NEWS AND EVENTS OF LIFE UNIVERSITY At Life University (Life U), finals and midterms can be particularly stressful times for students. Recognizing the importance of breaking the monotony and bringing joy to campus during these periods, the Student Affairs team conceived the idea of a quarterly- themed event to foster community and alleviate stress. The goal was to establish a recurring event each quarter, strategically timed during Week 7, right after midterms. This scheduling ensures students have something exciting to anticipate, fostering a sense of community and engagement. Each quarter’s event features a unique theme, offering a variety of activities to appeal to diverse interests. THEMED EVENTS: A YEAR- ROUND CELEBRATION (Themes change annually; below is a sample from the inaugural year.) • Fall Quarter: Halloween Night The fall event showcased a Halloween theme, featuring pumpkin painting and Halloween-themed foods provided by our Chartwells food vendor. Students demonstrated their creativity in a relaxed, fun environment, making this event a memorable highlight. • Winter Quarter: Spirit Week Winter brought a weeklong celebration in collaboration with the Athletic Department, focusing on athletic events, including basketball games. This initiative fostered school spirit and encouraged student engagement with Life U’s sports culture. • Spring Quarter: Ninja Course and Barbecue The spring event moved outdoors, featuring a ninja course and barbecue. These activities provided students with an opportunity to unwind, enjoy physical challenges and soak in the pleasant weather. • Summer Quarter: Summer Splash Pad The summer event introduced water activities and sand-building sessions, offering a refreshing way to cool off. From Zen Garden creations to sandcastles, there was something for everyone, blending relaxation with creativity. Inclusivity and Engagement Each event balances physical and mental activities, ensuring inclusivity. For example, students could choose between the physical challenge of the ninja course or the creative relaxation of painting sessions or Zen Garden building. This diverse approach meets the wide-ranging interests of Life U’s student body. Engagement and Retention Dr. Michael Smith, Dean of Student Affairs, highlights the value of engagement in student retention. “Extracurricular activities, such as our events, provide opportunities for students to connect with each other and with the University on a deeper level. These shared experiences foster a sense of belonging and loyalty to Life University.” Impact on Recruitment and Alumni Relations These events also serve as effective recruitment tools. When prospective students and their families visit campus and experience the vibrant community spirit, they are more likely to see Life U as their future home. Alumni who recall fond memories of these events remain connected and supportive of the University. The Planning Process Wanda Metz, Student Affairs Coordinator, explains that planning begins at least two quarters in advance. Representatives from various departments — including Academics, Counseling, Student Affairs, Intramurals, the Fitness Center, Marketing, and Athletics — collaborate to brainstorm ideas. Creating a Tradition: BIG EVENT The 4 Alumni.life.edu | 2024
