DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - With finals week just days away and stress levels rising on college campuses, Millikin University students are getting a sweet reason to take a break.
On Wednesday, students, faculty and staff gathered for Millikin’s annual Cookie Party, which is a campus tradition that dates back to 1934.
Interim Vice President of Student Affairs Molly Berry said the event has been part of the university “for as long as anyone can remember.”
“It’s a great time for faculty, staff and students to come to campus, relax before finals week and have a cookie and some punch,” Berry said.
For many students, the event is a highlight of the semester. Hunter Danbery said he plans for it every year.
“I’ve been looking forward to it for a long time, honestly, since last year,” Danbery said. “I put it in my calendar and set about four or five reminders. I’m just ready to go.”
And he wasn’t the only eager attendee. Some students lined up well before the doors opened.
“I was the very first one,” Berry said. “It started at two o’clock, but I got here at 1:15. It was great.”
More than 4,000 cookies were available this year, with options including sugar, chocolate chip and peanut butter. There were also special varieties packed with peanut butter cups.
While the cookies draw the crowds, students say the event is about more than sweets. Many view it as a moment of unity before the pressures of finals kick in.
“It’s something that all of us, all majors, athletics, music, theatre, no matter who we are, we all come together for,” Berry said. “It makes the tough week ahead feel a little less intimidating.”
Berry told WAND News the Cookie Party has become one of Millikin’s most beloved traditions.
“This is probably our favorite tradition outside of Vespers, graduation and Welcome Week,” Berry said. “It’s a great time to get together and remember why we’re here, those interpersonal relationships and supporting our community.”
Organizers say the event continues to grow each year, and they hope it encourages students to make time for self-care during the busiest stretch of the semester.
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