Student Assembly’s Spring Social, held on April 1, served as a place for students to unwind, socialize and enjoy a sweet treat on a sunny afternoon. 

The event featured games like volleyball, gaga ball and basketball for students to enjoy. Each student also received a cup of Rita’s Italian Ice. 

“[The event allows students] to relax for a few hours and take their minds off of maybe a really stressful assignment or a long tiring day,” Kyler Henne, president of Student Assembly, said. “It can also act as a reward for powering through what could be a tough semester. Especially as the countdown is on to finals!” 

The purpose of this event was to support the student assembly’s overall mission and bring students together. 

“An event like this fits into the Student Assembly’s mission because allowing the students the chance to come together and be treated to a treat, or hangout with friends and get informed with our organization is what matters most,” Henne said. “Providing that atmosphere for students to ask questions and get to know what we do and what they can be a part of is amazing all while having fun at the same time.” 

Students enjoyed this time socializing with friends. 

“I went with a few of my friends but we ended up bumping into a bunch of people we know and that was nice,” first-year early childhood education major Cheyenne Coleman said. 

This point in the spring semester can be very stressful for many students. Finishing midterms, prepping for finals, theatre productions and more. The Spring Social gives students an opportunity to relax with their friends. 

“Everyone deserves a break, especially those of us who just finished the MainStage play,” Coleman said. “This was a great way to cool off and chill out.” 

Many students showed up looking forward to seeing their friends and enjoying the sun.  

“The turnout was great! I expected ice to go quickly and that is exactly what happened,” Henne said.

Planning for the Spring Social begins a while in advance. 

“Planning an event like this takes a good chunk of time,” Henne said. “Between reserving space, tables, games and more, to physically making the ice and transporting it. But it’s all worth it in the long run, when it goes successfully, and students are happy.” 

Despite the enduring planning process, Henne says planning and working the event is worth it to see students smiling and enjoying time together. 

“It brings me great joy to see [smiles on students’ faces when I serve their ice], especially as the sports team come from practices and they all come to get some ice as a team,” Henne said. “It’s moments like that seeing everyone come together and enjoying times is what brings a smile to my face. I am not happy unless I see others having fun and being happy.” 

Students interested in getting involved with Student Assembly in the future can attend meetings or run for membership during elections at the beginning of each semester. 

“We hold elections every semester for membership, it is sent through emails and is a great way to get your voice heard,” Henne said. “[Or] you can just show up to one of our meetings. They are held every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month. We discuss concrete projects and other ways to improve campus life through the eyes of the students. We welcome everyone”