Lewis, as we know it, was founded in 1932 and has undergone many changes throughout history. Through these changes, each year has attracted thousands of different students, each offering their own talents, dreams and unique cultural backgrounds, further contributing to the success of the academic and athletic programs Lewis offers.
As students grow as athletes, scholars and into their lives as adults, many are fortunate to graduate and become alumni. With more than 39,000 alumni, the Lewis University Alumni Association provides different sources of news, discounts, stories and hosts different events for students and alumni alike.
Saturday, Sept. 23 from 11 am to 3 pm on the University Green, the Alumni Association and Office for Student Engagement and Multicultural Student Enrichment hosted its first ever, “Lewis Fest,” an event open to residents, commuter students and alumni, including games and festivities for the whole family.
Esther Kraft, the Director of Student Engagement and Multicultural Enrichment, when asked about the intentions of “Lewis Fest” stated, “It was a way for us to combine Family Day and Alumni Day. It is the collection of school spirit through a homecoming day, like a football team’s homecoming game. It is to show support to the athletics and gather alumni and supporters to a family festival filled with plenty of festivities.”
Regardless of age or relationship to the school, the event had many festivities and activities to enjoy with friends and family members, such as returning activities like DIY bamboo planters and a personal caricature. Tickets for food and alcoholic beverages were included with a purchased ticket, and food such as pizza, churros and beef sandwiches were offered near the Flyer’s Den.
A live band performed under the tent, performing classic hits along with new songs to give the event more life to the campus. The event also had a guest appearance from George Stanton, a professional magician who was active among the event, performing a number of amazing card tricks, and going as far as performing magic utilizing technology for kids and students attending.
For the children, an inflatable bouncy house was open along with an inflatable obstacle course. This, of course, did not stop older audiences to join in on the fun as they had raced and challenged each other through the obstacle course, and enjoyed jumping around in the bouncy house. Jumbo sized games were included too, such as wooden jenga sets and connect four for those not interested in the inflatable options.
The event had perfectly led up to alumni and students joining the crowd in support of the women’s volleyball program, as they had taken on Southwest Baptist in a GLVC conference matchup. With a victory for the Flyers women’s volleyball team and a successful “Lewis Fest” along with it.
Missed out on “Lewis Fest?” That is okay, as there are more events coming up in the month of October. One event that is included on Oct. 7 from 8:30 am to 12 pm, is the Si Se Puede Conference. The conference is designed to celebrate Hispanic American Heritage Month, providing students for educational success. Registration is open online through the university’s website.
Photo Credits: Katherine Groppe
