CALA-Bash, campus events foster student engagement

A small turtle rests in the hand of a student during CALA-Bash on April 17, 2026, at Claflin University in Orangeburg. Students gather in the background along a campus walkway lined with vendor tables as part of the annual celebration of student life and engagement. (Panther photo by Alhaya Brickle)

Students at Claflin University in Orangeburg participated in a variety of April campus events that highlighted creativity, connection and student involvement.

CALA-Bash 2026, held April 13-18, brought students together for one of the university’s most anticipated annual traditions. The week-long Claflin Arts & Letters Annual Bash, sponsored by the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, featured vendor markets, live entertainment and student-centered activities designed to engage the campus community.

On April 17, students gathered along campus walkways lined with tables and booths, creating a lively atmosphere filled with music, conversation and movement. Attendees explored different vendors while socializing with peers and enjoying the outdoor setting.

“It’s a good way to see everybody and just be outside,” said Destiny Bacote, a Claflin senior. “There’s always something happening, and it really brings the campus together.”

The event also captured spontaneous moments that reflected the relaxed nature of the celebration. At one point, a small turtle drew attention as students paused to observe before continuing through the event.

“It’s moments like that that make it fun,” Bacote said. “You don’t expect it, but it just adds to the experience.”

In addition to large-scale events like CALA-Bash, smaller activities continue to provide students with opportunities for creative expression.

On April 28, students participated in a campus sip-and-paint event, at which they created individual artworks in a relaxed and social setting.

“It was really calming,” said Myah Burt, a student participant. “It gave me a chance to just focus on something creative and not worry about anything else for a while.”

Students worked on their paintings while engaging in conversation, creating an environment that encouraged both artistic expression and connection.

“I like events like this because it’s different,” Burt said. “CALA-Bash is exciting and busy, but this is more personal and creative.”

Admirers listen to Samuel Stewart perform at the Claflin Honors Recital. (Photo by Alexis Wilson, Panther editor)

Panthers gather in sunny weather to celebrate CALA-Bash. (Photo by Alexis Wilson, Panther editor)

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Gamma Nu Chapter gives a step performance during the 2026 CALA-Bash yard show. (Panther photo by Maricellyn McDonald)

Jalyn Lawrence, Siri Davis, Summer Edmond and Jordan Patterson enjoy 2026 CALA-Bash vendors after a yard show performance. (Panther photo by Maricellyn McDonald)

Myah Burt participates in a campus sip-and-paint event on April 28, 2026, at Claflin University in Orangeburg. Burt smiles while holding her completed painting as other students work in the background, highlighting a relaxed and creative campus environment. (Panther photo by Alhaya Brickle)