The Presidential Fellows continued their Connect & Thrive initiative during the summer semester, creating opportunities to build community and foster a sense of belonging among graduate students spending their summer in DC.
The first summer event brought students beyond Foggy Bottom for a screening of Sinners at Sunset Cinema at The Wharf. The event allowed students to explore a vibrant area of DC and feel connected not only with one another but with the wider DC community. Students who attended expressed enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity to step away from campus, enjoy a movie with friends, and experience one of the city’s unique summer offerings.
The second event the fellows hosted was a Paint & Pizza Night, where students were given individual canvases and acrylic paints and encouraged to freely create whatever they wanted. The event was well attended, with over 30 students mingling, painting, and enjoying pizza together. Connections were made, friendships were formed, and beautiful art was created!
This fall, the new Presidential Fellowship cohort, with the support of the Office of Graduate Affairs, will continue the Connect & Thrive initiative. Building on the momentum of the past year, the fellows look forward to creating even more opportunities for graduate students to connect, build community, and feel a greater sense of belonging at GW.