Just over a year after the assassination of political activist, Charlie Kirk, a Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) student is reflecting on Kirk’s impact on his life.
Matthew Guerra, a senior business administration major, connects with the principles that Kirk stood by.
“Charlie Kirk’s ideals of family and God first, working hard, defending what is right and pure, and not being afraid to speak your opinion [are some of the principles that I admire most about him],” said Guerra.
Turning Point USA, founded by Kirk in 2012, is a non-profit organization that aims to identify, educate, train, and organize Americans to champion the principles of fiscal responsibility, free markets, and limited government, according to its website.
PBA Chapter Gains Momentum
The organization’s student programs have gained traction across colleges nationwide. According to Turning Point USA, it has a presence on more than 3,500 college campuses nationwide, including PBA, which started in September 2025, just days before Kirk’s death.
Guerra, the vice president of PBA’s Turning Point USA club, said it was an easy decision to get involved with the on-campus club.
“I’ve always loved the movement and Charlie Kirk is a personal role model for myself and millions of other college students in this country,” said Guerra.
Since it started, PBA’s Turning Point USA Club has over 250 current members and continues to grow. The club is open to all students and primarily engages with them online.
“The core focus of the club is to educate and equip students with the knowledge of balancing their political views with their Christian faith,” said Guerra. “The outreach is focused mostly on social media and setting up booths across campus as well as one monthly meeting.”
Kirk’s influence on the culture remains strong even after his passing.
“The biggest part of his legacy is the impact that he’s made with the younger generation,” said Guerra. “Nobody knew the younger generation as well as Charlie did, and that is something extremely valuable that so many people in every profession need to figure out.”
PBA has over 40 different student organizations, including the Turning Point Club, that helps students to grow in their faith, build meaningful relationships, and develop strong leadership skills.
To learn more about PBA’s clubs and activities, click here.
