Join the Fun: St. Lawrence University Community Gathers for Weekly Barbecue Bash – North Country Now

CANTON – For over 15 years, every Wednesday at noon, the smell of burgers and hot dogs fills St. Lawrence’s campus. Students, faculty, and staff gather outside Johnson Hall of Science for a summer barbecue that brings the community together.

Sponsored by Academic Affairs, this barbecue relies on faculty and staff volunteers who shop, cook, and clean. It creates a friendly space where people can meet and chat. “It’s a wonderful way for everyone to connect,” says Ana Estevez, a professor of Neuroscience, who mentors summer research fellows. These students receive stipends and housing to conduct research alongside faculty outside the regular academic year.

Judith Nagel-Myers, a Professor of Geology and Biology, appreciates meeting students she wouldn’t usually encounter. “It’s refreshing to interact with a diverse group,” she says.

The food spreads beyond grilled items, with faculty often bringing cookies, pasta salad, or even ice cream. Some weeks see nearly 100 people enjoying casual meals together. Kate Pogue ’26, who is on campus researching chemistry, calls it a fun gathering that unites students from both humanities and sciences.

Carter Banks ’26, a McNair Scholar, values the chance to mingle outside formal settings. “It’s great to connect with everyone, faculty or students, in such a relaxed atmosphere,” he notes.

As you walk from the Student Center, the aroma of grilling burgers fills the air. Familiar faces man the grill, while clusters of students and professors engage in lively conversations. Many enjoy their meals on grassy hills or stone steps nearby, adding to the community feel. These barbecues create lasting bonds among the smaller group present during summer.

Patrick Lutz, an Assistant Professor of Chemistry, highlights the importance of these weekly gatherings. “With fewer people around, it’s a perfect opportunity for us to meet and get to know each other,” he shares.

Samuel Tartakoff, who recently led the grilling, finds joy in providing meals for students who typically cook for themselves. “It’s about more than just food; it’s about community and fun,” he explains.

Dan French, a project manager for Nature Up North, makes the barbecue a part of his routine. “It’s a great way to catch up with students I might miss during the busy week,” he says, often suggesting students meet him there for informal chats.

This weekly barbecue isn’t just about food; it’s about forging connections within the St. Lawrence community, creating a supportive environment where everyone feels included.

Source link

Potsdam, Canton, Ogdensburg, Massena, Gouverneur, North Country, St. Lawrence County, Adirondacks, Adirondack foothills, New York, Village of Potsdam, Village of Norwood, Village of Canton, Village of Massena, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, St. Lawrence Seaway, Alcoa, Arconic, Clarkson University, St. Lawrence University, SUNY Potsdam, SUNY Canton