The Great Game of Hello: Drury University Awards Student Interaction

A good university is one that stays updated with its students’ needs, and that is exactly what Drury University did. It is not uncommon in our world today to see people walk past each other without a “hello,” their heads lowered and eyes glued to their phones. It is ironic but not surprising that in our globalized world, where you’d think there would be more socializing, we find ourselves feeling alone and anxious. With this in mind, the former President of Drury University, Timothy Cloyd, aims to help students overcome their shells through Drury’s campus culture.

For their 2023 report, the Center for Collegiate Mental Health highlighted that levels of social anxiety are at a 13-year high, partly because of the isolation that came from COVID-19. General anxiety continues to be the most common concern identified by therapists.

So, how is Drury University fighting back on this anxiety epidemic?

Their annual Great Game of Hello. Starting this past April, 2024, Drury University initiated this tradition as part of a larger initiative to build a more connected and supportive campus environment. The concept is simple yet powerful: students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to greet each other with a friendly “hello” as they walk across campus.

The idea behind the Great Game of Hello is to break down barriers and foster a sense of community. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference in someone’s day. By acknowledging each other, even in passing, the Drury community hopes to combat feelings of isolation and create a warmer, more inclusive atmosphere.

By implementing this initiative, former President Timothy Cloyd shows students and faculty that Drury University recognizes the importance of human connection. In a time when technology often keeps us apart, we need to make a conscious effort to reconnect with each other. The Great Game of Hello is about more than just saying ‘hello’; it’s about recognizing each other’s presence and building a stronger, more supportive community. Today, current President, Dr. Jeff Frederick, continues this new tradition.

The Importance of Student Interaction

The response from the Drury community has been overwhelmingly positive. Students have reported feeling more connected to their peers and more engaged in campus life. Faculty and staff have also embraced the initiative, noting an improvement in the overall campus atmosphere.

To encourage participation, the university has organized events and activities around the Great Game of Hello. These include greeting stations set up at various locations on campus, where volunteers hand out buttons and stickers to remind everyone of the importance of saying “hello.” There are also contests and challenges to see who can collect the most greetings in a day, fostering a sense of fun and friendly competition.

The impact of the Great Game of Hello extends beyond just the campus. By promoting a culture of friendliness and connection, Drury University hopes to inspire other institutions to adopt similar initiatives. In doing so, they aim to contribute to a broader movement towards more supportive and connected communities.

Student Success is NOT Just Grades

Student success depends on more than just grades; initiatives like the Great Game of Hello at Drury University play a crucial role in fostering personal development, mental well-being, and the ability to form meaningful connections within the community.

In conclusion, the Great Game of Hello at Drury University is a testament to the power of simple acts of kindness. By encouraging students, faculty, and staff to greet each other, the university is taking a proactive step in addressing social anxiety and fostering a sense of community. It’s a small change that has the potential to make a big difference, not just at Drury, but in the world at large. So next time you’re on campus, remember to say “hello” – you never know the positive impact it might have.

We invite you to watch Drury’s creative video on the Game.

We want to know your thoughts and experiences with the Great Game of Hello and help us spread the word about this wonderful initiative. And if you are not a student at Drury University, is this something you would like your own school to implement?