Park University’s Communication Connection Club has been busy this semester, kicking off their year with a ramen cook-off event on Oct. 29 in the Copley Quad kitchen.

The organization also participated in Park’s annual Fright Night event on Oct. 30, as they do every year.

But even through all the fun, Communication Connection works with members and students alike to build and strengthen their communication skills.

“Our goal is to help those interested in communication get better,” said Lora Cohn, associate professor of communication arts and Communication Connection advisor.

“We mostly try to have fun but we make sure we are trying to get more students involved with communication.”
One way the club is doing so is through their speaker showcase event, which will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19 in the McCoy Meetin’ House.

The showcase will feature the top speakers from each section of 100-level communication classes and they will present their informative speeches, according to Cohn.

“We feel that this is an excellent opportunity for Park students to showcase their hard work and speech skills,” said Katie Overholtzer, senior finance major and treasurer of Communication Connection.

“Plus, it’s a more laid back environment where students can present their speeches to an audience filled with friends without the pressure of being graded.”

Overholtzer said the organization is still working out ideas for events for the rest of the year including another ramen cook-off in the spring.

One particular task the group is working on accomplishing in the future is getting a student chapter of International Association of Business Communicators.

“Having this would allow our students to work with consultants in business communications and get some experience in that area,” said Cohn. “It’s a great opportunity for our students. Kansas City has a local chapter and we are working to try to attend their conference this year.”

Minnie Washington, senior marketing major and president of Communication Connection, said she is glad she decided to join the club when she was a freshman.

“The club has a relaxed environment that welcomes anyone,” she said.

“We actually have only one member from the communication department. We have people who are business majors and a part of the education department.

“Communication Connection is a place where you get to express yourself and try out your ideas. The club is a great way to overcome your shyness as well.”

Overholtzer said joining Communication Connection has given her many benefits.

“I joined this club over others because I believe in the importance of communication,” she said.

“It seems silly but I think a lot of people take communication skills for granted. No matter what field you may find yourself in, you won’t be able to accomplish much with poor communication skills. Through Communication Connection we don’t just talk about communication, we apply it.”