Acorn

Issue date: 2/29/08 Section: TRUE DREW

Media Credit: Charlotte Hammond

To Robin Markle, this isn't just the Forest, it's Sherwood Forest. Markle, an avid participant in Students for a Democratic Society, sees Drew through the lens of hope, and hasn't been sitting on the sidelines waiting for change to happen. She's a kind of Robin Hood for the University, and speaks throughout the interview as the famous character who vies to change society's injustices. "Being at Drew, you learn about inequalities, and think about it in meaningful ways," she says. "It's important to live your life's policies, and to embody your beliefs."

You don't have to look at her Facebook profile picture-of her being arrested at a protest-to know that Markle is the kind of person who walks the walk. "Sometimes you have to be a radical, like stealing from the rich and giving to the poor," she says.

On campus, she's been able to do this through SDS. Markle is adamant that she, in no way, runs the organization. There are no official leadership positions, and Markle is equal to every other member. But to her peers, her work and dedication to change are a big part of who Markle is.

"I really admire Robin's ability to be transparent about her informal leadership position within Drew SDS, along with others in the group, and how she tries to get other members plugged in," fellow SDS member Christa Hendrickson says. "She loves SDS and is more than willing to go out of her way and make sacrifices, to help the organization."

In this Sherwood, Markle's work is seen in SDS's recent efforts to inform students about their rights, particularly dealing with Public Safety and taking the concerns up with Chief of Public Safety Tom Evans, or as Markle sees him, the Sheriff of Nottingham. "One issue students unite around at Drew is keeping the sheriff and his men accountable," she says. This dedication to helping students and developing new ways of thinking is what gains the admiration of those around her. "I love how Robin is committed to changing the world and is willing to call out people when they are being oppressive," Hendrickson says. "She's the best."

Markle sees that there is a lack of students involved in changing important issues not just on campus, but around the world. "Students are apathetic because we're overwhelmed about all the inequalities that need attention," she says. "They're paralyzed by all these things." Markles advice then, for those too caught up on the immensity of problems? "Find an issue to feel really passionate about," she says. "And go for it."

This attitude is the one that drives Markle's own dreams for the Forest. "It's important for Sherwood to become a diverse community where people seek to acquire unity and equality," she says slowly, as she is decidedly the kind of person who thinks before she talks.

However, she doesn't have to think hard when asked what her favorite Sherwood haunt is. "Earth House," she says with a laugh. "It's where the merry men are."

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