Project GRAD Hosts First-Ever Family Picnic
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – As part of Waves of Welcome, Project GRAD at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi hosted a family picnic on Aug. 20 to welcome incoming and current Islanders and their families to campus. With over 700 people in attendance at the first-ever Family Picnic, event organizers consider the event a massive success.
“The family picnic was an amazing and welcoming event held by Project GRAD that I really loved attending,” said Mariah Gaston, first-year Islander. “The food was amazing, the games were fun, and the workers were super friendly which added to the great experience. I would definitely look into attending more campus events such as this one.”
During the picnic, families were able to visit University resource tables such as CASA, I-CARE, the University Counseling Center, the I-CREATE Lab, and Career Services. Outdoor Adventure Programs hosted equipment demonstrations and Islander Athletics shared information about sporting events. University Center Program Radio played music and welcomed song requests by attendees. There was activities, games, and dancing.
“Thanks to the picnic, I felt a positive family connection with TAMU-CC,” said Rita Martinez, mother of an Islander senior. “#Shakasup!”
The picnic was a welcome slow-down to the hustle and bustle of campus move-in day.
“Being in South Texas, it was necessary to include the whole family in the college experience through a fun and supportive atmosphere. Parents were moving in their students, some who are first in their family to attend college, and the picnic was a break in the day to eat, have fun, and learn more about the Island University,” said Deshawna Colvin, Project GRAD Assistant Director.
Project GRAD will continue to host engagement events throughout the year open to students and their families. For more information about Project GRAD and to stay updated on future events, visit projectgrad.tamucc.edu.
