Ally Davis worked with the women’s softball team while also coaching at West Rowan Middle School, supporting the catchers and assisting with player development. Coach Janelle Breneman describes elevating her to a full-time coach at UNCG as a “full circle moment.”
Spartan Summer Excursions: Date Night (or Day) Ideas
Posted on July 25, 2024
Finding the right partner might take some trial and error, but planning the perfect date isn’t difficult in a city like Greensboro. Whether you’re looking for a romantic, artsy, or active vibe, we’ve got your guide to planning a sweet date at any price point.
For Foodies
$: Cheesecakes by Alex For a first or second date, there’s no better “getting to know you” atmosphere than Cheesecakes by Alex. Grab a coffee and dessert at their Elm Street location and then compare tastes in books down the street at Scuppernong. Not crazy about cheesecake? Alex’s has a varied selection of cookies and confections in addition to the many cheesecake flavors they offer.
$$: Sticks and Stones Pizza might be a perennial collegiate favorite but Sticks and Stones isn’t your typical pizza joint. Venture west of campus down Walker Avenue and find woodfired gourmet pizza at “The Corner,” a popular intersection of bars and restaurants. Choose a classic Margherita pizza, sopressata (that’s salami for Stick’s patrons), or go for one of their signature pies with toppings like walnut pesto and chicken, local sausage and ricotta, or fried eggplant and mushrooms. This is one funky pizza joint.
Tal Blevins ’95 in the dining room at MACHETE. (Photo by David Lee Row.)
$$$: MACHETE Real foodies looking for a culinary experience will find exactly what they’re looking for at MACHETE, owned by UNCG alumnus Tal Blevins ‘95. MACHETE creations take classic ingredients, combine them with unexpected flavors, and turn out delicious art on a plate. The atmosphere is casual, but the experience is anything but. If you’re looking to impress a date or wow family or friends for a special occasion, Machete is the award-winning, high-end palate pleaser in Greensboro.
For Gamers
$: Game On Sometimes the greatest dates start with the simplest asks: “Hey, let’s grab dinner and play some video games!” This plan is easier to execute once the Esports Arena at Moran Commons re-opens in mid-August. In the meantime, Lost Ark on Spring Garden charges only $10 for gaming Sunday – Friday. (Saturday’s admission is $15.)
$$: Boxcar Arcade + Bar Retro gamers will love Boxcar on Lewis Street off South Elm. It’s part bar and part arcade with over 4,000 square feet of games like Guitar Hero, Ms. Pac-Man and Skee-Ball. At Boxcar, you and your date can load up on tokens for classic arcade games, grab a drink, and order pizza on the patio. Check the website for tournaments, live music, and other events. Admission is free, but you must be 21 to enter.
$$$: Bourbon Bowl Around the corner from Boxcar, Bourbon Bowl is a restaurant and bowling alley that’s a true crowd pleaser. Under 21? No problem, since all ages are welcome before 9:00 P.M. The lunch and dinner menus are reasonably priced with seating in or outside on their Elm Street patio. Or you can book one of their six full-sized bowling lanes and order dinner while you play. Lanes are priced at $30-45 (depending on the day and time) and include up to four bowlers, so this is a more economical option if you’re planning a double date.
UNCG Esports ArenaBoxcar Bar + Arcade (Photo by Jenn Smith.)Bourbon Bowl
For Art and Music Lovers
$: Music for a Sunday Evening in the Park (MUSEP) If you’re looking for a laid-back date, you can’t go wrong with a Sunday evening concert in the park. For years, the city of Greensboro has been sponsoring the free MUSEP concerts at local parks each summer. Attendees need only a chair or blanket to enjoy an evening with someone special. Pack a picnic or purchase dinner from food trucks on site. On Sunday, July 28, nearby Lindley Park will host a salsa concert; soul and beach music bands will be on stage at Hester Park on August 11; and the series wraps with reggae music at Keeley Park in McLeansville on August 25.
