Student Activities & Organizations
Life at Defiance College goes far beyond the classroom—it’s where friendships are built, leadership takes shape, and unforgettable memories are made. From intramural sports and student organizations to campus traditions and year-round events, there are countless ways to get involved, have fun, and make your mark at DC.
the Buzz on campus
Key Events
Swarm Week kicks off the academic year, welcoming students back to campus with a week of major events and engaging activities. It’s the perfect chance for students to reconnect with peers, make new friends, and ease into campus life. Our traditional highlights include The Carnival, Water Wednesday, and Party on the Patio, along with several other exciting happenings.
Our annual Homecoming Week is a favorite, drawing back alumni, community members, and friends to celebrate DC spirit! The Office of Student Activities coordinates a week of student-focused events, traditionally featuring the popular Homecoming T-shirt Tie-Dye, a campus-wide effort to Decorate DC, and the exciting Homecoming Court Presentation prior to the Saturday football game.
Friends & Family Weekend is a cherished fall semester tradition where we invite friends, families, and siblings to experience DC alongside their student! Guests are encouraged to attend DC athletics events and enjoy a fun, family-friendly activity geared toward strengthening the students’ connection to their valuable support systems.
What started as a grant-funded initiative has become a weekly favorite! Every Wednesday, we host a two-hour Wellness Wednesday event designed to help students destress, recharge, and enjoy some mid-week fun. Typical themes include painting, DIY fidget toys, affirmation sessions, and other activities focused on mental well-being and community enjoyment.
- Trunk or Treat
- During Halloweek, DC’s staff and faculty come together for a night of treats! Employees decorate their vehicles and participate in a safe, fun Trunk or Treat event, handing out treats to the DC student body.
- Thanksgiving Dinner
- Each year on the Thursday before Thanksgiving break, DC hosts a Campus-wide Thanksgiving Dinner. This beloved event brings the entire campus together to share a full holiday meal, celebrate gratitude, and enjoy a sense of community.
- Holiday Explosion
- Prior to Winter break each year, CAB hosts Holiday Explosion! This is a day full of Holiday-themed crafts, exciting activities, and fun events!
- Late Night Breakfast
- Each semester, as finals week approaches, students gather for the Late Night Breakfast event in the dining hall on the Sunday night before exams begin. To help students take the edge off the late-night studying, we offer chair massages and other self-care activities at this event!
- Casino Night
- Once per semester, students can enjoy a thrilling, one-night casino-like experience! Staff and faculty serve as dealers for games like blackjack, roulette, and craps. Students receive chips at the door and cash them out at the end for fun prizes!
- Grocery Bingo
- During lunchtime each semester, students fill the cafeteria to play Grocery Bingo! It’s a fun and practical way for students to win useful prizes like laundry detergent, snacks, air fresheners, and more.
- Wings & Sings
- At least once a semester, we host the famous Wings & Sings event! This popular nighttime karaoke gives students a chance to show off their singing skills, enjoy delicious wings, and share an energetic night of fun.
- Other Events:
- Beyond these staple events, various campus clubs and organizations host their own unique events, and the Office of Student Activities frequently organizes pop-up activities. Our goal is to keep the campus busy, vibrant, and connected!
Intramurals on Campus
Intramural Sports at Defiance College are all about fun, fitness, and friendship. Whether you’re a competitive athlete or just looking for a way to stay active and meet new people, our intramural programs offer something for everyone.
We believe sports are for everybody, not just athletes. That’s why our intramural leagues, tournaments, and one-day events give students, faculty, and staff a chance to come together, play, and enjoy the spirit of competition in a relaxed, supportive environment.
What We Offer
Team Sports: Basketball, flag football, volleyball, soccer, and softball
Individual & Dual Sports: Pickleball, tennis, table tennis, and cornhole
Special Events: Dodgeball nights, 3v3 tournaments, and themed competitions throughout the year
Why Join Intramurals?
Stay active and relieve stress
Meet new friends and build teamwork skills
Represent your residence hall, club, or friend group
Compete for bragging rights and maybe a championship T-shirt!
