Student Organization Spotlights: January 2025

Members of the Student Education Association organizing supplies from a canned food drive

With over 100 student organizations at Webster University, there’s a place for everyone to get involved. This column spotlights student organizations and how they are making a difference on campus and beyond.

Student Education Association

Responses from Samantha Finder, elementary education major from Imperial, Missouri, and Alyssa Gilchrist, elementary education major from Youngstown, Ohio

 Q: What is the history of the Student Education Association?

The Student Education Association (SEA) was created many years ago but fizzled out with the pandemic. In 2021, it was reinstated with two new co-creators to get things up and running again. As SEA has solidified its purpose and goals and grown its involvement, the team of officers running the club has also grown. Now, with a team of four officers, SEA hosts monthly events with an average of 25-40 attendees from across the Webster University community. 

Q: Why is SEA important to Webster?

The SEA is an essential part of Webster University, as it provides future educators with valuable opportunities for professional development, community engagement and hands-on experience. Through SEA, students not only enhance their own skills but also give back to the St. Louis community by organizing events and initiatives that support local schools in need. Whether it’s through tutoring, organizing school supply drives or volunteering at educational events, SEA members play a vital role in helping underfunded schools and students facing educational challenges. By fostering a sense of social responsibility and encouraging collaboration, the SEA helps build stronger connections between Webster University and the local community while preparing future educators to make a meaningful impact in their careers. 

Student Education Association organizing canned goods

Q: Why is the SEA important to you?

SEA is important to me because it provides opportunities to give back to the local St. Louis school communities. Volunteering and giving back to help others in need are very important things to me, and I am so glad SEA can offer that to the Webster University community. Anyone who wants to support educators and students can stop by for a few minutes up to a couple hours and take part in a service project to benefit a local school. These kinds of actions really lift people’s spirits, both those completing the project and those who receive them. 

Q: What kinds of events/activities does SEA put on?

SEA hosts monthly events which we call “social service” events. This means there is an aspect of service at our events, like putting together appreciation gifts for teachers at a local school or making friendship bracelets for local elementary students, while also providing something fun to attendees, like gourmet cupcakes, caramel apples or boba drinks. Our events are a place for people to socialize with other attendees, enjoy a treat and do something good for the local community. People continuously leave our events with a positive feeling because they are doing something to help others.

SEA also organizes quarterly donation drives to benefit our partner school for the academic year. We ask our partner school, which is Hancock School District in 2024-2025, what items would specifically support their students, and then we host a collection that is later provided to them. This year, SEA collected over 60 pairs of children’s underwear, 40 umbrellas and ponchos and 600 snacks. All of these donations went directly to students who needed them, and we greatly appreciate every single person who donates even one item.

Q: What has been your experience as a member of SEA?

Being a member of SEA has been an incredibly fulfilling experience, and I am deeply grateful to be part of this remarkable organization. Through the club, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with outstanding faculty and alumni at Webster, as well as professionals in my field beyond the University. Our service to the St. Louis community has not only allowed me to form lifelong friendships but also helped me build a strong and supportive network. I've found immense joy in giving back to students and schools in need while simultaneously contributing to the campus community. Bringing together students of diverse ages, races and majors has been a truly rewarding aspect of this journey

Student Education Association hosting a Valentine's Day social event

Q: Why would you encourage other students to join SEA?

Students should be encouraged to join SEA because it offers invaluable experiences that go beyond the classroom. Membership provides a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded peers who share a passion for education, while also fostering leadership skills through organizing events, workshops and community service projects. Being part of SEA helps students build a professional network with local educators and gain real-world experience that will set them apart in their future careers. Additionally, by actively engaging in the club’s community outreach efforts, students can make a tangible difference in the lives of children and schools in need, creating a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Joining SEA also allows students to stay informed about educational issues and trends, making it an essential steppingstone for those committed to pursuing a career in teaching or any related field. 

Q: What kind of assistance could the Webster community provide for you?

The Webster community can play a crucial role in supporting SEA by actively engaging with and promoting the club’s initiatives. One way to support is by spreading the word about SEA’s events, helping to increase participation and awareness both on and off campus. Additionally, donations to drives—such as school supplies, books or clothing—can make a significant impact on local schools in need, directly benefiting students in the St. Louis area. Community members can also offer support by attending SEA’s events, whether it’s a social event, volunteer effort or donation drive. By showing up and participating, they not only encourage the students of SEA but also help to strengthen the relationship between Webster University and the greater St. Louis community. Active support from the broader community helps ensure that SEA can continue its mission of giving back and making a positive difference in the lives of local students and educators. 

Latin American/Hispanic Student Organization 

Responses from Ariana Lapentti, costume design major from Guayaquil, Ecuador  

Q: What is the history of the Latin American/Hispanic Student Organization?  

The Latin American/Hispanic Student Organization (LAHSO) was created to provide an affinity space for Latinx students and celebrate Latin American and Hispanic cultures. The club was inactive for two years before being reactivated in 2023 by Lapentti (president), Valentina Arevalo (vice president), Inmaculada Cepeda (vice president), and Gabriela Ocampo (treasurer). By 2024, Valentina became chair of events, and new executive board member Maria Anaya became treasurer and co-vice president alongside Gabriela. Recently, Jennyfer Cenac and Jose Valencia joined the board as event planners. Today, LAHSO proudly boasts 48 members. 

LAHSO celebrating Mexican Independence Day

Q: Why is LAHSO important to Webster?

LAHSO fosters a sense of belonging for Latinx and Hispanic students and provides opportunities for the general student body to learn about a community close to them.

Q: Why is the LAHSO important to you?

LAHSO allows me to become an active member of my community and amplify my leadership skills. Providing a third space for my community is a big responsibility but I love to see my friends come together and become closer with one another. After all, being away from home is easier when you have a support system.

Q: What kinds of events/activities does LAHSO put on?

We host biweekly club meetings where we do an activity together—from de-stressing movie nights to productive study sessions. In addition, we also host events like “Cupid’s rose mailing service” for Valentine's Day (where you can mail a rose anonymously to your crush), salsa dance class, multicultural cooking class and attend local cultural or networking events. In the past we have collaborated with Marletto’s for its Hispanic Heritage Month menu, attended networking with the STL Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and partnered with Hispanic organizations at Saint Louis University and Washington University for joint events.

Students dancing at LAHSO's Mexican Independence Day event

Q: What has been your experience as a member of LAHSO? 

It has been wonderful to lead and contribute to the Webster community while participating in activities that make me feel at home. The club has allowed me to meet new friends and create experiences that I’ll remember dearly in my years after college.

Q: Why would you encourage other students to join your club/organization?

Students can connect with people from similar cultures, speak their native language or learn about Latinx and Hispanic traditions. It’s a space for inclusion and shared appreciation for our heritage.

Q: What kind of assistance could the Webster community provide for you?

The Webster community can support us by attending events, sharing initiatives and promoting LAHSO’s mission so they can dive into the rhythms, flavors and traditions of Latin and Hispanic cultures while connecting with students.