Wilkes University students will see a new name on the list of campus organizations this semester: Turning Point USA. The newly formed club, led by Wilkes student Dylan Clark, hopes to carve out space for open dialogue and debate on political and cultural issues.

The chapter’s launch comes as part of a broader national network of Turning Point USA (TPUSA) groups that have appeared at schools across the country. While political clubs on college campuses are nothing new, Clark said he hopes this one will provide a platform where students from all perspectives can voice their opinions without hesitation.

Turning Point USA was founded in 2012 by Charlie Kirk, who was only 18 years old at the time. Based in Illinois, the nonprofit organization quickly gained national visibility, focusing on outreach to young people in high schools and universities. Its stated mission is to “identify, educate, train, and organize students to promote the principles of freedom, free markets, and limited government.”

Since its founding, TPUSA has grown rapidly, establishing a presence on more than 3,000 campuses nationwide, according to the organization’s website. Kirk has become a well-known figure in conservative politics, hosting a podcast, writing books, and frequently appearing on television and radio programs.

While supporters of the group praise its emphasis on free expression and its efforts to engage younger generations in political life, critics have at times questioned its methods and messaging. Regardless, its expansion reflects a growing desire among students across the political spectrum to bring national debates to local campuses.

For Clark, the decision to establish a Turning Point chapter at Wilkes came after noticing what he described as a gap in political representation among student organizations.

“I remember going to Club Day and the website said there was a Democratic club and a Republican club,” Clark explained. “But I didn’t see that anywhere at Club Day, so I figured there’s only one side and everyone needs to have their voices heard.”

He added that creating the club was less about aligning with a single ideology and more about broadening opportunities for conversation. “Mostly because I want people’s voices to be heard,” he said.

When asked to describe Turning Point to students who may be unfamiliar with the organization, Clark emphasized inclusivity. “The biggest thing is it’s built around faith and politics, but it’s supposed to be nonpartisan,” he said.

Though the Wilkes chapter is still in its early stages, Clark has already gathered interest from between 20 and 30 students. Officers have been selected, and members are discussing activities for the semester.

“Right now, we’re in talks of at least having some formal debate,” Clark said. “As far as fundraisers, probably like the typical, we’re gonna come up with different events.”

Formal debates may become a central feature of the club’s programming. Clark said the group is open to engaging with other political organizations on campus, including the Democratic club if it becomes active. “It’s open to whoever, anybody’s welcome to it,” he said. “But if we could collaborate with the Democratic Club, that’d be fine too.”

Beyond events, Clark said his main priority is ensuring the club serves as a safe and welcoming environment. “Well, my main goal is to make sure everyone has a safe place to express their opinion,” he explained.

Launching a political club is not without challenges. Clark said the response has been “mostly positive” so far but acknowledged that some criticism has surfaced online. “Mostly everything I’ve gotten has been positive, but a couple members have pointed out some not-so-nice responses,” he said.

Despite this, Clark is focused on building momentum and awareness. The group plans to advertise through flyers, announcements, and social media. “Once we get approved and settled in, we’re gonna post announcements and hang flyers,” he said.

He also encouraged students who might feel uncertain to come see the club for themselves. “You’re more than welcome to join, come for a meeting and feel it out,” Clark said. “Everybody’s welcomed—I don’t want anyone to feel left out.”

Like many new organizations, the biggest obstacle was the initial process of starting the club. “The biggest challenge is gathering the information on how to start it in the first place,” Clark admitted.

As for long-term goals, Clark is focused on establishing the chapter’s presence on campus. “If we could get out there and be an established club, that’s the goal for now,” he said. By the end of the school year, he hopes Turning Point will be recognized as an active part of campus life.

Looking further ahead, Clark envisions the club becoming a regular participant in events such as Club Day and collaborating with other groups. “Definitely after establishing our club, we can be a part of Club Day.”

For Clark, the importance of political clubs at universities is clear: they ensure students do not feel silenced. “The best thing is to have everyone be free to express their opinion, ’cause then it won’t feel like anyone is left out or anything,” he said.

With more than 20 members already expressing interest and plans for debates and events underway, the Turning Point USA chapter at Wilkes University is positioned to play a role in fostering dialogue among students.

As Clark put it, the goal is simple: to make sure every student who wants a voice has the chance to be heard.