How to Get Involved
Look out for emails sent every Monday that have what sport we will be playing along with the time and place. They take place every Tuesday 7-9pm or whenever the event is over.
Join the Fun
Intramural Sports are a key part of student life at Defiance College. No matter your skill level, there’s a place for you on the court, field, or in the stands. Bring your energy, your team spirit, and your love for the game and make your college experience even more memorable!
Campus Organizations
Social Work Organization (SWO)
The Social Work Organization was created for the benefit of Defiance College social work students and those with allied majors and an interest in exploring social work as a career. The organization annually co-sponsors a fundraiser for the local homeless shelter, an urban trip to a major metropolitan city, various speakers and workshops on relevant social issues, as well as other social and professional activities. For more information, contact Tess Salisbury at extension
Criminal Justice Society
The Criminal Justice Society is made up of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, and Digital Forensic Science majors. The group encourages a focus on strong academic work and practical experience in these fields. Membership in the Criminal Justice Society requires students to remain in good academic standing with the school. Monthly meetings may include guest speakers and information for those who wish to attend the Ohio Council of Criminal Justice Education State Job Fair, held in the fall. A spring trip to a large metropolitan area includes tours relative to each study area, and service learning projects are conducted during the year. Members are also encouraged to attend and present research at the annual Ohio Council of Criminal Justice Education Research Conference. For more information, please contact Dr. Sheldon Goodrum at ext 2522.
Defiance College Sports Medicine Club (DCSMC)
The Sports Medicine Club at Defiance College provides opportunities for students to explore athletic training, physical therapy, exercise science, and related health professions. This club will host workshops, guest speakers, networking events, and hands-on learning activities. Membership is open to all currently enrolled DC Students.
Teacher Education Organization
This organization is composed of students, especially those in Teacher Education majors on campus. This organization serves as a vehicle for the program to host events for the general community and around campus. It will also allow the program to host fundraisers.
The Defender
Online campus newspaper with paid opportunities for traditional and social media reporting, feature articles on campus events, sports, and entertainment, photography and video, editorials, and more. Interested students can contact Abigail Bowers (ext. 2348) or email abowers@defiance.edu. Students with all levels of experience are encouraged to participate. Visit The Defender at defender.defiance.edu.
Student-Athlete Leadership Team (SALT)
Defiance College is dedicated to the athletic, social, and academic advancement of all student-athletes. The mission of the Defiance College Student-Athlete Leadership Team (SALT) is to enhance the total student-athlete experience by promoting opportunities, supporting fellow student-athletes, and fostering a positive student-athlete image to the campus and community. SALT supports and upholds the core values of Defiance College: to know, to lead, to serve, to understand. For interested students, please contact Morgan Barnett (ext. 2345) or email mbarnett@defiance.edu.
Pickleball Club
A group of students who have united to promote a healthy and active community through the sport of pickleball. They aim to provide an inclusive environment for all students, staff, and faculty to come together, engage in friendly competition, and foster camaraderie. For students who are interested, please contact Dana Peterson, the Director of Student Activities, at dpeterson@defiance.edu or (419)783-2388.
Chess Club
A social club made up of students, faculty and staff that enjoy the game of chess. No pressure or expectations of performance to belong. While this group is primarily an online chess club, we do host some events here and there including tournaments for members. All levels of player are welcome from the grand master, to the person that would like to learn the game. Just reach out to the advisor, or any current member to learn how to join. Advisor: Kevin Tong, ktong@defiance.edu
Defiance College Fishing Club (DCFC)
The purpose of this club is to foster interest in fishing and provide students with basic fishing gear. We want to encourage students to enjoy the outdoors, create new friendships, and learn to fish or advance their fishing skills. We also hope to help students appreciate nature and our natural resources.
Black Action Student Association (BASA)
BASA serves as an organization with a focus on the history, creativity, and culture of black people and the black experience. BASA serves as a “family unit” with respect to personal, social, and intellectual growth for its members and others who participate in the campus community. Membership in BASA is open to all of the Defiance College community. Students interested in the events or activities sponsored by BASA are encouraged to contact the Office of Student Belongingness at 419-783-2563.
