Jennifer Johnson

Jennifer Johnson chose the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point for its strong academic program, home-like atmosphere and vibrant campus life. Once she got here, she saw a chance to create something new.

Johnson and five other students founded the sorority Sigma Delta Rho, which cherishes diversity, service and responsibility. And UW-Stevens Point gave them the atmosphere to build it.

“Students definitely have a say in their education here,” said Johnson, a second-year student. “We have the power to make change. The opportunities we’re supplied are incredible compared with what you get at other schools.”

Johnson – a Toledo, Ohio, native more recently from Milwaukee – helps design Sigma Delta Rho events, recruits pledges and serves as one of the sorority’s officers: She’s the secretary of academic affairs, meaning she helps ensure that members earn the best grades they can.

“If they fall below requirements, I can meet with them one on one,” Johnson said. “I can identify resources here that can help them with their GPAs. I believe we’re creating a beautiful cycle of women coming into the sorority and going out as leaders.”

And Johnson’s involvement doesn’t stop there. Johnson is also vice president of the Black Student Union. She’s a diversity ambassador and residence hall government president at Burroughs Hall. She’s a tour guide through the Admissions Office. And she’s an employee at UW-Stevens Point’s Student Academic and Advising Center, in addition to being a family and consumer sciences major and communication minor.

“I feel it’s satisfying to be involved like this because people years from now can say, ‘You did this. You’re making a big difference in our communities,’ ” Johnson said. “I can’t say it’s easy, but I definitely have resources here that can help me be successful with the commitments I’ve made. ”

For more information on Greek Life at UW-Stevens Point, visit www.uwsp.edu/centers/sieo and click on Greek Life.

Pointers are originators. Pointers are involved. Pointers are trailblazers.