This week I was given the opportunity to talk with LGBTQ students and allies on campus. This was such a great opportunity because I have always supported the gay community, so I'm glad to see that the university is supporting them in their own way. It was wonderful to talk with LGBTQ students and to hear how important and special the Lavender Graduation celebration is for them, and how they get to celebrate their identity all together one last time before they graduate.
It is also interesting to have this graduation right after the highly publicized Amendment One vote Tuesday. This is a highly controversial topic that could affect the lives of so many people if passed. But in spite of this happening, it is great to see the LGBTQ students coming together to simply celebrate their accomplishments and involvement on campus, and to have their voice heard once more.
Look for full coverage of Lavender Graduation later this week.
After 33 years working for some of the biggest names in Hollywood, Dean Jones returned home to Alamance County eight years ago. Now an Emmy-winning makeup artist, producer and director, Jones said he felt like he had to move to California to continue his career. Because of his hardships moving away to find work, Jones saw the need for a local film school in Alamance County to build the labor force in the state. The North Carolina Film & Television Working Arts School will start its first semester with five students Jan. 21, 2025.
The sound of fiddles and flutes fill the conference rooms in upstairs Lakeside as the Elon Irish Dance Team begins its weekly practice. The team is a small but close knit community made up of people from all ranges and skill levels. Some members, like senior and co-president Sarah Dawkins, have been dancing since as early as 3 years old, while others like freshman Trudie Arling, have never done Irish dance before. The uniqueness of the sport has created a strong sense of community within the club that provides an outlet for its members.