Students, faculty, staff, and employees of 250 E Ponce came together on the first day of June to celebrate camaraderie and connections at a community cookout! 

 
 

The event, set out to bring together diverse cohorts, helped forge new bonds and strengthen existing ones over complimentary food and fun. Attendees indulged in light-hearted competitions that afternoon, adding an extra dash of excitement to the gathering. From the strategic maneuvers in Connect Four to the tosses and throws in Cornhole, and the careful balancing of Jenga blocks, the friendly rivalry was evident (and enjoyed!) that afternoon. 

But it wasn't all play and no purpose. Amid the mingling and enjoyment, students in particular seized the opportunity to share valuable feedback with one another, exchanging tips on managing workloads and how to create a strong support system at school. 

 
 

As the mid-day festivities continued, the sense of community remained palpable and showcased that moments like these were essential for mental rejuvenation, offering a momentary escape from the responsibilities of academia and work. And in the wake of the pandemic's challenges, the event only further proved that the significance of networking and community building was on the rise. It also touted the resiliency of our community members as well – highlighting the continued yearning for meaningful connections and the excitement of coming together in a shared space.