Pierpont Community and Technical College hosts event celebrating the easing of pandemic restrictions

Administrators, faculty, staff, and students of Pierpont Community and Technical College gathered June 5 for Pierpont Day. The college invited current and future students to enjoy a performance by Big Eyed Phish at Palatine Park, a local outdoor park and event venue that recently reopened with the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. The event also featured free food, drinks, and t-shirts, and four students received $500 scholarships, one awarded every hour of the event. 

According to an article published by Times West Virginian, President of Pierpont CTC, Anthony Hancock, viewed the event as an opportunity to unwind in the wake of the pandemic. He became president of the college six months ago, meaning his tenure so far has been focused on navigating COVID-19 protocols. Hancock said, "We're coming out of a pandemic, coming out of a separation, our morale is pretty good at the institution and I just wanted all of us to take a pause, get together in fellowship, and get together and relax." He added, "For me, today is one of those days where we kick back, don't talk about work and just have a good time. It's fellowship with each other and it's important for the soul and spirit of our institution."

Other reactions to the event included this statement from Lyla Grandstaff, vice president of student services and enrollment, who said, "It's so exciting, this is one of the first events we’ve been able to attend as a school, so it's exciting to get back to normal. It's so great to reach out to the community and to be a part of Fairmont again."

The focus of the event was bringing together students, who have endured an unusual year and to encourage a sense of community. As Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Michael Waide, put it, "We're celebrating a return to some normalcy and celebrating community, which is a large part of who we are. We want to make sure our students feel socially-connected to really support their academic side. But today's success is all in part of our student affairs team. That group understands that being a part of the community fosters that learning for our students."

Four $500 scholarships were awarded, two for current students and two for incoming students. One recipient was Veterinary Technology major Abigail Stillwell. She reacted to the event and the scholarship, saying, "It feels amazing to be around people again. I just love seeing people's faces again. It's so nice to be out. I'm glad I was drawn to win the scholarship. This will definitely be going toward books."