A campus tradition since 1990, Party in the Park aims to promote student involvement in campus activities and organizations, as well as provide information about university services. This year’s event will offer free food and refreshments to students who visit at least four different groups.
Tomorrow, Student Activities and Leadership Programs, along with Campus Recreation, will again host Party in the Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the South Park Blocks.
The event will also feature live entertainment from local bands New Century Schoolbook, The Rainy States and The Shivas.
The university’s groups are as diverse as its students, so there is sure to be something for almost everyone. Groups range from Model United Nations to Kaibigan: Filipino American Student Association to Allies Against Rape Culture.
Beyond connecting with campus organizations and services, organizers say there are other benefits of attendance.
“You get to spend time with students, faculty, administrators, that you normally wouldn’t,” said SALP Events Coordinator Christian Aniciete.
Many new students are excited about the prospect of joining groups that fit their interests, however varied, and as a way to make friends as they navigate their first year at Portland State.
“I think Party in the Park is a good way for people to get involved in clubs. I know I wouldn’t know how to get involved otherwise,” said freshman Sage Niles.
Campus newcomers also like the way SALP and Campus Rec have marketed the event.
“The connotation behind the idea of it being a party is more inviting to freshmen,” said freshman Nicolette Bartulski.
This year’s event will coincide with the launch of “Go Green Fridays,” a school spirit campaign that encourages students and staff to wear Portland State regalia on Fridays. The campaign will be giving away t-shirts and kicking off the fall term “Go Green” contest.
Organizers are also hoping to create buzz for next year’s Party, which will celebrate the twentieth year that the event has taken place.
“SALP is honored to have been planning Party in the Park, together with students and departments across campus, for the last nineteen years,” said SALP Director Aimee Shattuck. “Next year’s event will give Portland State the chance to celebrate one of the largest and longest-lasting student engagement events on campus,”
Planning for next year’s event is anticipated to begin as soon as Party in the Park 2009 has wrapped.