By Melanie Atilano Flores

The Adelphi campus was more alive than ever as students, faculty and Garden City residents participated in Spirit Weekend, a three-day event that involved reunions, home games and performances bringing the entire community together to celebrate what makes Adelphi so special.

Organized by the Center for Community and Student Engagement, Spirit Weekend gave students an opportunity to show their Panther Pride and introduce the class of 2029 to Adelphi traditions. Kicking off with Casino Night on Friday in the UC Ballroom, games ranging from  blackjack, poker, roulette and craps, accompanied by live performances from Brassy and the Brass Knuckles created an electric energy and lively atmosphere where students relaxed and mingled with each other. Senior Coordinator for the Center for Student and Community Engagement Sloane Somerstein said, “One thing that really stood out to me was how many students said they loved having a chance to just unwind and connect with friends in a low-pressure, high-energy setting. The live music from Brassy and the Brass Knuckles made it feel like a real event, and the prizes were a huge hit.” 

Student attendees agreed. Junior social work major Anjolies Soriano said, “I really enjoyed playing blackjack and I think all the prizes that they had were pretty cool and things that people would want.” 

She added, “They also had good appetizers–the pigs in the blanket and lemonade were good.” 

Saturday was the carnival, one of the highest attended events at Spirit Week. The parking lot behind Post Hall was transformed into a lively space adorned with fall decorations and featured rides, games, food trucks and live performances. 

During the carnival afternoon, President Storm presented the Prestigious Panther Awards to this year’s honorees: Tonantzin Martinez, Salvatore Carollo and Elizabeth Nemirovsky. “Seeing their peers cheer them on and celebrate their accomplishments really captured what Spirit Weekend is all about,” said Somerstein. 

Freshman Claire Yoon was excited about attending their first event at Adelphi. They said, “It was such an amazing experience because of the fun rides, the food, the performances and the opportunity to connect with more friends.”

The final day of Spirit Weekend featured goat yoga, a new yet welcoming activity that turned out to be one of the most talked-about events from the weekend. Goat Yoga helped students de-stress, relax and prepare for the week ahead while doing yoga with real baby goats. Participants met at Flagpole Lawn prepared with yoga mats, water bottles and hair ties as they entered the gated area where they met the baby goats. “It was lighthearted and unique. Students couldn’t stop laughing and taking pictures, and many said they hope it becomes a regular part of Spirit Weekend,” said Somerstein. 

According to Somerstein, the overall feedback for Spirit Weekend was overwhelmingly positive. Junior Spanish major Priscilla Quiroga heartily agreed. She said, “I’ve always enjoyed Spirit Week and the activities leading up to the weekend. I spent it with some of my closest friends, ate great food and enjoyed all the activities. The campus is always filled with panther pride, but something about Spirit Week makes it better!”