College looking for 'friends' to help students move in

McCOOK, Neb. -- When McCook Community College students move into Brooks Hall Saturday, college officials are hoping to debut a group of community volunteers to welcome new students and help move them in.

The first appearance of "Friends of the College" will gather when students check-in to Brooks Hall between 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and help students carry boxes, luggage, and dorm living items to their new rooms.

"If anyone is looking for something to do Saturday, we're looking for individuals, families or even groups who can be on hand to help greet our new students," MCC Vice President Andy Long.

The president said in his first year as campus president he has come into contact with numerous individual around the community who say they may not be in any position to support the college and its foundation financially, but if there were a way to donate manpower they'd be glad to help. Long said Saturday's move-in seemed to be a great way to start what he's calling the "Friends of the College" campaign.

"A lot of people know what a milestone event it is when someone heads off to college," Long said. "I've had people ask me 'is there anything I can do that doesn't involve opening up my checkbook' and on Saturday there will be an opportunity for community members to help our students -- especially our incoming freshmen -- feel welcome to their new home."

This year college officials say Brooks Hall will be full with 140 students.

Saturday's move-in will be coordinated by Julia Bauer in the MCC Office of Student Life. Anyone interested in helping volunteer for Saturday's event should contact her at 345-8108. Brooks Hall staff members Kellen Fernetti, Scott Weston, Maureen Weston and the Brooks Hall resident assistants will also assist in the move-in.

Long said down the road he would hope that "Friends of The College" would be available to help with other volunteer manpower needs, like the hosting of athletic tournaments.

Students are set to kick of the 2014-2015 year with Orientation Day Monday from 8:30 a.m.-3:15 p.m. The theme for this year is Retro/Disco Orientation.

"Our mission is to help these students feel welcome and familiarize them with as many people and services as we can in one day, as well as help them get to know one another," said Kelly Rippen, Mid-Plains Community College Area Dean of Enrollment Management.

A student lunch and business/organization fair is set for 11:35-12:30 on campus with afternoon orientation sessions from 12:35-3:15 p.m.