Fall fun at Brenau includes tradition, global perspectives, spirit

Fall semester has been filled with activity for Brenau students, faculty and staff, including a multi-day celebration of the newly established Downtown Campus in mid-September. 

The semester began with traditions like the Gold Refined by Fire ceremony and Twilight Tours around campus. The new First Steps tradition, in which incoming students walk the path on the front lawn as they are recognized by faculty, staff and their fellow students, followed fall convocation on Sept. 8. Grrrl PowHER Hour, an informal fall convocation for The Women’s College, featured an inspirational message from Gainesville native and Theatre Director for Gainesville High School Tyra Wimpye.

Events with an international focus included a visit from Juventino Quiroz, Panamanian cyclist and advocate for the disabled. During the week of Sept. 6, the university and Quiroz hosted several events focused on inclusion and understanding those with visual impairments. Brenau also hosted Pamela Castillo-Barahona, a Costa Rican activist for gender equity and the environment, as part of the GOLD Speaker Series on Sept. 28. Students celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with crafts, activities and a special menu in Hopkins Dining Hall. 

Faculty, staff and students showed their Golden Tiger pride during Spirit Week, Oct. 17-21. Activities included a pep rally, themed clothing days, and a kickball tournament. Students at the North Atlanta – Norcross campus also played Spot the Mascot during the week. 

Brenau community members also marked the season with Halloween events at the Gainesville and Norcross campuses including costume contests, ghost walks and a donut truck.

The semester isn’t over yet and so much more is to come. Among the many events are the annual Golden Grams gratitude event, which will take place Nov. 8-9 and 15-16; International Week from Nov. 14-17; and winter commencement on Dec. 16.