On Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, the Whitworth University Recreation Center (U-Rec) buzzed with energy as it hosted the eighth annual “Winter Carnival” and 10th anniversary since the building opened. “Winter Carnival” was the opportunity to hang out with peers while being physically active. This tradition brought over 220 students and 56 guest groups with 140 family members together for a night of games, food, prizes and friendship while highlighting the opportunities for community members to stay active at the U-Rec.
Todd Sandberg, assistant dean of Student Life Programs, first found the idea from Montana State University while he was visiting there. Once Sandberg made his inspiration an action, it became a highlight of the academic year. Sandberg said, “We know that we’re doing something right, especially since it brings in such a diverse group or a broad perspective of our community […] And it’s one of a few events, maybe other than athletics, where kids and families within our Whitworth community can come together and just have a fun time.”
This year’s production team included Todd Sandberg, Courtney Fairhart, U-Rec manager, Aubrey Lathrom, ASWU traditional event coordinator, Elliot Hammond, U-Rec facility coordinator, and a team of 60 student employees.
Huge inflatable slides, crate stacking and a large chess board took place on the basketball court. The U-Rec was packed with excited students and kids who were ready to have fun. There were also many competitive games, such as trivia hosted by different clubs on campus, photo booths and fun raffle prizes. One of the most attractive stations for Rab Greenup, a senior human-computer interaction major, was crate stacking. Crate stacking required students to harness themselves and stack crates as high as possible without falling over. Greenup was participating in the winter carnival for their fourth year. Each year, they try to break the record, and even set a new personal record this year. Greenup said, “I set tonight at 22 crates. So, I am really proud of that. For me, it’s a lot of balance […] It’s probably [going to] get beat by someone else, but I’m happy with it.”
The production team also made sure to provide some delicious birthday cake, popcorn and smoothies by the Whitworth Health Education Action Team (HEAT). All this hard work takes effort from the team who is organizing the event. Fairhart mentioned that they start preparing the event eight weeks in advance to make sure everybody is having fun.
Niraj Pandey, a senior double majoring in psychology and sociology, highlighted the smoothie from HEAT. Pandey said, “It was really tasty, and it was really good and this is my third cup that I’m holding right now.”
The Winter Carnival has become a cherished tradition at Whitworth, blending laughter, friendly competition and wellness. Mark your calendar for the same time around next year for another night of fun with the community.
