Clarion University simply has too much going on to experience in less than 80 days. That is what the university learned through the feedback it received from students who participated in last year's Around Campus in 42 Days program.

            That program is back this year as Around Clarion in 80 Days, and will take place from August 27 until November 13. The purpose of the program is to help students navigate the campus, and surrounding community, by encouraging their participation in programs that promote academic success, wellness, career development, personal development, commitment to service and community building.

            "We want to engage and acclimate new students at Clarion University to the wide range of programs available to them here on campus," said Michelle Kealey, director of residence life services. "We decided to expand it. Six weeks is the key to retaining new students, but the feedback we received after last year told us that once the program was completed the students didn't know what to do next. Most of the programs they enjoyed continued, but they didn't know where to look to find out about them."

            As a result, the program will run nearly 12 weeks, or most of the Fall 2010 semester.  "Once the students are into the routine of where to look for activities, we believe they will continue on their own," said Kealey. "The effort follows up on studies that indicate that students who participate in activities in college are more likely to succeed academically."

            While the primary focus of the program is to engage incoming freshmen, an additional change to the program this year will allow all of Clarion University's students to register for the prizes that will be awarded during a culminating event scheduled for November 13. Students attending activities and events will fill out a card, which will be entered into the prize drawing.

            "All University Activities Board events and sports competitions are part of the program," said Kealey. "We are trying to be as inclusive as possible. Some of the activities are targeted at freshman, but we heard from many students after last year's program that they were disappointed they were not eligible for the grand prize drawing."

            Some of the highlights of this year's program include Activities Day, the first home football game, a picnic and Patriot Day commemoration at Reinhard Villages, UAB's fall concert, a tech floor Wii tournament, pool parties, a Community Service Day, Friday Fun Nights, blood drives and theatre performances. Resident and community assistants will serve as resources to connect students with events and facilitate group participation. The CAT bus, which is free with valid student identification, is available to off-campus locations, such as the stadium.

            "Part of the activities will help 'town-gown' relations," said Kealey. "Many of the merchants are supporting this effort and will be providing some of the prizes. Clarion University's Alumni Association Board of Directors also agreed to help with some of the events."

            Events and activities, both from campus and the community, are still being accepted for Around Clarion in 80 days.

            Visit http://www.clarion.edu/aroundclarion  to see the most up-to-date listing of Around Clarion events.

             To register an event as part of the Around Clarion program, complete an Event Sign Up Request at http://www.clarion.edu/177571/. 

              Questions about Around Clarion in 80 Days can be referred to either Michelle Kealey at mkealey@clarion.edu, or Shawn Hoke at shoke@clarion.edu, Around Clarion in 80 co-chairs.

            Clarion University is the high achieving nationally recognized, comprehensive university that delivers a personal and challenging academic experience.