$$: Orchestra by Candlelight A new concert series held in the Greensboro Cultural Center’s Van Dyke Performance Space has been wowing locals this summer. Candlelight Concerts feature popular music performed by orchestra players surrounded by candles. It offers a date night that will stir the senses in the most artful and romantic ways. Catch tributes to Vivaldi, Adele and Beyonce coming in August and September. Tickets start at $29.
$$$: Tanger Center Shows The premier theater in town for concerts and shows is downtown Greensboro’s Tanger Center. Check out its events list for musicals and plays like Mama Mia, tribute shows featuring the music of Elton John, Queen or Wynton Marsalis, and concerts from Idina Menzel or Travis Tritt. Ticket prices vary, but don’t be surprised to find a great deal at the last minute by checking in at the box office. And keep in mind that the Downtown Hopper Trolley runs up and down Elm Street connecting the theater with preshow dinner or post show dessert options. No matter what you see, a Tanger show will be a date to remember.
For Outdoor Enthusiasts
$: Piney Lake A trip to the beach may be too much of a commitment, but an afternoon at Piney Lake could be the perfect date for those who love to soak in the rays of summer. Piney Lake is open and free for UNCG students and their guests on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Land activities like bocce, volleyball, and cornhole overlook the lake where paddleboards, water trampolines, and paddle boats set the stage for a fun summer day. Bring a picnic and stay all afternoon!
$$: Hanging Rock A little extra gas money will get you an active date in the foothills of North Carolina. Invite your partner on a hike up to a beautiful rocky perch followed by a dip in the lake at Hanging Rock State Park. Just an hour northwest of campus lies beautiful hiking trails, canoe and paddleboard rentals, and a lake for swimming and fishing. Hanging Rock State Park offers free activities except for swimming and boat rentals, so your dollar stretches if you decide to plan a date to Hanging Rock.
$$$: Wet ‘n Wild Finally, if your summer fun falls more towards thrill seeking than communing with nature, you should grab a date and cool off at Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Point. Until Labor Day Weekend, there’s still time to spend the day water sliding and wave pooling and lazy river-ing with your favorite person. Admission isn’t cheap, but it’s not a bad way to stay cool during the dog days of summer and the park is only a15-minute drive from campus.
From budget-friendly to splurge-worthy, Greensboro has a date plan for everybody’s vibe. Try one this weekend!
Story by Becky Deakins, University Communications. Photography by Sean Norona, University Communications, unless otherwise stated. Videography by Grant Gilliard, University Communications.
Head Coach Cody Ellis praises the wealth of knowledge and worth ethic that will be added to the team with the hiring of Kris Taveras as an assistant coach and Tristan McAlister as director of operations.
$1.5M UNCG-led Collaborative Focuses on Green Energy Innovations
Posted on July 23, 2024
In the search for new types of environmentally friendly energy systems, the initiative “Nature Inspired Collaborative Energy Research” draws inspiration from the complex molecules found in fungi and other natural organisms.
Weatherspoon Art Museum Gives UNCG Faculty a Second Classroom
Posted on July 24, 2024
An art class led by Raechel Cook, associate curator of academic programming at the Weatherspoon Art Museum.
Throughout her teaching career, Dr. Neelofer Qadir has always looked for ways to bring artwork into class discussion.
“Students are familiar with commenting on visuality,” she says. “It gives them another entryway into the topics that may feel very dense in text.”
For Qadir, one of the draws of joining UNC Greensboro’s English department was the access to the Weatherspoon Art Museum. From introductory classes to upper-level coursework and graduate student projects, she helps her students take advantage of this resource a few blocks away from her classrooms.
“It really pervades across my pedagogy to bring students to Weatherspoon,” says Qadir, “They can work with me and with museum staff like Emily Stamey, or they can visit on their own.”
Qadir and other faculty have shown that the Weatherspoon is a springboard for deeper analysis for all academic programs and not just art.
“There’s demand at UNCG for object-based learning across curriculums,” says Dr. Emily Stamey, Elizabeth McIver Weatherspoon Curator of Academic Programming and Head of Exhibitions. “Taking the time to study art objects in person, thinking about an object from different perspectives, trying to place our analysis of the art into other contexts. That is a skill that transfers to every single discipline.”
