Southern Utah University kicked off the 2024 fall semester with a week full of events. From the Summer Celebration to the Paint Dance, spirits were high welcoming freshman and returning students into this new semester.
Welcome week began with the Summer Celebration event on Tuesday, Aug. 27 in the library quad, which was packed with students, a DJ and free t-shirts to tie-dye.
On Wednesday, a couple miles from the university was a party at the Lake on the Hill. Students enjoyed the waterslides, games and free food. With the addition of shuttles transporting students to and from the event, it was easier than ever to be part of this SUU tradition.
Emily Wixom, vice president of programming at SUU, pointed out that because of the transportation, more students were able to participate.
“I was so excited for this event this year because of the new system,” said Wixom. “I genuinely think it had a better impact on international students. It helped make the experience better.”
The next day, students came together on Aug. 29, 2024 to support the SUU Football team against the University of Utah. The watch party at the Eccles Coliseum field gave the opportunity to many students to reinforce their school spirit.
Lauren Theurer, who is currently a first year leader at SUU’s Student Involvement and Leadership Office, got involved to connect with other students.
“I love being able to get involved. It makes our college experience better, because there are so many opportunities. It allows us to connect and meet so many different people, figure out which direction we want to go,” said Theurer. “It colors our life!”
After the first week of school, the university held its annual Paint the Town Red event on Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. Set on 600 W, this fair featured over 100 clubs and is one of the most prominent activities of the semester. In fact, this remains a favorite event for Holly Pirtle, a second year leader at SUU’s Student Involvement and Leadership Office.
“ It was a lot of work but it was worth it,” said Pirtle. “A lot of students came and we had a lot of fun!”
The final event of the week was the Paint dance. As music was blasting on the west field of the university, the white shirts of most students got recolored by the pink, yellow and red paint. Among the crowds, several dance battles emerged and most students joined in.
Taylor Hilton, a new freshman at SUU, expressed that the welcome week events led her to an amazing group of friends.
“I was able to connect with others that were also experiencing college life for the first time,” said Hilton. “Plus, I had a blast and got to rock out to some excellent tunes while getting colorful!”
After closing night, the Student Involvement and Leadership Office once again reached its goal of creating powerful memories in the hearts of SUU students. More information on events throughout the year can be found on the SUU app, @suustudentlife on Instagram or the event calendar.
Author: Fanny Felixine
Editor: Heather Turner
Photos by Katie Anderson
life@suunews.net