Meet Campus Activity Board: Engaging students through events

From time to time, Detroit Mercy’s Marketing & Communications highlights student organizations on the University’s McNichols Campus. This month, we have selected Campus Activity Board.

The Campus Activity Board (CAB) at University of Detroit Mercy is a space of creativity and collaboration formed to create as many campus activities as possible to engage the student body. It is tasked with planning annual favorites such as the Halloween Boo Bash and the new Ugly Sweater Contest hosted in December. 

"We have gotten accustomed to the campus being dormant,” said Kailah Collins, the club president and founder. “Because it seems dormant, it is easy for students to get stuck in that routine of class, schoolwork and going home."

Members are encouraged to pitch ideas freely, fostering an environment where the students' vision shapes the events. Larger events undergo a more meticulous process, balancing budget constraints, practicality and general appeal. Then the ideas are submitted for approval by Adam Hollmann, the club moderator and assistant director of Student Life programming, who ensures that each event aligns with the club's overarching mission.

"I try to make sure it is a very collaborative space,” Collins said. “We focus on what the students want to see, and ask ourselves, ‘What do we, as students, want to see?’"

This collaborative spirit is accomplished through CAB’s leadership structure. Members are divided into four committees, each with a unique focus, though they can work with multiple committees as they please. 

The recreational and daily activities committee, led by both commuter and residential chairs, orchestrates events on Tuesdays and Thursdays, ensuring a consistent flow of engagement. The social media marketing committee tackles the challenge of student participation head-on, recognizing UDM’s commuter majority and potential class conflicts. The cultural and multicultural committee fosters inclusivity by celebrating the rich tapestry of heritages and serving as a liaison with other cultural clubs. Lastly, the special events committee brings the campus together during holidays, creating memorable experiences. 

Each committee is helmed by two chairs, one commuter and one residential, ensuring a comprehensive approach to event planning and execution.

"Our main goal is to create things that are fun and entertaining for students to do, things that are convenient that commuters can participate in, and what will keep everyone active and entertained,"  said Collins.

While still fine-tuning its marketing approach, CAB utilizes several promotional activities, including both traditional methods like flyers posted around campus and focusing energy on building a strong social media presence. In the future, the club plans to have informational tables in high-traffic areas like the McNichols Library where students can ask questions about CAB and get involved. The club thrives on the energy and enthusiasm of its volunteers, making it an excellent avenue for those seeking service hours.

"What I love about CAB is how accepting they are,” said Makayla Patterson, social media chair. “They want to hear your ideas and you can come to them with anything. It's an open experience. If you are interested in being part of things on campus, CAB is a great opportunity."

Students interested in contributing or volunteering can connect with Hollmann or Collins via email.

- By Marketing & Communications student intern Sam Gillmore