The Associated Black Collegians, National Pan-Hellenic Council and Collegiate 100 hosted their second annual Welcome Back Bonfire event on Sept. 5. The bonfire drew students together for a night of performances, food and socialization. Inspired by an event held the previous year, organizers worked to enhance the experience and attendance by increasing campus promotion.

President of Associated Black Collegians, Shyler Johnson, spoke about last year’s event, saying, “students felt it wasn’t marketed enough, that’s why the turnout was okay.” This year, organizers worked to spread the word early and frequently, resulting in higher attendance at the event. For some, the highlight of the night was the dance performances. 

“One moment that stood out to me is when students gathered to do line dances,” Johnson said. 

From group dances to casual conversation around the bonfire, the event blended high-energy moments with opportunities for students to connect. Several attendees felt this event gave them a chance to meet new people and reconnect with previous classmates.

The event was a smashing success and Johnson felt “it affected the school in an amazing way due to students feeling welcomed and at home.”