Clubs of Delta, A Delta Collegiate monthly series
By: Norman Corrion
UNIVERSITY CENTER, MI – Rock puns, knowledge and passion are center stage when attending the monthly Geology Club meeting.
This event includes a two-hour rock polishing session beforehand, followed up by a full agenda for each meeting. The meeting on Dec. 4 included: current geological event information, an igneous rock identification activity and a rock raffle.
During rock polishing hours, member Jack Kircher worked on a worry-stone, which he suspected was picked up by a glacier. Other members chose to socialize. Member Daniel Hampton provided a brief tour of the room and many displays.
The meeting kicked off with introductions, and everyone sharing their least favorite rock or mineral. It’s a very friendly environment, with some sharing jokes or puns as they introduce themselves. Ky Tacey, the group president, explained that the group is welcoming to anyone who wants to join, and you don’t need to be an expert.
“They don’t have to take a single geology class,” Tacey said. “I don’t care if they like rocks or crystals or they’re just a little bit interested – that’s awesome.”
The igneous rock identification was the big activity for the meeting and included 15 rocks. The activity was guided by the group advisor, Professor Kevin Dehne. Dehne explained that igneous rock forms from lava or magma.
“It’s a hot topic,” Dehne joked.
Members split into groups of two or three, and Dehne walked the club through steps on how to identify different rocks using their features. The members then had free time to work on the identification. Once the groups completed, Dehne walked everyone through the results.
In addition to the identification activity, a rock raffle occurred with everyone taking something home. The club also reviewed current geological events like eruptions, the world’s largest iceberg moving, earthquakes, landslides and more.
The club has between 15 and 20 members consistently showing up, and everyone is very welcoming. The amount of effort put into the event by the club’s leadership made it a very rewarding experience. More information on the club can be found in the Geology Club display case in Delta’s E wing (main campus).
Upcoming Geology Club Meetings:
Jan. 22
Feb. 12
Mar. 18
Apr. 15
Polishing begins at 4 p.m., and meetings begin at 6 p.m.
Delta has many clubs and organizations you can join, if you cannot find one that interests you, starting one is easy! Visit Delta’s Clubs & Organizations page to learn more.
