CAB’s first Haunted Library makes studious spaces supernatural
Grand Valley State University’s Mary Idema Pew Library, known for its serene study spaces, became a place of
comical horror on Oct. 25. The building was transformed into a haunted labyrinth by Campus Activities Board (CAB), in lieu of the annual Haunted Arboretum, with students embarking on a journey through the library’s floors.
In past years, CAB’s Halloween events have adorned GVSU’s arboretum with chilling decorations and expertly designed scarezones. With a new location in mind, students navigated the library’s tight pathways, and followed caution tape that was laid out on the floor. Making their way around bookshelves, window seats and chairs, participants encountered students dressed as zombies, who were hidden in corners and between book stacks. The zombies’ presence added an element of surprise, forcing students to stay vigilant as they worked their way through each level.
The Haunted Library began in the building’s basement, where students organized into small groups and were given glow sticks to carry. However, there was a twist– if students screamed or dropped their glow sticks, they risked forfeiting rewards at the end, which included stickers and candy.
Read more of Abbie Suarez’s coverage of CAB’s Haunted Library here.
Padnos International Center hosts celebration of French culture
On Friday, Nov. 15, the Padnos International Center hosted the latest installment of their Wander Around the World event series– this time, focused on France. For the past few weeks, the Department has provided a space for students to learn more about different countries that are a part of Grand Valley State University’s study abroad programs.
The event began with students having the opportunity to try an assortment of pastries and other French snacks. After introductions, a presentation on the different study abroad programs to France was discussed. Students that had previously gone to France through study abroad participated in a panel discussion of their experiences.
“The Wander Around the World series features food, music and student stories from around the globe,” said Alissa Lane, international programs specialist. “Each week, we highlight a different country and introduce students to study abroad opportunities in that part of the world. To me, the best part of the series is the ability to connect students who are interested in going abroad to a certain destination with students that have recently returned.”
Read more of Christina Bilko’s highlight of Wander Around the World: France here.
Indigi-Fest honors sovereignty, celebrates Native American cultures
On Wednesday, Nov. 20, Grand Valley State University’s Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) hosted Indigi-Fest, an event that celebrated Native American Heritage Month, and recognized the sovereignty of tribal nations. The celebration welcomed the participation of GVSU’s Native American Student Association (NASA) and the University’s Anishinaabe alumni. The event’s programming created a learning space for attendees to reflect on the concept of sovereignty and its importance to Indigenous peoples.
This was the second year GV hosted the Indigi-Fest. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the University’s annual powwow was canceled for several years. In 2023, Indigenous students part of the University’s student success program Mno’Chigewin created Indigi-Fest as a way to re-start the event. Mno’Chigewin was designed to enhance the University experience for students who identify as Native American by offering culture-based programming and support. Now carried on by the OMA, Indigi-Fest continues to serve as a vibrant celebration and recognition of Indigenous culture.
The event began with an opening ceremony led by a representative of the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Gun Lake Tribal Council. Located south of Grand Rapids, the Gun Lake Tribe is part of the historic Three Fires Confederacy—an alliance between the Pottawatomi (Bodewadmi), Ottawa (Odawa) and Chippewa (Ojibwe).
Read more of Abbie Suarez’s coverage of the 2024 Indigi-Fest here.
Election Stress Art Night provides students with creative outlet
On Monday, Nov. 4, a variety of Grand Valley State University student organizations and University departments collaborated to host Election Stress Art Night. The event, held in the Kirkhof Center’s Pere Marquette Room, provided students with an outlet for artistic expression the night before the 2024 election.
From bracelet making to button making, creative activities appealed to students’ different artistic sensibilities. Tables were set up around the room, which designated specific areas for the options. At the mini-zine making station, colored pencils, crayons and colorful paper were laid out. Attendees were also able to unwind by shaping sculptures and cutting up collages to take home.
GVSU organizations and departments involved included Student Senate, GVSU Votes!, the Office of Multicultural Affairs, the Gayle R. Davis Center for Women & Gender Equity, the GVSU Art Museum, the University Libraries and the Padnos/Sarosik Center for Civil Discourse.
Read more of Christina Bilko’s coverage about how students addressed stress with art here.
