On Sept. 19, 2025, the annual student organization fair was held. Dozens of clubs broke out their art skills to make eye catching posterboards to attract new members. Walking around the gazebo gave any new or returning students the opportunity to learn about new clubs and potentially join their ranks.
The student organization fair provides an opportunity for any registered clubs on campus to showcase their club and recruit new members. The first was held during New Student Welcome Week Aug. 21-24.
George Micalone, the Director of the Student Union and Activities, helped organize the event.
“We promote numerous opportunities for involvement, student engagement and community building through the department. Student organizations is one area. It’s our role to help them be successful, give them some tools, opportunities, resources,” Micalone said.
Some of the resources that the Student Union provides to student organizations include reserving rooms, access to funding through student senate and marketing support.
Despite the heat and bug problem, the event ran from 11-2. Music played from the gazebo with the annual poster sale close by for anyone wanting to find something new for their walls. Additionally, a Winona thrift pop-up shop was in the Winona State Courtyard. All three events made for an eventful day in the heart of campus.
The crowd ebbed and flowed as the day progressed, but some clubs couldn’t beat the heat or the bugs and packed up early.
While there were a handful of booths who stuck to the end, two booths stood tall, the women’s and men’s rugby teams. Both tables were sat side by side, promoting their teams in solidarity.
Ella Page, a fourth-year studio art major and member of the women’s rugby team, has attended many student organization fairs with the rugby team.
“It’s really the only way we get new people. So, it’s good getting our name out on campus and getting people talking about our club. Also just to show people that we’re a fun group to talk to and that anyone can try this out,” Page said.
Page also enjoys the sense of community between all the clubs on campus during these fairs. With over 60 clubs in attendance, there is a lot to see and a lot of people to talk to.
“It’s also fun being someone here talking to new students and going around and talking to people trying to do the same thing. It’s a good way to connect with other leaders,” Page said.
The Student Organization Fair is not the only opportunity on campus for clubs. During Warrior Gameday Experiences, held every home football game, clubs can have a table to interact with the community. This semester there is an additional opportunity because of the 50 years of women’s sports at Winona State celebration. There will be a Warrior Gameday Experience prior to the home volleyball game.
The last opportunity for clubs this semester will be the Warrior Gameday Experience on Nov. 15. The spring semester will also have a Student Organization Fair tentatively being held in late January to early February.
