By Peyton Webb
Staff Writer
For hundreds of Wingate commuter students traveling to campus daily from nearby towns, balancing classes, work and home can make feeling connected to the university community a challenge; that’s where Commuter Connections comes in.
The monthly newsletter and event series, coordinated by the Office of Campus Involvement and Graduate Assistant Abi Richardson, aims to create intentional spaces for commuter students to engage with campus life.
The revival of Commuter Connections came after the pandemic, as campus leaders recognized how easily commuter students could be overlooked. Without dorm life, meal plans, or evening events, it can be difficult for commuters to find their place.
“Commuter Connections is a monthly newsletter designed to help commuter students feel more connected to campus life and the broader campus community,” Richardson said. “It began pre-pandemic and kind of fell off while everyone was trying to get back to the norm. I have revamped it as a way to intentionally create space for commuter students to engage outside of the classroom, build relationships and access key campus resources.”
Each month, the newsletter highlights upcoming events, campus updates and special activities tailored for commuters. To make participation easier, commuter-only events are scheduled at least once a month during the day. They’re casual and social and often themed around holidays or national celebrations.
“Many commuters struggle with feeling disconnected or unaware of what’s happening on campus because they’re not here after hours,” Richardson said. “Commuter Connections addresses that by bringing engagement opportunities directly to them, often during times they’re already on campus.”
Themed events are key to the program’s appeal. Organizers draw inspiration from seasonal celebrations and student feedback.
“Finding national holidays or celebratory months helps us create engaging programs,” Richardson said. “We also gather feedback from commuters through surveys and casual conversations. Their input really shapes what we plan next.”
Though Commuter Connections is still a relatively new initiative, it’s already making a difference. Attendance at commuter-only events has risen and more students are reaching out to get involved.
“There’s been a noticeable shift in engagement, which is really exciting to watch grow,” Richardson said. “We’re seeing more commuters show up and take ownership of their campus experience.”
With growing participation and positive feedback, the Office of Campus Involvement hopes to expand Commuter Connections into something even bigger and currently has plans that are in the process of being implemented.
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