CCS Community Council Sparks Renewed Student Engagement and Connections
Student-run council wraps up successful fall quarter of community building & activities
With a strong sense of purpose, members of the College of Creative Studies Community Council (CCSCC) have begun cultivating a renewed level of participation and interest. Since their outreach effort at the CCS All College meeting in the beginning of the academic year, this student-led organization has already made significant strides in fostering community in the 2024-25 academic year.
Over the summer, the council recommitted to its mission and developed a strategy to raise awareness among students. “Our vision is to be a board of students dedicated to CCS and their peers, creating both academic and social opportunities,” said Pablo Gómez ‘27 (CCS Mathematics), an emerging voice within the council.
As explained by council member Lakshmi GarcÍa ‘26 (CCS Writing & Literature), “the purpose of CCSCC is to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment where students from all majors can come together to share resources, exchange knowledge, and build connections.” Beyond academics, the council provides an environment for students to unwind and enjoy themselves away from the pressures of college life.
“Entering college is a brave and life-changing decision, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. That’s where CCSCC steps in—to support students, create meaningful connections across the college, and remind everyone that it’s okay to take a break. Whether it’s through a game night, a movie screening, or moments of shared laughter, CCSCC provides a space to develop our wisdom and nurture our sense of identity”
—Lakshmi García ‘26 (CCS Writing & Literature)
This fall, the council started the year with a well attended welcome event, with Maya Clark ‘27 (CCS Writing & Literature), another emerging CCSCC voice, noting, “our kick off event was massive, we had no idea so many people would come for a vague notion of games, community, and food, but they did and that’s really been driving our passion.”
CCSCC went on to host several more successful events, including community movie nights, a ‘dark’ CCS Coffee Hour—an evening get-together complete with decaffeinated beverages and snacks—, and a student-led RACA-CON workshop. The workshop featured past student presenters, science communication resources, and professors from various departments across campus. Additionally, the council along with their event suggestion box had a presence at CCS Coffee Hour–a weekly College hosted community event for students, faculty and staff that takes place at 3 pm every Wednesday (join us!). These activities provided students with meaningful opportunities to connect with peers, have an impact on peer-run events and engage with the broader CCS community.
“These events help students interact outside of their classes and residence halls,” Pablo said. The goal is to foster a peer-based support system for students to ensure they are able to enjoy the tight-knit interdisciplinary community of CCS throughout their time in the College.
“I like to think CCSCC has had a noticeable increase in participation because, as a leadership team, we plan the kind of fun events we’d want to attend ourselves—haha!” Lakshmi reflected. “What’s so unique and wonderful about being in a leadership position is the opportunity to work directly with our peers to create engaging and meaningful experiences.”
“It’s not just about having great ideas; it’s also about consistency, a strong work ethic, and the amazing teamwork that brings those ideas to life. Together, we make it happen, and that’s what makes this role so rewarding,”
—Lakshmi García ‘26 (CCS Writing & Literature)
Looking ahead, the council plans to develop its offerings and continue creating opportunities for all CCS peers. Maya commented, “We want to help create community and support our peers, whether socially or by helping them navigate resources.”
While future projects are still in development, Maya hinted at one exciting initiative to revitalize a peer mentorship program.
“Keep an eye out for our revival of the mentorship program ‘Peer Resources,’ coming soon to a theatre (college) near you!”
—Maya Clark '27 (CCS Writing & Literature)
The ultimate goal is to create a student-led directory where students can find peers who share similar interests and experiences, allowing students to explore their niches with like-minded individuals.
To learn more about this exciting development, upcoming events and ways to get involved, students are encouraged to connect via the CCSCC’s Discord and Instagram.
The College applauds CCS Community Council for its active and meaningful engagement in community building and fostering student connection.