Kent State’s ‘Sibs and Kids Weekend’ took place this past Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Prevously known as ‘Little Sibs Weekend,’ the name was changed to be more inclusive to different family situations within the Kent State community. The event-filled weekend was open to students, faculty, staff, as well as to members of the Kent community

“Everyone has actually been very receptive to the name change as far as I have heard,” said Beth Chambers, residence hall director for Allyn and Clark Halls. “I think the difficult part was making the decision because it has always been called ‘Little Sibs Weekend.’” 

The theme for this year’s weekend was Dr. Seuss. Some of the activities included Dr. Seuss-themed games, a scavenger hunt through the library, a drive-in movie viewing of “The Lorax,” henna tattoos, caricatures, face painting, ice skating, a reptile show, inflatables, downtown tours, chemistry demonstrations and many other events located throughout campus. However, due to the cold weather, some events were cancelled.

“I just think ‘Little Sibs Weekend’ is a really cool,” said Angileece Williams, a junior communication studies major. “A lot of people are here going to college and they miss their siblings. They miss their families and it’s just a great way to connect with … family and hang out at the university,” 

In the past, the the hosts of the event, Kent Interhall Council (KIC), has selected philanthropic causes to participate in. This year’s participants of ‘Kids and Sibs Weekend’ sent cards to Akron Children’s Hospital.

“I really feel like giving back is very important and, so far, we have a huge amount of cards … I think it’s going to be very beneficial because … those kids (in the hospital) can’t participate in activities like these. This way, they can get a little piece of what we did,” said Hannah Jager, a sophomore communication studies major and KIC vice president for programming.

KIC collaborates with all residence halls on campus as well as other campus affiliates including Information Services and Campus Security to plan the yearly event-filled weekend. Planning for this year’s event began during last semester and was led by Jager.

Chambers and Patrick Dugan, assistant director for Residential Services, are the co-advisors for KIC. As advisors, they help students plan events and ensure the proper policies and procedures are followed.

“The students (of KIC) basically tell us what programs they want to put on and we help make that happen,” Dugan said.

Julie Riedel is a Student Life reporter for The Kent Stater. Contact her at [email protected].