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Steffen Horwath

The barren McHale Athletic Center where Club Day would have been in-person.

With over 100 clubs and organizations on campus, Club Day is an important staple of the beginning of the school year for Wilkes, allowing students to socialize and meet with clubs that match their interests. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused many events all over the country to be cancelled, leaving the plan for Club Day hanging in the air.

After careful consideration and planning, Student Government has decided that the best option for students and clubs to get the best experience would be to hold a Virtual Club Day event on Sept. 18.

Student Body President Kevin Long explained the board’s decision to make the event virtual this year.

“Due to the pandemic, it would put students in harm’s way to hold a large event, as we usually do,” said Long. “So, over the past few weeks, the Student Government Executive board has rolled out many different ideas in order to still advertise our wonderful clubs on campus.”

Student Government is planning to set up posters with QR codes and links around campus that students can scan with their phones. The link will then lead students to a website that will have every club listed.

Because of the virtual design and format, Long noted that clubs are now able to advertise for the full school year, instead of just one day, allowing for flexibility.

“When a student clicks on the individual club link, it will take them to a page that the club itself will customize with information, pictures, videos, etc.,” Long said.

Megan Pitts, activities coordinator for student development, also acknowledged the advantages and benefits of a virtual Club Day. She explained that clubs can hold live Zoom sessions throughout the afternoon for any students who are interested in Wilkes’ clubs and organizations. These live sessions will be recorded for anyone who is unable to attend.

“If a student can’t attend sessions, they can still access all of the great information,” Pitts said.

Lindsey Scorey, communication studies sophomore and e-mentor, positively detailed the change in events, believing that it is a suitable replacement given the current circumstances. She also believes that the virtual format will grant more freedom to clubs in how they operate.

“I would think that each club should have its own method based on club members’ needs,” she said. “Clubs should adapt to what each member wants.”

As an e-mentor, Scorey still has hope that the changes will be beneficial for first-year students.

“I think it’s smart to do virtual clubs,” Scorey said. “I’m not sure if it will give the full experience for them, and I’m not sure if it will be a full replacement of Club Day, but the changes are still good nonetheless.”

In replacement of the McHale Athletic Center being filled with tables, the Henry Student Center will be decorated by Student Government in preparation for Sept. 18.

“We realize that this may not be the most ideal or traditional set-up for the event,” Long said. “But, in the time of crisis, this is the best way to advertise our clubs.”