Western New England University’s Campus Activities Board (CAB) welcomed students’ loved ones to campus for the annual Family and Friends Weekend on October 29 and 30. Hundreds of students attended the various activities sponsored by the University and CAB while reconnecting with family and friends.
This year’s theme, UP, UP and AWAY, offered activities such as rock wall climbing, bungee jumping, and a bouncy house. The event began with performances by The Golden Bear Choir, the Stageless Players, and Western New England University’s Improv on the Rocks, along with the ‘Dr. Cue’ pool trick-shot exhibit, and a balloon artist.
Spectator events included a showing of The Secret Life of Pets for those who preferred a warmer, indoor option, while Golden Bear athletics provided visitors the opportunity to attend the football game in Golden Bear Stadium, the volleyball game in the Alumni Healthful Living Center, or the cross country meet in Southwood Fields.
Following the games, students, friends, and family gathered in the CUB parking lot to watch the annual Residence Hall Association’s Bed Race. “Each residence hall was given one hundred dollars to construct a bed to race,” said freshman Hannah Zirkel, president of Windham Hall. “Today we will see which residence hall constructed the best vehicle by showing off their designs and racing against other halls.” University’s organizations also had the opportunity to participate in the Bed Race, including the Parent’s Association, entering a very colorful UP, UP, and AWAY themed bed, and the Outing Club, who took first place during the 2015 Bed Race. This year, though, Gateway earned the coveted trophy.
University President Dr. Anthony S. Caprio attended Family and Friends Weekend delivering a moving speech at the Parent’s Association Reception. The Parent’s Association Reception gives parents an opportunity to meet other parents and sign up to become involved in the Parent’s Association activities.
Saturday’s activities ended with a performance by Comedian and Magician, Derek Hughes, who amazed and amused the large audience in Rivers Memorial Arena. On Sunday, the Who’s Who Award Ceremony and Brunch was held for invited students and guests. Later, family and friends could make their own emoji pillow before saying goodbye to their students.
Despite being held on a cold and cloudy fall day, Family and Friend’s Weekend provided students with the warmth and comfort of family and friends and a much needed break as focus their attention on completing their fall 2016 semester and finals.
