Session: Successful Student Chapters:

The bench-making retreat held by Chem Club is one of our newest, and most community-driven, annual traditions. Having a goal in mind creates initiative within the group and allows for the best experience. The first time we made benches, in the fall of 2019, we constructed 6 benches from discarded wooden pallets, and painted them with the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry. The benches were planned to be displayed across campus on Earth Day, to promote the importance of green chemistry. With the interruption provided by the pandemic, we have yet to place the benches out for the public, but plan to once it is safe for campus to open. Overall, the experience was captivating, and everyone had a role in making the benches. After the construction, we all relaxed around a roaring bonfire and treated ourselves with s’mores. A particularly important aspect was the bonding experience between old and new members that happens naturally with these creative retreats. This year, although bench building may be pushed back due to COVID-19, Chem Club applied for, and received, a grant through campus ministry to fund this year’s bench building event. Our goal is to build several benches to place around the neighborhood across from the main campus. Not only will this implement the university’s vision of giving back to society, but also promote green chemistry throughout our Detroit Mercy community.

Amer Habbab

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