By Chris Weber, Phoenix Staff Writer
Thursday, Nov. 2, is Spirit Day at GovState. Students and staff are encouraged to display their university pride by wearing GSU-branded attire and colors.
The day’s festivities will commence with the much anticipated launch of Radio Jaguar at 12:30 p.m. Radio Jaguar is the newest outlet for the Center for Community Media. It will offer a unique platform for students to express themselves and share their voices with the world.
The Radio Jaguar whisper room is located on the library balcony.
“I’m very excited about the radio launch,” said Lara Hyrcaj. “It’s just the beginning. Our first show is going to be all songs about the radio. We have students who have completed the radio staff training class, and we have students learning how to put together a show proposal. Programming will initially be a random playlist selected from our music library. Students will eventually make shows that interrupt the playlist.”
Radio Jaguar pens and stickers will be available for students and community members who arrive early. Supplies are limited.
At 1 p.m., the campus will reverberate with the beats of a Homecoming pep rally. Attendees can look forward to the electrifying performances of the marching band, dynamic live acts, and a showcase of GovState’s athletic teams. The event aims to invigorate the crowd and set the stage for an exciting day.
Later in the afternoon, at 4 p.m., a panel discussion on equity and inclusion in radio will occur. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with experts and ask questions. The panel, hosted by the Center for Community Media on its first anniversary, will include Ayana Contreras (Vocalo), Anna DeShawn (E3 Radio), and Sasha-Ann Simons (Reset on WBEZ). Dr. Cherise Stone-Thompson will moderate the panel. Stone-Thompson is a GSU adjunct faculty member and the founder of CMI radio.
Volleyball fans are in for a treat at 7 p.m., as GovState’s women’s volleyball team goes head-to-head with Trinity Christian at the GSU Athletic and Recreation Center. The home advantage is bound to add an extra layer of excitement to what is expected to be a thrilling match.
Meanwhile, in room F1622 at 7:30 p.m., cinephiles and film enthusiasts can indulge in the Chicago Southland International Film Festival Annual Binge Fest. This special event will showcase selected short films and excerpts produced by GovState students, offering a glimpse into the diverse and creative talent that thrives within the university’s community.
For more information about homecoming events, please visit the official homecoming page on the GSU website.