Tapping a Rich Campus Resource
UNCG faculty can work with any of the 6,600 items in the Weatherspoon’s collection, not just the ones currently on display. Anne and Ben Cone Memorial Endowed Director Juliette Bianco says, “That’s the beauty of a teaching museum. We can pull any of those objects out of storage for a class if a professor requests them.”
Dr. Emily Stamey works closely with faculty to help students learn from the exhibitions at the Weatherspoon.
Qadir had students in “Introduction to International Global Studies“ choose an item from the Weatherspoon or Library’s Special Collections, then demonstrate how it can tell a global story. “They get the conceptual vocabulary from the class,” says Qadir. “Then they fill that in with additional research, triangulating between the primary source, the secondary sources, and so on.”
A visit to the Weatherspoon is a no-brainer for faculty in the College of Visual and Performing Arts. “If you spend too much time in a classroom, looking at a projector can get stale,” says Rodgers Dameron. “Students need that real-world experience.”
As assistant professor of animation, Dameron took interest in the Disney exhibition. Using the storyboards and cels from 1937’s “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” and 1942’s “Bambi,” he showed students how the digital animation tools they use today are based on older techniques. He says, “I think it gave them an appreciation for how much work goes into the older style of animation.”
Dr. Heather Holian, professor of art and Margaret and Bill Benjamin Faculty Fellow, helped curate the Disney animation exhibit.
Dameron says the museum is invaluable to artists. “Thinking back to when I was in school, at a college in Brooklyn, one of the big advantages was literally every week, I would go up to the Met or to Soho’s art galleries.”
Other students have even helped with curation and programming. Assistant Professor of Art History Nicole Scalissi brought students to work with Stamey and curate a collection of early 20th century Mexican prints. Graduate students of dance came up with “Drawn to Dance,” inviting art students to sketch dance students in motion.
Art Cultivates Global Engagement
Dr. Etsuko Kinefuchi, professor of communication studies, followed up on an email from the Weatherspoon inviting faculty to check out its teaching resources. At the time, Wangechi Mutu’s “The End of Eating Everything” was on display. The exhibit explored materialistic lifestyles and consumption. Kinefuchi jumped at the chance to bring her environmental communication class to see it.
Elaine Gustafson, curator and head of collections and facilities, also found relevant artwork in the Weatherspoon’s collection to show Kinefuchi’s class.
Kinefuchi has since incorporated museum visits into other courses. When students return to the classroom, they can apply what they saw to communication concepts about framing, perspective, and emotion. Kinefuchi says, “Art helps us think about different ways we engage with the world, not just the verbal communication which tends to dominate our pedagogical world.”
She says the museum staff do an excellent job of guiding meaningful peer-to-peer discussions. “Emily allowed the students to voice how they perceived things. One student might say, ‘This stood out to me for this reason.’ And another student would say, ‘I didn’t think of that.’ The conversation in that space gives them the ability to see that, ‘Oh, there are other interpretations out there that I should be thinking about.’”
team-ups that Inspire
The Weatherspoon recently created a department dedicated to helping faculty design classes around the museum. They hired Raechel Cook as associate curator of academic programming to help facilitate meaningful art encounters for students.
Using the Weatherspoon’s collections, Raechel Cook creates a holistic educational experience for UNCG students.
Bianco says, “It’s about understanding faculty members’ pedagogical goals or content goals, and also understanding that skill goals – empathy, critical thinking, curiosity, creativity, and problem solving – can also be taught in front of original works of art. Our plan is only to increase the accessibility of the Weatherspoon’s collection in the years ahead.”
Kinefuchi, Qadir, and Dameron hope more faculty at UNCG will look at the Weatherspoon’s offerings. “It’s an incredible resource for students to have,” says Qadir. “It is truly their place.”
“When students are exposed to that quality of art, they gain confidence,” says Dameron. “It raises their own expectations.”
