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What’s better than breakfast for dinner?
That’s the question the Graduate School team asked themselves while planning a new welcome event to celebrate the start of another semester at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.
“We really wanted to invest in an event that brings energy and a sense of belonging to campus,” Katie Wennerstrom, director of finance and administration for the Graduate School, said.
What began as a throw-away idea during one of many summer planning sessions has turned into a new tradition: Grad School Griddle. Graduate students and postdocs were invited to the recently renovated Graduate School Lounge to share a meal, meet new people, and come together as a community.
“I firmly believe that when people feel connected, they are freed up to be creative. And science thrives on creativity,” Dr. Bruce Mandt, associate dean of the Graduate School, said. “These events provide opportunities to reconnect, both on a personal level and to our broader campus community. Plus, who doesn't like French toast sticks?”
On Monday, August 25, UCHealth Catering rolled up to the lounge located in RC1 with all the fixings for a 4 p.m. dinner to remember. Pancakes, French toast, pastries, breakfast potatoes, and more were laid out while the event planners set up swag stations and music.
The overcast and rainy weather didn’t keep attendees away, either. Through the off-and-on sprinkles, over 150 people joined the Graduate School in the lounge and on the patio set up with picnic tables.
“I haven’t had French toast sticks since, like, fourth grade,” one graduate student said while going through the line.
Some attendees asked if this had ever been done before and even more expressed that they’d love to see it happen again. Smiling faces went through the line and quickly filled up tables.
“The turnout far exceeded any of our expectations and I was so happy to hear the overwhelmingly positive feedback from the students and postdocs who showed up, even in the rain,” Wennerstrom said. "We're excited to keep hosting the Griddle annually on the first day of classes.”
