Building connection through leadership
For Naima Pyarali, community has been the defining thread of her WashU experience. Originally from Albuquerque, N. M., she came to the university drawn to its tight-knit culture—something she has since helped strengthen for others through her work as a resident advisor (RA). “I knew since my first year that I wanted to be an […]
Strength in community
Whether in a dark room cycling class or a high-energy Tread & Shred session, instructors like Ari Lerner, Keysha Gem Patel, Sadra Marjai and Blair Franciscus are discovering that leading workouts is about more than fitness. For the instructors, each class reinforces the idea that campus isn’t just a place to study; it’s a network […]
Ari Lerner
Ari Lerner, Class of 2027, found confidence and connection through teaching Dark Room Cycle, discovering how leadership can grow from shared energy and encouragement.
Keysha Gem Patel
Keysha Gem Patel, Class of 2026, approaches each class as a space for gratitude and teamwork, using movement to strengthen community and inspire collective motivation.
Sadra Marjai
Sadra Marjai, Class of 2028, has deepened his sense of belonging through the Sumers Rec community, developing adaptability, communication, and confidence as a leader and peer mentor.
Blair Franciscus
Blair Franciscus, Class of 2028, brings enthusiasm and intentionality to every class she teaches, creating an encouraging environment that challenges participants while emphasizing teamwork and mutual support.
WashU Student Affairs to host campus-wide Halloween Costume Contest
Get ready to get spooky! WashU Student Affairs invites all students, faculty and staff to join the Campus-wide Halloween Costume Contest on Fri., Oct. 31, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the north side of the Danforth University Center (DUC). Participants can showcase their most creative, funny or haunting costumes for a chance to […]
Get Spooky!
Winners Thank you to all who entered and voted in this year’s costume contest!
WashU Leadership Week slated for Oct. 20-25
WashU’s Division of Student Affairs invites students, faculty, and staff to join Leadership Week, a weeklong series of events designed to uplift leadership capacity, spark new ideas, and build stronger connections across the WashU community. Organized by the Bauer Leaders Academy in collaboration with campus partners, Leadership Week offers interactive workshops, keynote talks, experiential challenges, […]
Gnocchi, the WashU way with Chef Aaron
This year at Parent & Family Weekend, we had the opportunity to do a live cooking demo with WashU’s own Executive and Dining Resource Chef Aaron Cummings who made his End of Summer Gnocchi.