The museum is currently undergoing renovations, thanks to a grant from the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation to improve the experience for students, faculty, and all visitors. It will reopen with its fall season on August 13.
Story by Janet Imrick, University Communications Photography by Sean Norona, University Communications
Coeds everywhere are busy preparing to move back to campus in August. It feels like an overwhelming process for many, but UNC Greensboro is here to help. The staff at Housing and Residence Life (HRL) has advice to remove students’ summer stress with move-in hacks and tips.
“At HRL, we understand that a good move-in experience puts students in the right frame of mind for the whole semester,” explains Mary Steele, assistant director of marketing and communications for HRL at UNCG. “We’ve set up several processes to make moving in easier – like renting a mini fridge so it’s delivered to your room or submitting your id photo online so you don’t have to wait in line for your Spartan ID on move-in day. We want all students to have a good experience and contact us with any specific questions they have.”
STOP, DROP, AND ROLL SIMPLIFIES MOVE-IN
Perhaps the best insider tip for moving to UNCG is to sign up for Stop, Drop, and Roll appointments available July 26 through August 4, so you can set up your room early.
Stop, Drop, and Roll dates vary by residence hall. All students living on campus should have received an email that prompts them to sign up for a one-hour block to bring their belongings and set up their rooms, rather than bringing everything when they move in August 14-19.
Lee, Lexington, Haywood, and Phillips-Hawkins residence halls are used for summer programs and do not participate in Stop, Drop, and Roll, but if you are assigned to these halls you can sign up for early move-in (on August 8,9,12, or 13) at no extra charge.
set up electronics with new Wi-Fi settings before your hall is full of others trying to do the same
get a feel for your new living space before move-in day
Stop, Drop, and Roll appointments were enacted during times of social distancing but became permanent when everyone realized how much stress it removed from students before their classes began. “Make that extra trip to Greensboro and you’ll have greater access to move-in carts, time to put in maintenance requests, and an early opportunity to get excited about your room,” reminds Steele. “It’ll make your First Week at the G so much easier.”
DON’T BE AN OVERPACKER!
A classic move-in mistake made by first-year students is packing more than they need. Overpacking generally stems from overthinking. HRL encourages students to be organized, without trying to anticipate every need that may arise over the semester.
“We have seen students who move in using U-Haul trucks,” Steele reveals. “Much of what they’ve brought is unnecessary.” She encourages students to curb their tendency to pack too much by learning from those who have overpacked before them.
5 Things Not to Pack for College:
Refrigerator Before you disregard the rest of this list, rest assured that every student absolutely needs a mini fridge for their room. We are simply suggesting that you don’t pack it! Instead, rent a mini fridge. For a rental fee, the fridge will be waiting in the room for you upon move-in and you can leave it when you move out. If you order it by August 1, you can skip the extra hauling in favor of convenience.
Items that will get you fined Lots of the items on HRL’s Do Not Pack list are common sense no-no’s like weapons, drug paraphernalia, and fire hazards. Review the list and be warned that there will be health and safety checks where your contraband can be confiscated. Also avoid items like LED light strips and nails to hang pictures, which are prohibited in your residence hall. Anything that will damage the walls will lead to a hefty fine when you move out.
Furniture All residence hall rooms are equipped with the furniture you need and space for extra items is minimal. Furniture cannot be removed from the rooms. Use what is provided and focus your attention on decorative items to personalize your room and organizers to maximize the space and storage for your needs.
Duplicates of stuff your roommate is bringing Maximize space in your room and minimize your packing list by comparing notes with your roommate. One roommate brings a microwave, the other a TV. Items like mirrors or coffee makers are often duplicated and cleaning supplies can be shared. It’s a simple conversation that will save you headaches on move-in day.
Valuables Consider leaving irreplaceable valuables at home – and certainly don’t bring valuables or perishables to Stop, Drop & Roll before you officially move into your room. If you are concerned about electronics or jewelry, think about purchasing an insurance policy that will protect your belongings from loss or theft. HRL does recommend that you bring your bike to Stop, Drop & Roll, but make sure to secure it to a bike rack near your residence hall with a lock.