Dude Be Nice
The purpose of Dude Be Nice is to foster acceptance and build an inclusive community through positive interactions on campus and with the community. Members strive to create a fun space where we can all come together and celebrate being part of one community on campus. For more information, contact Dr. Lisa Beringer at lberinger@defiance.edu.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
NAMI DC is a campus-oriented organization that is affiliated with NAMI Four County. NAMI is the National Alliance on Mental Illness–the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization.
DC Pride
This student organization provides programming for the campus intended to broaden and deepen our understanding of sexual and gender identity. DC Pride also advocates for and provides support to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning students, faculty and staff, and their allies. DC Pride sponsors events on campus and collaborates with other student organizations and departments on campus. Students interested in DC Pride and its programs and events are encouraged to contact their advisor, Dr. Kathryn Phillips (ext. 2461) or email kphillips@defiance.edu.
La Raza
La Raza is a co-educational group geared toward the goals of Latino and Latinx students on campus. The organization welcomes all students from a spectrum of cultures. Students interested in the events or activities sponsored by La Raza are encouraged to contact the Office of Student Belongingness at 419-783-2563.
Defiance College Student Senate
The Student Senate serves as the voice of the students in the leadership and governance of the College. Representatives from various campus organizations form the general body of the Student Senate. Senate representatives choose executive board officers from among the general body of the Senate. Class representatives are chosen through elections from among the student body. Class presidents and the Senate Executive Board also serve as student panelists in the College’s judicial system. The Student Senate Chairperson serves as an ex-officio member of the Defiance College Board of Trustees. Students interested in participating in Student Senate may contact the Office of Student Life at extension 2437 for more information.
Campus Activities Board (CAB)
The purpose of the Campus Activities Board (CAB) is to provide a wide range of programs and activities for the college community. CAB’s programs are fun, diverse, and are almost all free! CAB also strives to collaborate with other campus organizations in its planning of activities. All students interested in planning, coordinating, and creating campus activities are encouraged to volunteer for membership on the board; contact the Office of Student Activities & Leadership at extension 2388.
Service Leaders
The Defiance College Service Leadership Program empowers students to become civically engaged leaders through hands-on service in the local and regional community. Participants attend monthly meetings, complete 100 service hours annually, and gain valuable leadership and career skills. Up to 25 incoming students each year receive a $1,500 renewable scholarship for their commitment to service. To get involved or learn more, contact Bridgette Winslow at 419-783-2395 or bwinslow@defiance.edu
Orientation Leaders
An energetic group of students was selected to assist incoming students with their transition to the campus and life as a college student. Applications are made available during the spring semester. Training is required and conducted throughout the spring semester and before the Orientation sessions begin. Contact the Office of Admissions for more information.
Ambassadors
This select group of students promotes and represents the College in an enthusiastic and positive manner to the community, including prospective students and families. Their main duties are giving campus tours and volunteering to help during Admissions Visit Days and as needed at other Defiance College events. Applications for Student Ambassadors are available in the Fall and Spring semesters. The Selection process is completed at the end of December in the Fall semester and by the end of April in the Spring semester. The group is advised by a member of the Admissions staff. For more information, please contact the Office of Admissions, extension 2359.
Carolyn M. Small Honors Program
The Carolyn M. Small Honors Program provides opportunities for all Defiance College students, regardless of their major, to participate in an honors curriculum, to present at the annual Academic Colloquium and at off-campus conferences, and to engage in experiences on and off campus.
Phi Alpha Theta
Honor society for history majors. Must have a 3.1 GPA or higher and courses in history, and a 3.0 GPA or higher in all other courses. Those interested should contact advisor Dr. Steve Bare at 419-783-2523 or sbare@defiance.edu.
Phi Alpha
Omicron Mu chapter of Phi Alpha National Social Work Honor Society. Requirements for membership: Junior or senior status with a 3.0 overall GPA and a Social Work GPA within the top 35% of all majors in the program.
