By: Maeve McCann | Secretary
McAuley Day celebrates Catherine McAuley and her contribution to our institution as we know it today. She was the founder of the Sisters of Mercy, which is what our university is built upon. Every year, on a day that is undisclosed to the students, Salve Regina suspends classes to celebrate. On this day there is food, fun, music, service opportunities and so much more for the students to enjoy. As a senior I have lived to see four McAuley day celebrations. However, this year was my favorite.
There is always so much excitement and anticipation over which day McAuley Day will land on. President Dr. Kelli Armstrong loves celebrating such a special day. Not only is it an opportunity for the students to come together, but a day for our president to celebrate with us. One of the most special traditions of McAuley Day is singing Happy Birthday to Catherine. In addition to the singing, there was an ice cream sundae bar and cake in front of the Catherine McAuley statue. One thing Salve students love is free food, especially sweet treats. Later in the day there was an open mic event which included smoothies. On top of that there was a henna artist, lawn games, and self-care bags.
What students look forward to the most are the events that happen at night. There is always some event going on that brings a lot of students back to campus to celebrate. At night there was a bonfire on Gerety Lawn where students could come together, listen to good music, eat good food, and enjoy even better company by the fire. For students over 21, there was a bar where students could enjoy three free beverages. In addition, there was a champagne toast to Catherine McAuley accompanied with a small speech from Dr. Armstrong. In honor of Catherine McAuley, there was a food truck serving Irish food. Angelus Hall provided the music for the night. Salve is always pleased to welcome back alumni, especially those who are musically talented. There was a bonfire where students could gather around and enjoy each other’s company. As the nights begin to get cooler, it was the perfect event to transition back into the school year and celebrate Catherine McAuley and all she has provided our institution. And with that, the students are already counting down the days until McAuley day comes again.
Photos provided by Salve Regina University.
