Rose Cruzan
Sophomore
Major: Health Sciences and Neuroscience
Brownsburg, Indiana

The Compass Center Scholars program empowers students of both religious and secular backgrounds to facilitate meaning, purpose, and social justice exploration during their time at Butler. Compass Center Scholars  participate in campus interfaith programming through leadership opportunities, interfaith engagement, and service activities. 

Why did you apply for the Compass Center Scholarship?
I applied to the Compass Center Scholars program because I was searching for scholarships that would not only provide me with financial support, but mentorship and professional support as well. More than just a scholarship program, it felt like a growing community dedicated to giving back to the students rooted in conversations and spiritual education. 

What part the Compass Center Scholars program has been most impactful for you?
The monthly Compass Center Scholars meetings have been the most impactful part of the scholarship. It’s not a big event; it’s a simple lunch where all the scholars sit in the Blue House and talk about what they’re doing to work on their intercultural engagement. It’s a group of people that couldn’t be more different enjoying some pizza and casually sharing their faith experiences in a way that is uplifting and educational. From church stories and religious journeys to simple prayers, it brings us together past our spiritual beliefs into something bigger than ourselves. 

What kinds of events, volunteer work, leadership roles, or other activities have you been involved in as a Compass Center Scholar?
I have been able to really work on my leadership experience with this program. I was able to serve on the Morton-Finney Equity Leadership Team (MELT) in the Community Connections Committee. I started the Morton-Finney Instagram, tabled to high school students, and have worked internally to effectively communicate about this program. We also have had many volunteer opportunities with kids in the community and wonderful programming at meetings. My favorites have been Deliberate Dialogues about various topics like policing, voting, and more.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about exploring multifaith community, interfaith engagement, meaning and purpose, or spiritual well-being practices during their time at Butler?
The Compass Center really is open to any students at all. You don’t need to be spiritual, you don’t need to be religious, you just need to be open-minded and ready to talk. I cannot recommend it enough. Throughout the conversations I’ve had through the Center, I’ve grown to not only understand other beliefs, but to grow more deeply rooted in my own. It’s a unique experience that I think everyone deserves to enjoy.