Staff Fest returns to the Quad on Friday, May 12, to thank Emory University employees for their hard work throughout the academic year. The 2023 Staff Fest theme is “Planet Emory — Soaring to New Heights,” inspired by the concept of Emory taking its mission to an even higher level.
“For our logo on the T-shirts, the planet is a metaphor for the Emory community and the rocket ship symbolizes Emory reaching new aspirations and achievements in the future,” explains Melissa Morgan, senior manager of recognition and engagement and Staff Fest coordinator.
Held each year on the Friday after Commencement, Staff Fest activities on the Quad take place from 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., with some competitions starting earlier. President Gregory L. Fenves will address the crowd at noon.
The popular event features the return of favorite traditions like the fun run/walk (with check-in beginning at 9:45 a.m. at Asbury Circle) and the friendly but fierce volleyball tournament, with competition for registered teams starting at 10:30 a.m. on the Quad. Staff Fest organizers are excited to bring back "Chalk the Walk" for the second year, after seeing the impressive entries in its inaugural year of 2022.
Staff can also take on colleagues in cornhole, basketball, axe throwing and giant games of Jenga, checkers and Connect Four; test skills on the rock-climbing wall; enjoy the DJ and special dance parties hosted by Emory’s Employee Resource Groups; and pose for hand-drawn caricatures and the roaming photo booth.
New for this year is a “Planet Emory” inspired balloon backdrop for photos and selfies.
A free, catered lunch by Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q starts at 11:30 a.m. and continues while quantities last; the menu includes a vegan option in addition to barbecue and sides like baked beans, potato salad and cheese biscuits. There will also be ice cream and popcorn throughout the Quad.
While enjoying lunch, attendees will have the opportunity to give to the Eagle Co-Op, which offers a free food pantry for Emory students who are in need.
Please note that Staff Fest is for current Emory University staff, faculty and retirees only. Family members or non-university employees are not able to be accommodated.
Staff Fest partners with the Emory Office of Sustainability Initiatives to make this event as sustainable as possible. All attendees are strongly encouraged to bring their own water bottle to help limit the number of plastic water bottles distributed.
Special thanks to Coca-Cola for their generous donation of Coca-Cola products, and to the many volunteers across campus who help make Staff Fest happen.
Join the Staff Fest fun
RSVP for Staff Fest: You can sign up here to join the fun.