Meet the Chem Club: Science fun for all majors

One of the most active and longstanding clubs on Detroit Mercy's McNichols Campus, the Chemistry Club meets both the academic and social needs of people with an interest in chemistry. 

Open to all UDM students, the Chemistry Club “primarily assists students with their college education by giving them a community of like-minded individuals to share their education with,” said Matthew Mio ’97, professor and the club’s co-advisor. Students engage with diverse backgrounds and learn how chemistry can influence the world, shown within the diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect (DEIR) moments. 

The Chem Club, as everyone calls it, is one of the few student organizations at Detroit Mercy where both pre-professional and social events are held. Including demo shows at local elementary schools throughout the semesters. The club also attends the American Chemical Society national meetings. Known for being the largest scientific professional society, Professor Mio expressed very fondly his experience there, naming it his favorite memory.  

“If you are a student who is passionate about being part of a team and connecting with your community then join Chem Club,” said Selina Hakim, a senior majoring in honors Biology and minoring in Leadership and Literature. There is something for everyone to do and our entire organization comes from various backgrounds and majors.” 

Social events — especially for incoming students, offer an ice breaker in the University. Hakim was particularly excited to start her freshman year by attending the Chem Club BBQ, hosted annually at the start of the fall semester. 

“I joined at my first meeting after learning about the vast number of events and activities the Club puts on and the impact they make on our school and local community,” Hakim said “I was inspired by their passion for chemistry and realized I loved learning about science and teaching it as much as they did. She has since become an active member and is currently the board demo chair, in charge of demonstrations.  

 The Chem Club is run by both Mio and Assistant Professor Mara Livezey; but Lecturer Eleni Geragosian is filling in since Livezey is on leave. 

The Chem Club meets weekly on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. in the Chemistry lobby. Additional information for the club can be found on its Detroit Mercy Live page, its Instagram and by joining its Remind group.

— By Marketing & Communications student intern Zahra Albdair