Get outside and enjoy the fantastic spring weather (when it finally gets here) in shorts and no shoes during Penn State Brandywine's entertaining Common Read event "An Hour Without Shoes." Students, faculty and staff are welcome to join this enjoyable open-air occasion and go shoeless on Tuesday, April 16, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. in the Vairo Courtyard to bring awareness to the health and education of individuals who can't afford shoes.
Every academic year Brandywine comes together to share a "Common Read," an active discussion and year of entertaining activities about a campus shared text. The 2012-13 Brandywine Common Read is Start Something That Matters by TOMS shoes founder, Blake Mycoskie.
Assistant Professor of Human Development and Family Studies Marinda Harrell-Levy will lead this shoeless event with a lively conversation on 'Justice vs. Charity' and campus organizations that emphasize involvement in civic engagement will share their work and results.
Attendees can also embark on a "path without shoes," a walk on a path of gravel and sand on the campus lawn to experience what it's like for those who cannot afford shoes.
From 12 to 12:30 p.m., certified Hatha Yoga instructor Lisa Dombroski will guide participants through a free, relaxing session on the lawn. Due to the limited supply of yoga mats, participants are encouraged to bring their own.
Pack a lunch and bring a friend to enjoy the warm weather on Brandywine's picturesque campus while promoting social awareness. In the event of inclement weather, this afternoon of activities will be held in the Tomezsko Building Lounge. To find additional information regarding this event or to make suggestions for next year's Common Read book, visit Brandywine's Common Read webpage.
- by Mike McDade