Tau Mu: Defiance College Social Work Honor Society
Named in honor of a deceased alumnus, Teclehaimanot Menghsteab, who died while assisting Eritrean refugees escape their civil war. Requirements: Graduating Seniors with a 3.25 overall GPA and a 3.5 GPA within the major.
DC College Choir
College Choir is a choral ensemble open to all students at Defiance College. Repertoire consists of music from all stylistic periods, including contemporary music, and consists of small-form choral music performed a cappella and/or with chamber instruments. Frequent performances on and off campus, including tours, are expected of this ensemble. The group rehearses twice a week on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 11:00am to 12:35pm. If interested, please contact music@defiance.edu.
Defiance College Choral Union
The Choral Union is a large choral ensemble open to students, college personnel and the surrounding community. Repertoire consists of music from all stylistic periods, including contemporary music, and consists of small-form choral music performed a cappella and/or with chamber instruments. This group performs three times during the academic year including the W. Oscar Jones Choral Festival, Handel’s Messiah in December, and a spring concert. The group rehearses on Monday evenings 7-9pm. If interested, please contact music@defiance.edu.
Jazz Band
The Jazz Band is open to students with an interest in jazz music and performance technique. This group meets once weekly and works on music of various styles, including swing, funk, blues, rock, and Latin. The flexible nature of this ensemble allows for a traditional big band set-up or various combos based on student interest/instrumentation. Meets during the Spring Semester. If interested, please contact music@defiance.edu.
Symphonic Band
MUS 174 Symphonic Band (1) Music ensembles involve students in cooperative learning environments developing aural, communication, and leadership skills. Experience in music is not required in all ensembles, but some may require an audition and/or approval by the instructor. Ensembles meet a minimum of once per week with additional performances outside the weekly class meetings. Repeatable for up to eight credits. For the Creative/Expressive Arts General Education requirement to be met, a total of three credits of applied music instruction and/or music ensembles must be earned.
Defiance Drama Club (DDC)
Our goal is to create a vibrant, inclusive space for creative expression, collaboration, and performance. The purpose of our organization is to promote theatrical arts at Defiance College by providing students with opportunities to participate in all aspects of theatre production, including acting, directing, stage design, and technical support. Membership is open to all current Defiance College students, regardless of prior theatre experience.
Catholics on Campus
Opportunities for fellowship, service, and retreats are provided. Catholics on Campus often coordinates on-campus services for various holy days and feast days for the convenience of Roman Catholic students, faculty and staff, and other interested parties. All students and membership are welcome. For more information, contact advisor Kris Knight at kknight@defiance.edu or 419-783-2445.
Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) organization is focused on student athletes here on campus and their relationship with Jesus Christ. Although it is student-athlete-focused, the group is open to all students. For more information, contact Garett Mansfield (ext. 2566) or email gmansfield@defiance.edu.
Student Veterans of America (SVA)
The purpose of the Defiance College Chapter of Student Veterans of America is to guide Veterans, current military members, dependents, and advocates throughout their academic careers. Membership in this organization is open to all Defiance College Students with the goal of creating a spirit of understanding and cooperation between Student Veterans and the Defiance College Community as a whole. S.V.A. also works to promote causes that advocate for and help Veterans and active duty service members locally, nationally, and worldwide. For more information, contact S.V.A. advisor Mike Winslow at (419) 783-2313 or mwinslow@defiance.edu.
Commuter Student Association
The Commuter Student Association is a group on campus made up of non-residential students as a way to provide a voice for those who are not on campus 24/7. They work towards making events on campus more accessible and welcoming for those who travel to campus and want to be more involved but are unable to, while providing a support system for commuters to have their voices heard as a smaller percentage of the campus population. Interested students may contact the CSA advisor, Mike Winslow, at (419) 783-2313 or mwinslow@defiance.edu.
Get Involved On Campus
Visit the Office of Student Activities in Hubbard 125, or contact Dana Peterson at dpeterson@defiance.edu to get started! The Director of Student Activities can help you with starting a new club or organization, reviving an old one, or getting involved in something specific! Please visit MyDC to find all forms-including the New Student Organization Application, the Student Organization Annual Reneal Form, and more!