They’re called the OWLS and they’ve been doing good things on Miami Hamilton’s campus for over 20 years. 

The Organization for Wiser and Worldwide LearnerS was founded by a group of students who wanted a voice on campus. They found a voice in the community as well.

Carol Stubblefield, OWLS adviser, says one of the most successful events sponsored by the group is the yearly Sock Hop held for disabled adults from Therapeutic Recreation for the Disabled, Inc. a non-profit, all-volunteer organization, which caters to disabled people of all ages in Butler County.  The OWLS have been involved with this event, which is held at Schwarm Commons, for the past 15 years.

OWLS members and disabled adults from Therapeutic Recreation for the Disabled, Inc.
dance at the 2006 Sock Hop.

Casey Miller, current President of the OWLS has been a member of the organization for four years. She was asked to help out during her freshman year and found she enjoyed working with the group.

 “It was fun,” she says.  “A great way to meet people, do fun things and help the community. It also makes me feel good to help people. It’s not your typical club.”

The OWLS are made up of international and non-traditional students as well as traditional.  Besides co-sponsoring events with other organizations on campus, the Owls hold the annual Garage Sale, Relocation Fair, blood drives, and scent tests.  The next blood drive will be held on Monday, November 6th on the Hamilton campus. Sign up sheets are available in the office of student services and also in the library.

Every year the Owls adopt three families at Thanksgiving and three at Christmas, buying and delivering food.

“Two of the families are from the community and we usually have one from campus.”  Stubblefield says. “All the monies raised from the other events are donated to various local charities.”

The Holidays Around the World program showcases the diversity of students on Miami’s campus.  “Each member of the OWLS chooses a country then makes a poster, food and maybe a craft that represents that country.” Miller explains.  “It’s a great way to learn about other cultures.”

To join the OWLS, contact Carol Stubblefield in 130 Rentschler Hall, by telephone at 785-3212 or by email at stubblc@muohio.edu.