MOST OUTSTANDING NEW EVENT NOMINEE
Vietnamese Student Association at Louisiana State University (VSA-LSU)
Destress Fest
Provide a detailed description of the event and the population it served. Details MUST include: date of event, number of participants, program purpose (goals, objectives, etc.), use of resources (finances, community support, etc.), and marketing techniques.
Destress Fest was hosted on October 14, 2025, at the LSU Parade Grounds. There were about 30 participants, including general body members and individuals seeks a supportive and relaxing environment.
The purpose of the event was to provide a space to unwind and connect with others during the stressful times of midterm week. The event aimed to promote mental wellness, reduce burnout, and strengthen the community through low-pressure, enjoyable activities.
The event featured destress mechanisms such as casual games, recreational activities, a dog, and snacks. Resources were executed through organization funds and donated materials of eboard members. The event also encouraged members to bring their own items, such as picnic blankets or games, to unwind.
What inspired your organization to create this new event?
Destress Fest was created in response to the academic pressure faced by students, especially during times like midterms and finals. The organization recognized that many students struggle with stress and lack of balance, and wanted to provide a meaningful way to support their well-being.
What efforts were used to motivate and involve the organization's members?
Eboard members played a key role in facilitating activities, interacting with attendees, and maintaining a positive atmosphere. This not only increased engagement but also strengthened connections among members.
Did the organization overcome any challenges that arose while planning and implementing the event? How?
One challenge in planning Destress Fest was ensuring high attendance during a busy academic period, when students may feel they do not have time to attend events. To overcome this, eboard members had to reach out and promote the event to people presently.
