Story by Monika Staszscak, Staff writer
President Davies had coffee and conversation in the first of many student based-events.
Murray State President Bob Davies showed students his ability to connect with the student body last Thursday, in one event in a series of ‘with the Prez’ activities.
This event was a fun way to make new friends and get to know the Murray State staff a little better.
Previously known as “Coffee with Bob,” Post with the Prez is meant to build a community among the Murray State society.
“It’s about bringing people together – people you would never meet,” Davies said. “Have a cup of coffee and enjoy, develop some friendships.”
This year, the event was renamed and attendants had the opportunity to take a selfie with the president, post it on social media and enter a contest to win gadgets like selfie sticks.
“Next time we have this (event), you have to bring more friends!” Davies said, laughing with a small group of students. Only a few students attended.
Community–oriented events are a big part of Davies’ presidency. Many events like “Post with the Prez” are being organized all semester.
“The story is not me, it’s this right here,” Davies said, pointing at a small circle formed by students, following up with dropping the mic. Spending casual time with students in this way allows Davies to build a better relationship with the Murray State population and keep a more intimate image with him.
Winslow Dining Hall will host a Dinner with the President on Feb. 3, where students will have the opportunity to “meet with President Bob Davies and enjoy great food,” the event flier advertises. Anyone who is interested is invited to RSVP through the student calendar on murraystate.edu before Feb. 2 in order to participate.
Every morning that the campus is put on hold by the weather, Winslow hosts Davies with another Murray State tradition.
On days classes are canceled or delayed, Davies can be found in Winslow Dining Hall, frying up omelet’s for all of the students who show up.
“Making the President more approachable as a person builds higher levels of trust between students and their university leadership,” said Martin Dowling, graduate student from Regensburg, Germany, who attended the event.
Many students, Dowling among them, consider Davies’ image very approachable. Taking and posting selfies with the president happens on a day to day basis among the students.