It’s not often that you see college students in formal attire. But sometimes they do at Columbia International University’s Coffee Haus.
Every year, as part of the House Collective competition between the dormitories, members from each house submit their best creative works to win house points.
Coffee Haus was held this fall in the Rossi Student Center which was transformed to set the Coffee Haus mood with dimly lit hanging lights and the students’ artwork, papers, poetry, and photography creatively displayed. Student Development awards ribbons for first, second, and third place in each category. And of course, the aroma of coffee was in the air, served alongside snacks and desserts.
In the art category, Caroline Birdsong from Petty Residence Hall won first place for the third year in a row for a beautiful painting of a sunlit glade. She said, “I am very glad CIU has this event, because it allows us students to share our creative works with one another and rejoice in the talents God has given us.”
In the papers category, Addison Currie won second place for her short story “The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything” earning extra points for Founders Residence Hall.
“I was so excited,” said Currie. “I submitted it for house points. I didn’t expect to win anything.”
According to Coffee Haus tradition, poets who submitted their works can stand up to read their creations. Lydia Crummie even sang one of her poems.
New Women’s Residential Director Macey McLaurin attended the event and helped announce the winners in each category. She called the experience “a sweet introduction to the creative community here at CIU!”
“I’m looking forward to next year’s event, and I encourage everyone to participate who enjoys art or wants to try a new hobby,” she added.
Some of the more creative submissions included a drawing of a Pringles can by Issac Vernon and a photograph of a man sinking into peanuts by Asa Moser. Photographs and drawings of the students’ friends, family, and even pets were showcased at the event.
Coffee Haus was the perfect event for the students to come together and appreciate each other’s art while earning points for their house team.
(Photo above: Lacie Aho reads her contest entry at the Coffee Haus)
Higher learning. Deeper faith. A Christ-centered community on campus and online. Request Info | Apply | Give
