An Olivet Halloween: Connecting Campus and Community

Students of The University of Olivet and community members file in for the trick or treat event, held in the Square on Friday, Oct. 31.

OLIVET, Mich. — Halloween in Olivet took place on Friday, Oct. 31. Events such as trick or treat in the campus Square and the Fire Station open house happened from 6-8 p.m. The trick or treat in the Square was held by the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), Hiram Archer Student Success Academy (HASSA), and Comets Activity Board (CAB). 23 clubs and organizations from the University of Olivet set up tables in the Square. They passed out candy to trick-or-treaters as they

walked through.

“It’s our way of giving back, even though we’re a college, there’s still a lot of younger generations that still look up to us, and that's always helpful and nice to see,” said SAAC representative Kelsee Lawson.

Members of The University of Olivet Wrestling Team handing out candy at their table for the trick or treat events in the Square on October 31.

In the Square, there was live music from DJ Tate 5, and there was a movie playing as well. This, among other attractions, is what was there for the community to enjoy.

“We had 200-plus kids come through from the Olivet community, and so it was a no-brainer for this year,” said Joshua Gillespie, dean of student life.

Not only was the event geared towards kids, but adults also found value in the event, as well. Throughout the town, there were other opportunities for the community to get into the Halloween spirit. One of those was held at the Fire Station. 

“We like that the businesses, the church, the college, all get together and come out and support the kids, support the families,” said community member Michelle Bryde.

“It’s just a really nice gathering place for all kinds of people because there are some people who go to the fire department who don’t even have kids out trick or treating,” said Laura Barlond-Maas, mayor of Olivet.

The gathering held by the firefighters of Olivet offered popcorn, cider, and doughnuts. They also opened the doors of the Fire Station for an indoor space to get away from the cold.

“Tonight's just basically all for the community, for us, for the kids. It’s just something that we like to do to bring everyone together,” said Lieutenant Jason Giffen.

Both events were held with the campus and community in mind, but there were more reasons, like the overall ambience, that folks were able to see the impact of this night.

“The leaves are beautiful, the spooky vibes are great, it’s a good turnout, we just love it,” said community member Kara Ortiz.

With hundreds of attendees coming together on a chilly night in October, and with its offerings and connections, it couldn’t have been anything else but an Olivet Halloween.