As Finals Week makes its presence known, peppering students with an exam-filled onslaught of exhaustion, Penn College thoughtfully provides sustenance and sanctuary for the battle against end-of-semester burnout. Among the events that form the cornerstone of the anti-anxiety attack? Dining Services’ 21st Midnight Breakfast − second only to commencement in traditional longevity − on Thursday night, preceded by Wednesday’s Madigan Library visit from therapy dogs that live to be loved.
− Photos by Rachel A. Eirmann, student photographer, and Tom Wilson, writer/editor-PCToday
Sharing the warmth
Athletics and Residence Life proved to be able partners for Dining Services. Keeping the parade moving are (from left) Christa Matlack, women's soccer coach; Jamie R. Miller, wrestling coach; Residence Life coordinator Blaise E. Marshall; and baseball coach Chris H. Howard.
With every stroke and tail wag, a little more stress dissipates.
Among Thursday night's 575 patrons is this well-fed group, representing several majors ... but finding common gastronomical ground.
Library visitors offer timely tips for Finals Week: "Pay attention" ...
... "Get plenty of rest" ...
... "Stay hydrated" ...
... "Oh, and stop telling people I ate your homework!"
Tables fill up and the line still goes out the Keystone Dining Room doors and down the hall.
The rule of reciprocity: Dogs bring joy to students, and students feed treats to the dogs.
Karaoke artists command the mic with a rendition of Backstreet Boys' "I Want It That Way," hand gestures and all.
Devin Christian, from Nittany Balloons in State College, adds to a student's chowline ensemble.
John D. Vandevere, director of athletics, keeps the mood light.
It's a picture of contentment for Crystal J. Rice, a business management major and part-time graphic design student worker in the library, and friend.
A table of active student leaders takes a much-deserved break, basking in food and friendship.
A serendipitous encounter
Softball coach Jackie Klahold keeps up with the demand for pancakes: 205 students served in the first 15 minutes alone.
Finishing Fall 2018 strong, with help from comforting canines
A group of licensed massage therapists helps to unknot test-tightened muscles outside the dining unit.
Stress relief, courtesy of ol' friends Crayola and Nintendo
