The Association of Women in Communications (AWC), in collaboration with Women In Business (WIB), hosted a pajama-themed galantine’s party on Monday, Feb. 9, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Oakland Center Gold Room A.
The event invited students to step away from their academic responsibilities and connect with fellow women on campus in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Attendees were encouraged to wear pajamas while participating in activities such as flower bouquet making, bracelet crafting, coloring page decorating and games of UNO. Free food, including pizza, brownies and drinks were provided at the event.
The collaboration between AWC and WIB aimed to bring together women from different academic backgrounds who share similar goals of professional growth, leadership and mutual support.
Ruby Hernandez, president of the AWC at Oakland University, spoke about the importance of these connections for women navigating male-dominated industries.
“Since we are all working towards a bright future, having these connections early on is something that all college students should be working on, especially women who plan on going into more male-dominated fields. Having these connections and making them early on is an incredible opportunity,” Hernandez said. “Having a smaller group and a group of women that understand and can unite towards their goals, is something that we really need.”
For AWC, the pajama-themed social also represented a meaningful step toward expanding the organization’s reach and rebuilding its presence on campus.
Hernandez emphasized the significance of the event in bringing together women from across Oakland University.
“I think Oakland University is such a diverse community, and having all women attend this event makes it even more amazing,” Hernandez said.
AWC Treasurer Molly Slivensky highlighted how collaborative events and increased visibility on campus are essential to the organization’s long-term success. Partnering with other student organizations like WIB allows AWC to reach more students while strengthening its sense of community.
“We definitely want to be here to stay,” Slivensky said. “One of the things that I think will definitely help out with that is by hosting more social events to try and get more people in the club. Especially with social media and physical flyers, because people see them all around campus. Just getting the word out will definitely help grow the club.”
The laid-back atmosphere of the event allowed attendees from both organizations to connect without the pressure of formal networking. Creative activities such as coloring, bracelet making and flower arranging encouraged conversation and collaboration, helping participants form bonds in an informal and supportive setting.
Attendee Summer Aldred shared what she enjoyed most about the event.
“Personally, from this amazing event, I liked the coloring and the opportunity to be with fellow women who share the passion of being here for one another,” Aldred said.
As the Association of Women in Communications and Women in Business continue to host events and meetings, both organizations hope to create lasting spaces where women can support one another academically, professionally and personally.
By encouraging early involvement and connection, these groups aim to empower women to build strong networks that will benefit them throughout their college experience and future careers.
