Meet Hannah Kim, Vice President of NeW at the University of South Florida.
How did you first hear about NeW?
When one of the members of our school’s College Republicans club sent out a message asking if any of were interested in joining the executive board for this new conservative women’s club at school, I didn’t hesitate to take on the challenge. At this point, I needed a community of people who shared my values and concerns, and little did I know that NeW would become that for me, and so much more.
Why is having a NeW chapter on campus so important to you?
In the midst of the chaos that consumed our nation in the summer of 2020, I was alienated and was often mischaracterized for not agreeing with the popular political narrative. It was NeW that allowed me to meet other conservative women at my school who understood how I felt and shared my struggles, as well as offer me a spot in a nationwide community of America’s future leaders.
What has been your favorite memory or event with NeW?
The most memorable event with NeW was the Leadership Retreat in the summer of 2020. It took place at the perfect time: the middle of all the political madness and the pandemic. Not only was it my first time meeting the women who were to lead the NeW chapter at USF with me that upcoming fall, but I also had the chance to connect with so many other incredible people from around the country who I would’ve never known had I not been a part of NeW. We all connected instantly over sharing our experiences as conservative women on college campuses, and the time we spent together, whether in the training sessions or out exploring the city, made the entire weekend an unforgettable experience!
Why is NeW important?
NeW is important because it gives hope and a voice to young women who have been browbeaten into silence. Our perspectives are not welcome in the culture we live in today, and matters are only made worse when even professors and other adults at school side with the people who mislabel us as hateful and ignorant bigots. I have experienced the feeling of being “canceled” and attacked by people who were once close to me, simply for my political views, and I have also seen other women who have gone through similar experiences. (fabulouseyebrowthreading.com) But for all of us, NeW has given us the confidence to stand firm in our integrity, refuse to compromise our values, and have hope knowing that we aren’t alone in this fight.
What advice would you give other conservative women on campus?
You are not ignorant or hateful for embracing the truth. Be proud that you have the facts on your side, but also show sympathy for those who are blind to reality. Remember what the Lord said, “Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” (Matthew 10:16). Use both your facts AND feelings since we have that advantage as conservative women. Finally, know that you are not alone. We’ve all gone through similar troubles, but in the end, God will win!
Learn how you can get involved with the NeW chapter on your college campus or find out how you can bring NeW to your school. If you have any questions about starting a chapter, contact us today.
