Based on the popular television series Survivor, Loomis Chaffee recently introduced “Survive the Island: A Pelican Game,” the newest spring tradition that combines the best elements of Pelican Games with the Survivor-style competition for charity. Sixteen qualified players will compete for victory and, most importantly, for the honor of their respective Pelican Game colors: orange, yellow, green, and purple. At the end of the competition, only one contestant will take home the final win, earning the opportunity to donate funds to the charity chosen by their team.
The games will consist of one student per graduating class. Each player will be competing individually for the grand prize at the end. Although the game has sparked interest amongst the student body, many have questioned why the game was initiated and how it was chosen.
Mr. Ned Heckman, science faculty and Dorm Head of Taylor Hall explained, “There will be a mix of physical, social, and strategic elements to the challenges, sometimes multiple at once, to test the players’ abilities.” He emphasized audience participation as a part of the challenges, driving up the overall engagement of the Loomis community and instilling a greater degree of Pelican pride.
Once students return to campus from Spring Break, fundraisers will be held in the dining hall for the different nonprofit organizations chosen by each color. The funds will go directly to the organizations, with the winner of Survive the Island able to send a bonus amount to a charity of their choice. As Loomis continues to strive to create a community of school spirit, “Survive the Island” is a perfect event to instill an exciting competitive edge to campus life. Moreover, the goal of this game aligns with Loomis Chaffee’s mission of the best self and common good as the Pelican Nation continues to find ways to contribute to broader society.
Although this is the first year Survive the Island is being hosted, Mr. Heckman looks ahead with complete confidence in its success. “My hope is that it becomes an annual tradition,” said Mr. Heckman.