Join the Fun: Elon University’s Black Student Union Presents the Annual Coolin’ on the Commons Celebration!

On May 3, Elon University’s Black Student Union Board held its annual "Coolin’ on the Commons" event at the Academic Village. This year’s celebration featured a step show, food trucks, and a bounce house.

Junior Maleah Proctor, the BSU president, shared her excitement about the event’s planning process. “We started brainstorming in December and have been meeting since January. Seeing it all come together is really rewarding,” she said.

This year’s step show introduced a unique twist: a fundraising competition. Proctor noted that they raised money for Allied Churches of Alamance County, an organization that supports the homeless.

Instead of one showcase, there were two: one focused on fundraising and another for performances. "We had dual competitions—a fundraiser and a performance showcase," Proctor explained. Eight of the nine Black Greek organizations at Elon competed, including well-known groups like Alpha Kappa Alpha and Delta Sigma Theta.

Junior Kashawn Myers, BSU vice president, expressed hope that attendees felt a sense of community. “It’s about more than just events; it’s about building connections and having a good time,” he said. He also mentioned that a little rain threatened the event, but ultimately, it didn’t disrupt the festivities significantly. There was a backup plan to move indoors, but luckily, that wasn’t necessary.

Senior Mikayla Williams, who performed with Delta Sigma Theta—a sorority that won the fundraising aspect—stressed the importance of such events. “These gatherings help highlight different communities on campus. For many, this is their first exposure to the NPHC community, so it’s important to create spaces where they can learn and feel comfortable,” she stated.

In recent years, events like these have gained traction on college campuses, fostering inclusivity and understanding across diverse groups. According to a 2022 study by the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA), over 70% of students believe campus events enhance community spirit and cultural awareness.

Creating opportunities for students to engage with different cultures not only enriches their college experience but also encourages empathy and support among peers. As we see in trends on social media, these events often spark conversations about unity and collaboration, highlighting the value of diversity.

Overall, Coolin’ on the Commons served as a reminder that community is built through shared experiences and open dialogue, a principle that resonates far beyond the college campus.

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