3 minute read
RICHFIELD CONFETTI
By Heidi Johnson
“POP!” Confetti rained on the smiling 2024 Snow College graduates. The audience jumped at the sound as the orange papers floated down upon a diverse mix of students; welders, cosmetologists, heat/AC techs, diesel and auto mechanics, nurses, business majors, computer information specialists, and general education Associate of Science degree recipients. And no one can forget the wrestlers. Yes, the wrestlers. But what were they doing in Richfield at this Snow event? Graduating, of course, and helping shoot off the confetti!
Richfield, with its reputation for technical programs that serve mostly commuting students, has not been known for its traditional college life. Until recently, there were no dorms and few dances. Ultimate frisbee, sun-bathing, and groups of students studying and playing games were not things you often saw happening on campus. Over the past several years, administration, faculty, staff, and students have worked tirelessly to change all that. Two dorms housing 120 beds were acquired for students to live in. The Student Life team has sponsored campus activities such as Popcorn Wednesdays, Stuff-a-Plush, a Masquerade Ball, and Bingo. Activities with Ephraim students such as a party at Palisade Lake and dancing after the rodeo open up more opportunities to socialize. Students are seen cheering at wrestling meets. The student space known as the Badger Den houses video games, pool, and two massage chairs that are seldom empty. Additional indoor and outdoor spaces with seating for students to mingle, study, and relax are coming Fall 2024.
These additions bring an excitement to campus. The halls and grounds are filled with an audible buzz. It joins a cacophony of other campus sounds: The overhead hum of insect-like aircraft as the drone class learns piloting skills. The serious-toned instructions that permeate the outdoors during the EMT reenactment of disaster. Cheery hallway chatter of cosmetology students putting final touches on the creative, colorful hairstyles for the Fall Fashion Show. We can’t forget the merry banter of students finding colorful animal trinkets that mysteriously appeared across campus last spring! This buzz is college life: fun, playful, lively, and all in the name of new experiences, education, and growth.
These sounds will continue to multiply. The cross country team joins campus this fall with their sounds of feet on pavement. TechConnect, which brings Technical Education students to earn an associate degree, will soon introduce a whole new tone to this symphony. With each addition comes the need for, and the commitment to, providing more opportunities for a vibrant student life experience.
Richfield is ready and growing. So we say, bring your buzz to our song—and don’t forget your confetti!
