University of Central Arkansas students got a taste of what the City of Conway has to offer during Conway Daze Wednesday on the UCA campus.
More than 30 local vendors lined Bruce Street to share information about their services and products. Students sampled food from local restaurants, received back massages, and learned about opportunities to volunteer in the community. Other activities included games, live music, and a free catfish dinner on the lawn.
Visit UCA’s YouTube page for more on Conway Daze.
About 70 student organizations set up booths on the Practice Field.
This is the first year of the event. In the past, vendors provided information to students in the Student Center. The event was presented by the Conway Chamber of Commerce.
Brianna Belote, an ambassador with the Conway Chamber of Commerce, said Conway Daze is a way to showcase the city and interact with the students.
“We want to retain these students in order to help grow the economy,” she said.
Junior Kendall Baldwin of Little Rock said the event was a great opportunity for students to get to know Conway.
“Students can see what is available to them besides things on campus,” he said.
Junior Anna Lee Carter of Stuttgart said the university and the City of Conway has a history of working together.
“I think it is a great way to get UCA students in tune with what is going on in Conway,” she said.
Hilka Zimmerman, enrollment specialist with Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Central Arkansas, was impressed with the event.
“This has been a fabulous opportunity to recruit mentors for our community,” she said. “UCA students have been amazing.”
Melanie Hoggard, co-owner of Moe’s, handed out free chips and salsa to students. She said Conway Daze allows businesses to introduce themselves to the UCA community.
“Everyone has been really excited and energized,” she said. “This is a great opportunity to welcome the students and help them get familiar with everything around town.”
