Central Methodist University believes in providing the best possible experiences for its students, and therefore encourages campus involvement and offers “step out of your comfort zone” opportunities.
It can sometimes be challenging for students – especially transfer students and freshmen – to get involved. But one way the university has successfully provided support is through Eagle Connect – a program that gets students engaged with one another, as well as many clubs, organizations, and activities on campus.
Throughout the academic year, winners are selected from points that are tallied for attendance to various events, which can range from lectures and Chapel, to theatre performances and pep rallies.
“Our goal is to touch students academically, athletically, spiritually, and socially when choosing and planning our events,” said Dustyn Yung, director of Student Life at CMU.
Prizes given each month can include great parking spots on campus, gift cards, and even, sometimes, winnings as exciting as a flat screen T.V. Through CMU Prime – Central’s version of Amazon Prime – students have the flexibility of choosing a prize as long as it benefits them during their campus experience, according to Yung.
At the very end of the academic year, one grand prize winner is chosen.
Student Danielle McQueen, from Mountain Grove, Mo., was announced Eagle Connect’s grand prize winner on Monday, May 6, which meant she instantly became $450 richer.
McQueen was presented with a check for her participation and effort, which broke down to her attending 89% of events in the Eagle Connect program, and receiving 5,355 out of the possible 6,030 points available to earn.