Blue in front of snow
Group photo of students
Student sledding

It might not have felt like winter, but WinterFest Week still brought the snow and holiday spirit to campus. The seventh annual WinterFest was held on December 4–7 and was a collaborative effort between the Department of Marketing, Creative Services & Public Affairs, Student Equity and the Associated Student Government.


How did the event organizers ensure this year’s events were special? More snow and more fun. The festive week kicked off with the highly successful Therapy Pets event on December 4. With dogs and cats from Paws-to-Share and coloring pages provided by the SBVC Library staff, students were able to relax right before starting their Finals Week. “It’s all about providing a safe and fun space for students right before they enter a hectic week,” said Public Affairs Coordinator Alejandra Aguilera. “They deserve it.”


On December 5, students were anticipating the fresh pile of snow on the Library Quad. “It’s been the warmest Snow Day we’ve had,” said Aguilera, “but luckily the snow didn’t melt!” Students enjoyed fun in the snow, free lunch, a photo booth with Blue the Wolverine and a small resource fair with student-run clubs. Aguilera estimates that over 500 students attended the event.


A movie screening of “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” was held on December 6, which provided a cool space for students to grab lunch and relax in between study sessions. In collaboration with Associated Student Government, an Ugly Sweater Contest was held for Amazon giftcards. On December 7 a Paint and Sip session was held. Students and staff were guided to paint a winter scene by art professor Kamphoune Syphengpheth in front of the Gresham Art Gallery.


Aguilera highlights that without the support from other departments and the hard work of everyone involved WinterFest Week wouldn’t have happened and become part of SBVC’s history. “I hope that in the coming years it’s always something students can expect to see in December.”