As the fall semester comes to a close so too does 2014, marking 125 years of success at Slippery Rock University. This year was filled with changes at the university, championship games for athletes and multiple special events happening.
SRSGA voted to eliminate their Board of Cooperative Activities to form a Board of Directors. The Grove opened its apartment complex, bringing some mixed reviews from students. Food Management Magazines recognized Weisenfluh and Boozel Dining Center as two of the best college dining halls in America. Renovations were approved to Miller Auditorium and East and West Gym. The university appointed a new vice president of finance and integrated the student affairs and academic affairs vice president positions. Tom Wolf was elected Governor of Pennsylvania. Ebola sparked a response at SRU. Slippery Rock University was named one of the cheapest online colleges by Affordable Colleges Online. YikYak came to campus, giving students an anonymous voice.
In sports, the SRU football team won the PSAC West Championship after losing in the final round in 2013. The team moved on to the NCAA Division II Playoffs where they lost to West Chester, 20-46. The SRU baseball team made it to the PSAC Championships where they lost 2-3 to Millersville.
Singers, celebrities and myth busters came to campus as well. Juicy J and Wale took the stage in the University Program Board’s Spring Concert. “22 Jump Street,” “Grown Ups 2” and YouTube personality Jimmy Tatro performed. Marcus Luttrell shared his experience in the military to a crowd of 1,600. RJ Mitte opened eyes to disabilities in pop culture. Girl Code’s Carly Aquilino and Guy Code’s Chris Distefano shared laughs with the audience and announced the couple’s break-up. Kari Byron and Troy Belleci of Mythbusters shared their stories of making it on the show and debunking science myths.
The year 2014 has brought a lot to write to about, to be a part of and a lot to celebrate at Slippery Rock University. The staff of The Rocket wishes everyone luck on finals and, to those graduating in December, good luck with their future endeavors.
