Community is an idea that none of us are unfamiliar with here at CSB/SJU. It is seen throughout both our campuses in athletics, residential life, clubs and organizations of all kinds, the classroom and even abroad.
A new SJU organization called RedGage is in existence for its second semester. Although I was aware of the organization, I was unaware of what the members did around campus other than put on events. RedGage’s mission statement is to “boost Men’s Engagement on campus and in the greater community in order to cultivate our Benedictine Leadership and what it means to be a Johnnie.” I was provided this information via Tony Lotzer, an SJU senior and a co-leader of the organization.
In today’s increasingly competitive job world, résumé-building is essential. Therefore, a prominent boost to one’s résumé is undoubtedly a position and membership on a leadership organization hailing from a college student development office. When asked about membership, Lotzer explained to me that all the 20-25 current members are talking about reforming their membership process. Currently, RedGage uses the exclusive system of tapping enrolled Johnnies, having them write a one-page essay and interviewing with a co-leader. In the future, Lotzer sees the potential for an open application process for all Johnnies, but there are still strides to be made toward this envision. However, Lotzer believes that the exclusiveness is important to prevent a “revolving door” membership base, and instead looks to make sure the organization is staffed with committed students.
As a senior, I see the potential in RedGage and especially in carrying out its mission. However, from an administrative aspect, this group is by no means perfect. Perhaps the youth of this entity is to blame, but I am reluctant to say so. As I alluded to before, RedGage is an organization and not a club, and according to the SALD page on the CSB/SJU website, an organization “does not have to go through the club recognition process, nor have a constitution.”
One of the most important aspects of a club constitution is membership. As an organization, RedGage lacks accountability for not providing this in a concrete manner. As such a strong proponent for community, this lack of orderliness reminds me of the inter-freedom of other school-based organizations like secret societies. I hope to see the administrations recognize this breach of superiority between a group created by both the administration and the student body.
Although the premise of RedGage is somewhat clearer to my readers and myself, I urge the group to be more accountable with its administrations. The potential is vast, but as of now, there are aspects that do not align with that which it was founded upon, mainly the Benedictine value of community.