Metropolitan State’s biggest event of the year
FallFest 2006

-- Vickie Evans-Nash

Amy Keenan, a criminal justice major, possesses a quality often lacking at Metropolitan State University, which is made up of very busy students, many who are pursing an education while working full time and raising children. Keenan’s rare quality is school spirit.

While talking to Keenan she mentioned FallFest. Keenan could hardly contain her exuberance as she explained FallFest is the largest annual gathering for Metropolitan State University’s community outside of graduation. It is more accurately described as a homecoming celebration. "Even though we don’t have a sports team, it is a time to welcome the students, alumni, faculty, staff and the greater university community back to our school. It’s an exciting celebration," Keenan said.

Without a sport to unify the schools’ community, those involved in planning must find alternatives to ensure student participation. In preparation for the celebration, the committee members focus on food, entertainment, logistics and public relations.

"FallFest has been a part of Metro for seven years. In the past there have been live bands, comedy plays, a hypnotist, a climbing wall and inflatables for children. Also, there is free food and drinks," said Keenan.

FallFest’s biggest challenge is the turn out. According to Keenan, during the first year 150 people attended, but attendance has grown every year since then. "Last year 700 people attended, but only 300 were actual Metro students. That number is very small in comparison to the total student body," she explained. "Students need to remember that this is paid for with student activity fees so we need students to come!"

The name may be part of the reason for low student turn out. "A new name, something conveying the meaning homecoming might be more effective. Right now there is a Rename FallFest Contest and students can write in their suggestions or let us know if they are in favor of keeping the name." This year there is also an ‘80s theme. "A theme helps to define the event and make it more marketable," Keenan said.

FallFest will take place Saturday, Sept. 16, from 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., in New Main’s court and lobby, and in Founders Hall Auditorium. While the main events will take place on Saturday, Sept. 16, other activities will be scheduled throughout the week (Sept. 11–Sept. 16).

So far 13 student groups will have a table at FallFest and the best table will be rewarded a monetary prize. "This $250 is a great incentive for student groups to participate, and this money will go right into their budget."

Among the many student groups participating this year, the Nursing Student Organization will be offering free blood pressure readings, and free Denver II testing, which is a developmental screening tool for children under age six.

The African American Student Association will read from speeches of both Jessie Jackson, who ran for president in 1988, and Harold Washington, the first African-American mayor of Chicago, elected in 1987. The Student Senate will be conducting campus tours offered every half hour to make themselves more visible to the student body. The Latinos and the International Student Organization will each have cultural dancers. WE: Women Empowered, the Psychology Club, TRIO, the Alumni Association and AIESEC will also be active. No colleges or departments have signed up yet, but Keenan asks for the entire university to participate in this celebration.

The main function of FallFest is to bring students together. "We look forward to welcoming students and their families as well as the community," Keenan said. "There will be a wall of shame for any student brave enough to send in their photo from the ‘80s. And the student to wear both the best and the worst ‘80s attire on the day of celebration will receive a free spa package."

In her most recent email, Keenan wrote, "Food this year will be from Green Mill, and the pizza truck from last year will be serving up fresh slices of pizza the day of the event. For free! You don’t want to miss it."

Students can do their part in preparation for the celebration by picking up a free FallFest key chain in the Student Senate Office, located on the St. Paul Campus in New Main; Room L207 or in the Student Life and Leadership Development Office, located on the St. Paul Campus in Founders Hall; Room 201, starting at the end of July. Presale T-shirts will also be available.