SHOW OFF YOUR SPACE
When students avoid common move-in mistakes, they can focus on making their rooms comfortable and uplifting environments for the new academic year. HRL encourages all students to celebrate their creativity and show off practical space hacks by entering the Best Dressed Room contest by September 15. It’s been a UNCG tradition for over 15 years, and this year, up to $650 in merchandise will be awarded to top winners.
“We hope to receive over 300 submissions this year so we can top last year’s participation,” says Steele, who organizes the contest. “To incentivize our students, we’ve added more ways to win like the UNCG Spirit Award and Director’s Choice Award. We are also encouraging students to submit videos and compete for a $250 prize for the Best Room Tour Video.”
In general, HRL advises students not to sweat it! Taking advantage of packing tips and processes like Stop, Drop, and Roll should keep move-in day fun and exciting for all.
If you are a student preparing for your move to UNCG, consult HRL’s Move-In webpage for answers to questions and helpful links. And always, email hrl@uncg.edu with any specific questions you have along the way. We can’t wait to see you at the G!
Story by Becky Deakins, University Communications. Photography by Sean Norona, University Communications.
Career-Building Gaming Day at UNCG Celebrates Students Who Take the Lead
Posted on July 19, 2024
North Carolina is home to different paths that turn a love for video games into a career. That was on display at UNC Greensboro’s Esports Arena, where a meeting of student-led organizations helped youth see what skills could prepare them for a dream profession.
Middle school and high school students came from across the state to the arena at Moran Commons on July 13 for the Wakaboomee & Friends Gaming Day at UNCG, an event of gaming and inspiring presentations by seven student-led organizations that promote STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics). The young people with each of these groups received pins and certificates from North Carolina District 71 Representative Kanika Brown, recognizing their work promoting STEAM in their communities.
The Wakaboomee Program a nonprofit based in Morrisville, puts together virtual and in-person sessions for K-12 students to learn coding, robotics, sports, music, video games, and other hobbies with appeal to youth. They also develop skills in leadership, entrepreneurship, and wellness.
“These innovative student-led organizations are already making a real impact in our communities,” says Wakaboomee Program Founder Narkie Nartey. “Coupled with UNCG providing a clear roadmap to careers in the gaming industry and other professions aligned with their thriving initiatives, our students are destined for greatness.”
Each of these organizations capitalize on the interests of North Carolina youth. With the help of podcasts, workshops, tutoring, competitions, and other services, they show them how to direct their talents toward success as they grow up.
“I am proud that we are recognized for promoting STEM education and contributing to an innovative society where we produce critical thinkers,” says Anay Ravidra, co-founder of YSO.
“I am constantly inspired by the transformative power of our youth,” says Youth Ambassadors of Service Executive Director Sonali Ratnasinghe. “By providing the tools and support they need, we are not just shaping future leaders; we are creating a ripple effect of positive change that will resonate through our communities for years to come.”
Upon meeting at the Esports Arena, the students heard remarks from Rep. Brown, one of the supporters of the event. Gaming Day was also made possible by Eaton, Givefinity, Lenova, and Andrew Cagle, director of UNCG’s state and external affairs.
“Their efforts have paved the way for our nonprofit to experience a day of gaming and inspiration,” says Nartey.
Students Progress to the Next Level
This event is the latest in UNCG Esports’ effort to engage with children and youth across North Carolina. The program also partnered with SparkNC to develop on-demand learning units for high school students interested in high-tech career fields; and provided mentors for the Girls Who Game pilot program for middle and high school students in Guilford County.
The event gave students plenty of time to play and socialize, but the hope of all involved is that the fun and games will become the next step in their journey to becoming tomorrow’s leaders.
“This event is an excellent opportunity to recognize the compassion of the impressive student-led organizations that support The Wakaboomee Program and communities across North Carolina,” says Nartey.
Story by Janet Imrick, University Communications Photography by Sean Norona, University Communications
