Wingles Welcomes Students Back to Campus

The Associated Students of Whatcom Community College have restarted their wingles social event after a long break due to the pandemic.

The word ‘wingle’ originated from the term ‘weekly mingles’ and was coined several years ago by ASWCC leaders. Since the campus has returned to in-person classes, the ASWCC Programming and Diversity Board have created these events, among others, in an attempt to bring students together.

“The purpose is to create student engagement and build connections with students,” said Vice President of Programming Leseah Kennedy. 

For the Tuesday Wingle to be a success, the student leaders had to brainstorm ideas that would draw students to be social on campus. Now student leaders are very active on their ASWCC social media accounts to update students about upcoming events.

“I would say that students who have come really love it!” said Director for Health and Wellness Mandahna Balafkan.

Many of the students who attend the wingles are regulars, according to the student leaders who organize these festivities. Students have reported a sense of belonging from the weekly wingles and have created a bond with other students.

“This wingle has not only given students at WCC a sense of engagement but also given them information on campus opportunities that are available to them,” said Mandahna.

“I know my way around the campus more and who to go to for any guidance because I see them every week thanks to the wingles,” said one of the wingles regulars, Aurel Tedjawardana. “I have definitely made more friends here as well,” she said.

The events are different every week. Recent themes have included a build-your-own nachos bar, a movie night with pizza, and a club fair where clubs introduced themselves to the students. 

“I enjoy the food that is being served in this weekly event, especially the baked potatoes and the nacho bar,” said another wingles frequent, Tomoha Washino. “I am excited for the next wingle event,” said Tomo. 

For Whatcom students looking for a deeper connection to campus life, the Tuesday Wingle is a great place to start. Kennedy urges students to drop by the auditorium located in the Syre Student Center on Tuesdays from 12-2 p.m. to say hello. Whatcom’s The Cove regularly sponsors food for the events.