I have so much fun each year during Habitat for Humanity’s annual “Shack-a-Thon.” Students enjoy some friendly competition as they try to win a prize for sturdiest, largest, tallest, and most creative shack. Then they spend the night out on the quad. I love being surrounded by so many students who are having a great time as they contribute to a good cause. The $30 entry fee for each shack helps our Habitat for Humanity group purchase building materials for the house they will build this spring. Can you believe that this group of students has already built five houses for Peoria-area families? The shack in this photo should have won a prize for “homiest” with its carpets, chairs, and windows. Built by Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship, the spacious “shack” provided a relaxing atmosphere for Monica Rodriguez as she played guitar for Ondrey McClain.

Besides raising money, this event also raised awareness about homelessness.

Have you noticed that our beautiful campus is looking better every day? In addition to all the roses planted this summer, the grounds crew has been adding mums to many of the flowerbeds that are losing their color in the fall weather.

Today, however is quite a “banner” day for President Glasser’s efforts to beautify campus. I was surprised this morning when a bucket truck arrived and a worker from the City of Peoria, Mark Tolson, began hanging bright red Bradley University banners from many of the light poles. These are going to welcome guests, instill pride, and add wonderful splashes of color to brighten the view.

Students dressed in suits carrying portfolios full of resumes walked past me most of the day Wednesday and Thursday on their way to the job fair. A special fair for Civil Engineering and Construction jobs was held on Wednesday. On Thursday, over 120 employers visited campus to recruit for many different professions.

I am pleased to say that the atmosphere was optimistic, with students talking enthusiastically about the future.

Seeing so many alumni among the recruiters also made me feel good. They know there is no better place to find wonderful employees than right here at Bradley.

As you can see, fall semester is in full swing. It’s definitely been a while since I’ve seen a hula hoop on campus… but these provided lots of smiles and laughter at our annual Activities Fair, a wonderful event that helps kick off the year and introduce students to many of the opportunities for them to get involved in campus life.

President Glasser once again hosted Bradley Night at the Peoria Chiefs. Students got to watch baseball, eat, and enjoy fun activities. Members of the Bradley Chorale did a beautiful job singing the National Anthem.

All of our fine Bradley Braves gathered for the Athletics picnic. Reviving another “retro” activity, athletes did the limbo, and believe me they are amazing. Witnessing their astounding flexibility and their tenacity at a game of musical chairs made me think this is going to be a great year for the Braves!

Finally, President Glasser arrived at a recent soccer game in style—cruising the field in a three-wheeled Harley to the enjoyment of all our fantastic soccer fans. Go Braves!