Council Opens Doors for College and Community

When the former Town and Gown annual fundraising campaign disbanded several years ago, an energetic group of college and community members recognized a continuing need to bridge the perceived gap between the campus and the town.

The actions of the Community Council, organized in 2004 by Luther Erickson, have since literally opened doors. One physical example of the Council's activity is the Pioneer Bookshop on Fourth Ave. The Bookshop is, in part, a result of area residents not knowing or not feeling welcome to browse at the Campus Bookstore in the center of the campus and wanting access to the bookstore's services downtown.

Members of the current Council, who serve two to three years terms, include: Gordon Canfield, Monica Chavez-Silva, Chenette, Laura Ferguson, Patty Johnson, Marilyn Kennett, Denise Lamphier, Dianne Latimer, Todd Linden, Larissa Mottl, Paul Pohlson, Suzanne Redenius, Adam Smith, David Smith, Joyce Wagner, Becky Wilson-Petig, and students Nathan Lindsey, Miranda Paley, Suzanne Polivy, and Kirby Ramstad.

Council member Suzanne Redenius has served on the council since its inception and says she got involved because she wants others to see all the college has to offer. "I am happy to do anything I can for the college. Montie and I regularly attend events there and they are free," Redenius said. "I want others to feel welcome on campus and to be aware of what's happening on campus."

Suggestions for the Community Council may be referred to Dan McCue, assistant director of alumni relations at Grinnell College and staff adviser to the council, at Dan McCue@grinnell.edu or 641-269-3234.