By NICK McCOY
Tiger Media Network
File Photo
The Homecoming and Oktoberfest Chamber Chat took place in the Memorial Union Ballroom on Friday. An event featuring members of various organizations in the Hays community, it was meant as an outreach for the many businesses and nonprofit organizations, as well as to promote the various activities in the upcoming Homecoming week.
“Being on Fort Hays campus always feels like somewhat of a Homecoming,” said Sarah Wasinger, the president and CEO of the Chamber in Hays. “Today, we are pleased to share some of the exciting things that are planned for Homecoming and Oktoberfest.”
Wasinger, a 2006 graduate of Fort Hays State, emphasized how important Homecoming and the rest of the events happening are to the community.
“They really connect with so much of our community,” Wasinger said. “Our region is very much driven by what happens in Hays, and it’s important for our economic vitality for us to do a good job at getting people to come back to Hays, and celebrate where they come from.”
With Homecoming, Wasinger expresses how proud she was to be a Fort Hays student, and how the event showcases that.
“It’s just a point of pride,” she said. “And it’s a celebration of all the hard work you put in as a student. Being able to come together as a student body and celebrating our successes is powerful. Being a grad myself, you’re missing out if you don’t attend.”
Alongside Homecoming and the many other events taking place, Oktoberfest is also slated for October 4-5. Emily Knowles, the Oktoberfest director and event coordinator, explains what that event is all about.
“It’s geared towards the history, heritage and homecoming of the Volga German people,” Knowles said. “It started with all the little communities coming together and having a festival, now it’s grown into a much bigger thing.”
Knowles also explains how much it means to the German community and culture of Hays, and what it does for students and residents alike.
“It’s people’s roots and their heritage,” Knowles said. “It’s been going on for 50 years. They get that little taste of home. For students and others, it’s just a good time to come out and celebrate with their families, and it could be a tap-in for their history. It’s a great community event, and if you’re already down here for the Homecoming parade, you might as well stop in.”