Saint Mary's students will have the opportunity to trace the footsteps of earlier Belles during Heritage Week, to be held this year Feb. 18 to 22. Heritage Week celebrates Saint Mary's history, giving students insight into the traditions of the College.
Heritage Week will feature tours of Saint Mary's landmarks and speakers from around campus.
Senior student government vice president Meghan Casey said she hopes students take the time to enjoy the events offered during the week.
"I am hoping for good attendance at events because they are really awesome this year," she said. "It's nice that we have different time slots for different events so more students can join us. They are all awesome opportunities for our students at Saint Mary's. They really show the true nature and past of the College."
The week kicks off Monday with Heritage Room tours with Sr. VeroniqueWiedower, Casey said.
Tuesday will feature Tea Tours at the Riedinger House. The Riedinger House once played host to some of the College's classes but now is only used for special events and socials.
Sophomore Grace McSorley said she is "most excited" for tea at the Riedinger House.
"I have always wondered what the inside of that little house looks like because it's so cute from the outside," she said.
Saint Mary's students will tour the archive rooms in Madeleva on Wednesday, Casey said.
On Thursday the Belles will gather for dinner during dining hall hours, where chair of the board of trustees Mary L. Burke and Wiedower are speaking, Casey said.
"I am really looking forward to the dinner to hear from Sr. Veronique," Casey said. "I am excited to hear her speak and I just love the whole week. It really shows the importance of knowing the history of the College and the support that students, faculty and staff give to college. It's been really fun to plan and get ready for."
On Friday the Belles will conclude the week by congregating for Mass in the Holy Spirit Chapel of LeMans Hall, Casey said.
Student government vice president of external affairs Katherine Sullivan said the week offers students ways to learn about achievements of former Saint Mary's students.
"I think that Heritage Week is so important because it embodies the past, present and future stories of Saint Mary's College," she said. "By signing up for our events and attending things like the History of Social Events featuring alumna and author Kymberly Dunlap Andren [of the class of 2004], students will learn about past Belles and their journeys."
Sullivan said the week's events not only serve as a bonding experience but a learning one as well.
"Heritage Week strengthens our community and teaches students about the College's great journey," she said. "I truly hope that we see many students attend these events and learn about how this wonderful place came to be and continues to grow."
Saint Mary's editor Jillian Barwick contributed to this report.
Contact Kelly Kony at kkony01@saintmarys.edu
