Office of Campus Life Hosts Last Minute Darty on the Quad to Commemorate Early End to Semester

by Kayleigh Thompson

Following Sylvia Burwell’s announcement of the suspension of all campus activities for the rest of the semester, AU’s Office of Campus Life (OCL) decided to host a huge party to mark the end of campus operations on March 23rd. In a memo attached to the end of AU’s move-out guidelines, VP of Campus Life Fanta Aw wrote, 

“We want to show students we care about what they would be missing while at home. This event will highlight parts of the college experience that students will miss, and give them the positive vibes they need to get home during this difficult time.” 

Aw announced that because of the high numbers of distressed students, confused professors, and panicked parents the office would use their remaining funds to purchase as many cases of Natural “Natty” Light as possible. These cases would be left out on the quad for open consumption during move out. 

In a statement to The Rival American, a representative from OCL explained, “We felt that the best thing we could do for our students was to just give them a bunch of beer. You know to relax and take a break.. We understand that this is a stressful time and we wanted to do the best for our students’ well being, like we’ve always done” 

During the afternoon on the final day students were permitted on campus, tents on the quad were set up, containing Natural “Natty” Light free for the taking. In addition, students were allowed to BYOB or venmo the office to receive higher quality alcohol such as vodka or the SIS department’s signature jungle juice. The Counseling Center announced that they would have a limited number of Bud Light Lime available by reservation, citing the beverage’s benefits for both mental health and improving students’ well being

Seniors attending the event were especially honored with blue solo cups (rather than the traditional red) filled with complimentary tequila shots in lieu of cap and gowns and a celebratory walk around the quad. Those who were able to remain upright after consuming copious amounts of the tequila from a plastic handle (a frat party staple), received their diploma holders early, as a treat. 

Student responses to the outbreak have been everything from indifference to full panic. With the suspension of face to face classes and all spring events, the large sentiment for most has been sadness, confusion, and shock. While many scrambled to gather their belongings and move back to their permanent residences, others decided to blackout on the quad at 3pm next to Clawed Z. Eagle.

“Everyone remembers their first darty,” volunteer organizer and Sigma Apple Pi member Zack Chaddington said fondly, “We just wanted everyone to go out with a good laugh and maybe a 5pm hangover.” 

All students were encouraged to stop by the darty before they left to say goodbye to their friends and take a break from shoving their belongings into small cars and shipping boxes. The event was also live streamed on AU’s website for those already in self-quarantine. 

Bluetooth speakers, red solo cups, and beer pong tables were also donated to the event by members of the Sigma Apple Pi Executive Board. In addition, the fraternity made their house available as a safe space for anyone needing an escape from the stress of this semester’s rapid changes. 

It should be noted that individuals have to already be on the list in order to attend this after party