Baldwin Wallace Students Push for Turning Point USA Chapter Amid Challenges

Students at Baldwin Wallace University, located near Cleveland, Ohio, are striving to create a Turning Point USA chapter on their campus, although they’re encountering pushback from fellow students.

Grace Pulcznicki, a fourth-year student, noted that enthusiasm for the chapter has grown, particularly following the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk. “We didn’t quite get the momentum we needed before, but this event really mobilized many who were hesitant to speak out,” she explained.

Pulcznicki, who plans to take on the role of president for the yet-to-be-officially recognized chapter, is currently working with Student Services to finalize the approval process.

Despite initial resistance, Pulcznicki expressed optimism. “This push has rallied people together. We’re in the middle of getting the necessary approvals,” she added. Still, challenges persist, as some alumni have displayed hostility towards their efforts. “Every day, we find posters being torn down, and while we’re collecting interest forms, some of the comments have been quite negative,” she mentioned.

Faculty at Baldwin Wallace have generally been supportive, which Pulcznicki appreciates. “I’ve received encouragement from advisors and professors across various departments, all willing to help us as we move forward,” she shared.

Meanwhile, Carly Volz, president of the Palestine Justice group on campus, has taken the initiative to start a petition aimed at halting the formation of the Turning Point chapter. She emphasized that this petition originates from her personal convictions and is separate from her group’s official stance. “The goal was to gather input from students who oppose the chapter,” Volz stated, revealing that the petition has led to nearly 200 responses, although not all were from Baldwin Wallace students.

Pulcznicki commented, “I heard it had around 100 signatures as of last month, but can’t verify where it stands now as it’s currently inaccessible to me.” She encouraged others who might feel similarly uncertain about starting a chapter to confront their challenges. “If it matters to you, then it’s worth pursuing,” she asserted, acknowledging her own apprehension about taking on the presidency role.

She added, “Standing up for your beliefs is crucial. We need open discourse that platforms like Turning Point USA can provide. Sure, you might face backlash or lose friends, but that’s part of the journey.” Amid a surge of interest in new chapters after Kirk’s assassination—over 120,000 inquiries reportedly submitted—the students are hopeful about their attempts to establish a presence on campus.