On Saturday, September 16, Western New England University hosted Unity Fest, a gathering sponsored by the member institutions of the Cooperating Colleges of Greater Springfield (CCGS). Students and staff from the eight member schools gathered on Commonwealth Lawn to bond over food, music, and games. The program is designed to promote a sense of unity and community.
The Unity Fest promotes the values of respect, collaboration, and friendship among students and staff from the eight colleges and universities in Hampden County. “The event helps students get to know one another while enjoying a day of games, food, and fun,” explained Dashima Washington, administrative assistant for the Office of Diversity Programs and Services at Western New England University. Approximately160 students and staff from the eight colleges attended enjoying music, games, and a buffet of internationally themed foods served by members of each school.
The Cooperating Colleges of Greater Springfield includes American International College, Bay Path University, Elms College, Holyoke Community College, Springfield College, Springfield Technical Community College, Westfield State University, and Western New England University. Founded in 1971, the CCGS fosters the sharing of programs, talents, and facilities, while retaining the vitality of each independent institution.