by Chloë Moore ’24
The 2021 English Department Fall Luncheon, held on Tuesday, September 22nd, was a resounding success. We were fortunate enough to have snagged one of the nicest days for the event, so students and faculty were able to gather and mingle outside in the sun. Paella and salad was provided by Paella Depot, a local food truck service, and additional desserts and drinks were prepared and served by department student workers.
A number of faculty and staff were in attendance, including Acting Chair Peter Bognanni and Professors James Dawes and Matt Burgess, shown below.
Attendees had the chance to socialize with their fellow English majors and minors and to enjoy some time outside and in person. After months of virtual events, having the chance to gather in real life and see smiling faces was a refreshing change. And for students who had never interacted with the pre-covid department, it was a great opportunity to meet some of our most colorful characters in person.
Student workers staffed the event, serving beverages and arranging dessert trays (album cover pictured below).
This event will be followed up by future in-person events, all safely masked, including Professor Penelope Geng’s book launch on Friday, October 8th at 5 pm in the Smail Gallery of Olin Rice and a book event for Macalester graduate Ollie Schminkey at Next Chapter Booksellers at 5:30 pm on Tuesday, October 12th. The English Department looks forward to seeing you there!