As students proceed down the furthest hallway of Chaffee, cozy pillows and the warmth of the Center for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) welcome them through the open glass window. This year, PRISM and DEI joined hands to introduce the first-ever First Friday at the Commons, an event dedicated to allowing students to have a space for making new connections.
Founded in Chaffee 126, First Friday at the Commons is committed to bridging divides and building a tighter community. Whether the students are just taking their first steps on the Island or looking to expand their social circles, this event offers a relaxed atmosphere for meeting fellow peers and an opportunity to learn about the initiatives of PRISM of the DEI Center.
The concept of First Fridays was created by Dr. Roland Davis, interim director of DEI at Loomis. Inspired by local First Friday events he had observed across towns and cities in this country, Dr. Davis seized the chance to integrate this new concept into Loomis Chaffee. As the DEI Center renovates and relocates into a new space in Chaffee, Dr. Davis hopes to launch more exciting events in relation to community-building.
“I wanted to invite people into the new space,” Dr. Davis said. When he was approached by the PRISM presidents who sought to establish an open event on campus, First Fridays at the Commons was born.
PRISM President Izzy Heflin ’25 emphasized the importance of First Friday at the Commons, particularly for underclassmen looking to familiarize themselves with the Loomis culture. “It was super helpful to meet new people at the beginning of the year,” Heflin shared, “especially for new freshmen and sophomores.” Heflin enjoyed talking to many students who attended the event, swapping stories, and the delicious presence of sweet treats.
Dr. Davis aspires for First Friday at the Commons to grow and become a staple event on campus. “I hope it will have the impact of everyone feeling welcome in the DEI Center,” he expressed.