Against the dark night sky, hundreds of students waved their glowing neon sticks at Neon Night, Harper’s annual dance celebration. Held in the Drs. Kenneth and Catherine Ender Pavilion on August 28th, students celebrated the start of a new school year.
The event, sponsored by Harper Student Engagement, was inspired years ago when students missed their high school dances due to Covid. But due to its popularity, this year marked it’s fifth year. Incoming freshmen and returning students had the opportunity to enjoy a free dance and complimentary food, giveaways, neon glow sticks and accessories, icebreaker games, and neon mini golf.
Starting around 7:30, the event’s music was cut out to make way for student aides and Erin Graff, Manager of Student Engagement, to welcome everyone and introduce icebreakers.
For the icebreaker, students formed a huge circle in the pavilion, and if the statement related to the student, they would dance across to the other side.
“Dance across if you’re single… if you are a performer… if it’s your first year at Harper…” Graff prompted students.
Gabriela Rushing, a Marine Veteran, Harper graduate, and an event volunteer, reflected on the turnout.
“I think this is a good outcome. I love how everyone was participating- especially in the icebreaker games,” Rushing stated. “I know things are a little awkward in the beginning, but it looks like everyone is having fun, everyone is enjoying themselves, and getting into it, too.”
Members from various students clubs like Triple H (Hip-Hop at Harper), and Student Trustee Dekunbi (Kunbi) Aransiola, were present.
Ian McNaughton, a student at Harper College, reflected on the freedom the event offered due to it being in the dark.
“I think more get-togethers that encourage this atmosphere- it’s very casual, it’s very laid back,” McNaughton said. “There’s really no expectations coming in, and I think that’s the best part about giving a social. So yes, more things like this would be good.”
Ayesha Robinson, Interim Coordinator of Community Standards and Outreach, reflects on the event’s turnout and believes the event can help students find their place at Harper.
“I think it’s fantastic,” Robinson said. “I think it’s a good way to bring students on campus, to get them engaged, to meet new friends, to see what Harper is about, to have a sense of belonging and a sense of community here at the school while they are working on their degrees.”
With the year just starting, there are gonna be more events soon. For more news, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Instagram @harbstudentnews.
