Saint Mary's kicked off its annual pride week Monday evening with a picnic and free concert, as students gathered on the lawn outside of the Cushwa-Leighton Library and enjoyed the respite from humidity and rain.
The event, featuring "Red Wanting Blue," a rock band from Ohio, was the first in a series of programs slated for the upcoming week. Pride Week is sponsored by the College's Student Activities Board.
"This year, we are trying to put more emphasis on our SMC pride," said Becca Doll, board president. "We especially want to get first-year students excited about Saint Mary's."
Activities planned for the remainder of the week include a showing of the movie "Animal House," featured tonight at 8 p.m. on the library green. "Table Talk" will take place at Dalloway's Coffee House Wednesday at 8 p.m., allowing students an opportunity to familiarize themselves with faculty, staff and peers.
"Ghost Stories," an event based off of last year's student-written book "Quiet Hours," will be held on the Lake Marion island at 7:30 p.m. "Ghost Stories" verbalizes a number of the legends students have heard about and strange experiences they have had on campus. Doll said it is anticipated to become a traditional event.
To conclude its Pride Week Festivities, Saint Mary's will be a host of the Notre Dame/Michigan State pep rally Friday at 6 p.m. in the JACC. Those interested in attending will meet at the LeMans bus circle at 4:15 p.m. and walk over together.
To gain maximum exposure, activities are advertised by e-mail, stall news, the Saint Mary's website and table-top flyers. Although events typically attract students, all members of the campus community are invited to attend, Doll said.
"We always like to see the faculty and staff turn out at events. It really helps facilitate our community here at Saint Mary's," she said. "The events are open to anyone from the three campuses."
Helping students dress the part for pride week, SAB will sell Saint Mary's pride T-shirts through Friday. They are available outside of Haggar Student Center in the afternoon and during all dinners at the Noble Family Dining Hall for $5 each.
