For many departments on campus, the summer months are a time to take advantage of quieter offices and catch up on things that get lost in the hustle and bustle of the academic year. The Departments of Physics & Astronomy and Chemistry decided to liven up the relaxed pace by hosting weekly potluck lunches. These gatherings gave the faculty, staff, and students a chance to take a break from research labs and offices and participate in something fun to break up their day. Not only was the company good, but the food was also interesting since each week had a different “theme.” In total the departments hosted nine potluck lunches with a variety of fun themes that were suited to various tastes. Both departments are lucky to have a diverse group of graduate students and faculty with an assortment of cultures and backgrounds represented. One of the most popular lunches was Asian-themed. Many graduate students and faculty members were able to share their home cultures through the dishes they brought to the lunch. Some of the other themes included Italian, fiesta, western, farm & garden and carnival/circus. These potluck lunches were the perfect opportunity to build community between the two departments, building upon the community that already exists.
