The Doane community “I attended the Hansen Leadership Academy the summer before my junior year in high school, and that was the week that I realized Doane was the college for me. I just felt at home here. I would have never imagined that a college of more than 1,000 students could be such a close-knit community. I have loved being here because of all the great friends I’ve made; the personal relationships I’ve been able to build with my accounting professors, other faculty, and staff; and the unlimited opportunities I’ve found to get involved in student activities. This is definitely a community that challenges you to excel both inside and outside the classroom. Everyone is constantly pushing you to do more, to do better, and to achieve the kind of success you never imagined for yourself.”
Living on campus
“It’s been so amazing that I plan to live on campus for all four years. I was in Frees in my freshman year and really enjoyed the open-door feel. This year I live in Sheldon and really enjoy the peace and quiet—it helps me focus! I also enjoy working out at the Butler gym and the Sheldon workout room. And I really like the outdoors on campus—there are some nice trails and hills to go jogging on, and it’s perfectly safe. But what I like most about living on campus are the friendships and relationships I’ve been able to develop. My favorite Doane memories after I graduate will definitely be about the time I’ve spent with my sorority sisters and friends.”
Getting involved
“It is incredibly easy to get involved at Doane academically, professionally, and socially. In my case, I completed an exciting internship between my freshman and sophomore year. And this year, I am the co-chair for the Doane College/Saline County Relay for Life, a Doane Ambassador, an Orientation Leader, a member of the Hansen Leadership Committee, and the Webmaster for the Omega Psi Theta Sorority. I have helped raise money for Hurricane Katrina relief, held a teddy bear drive for Christmas, sponsored a child in Africa, and participated in a highway cleanup project. The one thing I’ve noticed about the Doane experience is that it’s not just about being a close-knit community. It’s also about taking the lead in giving back to communities around you.”
In addition to pursuing her interests in accounting and finance, Michelle Lee Goertzen has been actively involved within the Doane community for the last two years. Her passion for service and her leadership skills recently led to her being selected as an American Cancer Society Ambassador. In this capacity, she will not only work on various advocacy issues, but also attend the Celebration on the Hill event in Washington, D.C., in the fall.