Lander University has formally organized a new People to People International chapter (PTPI), which has been chartered by the world organization headquartered in Kansas City, Mo. President Dwight Eisenhower created PTPI with the idea of enhancing international understanding and friendship through educational, cultural and humanitarian activities. The focus of the 134 chapters worldwide is on exchanging ideas and experiences among people of different countries and diverse cultures.
The Lander chapter is the first PTPI university chapter in South Carolina. Its activities have included assisting with the university's Second Annual Peace Studies Conference, held in March, and hosting a forum which featured Lander students discussing their experiences studying abroad in England and Spain.
The Lander chapter recently inducted 12 student members and elected officers. They are: Ben Baugher of Simpsonville, president; Keeley Haysman of Warner Robins, Ga., internal vice president; Brittnii Watts of Sumter, external vice president; and Ty Grogan of Greenwood, secretary/treasurer.
Also inducted were Beth Burnette of Elberton, Ga.; Mary Mufuka and Shalom Chausarira of Zimbabwe; Chanity Walker of Seneca; Jonathan Smith of Greenwood; Osheanna Galloway of Denmark, S.C.; and Andrew Willis of Williston.
Dr. James Colbert, assistant professor of chemistry, and Dr. Lucas McMillan, assistant professor of political science, share responsibilities as the chapter's faculty advisers.