The Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) recently celebrated its Spirit Day and the second annual Kickstart Tailgate, events designed to foster a sense of community and belonging among students. Estella Gutierrez, Vice President of Student Services and Diversity, emphasized the importance of these events in enhancing the college experience: “Our purpose at TMCC is for students to succeed. More than anyone, they need to feel they belong to this wonderful campus."
Spirit Day began with a parade led by President Karin Hilgersom and City of Sparks Mayor Ed Lawson. Despite threatening weather, the event continued indoors at the V. James Eardley Student Center, featuring a Club Fair with cultural showcases, games, arts and crafts, and voter registration. Taylor Easley, an SGA Senator, highlighted the lively atmosphere: “All the animated music and games... It brought the spirit and vibes up.”
The day included performances from Latinx and Hispanic students in traditional attire as well as Bollywood-style dance lessons. The event concluded with recreational activities like ladder golf and cornhole, followed by ice cream treats.
On September 21st, TMCC hosted its second annual Kickstart Tailgate in conjunction with soccer matches against Colorado Northwestern Community College. Estella Gutierrez noted the event's success in bringing together diverse families: “It is amazing to see many diverse families come together at our campus.” The women's team ended their match in a draw while the men's team secured a 3-1 victory.
Sponsors contributed significantly to the event's success, raising $11,825 for student-athletes' development on and off the field.
As both TMCC soccer teams continue their season with upcoming home games scheduled throughout October, they aim for playoff positions in the Scenic West Athletic Conference regional tournament.