Brains, brawn, talent, personality – the whole picture
— Ben Offenberg ’11
Ben Offenberg ’11 offers a student a lift while Harry Kresja ’10 looks on.
Ben Offenberg is the big man on campus in more ways than one. He stands 6 feet 5 inches tall and began his freshman year as an offensive lineman on the Grinnell football team. After his sophomore season Offenberg decided to commit his time to something other than football. His passion for Grinnell and the College’s ideologies led him to run for Student Government office. In the spring of 2009, the student body elected Offenberg to be the Vice President of Student Affairs for the 2009-10 school years. After one year of service, the student body wanted more of Ben and elected him to be the Student Government President for the 2010-11 school year.
While serving in office, Offenberg focused on reforming the connection between the student body and administration. He pushed t rewrite the student handbook to make it more applicable and understandable for students. He improved communication about technology issues by developing the Information Technology Support Advisory committee. He served on the Dining Committee, the Security Committee, and other committees that impact the everyday lives of students. Students consider Ben a kind, humorous and compassionate leader who makes himself available and willing to talk: “Ben is really hard working and knowledgeable about Grinnell. He also really cares about Grinnell and SGA, which is important.” (Chris Dorman ’12)
When Ben is not working in the Student Government offices he can be found studying in the Noyce Science Center to complete his chemistry major, watching Chicago White Sox games, working out in the fitness center, or spending time with friends. He is frequently seen utilizing his size and strength to give people piggy-back rides across Mac field, lift heavy objects, and help out other people.
Ben’s commitment to the student body can be attributed to his love for Grinnell: “I love the people here. Students, Staff and faculty are all very friendly. I routinely go over to a staff or faculty member’s house for dinner. I also love the freedom we are given as students. We are treated like adults and are expected to act like them.
