The day was a cause for celebration, which some took to heart more than others. The balmy weather was a refreshing break from the blustery conditions of the week prior. Temperatures climbed into the 60s, thawing the spirit of campus all around. Members of townhouses could be seen basking in the sun, playing music, and competing in games. On the North end of campus, the Total Eclipse of the Quad was being actualized as food trucks, tables and community members poured in.
The success of the event was a testament to the meticulous planning of administrators and event planners. Tyler Karasinski ’24 was one of the planners spearheading the efforts to prepare for the eclipse. “It’s been months in the making; hours spent in schools across the county teaching students about the wonders of this afternoon, spent in seemingly endless meetings with university administrators, reporters, and an incredible team, spent running who-knows-where to do who-knows-what. Every moment was worth it,” Karasinski states.
Thankfully, at about 3:27 p.m., the sun resurfaced, and it was day once again. A modest breeze and the chirping of birds signaled the return to day. Karasinski spoke to the awe of the eclipse, “For us, it was a spectacular moment, the dynamics of the universe dazzling above, but it was also months of anticipation and pure effort come to fruition.”
A rare glimpse of the event can be seen in a livestream posted on the University’s website, in addition to a short video recap. While community members may only have their viewing glasses and a free shirt left as keepsakes, this once-in-a-lifetime celestial event will linger in the memories of the select few who were able to view the remarkable synchronicities of the Earth, sun and moon.