'Ship of the Desert' Temporarily Docks in 'Land of the Wildcat'

When April Fool's Day lands on Hump Day, there's really only one way to mark the occasion: bring a camel to campus! Orchestrated by the Wildcat Events Board and obtained from Animal Rentals Inc., "Eli" the camel was ridden by 250 people (and photographed by many more) during a four-hour caravan stop outside the Hager Lifelong Education Center. WEB incorporated the attraction into its Wildcat Wednesday series, held to inform the college community about its varied sponsored activities. While not a common sight for the area, especially on the day after an early-spring snowstorm, the event brought smiles to students and employees heading toward a long holiday weekend. The novelty was enough to attract WBRE-TV, which aired a brief report Wednesday evening.

– Most photos by Caleb G. Schirmer, student photographer; others provided

 

Kimberly R. Cassel, director of student activities, and Elliott Strickland, chief student affairs officer, join in the fun.

Enjoying an encounter not usually associated with northcentral Pennsylvania, pre-dental hygiene major Alexandra D. Petrizzi, of Langhorne, takes the camel for an apres-snowstorm stroll.

Student Activities' Allison A. Bressler (right) enjoys the ride, while her co-passenger, Career Services' Dana R. Suter, registers her preference for smoother transport.

Scott E. Kennell, director of athletics, and his favorite mascot appropriately show that they're good sports.

Something to tweet home about

Eli continues his rounds, prompting smile after smile.

Lingering rooftop snow is no match for the goodwill of students having fun.

Youngsters from the Dunham Children's Learning Center high-five the Wildcat ...

Gathering a crowd outside the Keystone Dining Room

An exuberant Wyatt E. Fink, a culinary arts and systems student from Cogan Station, takes a spin.

A furry photobomber, ready for his closeup

A no-hands daredevil

A trek through the LEC grasslands

With the Centennial mosaic as a backdrop, students enjoy blue skies and an imminent respite from classes.

Yup, you guessed it.

... then get friendly with an accommodating Eli.