The College of Nursing recently hosted its inaugural tailgate on the Campus Green during the Auburn-Arkansas game, embracing the sweltering heat of nearly 100 degrees to foster community and school spirit. Organized by Nicole Lynch from the AUCON Development Office, the gathering took place in front of Helen Keller Hall, conveniently located across from Jordan-Hare Stadium.
The event drew students, parents, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends, all eager to connect. Guests enjoyed refreshments and were treated to AUCON swag handed out by enthusiastic nursing students. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as guests gathered around the TV to stay updated on games across the country, all while cooling off with pedestal fans.
“This is exactly what we needed to bring everyone together,” said Nicole Lynch, capturing the spirit of the day.
Among the attendees were Charlie Wilson (’96 Electrical Engineering) and his wife Beth (’97 Communications Disorders) who brought their daughter Mallory and her friend Lucy Powers, both juniors in their first semester at AUCON. “The new location in front of Keller Hall was fantastic and very convenient as we mingled at several tailgates before the game,” Wilson remarked. He appreciated the chance to chat with Dean Gregg Newschwander and engage with current students, as well as an alumnus who shared insights about his career path.
Meeting and interacting with various people kept James Hendrix, who is researching and writing the history of the College of Nursing, engaged and energized. Among those he connected with was a clinical nursing faculty member actively involved in the Tiger Babies program, a delightful nursing student who had just embarked on her professional curriculum this fall and an alum from across the state who passionately supported the College and shared fond memories, further enriching the conversation.
“The tailgate was a fantastic gathering,” said Dean Gregg Newschwander. “We got to connect with everyone from pre-nursing students to alumni from four decades back. It was truly a reunion of the Auburn nursing family. The football games always draw a crowd, so the tailgate is a great opportunity to attract visitors who might not typically attend other events. The big tent created a welcoming atmosphere, and the food was great! Everyone, without exception, had a wonderful time mingling and sharing their nursing stories.”
Delighted by this successful debut, AUCON aims to establish the tailgating event as an annual tradition, further encouraging participation and nurturing school spirit among the Auburn community.
