President Timothy Caboni invited students, faculty and staff to a “Hilltopper Family Fall Gathering” on Tuesday inside the Commons at Helm Library.

This event encouraged people to come together and reflect on the past year on the Hill, according to WKU’s website. Fall treats and apple cider were also provided to attendees.

Jace Lux, director of media relations and WKU’s spokesperson, said that last year, WKU did a similar event to the “Hilltopper Family Fall Gathering,” but it was only for faculty and staff. Lux said opening the event to students was Caboni’s idea this year to create something for the entire campus to enjoy.

“We’re thrilled about the turnout, and I think it’s always good to pause and get together as a campus,” Lux said. “I know it sounds cliché and maybe a little bit cheesy, but I really do believe we’ve got a nice family here at WKU, and so it’s good to get together as a family and enjoy moments like this.”

Rachel Goodman, director of Campus and Community Events, said the university helped organize this event to wish students well before the end of the semester. Goodman said she hopes to hold another event like this next year.

“The president, the provost, Sam Kurtz with SGA, all of the people that help run our institution were hoping to say thank you just for a great semester,” Goodman said. “They were hoping to wish all of the students well for finals and just to say thanks and well done.”

Payton Curtis, junior elementary education major, said her favorite treat at the event was the s’mores brownies. Curtis enjoyed her brownie with a friend while reflecting on what she was thankful for this year on the Hill.

“I’m thankful for my clinical placement this semester,” Curtis said. “I had the best cooperating teacher, and I already miss her so much.”

Demani Bell, freshman musical theatre major, said the event was a good way for him to make connections with people on campus outside of a normal college setting.

“A lot of my classes are around networking and all that kind of stuff, so I think this is really good for if you’re scouting out anyone or even if you just need a little adjustment from the everyday college experience,” Bell said.

News Reporter Abigail Vickers can be contacted at [email protected].