Lizzie Swanson ’28
Chief News Editor
This past Saturday on September 6th, students packed the Hogan Ballroom in an attempt to learn more about and join the many clubs Holy Cross has to offer. Unlike last year’s Co-Curricular Extravangaza which was held on the Hoval and by the Jo, the very wise decision was made to hold the event indoors. Coinciding with a local tornado, several students found themselves hunkered inside Hogan, waiting out the torrential downpour. As students walked in, dripping wet, they were met with complimentary fried dough and slushies. Additionally, Holy Cross’ very own therapy dog Tomo and handler Kim perused around the very crowded ballroom, bringing a smile to many faces. While this author was safe from the storm, the same could not be said for her poor roommate who was stuck on I-290, eager to get back to the riveting event. Luckily, the tornado passed and campus (and this author’s roommate) returned back to safety.
The Co-Curricular Extravaganza ran from 3–6pm and had students and clubs from all walks of life joined together in hopes of getting the Holy Cross community involved. A total of 97 clubs were a part of the showcase as students stood by tables, handed out fliers, and spoke to prospective members. Students were able to choose from a variety of groups, many of which included: multicultural and identity based organizations, sports, wellness, politics, volunteering, advocacy, arts, STEM, language, and hobby oriented clubs. Many newly founded organizations were premiering for the first time, one of which included EMBODY, a fashion and expression club. “We really emphasize authenticity and self-expression and how that can be very important to individuals,” stated founder Caelum Lam ‘28.
Returning to the fair were the Relationship Peer Educators, a group of students committed to fostering healthy and safe relationships on campus while educating our community about sexual and gender based violence. When asked about the importance of the RPE’s culture expanding every year, member Becca Buckley ‘26 said, “It’s really nice to see the community you build on campus and for people to be excited each year and want to learn more. When we get questions during bystander training or when we are doing tabling, it’s really great to see that community building and people learning.”
Recently elected SGA co-presidents Ben Franzone ‘26 and Jackie Bazazi ‘26 managed the Student Government table, eager to speak to students about their role in impacting everyday life on campus as well as their big picture plans. Both co-presidents spoke to The Spire about their excitement for meaningful collaboration and working with the student body to get feedback. One of Bazazi’s main priorities, she stated, was emphasizing the importance of student mental health and creating a space where our vibrant community can come together to support one another.
While some students may have just been seeking shelter from the storm brewing outside, many found new and exciting communities to be a part of. If The Spire could speak for all the clubs represented at Saturday’s event, it would advise students to get involved in what they are passionate about. Community is everywhere here on the Hill, you need only walk out your door to find it.
Featured image courtesy of the Purple Key Society at the College of the Holy Cross
Copy Edited by Colette Potter ’26
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