I’m sure you’ve all noticed that outside of the university, there is not much within the City of Langston itself. Langston is a historical part of Oklahoma, so a lot of the original buildings are still around, which is really just City Hall, the post office, Langston Church, a health clinic, a liquor store and Tevin’s Cooking. But don’t let the lack of a college town fool you, there’s almost always something to do _ a lot of which stems from events being held by student clubs, programs and organizations.
There are more organizations than I can talk about in one article, but Langston truly does have something for everyone. The community within the university makes a point to enhance your college experience while also giving you opportunities to grow into yourself. You have everything from academic excellence, athletics, religious groups, student government, Greek organizations and music clubs.
Outside of the academic and athletic programs, the majority of the student clubs and organizations ran through the Office of Student Life. This branch of administrative offices are run by a team of both student leadership and LU staff. I would say the LU Student Government Association is the head of all student life, it includes Residence Halls Association, the Pan Hellenic Council, The Senate and the Activities Board. On one side, The Senate is an elected group of individuals who work with administration to bring opportunities and a better quality of life for all students. And on the other, the Activities board _ ran by another elected student who undertakes the title of Activities Coordinator and selects a cabinet _ works with administration to plan and execute all student events.
If you’re up to the task of running a campaign and advocating for yourself, all students have the opportunity to be a part of SGA. The only thing that you have to do is convince the rest of the community that you’re the best person for the job, which is no easy task. Although it’s a bit more work to get in, once you’re a part of SGA you get to reap the benefits as well. Not only does it prepare you for future career ventures, but it helps build relationships with people in administrative positions as well as looks great on a resume.
Now, if you’re someone that’s more into event planning and coordinating, the Activities Board is probably more up your alley. Owing to the fact that there is not much to do around the university, the goal of the activities board is to bring the fun and life back to campus. Normally, the board tries to schedule at least a few fun events like silent parties, poetry nights, cookouts, yard parties and so much more at least a few times a month. Arguably, their most important task is to plan all of the events around Homecoming. But again, when you’re a part of the activities board, you get to reap the benefits of being aware and vip to all events.
Outside of Student government and planning, some of the most prominent organizations on campus are the Greeks, or the Divine 9. Now I won’t speak too much on this topic because we have another article that gives a more in-depth description of greek life on campus, but I will say, being a part of greek life will automatically put you into the middle of Langston culture and community. These large groups of people honor brotherhood/sisterhood, community, service and personal growth. Greek life is very involved on campus as a lot of staff and alumni are a part of Greek organizations and a lot of school traditions center D9 events. Being involved in Greek life is honestly one of the best ways to get out of your dorm, to meet people and make lifelong connections.
Although I’ve focused a bit more on the non-academic organizations, trust me when I say that there are more than plenty academically-based clubs and organizations. To list a few:
- National Association of Black Journalists;
- National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice;
- Langston University English Club;
- Minorities in Agriculture;
- LU Pre-Physical Therapy Club; and
- Pre-Law Society.
At this point, if I haven’t listed off something that you would be interested in joining, just to the University’s website and look up Student Organization for more information and all of the clubs and organizations at Langston. It’s extremely common for most students to be a part of at least one program, if not multiple, so don’t be shy and try and get yourself out there. I promise it’ll be worth it when you’re looking back on all you had the opportunity to do while at Langston.

Sasha Ndisabiye
Sasha Ndisabiye is a 2024 graduate of Langston University with a degree in broadcast journalism. She previously served as Editor-in-Chief of The Gazette.


