UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — With more than 1,000 student-run clubs and organizations at Penn State, students can find just about any club to fit their interests and hobbies. One unique option available to students is the Renaissance Club.
The Renaissance Club at Penn State is an organization looking to enhance and explore students interests in the Renaissance era, and the culture it brought with it, through philanthropy and events held throughout the year.
When asked what the Renaissance Club brings to Penn State, club president Justin Keller said, “The biggest thing that we bring is the sense of community and family."
Keller said that the the members' goal is to help provide a group of friends for people that have the same interests. The club also offers a fun and historical element in everything they do while providing education through entertainment.
Abigail Micheel, club secretary, said she always had an interest in history and fantasy, and the club is open to almost any idea and is a welcoming environment.
"It’s just a nice place for me to go to have fun with friends, and talk about things I enjoy," said Micheel.
The club helps raise money for organizations like the Dear Hero Program, which gathers money to put together care packages for U.S. troops fighting overseas.
The club also has hosted the annual Renaissance Faire, located in downtown State College, since 2012. Keller said they work with other local clubs, crafters and vendors to make it a community event. A fundraiser offered at the faire last year was the opportunity for patrons to choose to have somebody "arrested" — visitors could choose from a list of laws that were in effect during the Renaissance era and have a person sent to the pillory for their "crime."
This year, the Renaissance Faire will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 13, at Sidney Friedman Park, with free admission. Vendors also can set up their stations free of charge.
The faire will be "Robin Hood"-themed and staying in-character throughout the fair is encouraged. Both Keller and Micheel hope this storyline throughout the day will help connect the performances and give attending children something to get involved in.
The faire will feature performances of William Shakespeare's works, a human chess match, craft and food vendors, and more. "Quests" for children in the park will also be available.
Meetings for the Renaissance Club are held at 8:30 on Wednesdays in 106 HUB-Robeson Center.