BY RICHARD MCGRAIL
Staff Writer, UAS Whalesong
The University of Alaska Southeast had a stroke of luck Sep. 1 as the sun revealed it self to Juneau community members, students, and staff at the much anticipated Campus Kickoff. The air was filled with electricity as attendees buzzed about from booth to booth.
The annual event in the Mourant Courtyard introduces new and returning students to university clubs, groups, and local organizations.
“Campus Kickoff gets students connected to the community” said Kayla Hood, a member of the campus life team, who helped coordinate the event.
“It is designed for student-run clubs and local organizations to set up booths around the courtyard and engage UAS students on topics including social justice, sexual assault awareness, conservation and employment opportunities,” said Hood.
Students and organizations make networking connections at the annual event.
Chloe Bee, a sophomore in marine biology was among the 100 students who attended the event. “There are a lot of things to do, and I found a potenital job opportunity today,” said Bee.
Not only is Campus Kickoff good for those students who want to get involved in the community, but it is an opportunity for clubs and groups to get their name out.
Brandon Johnson, an assistant for the Native and Rural Student Center (NRSC) said that the event is one of their most important student recruiting events of the year.  “The NRSC got nearly 100 email addresses of interested students,” said Johnson.
More than a networking event for students, Campus Kickoff helps raise awareness of a number of important issues facing the university and Southeast Alaska.
The event informs students about social justice student clubs on campus—the Campus Inclusivity Alliance (CIA), which builds awareness and support for LGBT students and allies—and Wooch.een—a group which advocates for Indigenous People’s rights.
Similarly, Bryn Fluharty, the communications coordinator for the Southeast Alaska Conservation Council (SEACC), said the event allows non profits to engage with students and inform them about the environmental impact of the timber and mining industries.
For more information on campus life events contact Student Activities Coordinator Tara Olson at tmolson4@alaska.edu.