Feminist Empowerment Movement

The Feminist Empowerment Movement is the only organization of its kind at South Alabama. We strive to empower, protect, and foster a safe space for individuals of all gender identities to engage with modern feminism. Our core belief lies in the equality of all genders, and we are dedicated to promoting inclusivity throughout the South Alabama campus.

To achieve our mission of empowering and safeguarding women and non-gender conforming individuals, FEM is proud to offer a diverse range of educational and engaging events each semester. These events will cover crucial topics such as women's rights, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and much more. By organizing these enlightening events, we aim to equip our members with the knowledge and understanding necessary to create positive change in our community.Join us as we embark on a journey toward a more equitable and compassionate future. Together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals, promoting a world where everyone can thrive and find their voice.Be a part of this empowering movement. Meet the people who have fostered this community, and get involved with FEM today!

Friends of Soteria

Friends of Soteria is a volunteer organization within FEM, drawing inspiration from the Greek goddess Soteria, symbolizing safety, deliverance, and protection from harm. Our mission is to offer unwavering support to anyone feeling vulnerable or uncomfortable attending appointments or situations alone. Our empathetic and non-judgmental "friends" provide a reassuring and caring presence, ensuring you never face these moments alone.Whenever you need a caring friend by your side, Friends of Soteria is here for you. We extend an invitation to all members of FEM to sign up as volunteers, providing service hour opportunities for participants. To learn more about our community and the support we offer, visit the Friends of Soteria website.

2023-2024 Executive Board

Colleen Jennings (she/her)
President

Colleen Jennings, our dedicated president, has been at the forefront of FEM since its establishment in 2021. As the face of our organization, she has shouldered numerous responsibilities and played a vital role in shaping our goals and principles alongside our fellow founding members.Colleen is a senior pursuing a major in Criminal Justice, complemented by a minor in Political Science. With her profound knowledge and dedication to social justice, she embodies the spirit of FEM and guides our collective efforts toward empowering and advocating for individuals of all gender identities.In addition to her role in FEM, Colleen is also a dedicated intern at South's Title IX office, advocating for gender equity and creating a safe and inclusive environment on campus. Colleen's dedication extends to promoting awareness and fostering a campus culture that values consent, respect, support, and accountability in matters related to gender equity and sexual assault.As she approaches her graduation in May 2024, Colleen envisions continuing her educational journey by pursuing a Master's degree in Criminal Justice and Criminology. This pursuit reflects her unwavering commitment to understanding the intricacies of the criminal justice system and effecting meaningful change within it.Colleen's passion, vision, and determination have been instrumental in the growth and success of FEM. Her leadership inspires us to push boundaries, challenge societal norms, and foster a campus community that embraces equality and inclusivity. Together, under her guidance, we will create a brighter future for all.

Ren Clark (they/them)
Vice President

Ren, our Vice President, plays an integral role in the operations of FEM. Sharing several responsibilities with the president, they step up to lead in her absence, ensuring the smooth functioning of our organization. Ren's steadfast presence and unwavering dedication have been vital to our growth and success.Ren, a senior majoring in Psychology and Philosophy, is slated to graduate in May 2024. After graduation, they plan to pursue a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling. With a heartfelt commitment to assisting those who have experienced violence, Ren aims to become a licensed professional counselor specializing in providing support and care to victims of violent crime. Their future endeavors align perfectly with their unwavering advocacy within FEM, where they have been a driving force in empowering and supporting individuals of all gender identities.As one of our first members, Ren was instrumental in establishing FEM and played a pivotal role in the creation of Friends of Soteria, our volunteer organization. Their passion for creating a supportive community shines through in their efforts to provide companionship and assistance to those in need during moments of vulnerability.Ren's commitment to our cause is truly inspiring, and we are fortunate to have them as a foundational member of our organization. Their tireless dedication, coupled with their compassionate nature, helps shape the inclusive and empowering environment we strive to foster within FEM.

Kinleigh Thompson (she/they)
Treasurer

Kinleigh Thompson is the driving force behind FEM's financial stability as our dedicated treasurer and esteemed chief financial officer. Having previously served as a compassionate Wellness Director, they demonstrated a strong commitment to the well-being of our organization's members.As a senior pursuing a major in Social Work complemented by a minor in Criminal Justice, Kinleigh brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for creating positive change. Her projected graduation in December 2023 marks a significant milestone in her journey with FEM, as she was among the founding members who played a pivotal role in shaping the organization.Kinleigh spearheaded the impactful and controversial Wage Gap Bake Sale, raising substantial funds for FEM while raising awareness about the pressing issue of pay inequality. Her determination to advocate for gender equality and social justice serves as an inspiration to us all.Looking ahead, Kinleigh plans to pursue a master's degree in Criminal Justice at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, continuing their path toward making a meaningful impact within the criminal justice system.Kinleigh's multifaceted contributions as our treasurer and former Wellness Director have significantly shaped FEM's growth and success. Her financial expertise and compassionate advocacy serve as guiding forces within our organization, empowering us to make a positive impact within our community.

Maddy Tilley (she/her)
Secretary

Bio coming soon!