a 19-year-old junior majoring in political science, said she had worked for Republican Rep. Alex Mooney of West Virginia and wanted to bring conservative politics to Shepherd.
“Since it’s going to be a really fun year with all the campaigns coming up, I really wanted to get involved and get other people involved and really start from the ground up, so I’m excited about that,” Mansell said.
Dr. Robbins spoke of his previous experience with the College Republicans: “When I got here in 2009, I had some students, and about halfway through the semester they needed an advisor, they asked me and I said yes. I’ve been a part of this organization, advising it at least, since 2009. It’s been something I’ve enjoyed helping with, they’ve been an active and ambitious bunch, so, I feel invested in the organization, and I’d like to see them go back to some of the things they’ve been doing in the past. I think it’s a great opportunity for a lot of students.”
The College Republicans will meet biweekly on Mondays at 4 p.m. in room 305 of White Hall. The next meeting is Monday, Oct. 5.
Mike Morris is a practicum writer for The Picket. He can be reached at mmorri12@rams.shepherd.edu or on Twitter @adelelcoolj