In a cozy room decorated with stuffed animals and “Got Consent?” pins, female students gathered to learn more about resources and opportunities for women on Penn’s campus.
“Women’s Meet and Greet Dessert Night” was held last night at the Penn Women’s Center, where representatives from the Penn Consortium of Undergraduate Women, its member clubs, and the Gender, Culture and Society Department came together to introduce Penn women to the support system available to them.
At the beginning of the event, representatives from each group introduced themselves. Each one wore a neon sign on a ribbon around his or her neck — a different sign for each group.
Each group brought a unique perspective to the discussion. The representative from the Women in Leadership Series, for example, wore a torch, which she explained was meant to signify strength and trailblazing.
Chris Carroll, a College freshman and representative from the “reinstated” Penn for Choice Club, reminded the audience that not only women but also men are a part of women’s rights. This year, Penn for Choice and Penn for Life both hope to open a dialogue and organize speakers together.
Women’s Center director Felicity Paxton explained the resources available to female students at the Center, such as a nap room, DVD and book library, discussion groups and study spaces. She also told the crowd about plans for a garden outside the Center where members of the community will be able to plant flowers or vegetables, grill food and relax.
GSOC professors Shannon Lundeen and Demie Kurz also spoke about upcoming events, such as a conference in celebration of the 35th anniversary of women’s studies at Penn. They encouraged every female undergraduate to take a course in the GSOC department.
“It really is a rewarding way to investigate gender, being a woman and sexuality in our society,” Lundeen said.
After hearing from each speaker, visitors were free to talk to group representatives and sample desserts from the Naked Chocolate Cafe.
Rosa Cui, a College senior and PCUW chairwoman, said she hopes the event will “foster relationships between women’s groups.”
Margaret Rodriguez, a Wharton sophomore, attended the event after hearing positive feedback about the Women’s Center from peers.
“People who go to events at the Women’s Center are really excited and go back many times,” she explained.
College sophomore Eileen Norton agreed.
“I definitely plan to use the Center more in the future,” she said.
The groups involved included the Panhellenic Council, Penn Women’s Biomedical Society, and Wharton Women, among others.
