Dan Lewis –
Founded in 1897, Gamma Nu counts itself among one of seven literary societies on the Illinois College campus and is one of four lit societies specifically for men. The Nuers, as they are called, currently reside in their newly-renovated room in lower Baxter Hall.
Leading this organization is Senior Nathan Zimmerman, who is actually a newcomer to the group, never having rushed for the lit society himself. Gamma Nu only has three returning student this semester and thus was in need of new leadership for the 2015-16 academic year.
On how outsiders such as himself and his new Vice President Shane Blackley were able to take over an organization without having been members, Zimmerman stated, “At the conclusion of last year, I let go of some of my other obligations […] and I decided to try to look into a possible way of revitalizing the organization. […] After talks with Sarah Knapp and the actives and the administration, they permitted us to join. I then was nominated and elected President of the society, with Shane receiving Vice President.”
On this unorthodox path to leadership, Dean of Students Malinda Carlson said, “It did not go against any policy or ruling and so the new members were allowed to join the group. Then, it was up to the group to decide how to organize. It certainly is not the ideal way to become a part of this type of organization, but often, reasonable exceptions are made to help a group to continue to survive.”
Apparently some students, particularly those involved in other literary societies, have not been happy with the break in tradition in the path to leadership within a lit society and some students question why such actions were allowed.
In recent years, Gamma Nu, like many other student organizations and despite great efforts, has struggled recruiting and retaining members. The group has had as few as four members. The Student Organization Handbook set aside by the Center for Student Involvement stipulates that organizations will be placed on probation and then disbanded should they not maintain at least five members.
Sarah Knapp, Director of Greek Lettered Organizations, stated, “We are attempting to bring [literary societies] more in line with the general policies for campus clubs and organizations and yet pay attention to their uniqueness. This is a work in process.”
Zimmerman explains that the “alumni I have met with have embraced me and my vision and are excited to see Gamma Nu as publicized as it has been.”It is this image that we will be pushing and emphasizing as the semester goes on and we hope that our increased involvement will appeal to the independent men on this campus. […] We have amazing alumni. We have one of the most developed, fun, and modern venues on campus. Now, we just need to share those resources with the guys that will be pivotal in the society’s future moving forward.”
Gamma Nu is currently working to spread awareness about the group and host or take part in many campus events. The organization held a dance on the first day of classes and took part in the Involvement Fair and the IC Homecoming Parade. The group participated in the International Day of Peace events recently by hosting a cookout with several other literary societies. Gamma Nu also opened up their venue to the Illinois College Democrats to watch the second GOP Debate.
On September 29, the Nuers held their first literary production to much success. The theme for the revitalized group’s productions this semester is, appropriately, “Birth, Life, Death: The Intricacies of Existence.”
Zimmerman and the Nuers are attempting to revive this struggling organization, transforming it into a legitimate group full of talented and dedicated young men with a focus on success and brotherhood. Zimmerman and others believe that in this regard, the future is bright.
The new President proudly stated, “The society is at an interesting point of time in its history. With only one of the actives from last year coming back next year, the society could essentially become anything that a group of men wanted it to be.”
Gamma Nu, now with six members and seeking to add more students among its ranks, will be putting on a rush event on Tuesday Oct. 13 and will have another production Tuesday Oct. 27.
Dan Lewis, from Mahomet, Illinois, is a senior majoring in history and political science at Illinois College. Dan is Editor-in-Chief of The Rambler and President of the Illinois College Democrats. Formerly Student Body Vice-President and US Senator Dick Durbin Intern. Dan works as a staffer with the Illinois Democratic County Chairs Association and an intern with the Move to Amend Coalition.
THE RAMBLER 