Fall Festival brought staff members together for a fun-filled event

Creating community among campus employees is a goal for the Staff Council’s annual Fall Festival. This year’s event, held Tuesday, Oct. 8, in the Barnhardt Student Activity Center brought together more than 650 employees for a luncheon, outdoor and indoor games, a cake walk and more.

“As we continue to grow as a community, it is important that we take time out to remember those who contribute to making UNC Charlotte great,” said Celeste Corpening, chair of the Staff Council and an application analyst with ITS. “Staff members are integral to the mission of the University, and the Fall Festival is a chance to show our appreciation for their contributions and provide an environment where everyone can come have fun and fellowship with their co-workers.”

This year, the Staff Council presented the UNC Charlotte Police and Public Safety Department a plaque in recognition of its contributions to the campus; Officer Jerry Lecomte accepted the honor on behalf of PPS.

In advance of the festival, staff members could enter the craft, baking and photography contests. Barbara Howard with the Cato College of Education won the craft competition for her bridal bouquet; Heather Benson, HR, and Heather Nance, 49er athletics, placed second and third, respectively.

Christy Eaton, Cato College, won the baking competition for her muffin recipe. Jen Huffman, Building Environmental Services, claimed second with her pecan pie cheesecake, and University Recreation’s Liz Forman placed third for her pumpkin cinnamon rolls.

The photo contest accepted entries in three categories: nature and landscape, school spirit and black and white images. Sara Nester, Facilities Management, placed first in nature and landscape; second and third place went to Matt Shilling, University Recreation, and Julia Geaney-Moore, Languages and Culture Studies, respectively.

Building Environmental Services’ Melinda Burgett won the school spirit category, and Laura Crossley, Graduate School, took the prize for best black and white photo. Runners-up were Tina Bollers, Recreational Services, and Jessica Berrios, Cato College.

As part of Homecoming, the Staff Council sponsors an office decorating competition. The fourth floor of the Reese Building won the office category with Alicia Bartosch, Controller’s Office, named the individual winner.