This past Friday, Fordham University students came together for a lively night at the annual President’s Ball on Edward’s Parade. Full of flashing lights, a dance floor jammed with students from both Rose Hill and Lincoln Center alike and enough music to give everyone something to move to, the President’s Ball was a special night.
The ball started at 9 p.m. and lasted until midnight, requiring students to dress in semi-formal attire. When entering, students could expect to be surrounded by many members of Fordham faculty including Dean Chris Rogers and Assistant Dean Catharine McGlade. Though the President’s Ball has been an annual event since 2003, started by Rev. Joseph M McShane, S.J., president emeritus, this was President Tania Tetlow’s third time hosting the ball since the beginning of her presidency, starting on July. 1, 2022.
One of the main attractions of the President’s Ball is the chance to connect with fellow Fordham students across campuses. Alexandra Gishaj, GSB ’28, said, “It’s a really fun night and great for getting to meet people.”
The ball also provides students with free access to the buffet table, which was especially popular this year. Lizzy Hageman, FCRH ’28, says that, “The buffet table has phenomenal pigs in a blanket.” Zach Mattis-Roesch, FCRH ’25, said “The buffet has good food, so I’d come back.”
While the event takes place on the Rose Hill campus, students from Lincoln Center are provided with free transportation via buses and the Ram Van from Lincoln Center to Rose Hill. Kushagr Singhal, GSB ’28, says that his favorite part of the ball is “to see everyone come together at one university.” This design allows students to interact with peers they may not have had the chance to otherwise.
Tetlow made an appearance at the event, and remarked upon the dance’s unifying energy. Tetlow stated, “I don’t know why it’s so magical, but it just is. It brings together both campuses and allows students to have a great night.” Once the ball was in full swing, Tetlow met with students on the dance floor as she took pictures and gave advice to many of the students who gathered around.
The President’s Ball’s annual presence and timing at the beginning of the school year is a welcome gathering as it gives students the momentum to start off their school year surrounded by students with the same enthusiasm about the months ahead. Though the main draw is a fun night with loud music and lots of food, the reason for staying lies in the company found alongside one another. The lifeblood of Fordham is that of unity which the President’s Ball encourages through its vibrance and flare. Although this may only be Tetlow’s third time hosting, it is set to be a tradition well rooted in the school’s culture.
