Harvest Fest week brings exciting events to Park students and 2013 should be no different. From Sept. 16-21, students will have the opportunity to take their mind off school and attend social events with current and former Park pirates.

Events such as casino night, Stone Canyon social at Stone Canyon Pizza, the parade and the dance will take place as well as alumni games for softball, baseball, volleyball, basketball and soccer.

“It’s a continuing collaboration between student life, athletics and alumni,” said Andrew Davis, director of student success.

Alumni classes from 1958 and 1983 will be in attendance.

On Friday, Sept. 20, the 65th Annual Park University Awards presentation will take place.

The Distinguished Alumnus award will go to Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. The Distinguished Alumna award will go to Jeanette Prenger, president, CEO and owner of ECCO Select.

Louise Morden, former Park University trustee and current honorary trustee, will receive the Torchlighter award. The Park Promising Young Professional award will go to Sarah Hopkins-Chery, assistant women’s basketball coach, adjunct instructor of communication arts and US Airways supervisor.

Harvest Fest may provide the opportunity for current Park pirates to see successful and former Park pirates.

“It’s a great way to see the successful alumni,” said Julie McCollum, director of alumni relations.

Davis stressed the importance of relationship- and community-building during the annual Harvest Fest events.

“(Students) need to experience Harvest Fest so they can enjoy Park and create a family atmosphere,” he said.

All Park students are invited to the week’s events as well as families and friends. For more information about the events, visit www.park.edu.