A Night Amongst the Gods bridges Greek life gap

Students dressed in Greek-themed apparel dance to a DJ’s beats at UPB’s A Night Amongst the Gods party. Photo by Severiano Garza

Walking through the main entrance of Argyros Forum, students were immediately transported to Ancient Greece. The smell of Mediterranean food permeated the air and students in togas were on all sides, dancing to the beat of the DJ.

University Program Board and Chapman Greek Life hosted A Night Amongst the Gods Friday in the Student Union.

Students dressed in Greek clothing dance on stage at UPB’s A Night Amongst the Gods party. Photo by Severiano Garza

Mike Keyser, program coordinator for UPB, said the main goal of the event was to shorten the divide between Greek and non-Greek students, especially after recent hyped rush events.

“UPB sees itself as a bridge between different areas of campus,” he said.

Keyser said the event cost a little more than $12,000. This money covered activities like three live DJs, a contortionist, a student harpist from the music department, decorations, a human statue, Mediterranean food and beer and wine for those of age.

The event surpassed Keyser’s original expectations for attendance. There were 1627 people at the event, with already 1,200 by 11:30 p.m.

Attendees entered through two silk drapes to see the DJ and dance floor filled with students, most of whom were wearing togas. White drapes and white stone statues surrounded the space, and students took photos with a contortionist and a human statue.

A VIP section was located next to Jamba Juice and Einstein Bros. Bagels. Students who tagged themselves at the event on Facebook were selected as VIPs. The bar, open to students 21 and older with valid identification, was by World of Wings.

Keyser sat at a table in front of the bar closely checking students against their personal information from a Chapman database to make sure no fake IDs were being accepted.

Several students enjoyed the god and goddess theme of the evening.

“I came because I could dress up like Thor,” said Bailey Sclambra, a sophomore health science major.

Student’s pass around a beach ball during A Night Amongst the Gods Friday. Photo by Severiano Garza