Shippensburg University College of Arts and Sciences Dean Sabita Manian hosted the inaugural Beads and Beignets social hour on March 5 in the Dauphin Humanities Center Fishbowl.
Much like the name implies, the event featured both beads and beignets as an homage to Mardi Gras. Manian discussed her love of the holiday and her desire to bring a version of it to students. She specifically loved the bright colors, which was the inspiration for the decorations.
“It’s a love letter to Mardi Gras and our students,” Manian said.
Manian wanted to give students a way to interact or meet various faculty members outside of the classroom setting. Both students and faculty shared beignets and sweet tea while wearing beaded necklaces.
Creating a community for students and faculty within the College of Arts and Sciences is important to Manian. She has been considering putting together an event like Beads and Beignets and was finally able to put it together. Manian could be found having lively conversations with groups of attendees throughout the event.
“I belong to the College of Arts and Sciences as a biology major and meeting the Dean is important to me,” SU student Emily Boger said.
Another goal of the event was to “bring people together around something they care about,” according to SGA Arts and Sciences Senator Aiden Crowder, who assisted in planning and setting up.
Manian hopes to host a similar event every month.
The Slate welcomes thoughtful discussion on all of our stories, but please keep comments civil and on-topic. Read our full guidelines here.