Breakfast for dinner

Portland State’s Programming Board will host the annual Midnight Breakfast in the Smith Memorial Student Union Ballroom this Wednesday, Dec. 2, from 9 p.m. to midnight.

In collaboration with Student Activities and Leadership Programs, ASPSU, University Communications and Campus Recreation, this is the first year Portland State’s Programming Board is organizing and executing the event.

“It’s a tradition, a way to blow off steam,” said Lorrie McCullough, office manager for SALP.

McCullough emphasized the nature of the Midnight Breakfast, in that it alleviates stress in the middle of dead week and allows for students to reconnect with their peers outside the studying environment.
“There’s always at least 500 people,” said McCullough, indicating the broad spectrum of students who attend. “It’s a lot of fun.”

Christian Aniciete, ASPSU communications director, highlighted the theme of this year’s event: “The Portland State County Fair.” Aniciete attested to the increased efforts the Programming Board put into maintaining the theme and tone this year.

According to Aniciete, in addition to numerous activities in accordance with the theme, including photo booths, raffles and an inflatable jousting game, Aramark caterers will participate by wearing appropriate costumes.

Aniciete stressed the importance of maintaining the tone and drawing in students as an integral part of developing student pride and a community at Portland State.

“When you look at the bigger picture, there’s an absolute need for events that just allow the students to connect,” Aniciete said.

That bigger picture has to do with the number of student dropouts, percentage of students who graduate on time and overall student happiness, Aniciete said.

Aniciete acknowledged the nontraditional nature of Portland State’s student body, but stated the importance of garnering pride in students in order attain the benefits such a student community could invoke.

Aniciete stated that this was truly the purpose of the Programming Board, and that this year, handling the Midnight Breakfast gave them an advantageous stance to fulfill that purpose, through something fun nonetheless.

As well as fun games and activities, the Midnight Breakfast will provide breakfast foods, including vegetarian and vegan options, and there will be items such as pencils and scantrons for students. Admission is free.
 

Annual Midnight Breakfast
Tomorrow, Dec. 2
9 p.m. to midnight
SMSU ballroom
Free