Victor Ortega RIO GRANDE VALLEY – Two of the most vital departments to the campus student experience celebrated a 10-year long career with two huge celebrations on both UTRGV campuses last week.
The 10-Year Celebration events recognized Student Activities and the Student Union for their contributions to UTRGV’s campus culture throughout its history.
On the Brownsville campus, its library lawn became a stage for rides such as the Cyclone and Tilt-A-Whirl along complimentary food items including hotdogs, ice creams and sodas.
The Edinburg campus’ parking lot E16 also saw huge carnival rides and games where Vaqueros could win prizes at the shooting gallery, ring toss and derby race.
Unique to Brownsville was a performance by Michael Williams, a musical artist, who was introduced to the student crowd as a top-20 finalist from American Idol’s 21st season.
“It’s an honor to be able to perform for [the 10-year celebration] and be able to, you know, enjoy the celebration with everyone and be a small part of, you know, everything great that the campus does,” Williams said.
Participants sang along to covers of hits from Bruno Mars and Bensen Boone alongside unreleased songs by Williams.
Some attendees launched themselves into the barricade at the sight of free shirts being given out.
On the opposite campus, Edinburg students saw a performance by the band SM6 and DJ Mac, where crowds jumped and waved inflatable bats and props through the night.
Josh Nittler, a criminal justice sophomore, enjoyed the Brownsville performances including the set by DJ Novaxx, another musical guest.
“The music is great. It’s really loud. It really helps the atmosphere,” Nittler said. “I got some good food. I got to go with the DJ, play with them. And then, I won one a few prizes with basketball.”
Although Student Activities and the Student Union were the departments being celebrated, both staff and students from the programs were hard at work.
Brandon Sanchez, program coordinator for leadership and civic engagement, emceed the event and highlighted the importance of the departments to the campus atmosphere.
“[Student Activities and Student Union] bring all the fun and all the energy to our Vaquero experience,” Sanchez said. “They make sure that our students have a good time while they’re here on campus and have everlasting memories.”
