A spirited gathering of more than 50 students, prospective students, alumni and community members attended OLLU-Houston’s observance of ‘Spirit Day’ on Oct. 14.

“Self-care” was the focus of OLLU-Houston’s student success workshop, honoring Spirit Day. The Houston site was transformed into a series of walkable stations where participants engaged in self-directed activities designed to promote positive mental health practices. 

Prayer cards, featuring quotes from Father Moye, were available in the Providence Refuge Room, where students reflected on the OLLU mission before venturing to the journaling station. There were also areas emphasizing school spirit which included the lanyard decorating station, the “Wings Up” selfie station, and a “Know Your OLLU” trivia station. 

In the spirit of a fall festival, attendees also engaged in pumpkin decorating, yoga and seasonal treats, including cookie decorating.

“I really enjoyed the chance to celebrate being an OLLU Saint with my classmates on Spirit Day,” said Tamara Atkins, a second-year transfer student into the Marriage and Family Therapy Program. “The staff put in so much effort to make the campus festive and make everyone feel included.”

The Houston-based celebration has focused on building community and connecting Houston students with traditions observed at the San Antonio campus.

“We understand the necessity of creating a supportive community for our students in order to promote student retention,” said Jamina Scippio-McFadden, OLLU-Houston Executive Director. “Spirit Day is an example of how we creatively extend experiences from San Antonio to our Houston students, especially with partners like the Student Government Association.”