A Lot on the Way:

Last week, campus was abuzz an ensemble of electro-rock jazz flowing from the football field, accompanied by the excited cheers of the Concord community. That would be The Stunt ARMY, a free-style motorbike group, making a rip-roaring spectacle in the commuter parking lot on Wednesday, August 26. In attendance was Andrew Sulgit, Director of Student activities, and the one who managed to put it all together. He remarks that this is just the beginning of what will be a very exciting semester of campus entertainment. “Most [events] are still in the making,” said Sulgit, “but we already have several ideas that are being planned for the upcoming weeks here at Concord.”

In the first two weeks of the semester, Concord has already been the proud host of comedian, Corey Rodrigues, provided a free viewing of Furious 7, and hosted live mixed music by DJs Late Night and Matt Harvey. Fortunately for the Campus Beautiful, many more exiting events are still to come.

Within the next few weeks, Sulgit lists the band My Only Safe Haven, “formerly known as Safe Haven,” he adds, “sort-of a power pop-punk band. Imagine Paramore meeting Blink 182.” Performer Paul Louis, most commonly known on campus as ‘The Balloon Man’ will be making an appearance. Other fun student events include a discount movie ticket sale by Marquee Cinemas, and even a talent show with fabulous prizes. Events are generally scheduled on Wednesdays, and most can be found near the Student Center. Locations are, however, dependent on the activity.

Sulgit emphasizes that as the semester continues there will be even more events for the students, especially in regards to Homecoming week. “Naturally, we go all-out for homecoming: black light bingo has always been especially popular as an opening. I never really imagined that a bunch of college students would be so excited to play bingo, of all things, but it’s gotten some high praise.”

He mentions that, along with the annual Homecoming Parade, there will also be a bonfire night for students, “We plan on having the Ohio Burn Unit go to the bonfire. Their shows usually include fire-juggling, fire-breathing, and fire-eating.” Sulgit also expressed interest in hosting a free performance by Cody Wickline, a musician out of Beckley and contestant on season eight of “The Voice”.

On a wider timeline, Sulgit is still arranging plans. “We generally have activities scheduled year-round, and will be having sign-ups soon for the Halloween trip to Carrowinds, or ‘Scarrowinds’.” He mentions scheduled transportation later in the season to Charleston, allowing students to attend the “CU versus UC” football game. Even further yet, next spring, Sulgit hopes to have a performance by Who’s Bad, the most renowned and longest-running Michael Jackson tribute group. The musicians cover nearly all aspects of MJ’s musical career, paying homage to everything from the Jackson Five to the later styles of “Billie Jean” and “Human Nature.”

One of the most important aspects of event planning for Sulgit is the campus interest in the programs. “While it’s usually a mix of who will contact who when making these plans, I always try to remember events that were successful in the student body and bring them back in the following year.”

Feedback is not unwelcome with the Director of Student activities, either: “If you quote me on anything, let people know that my door is always open for events and activities. As long as it’s reasonable and within campus budget, I’ll try to make it happen.” Sulgit maintains that he is a supporter of the local arts and performers, and always looking for ways to improve the Campus Beautiful experience.