South Middlesex Times

Rutgers University is gearing up for its annual Rutgers Day, scheduled for April 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event will be held across the university's Busch, College Avenue, and Cook/Douglass campuses in New Brunswick and Piscataway, New Jersey.

Melissa Selesky, senior director of strategic events and programs for Rutgers Communications and Marketing, expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “Rutgers Day has something for everyone. Whether you love the arts, sports, horticulture, science and engineering, health and wellness or exploring different cultures, you'll find it here.” She also noted, “We're proud to showcase all that Rutgers has to offer to New Jersey and beyond.”

The event will feature the return of the Rutgers Gardens plant sale at Cook/Douglass, offering perennials, annuals, and native plants. As described by the organizers, “These vibrant plants not only brighten up your space, but also support butterflies, birds and essential pollinators.”

Rutgers Day will coincide with the 50th anniversary of the New Jersey Folk Festival, which will take place on the George H. Cook campus, showcasing live local musicians and folklorists.

Patricia Kastner, associate director of strategic events and programs for Rutgers Communications and Marketing, highlighted the event's importance: “Rutgers Day is a proud tradition that showcases the very best of our university. It’s incredible to welcome thousands of visitors to experience the energy, creativity and innovation that define Rutgers.”

Additional attractions include a parade with the Marching Scarlet Knights, complimentary health screenings at the Health Village, and the annual Scarlet-White Game at SHI Stadium. Prospective students will have the opportunity to engage with various departments, explore the university's offerings, and participate in hands-on activities designed to display mastery in fields such as engineering and health sciences.

The university also aims to provide a memorable experience for families with children through interactive activities and entertaining shows, including the Faraday Physics Lecture and a petting zoo at Cook/Douglass.

Alumni gatherings across campuses are planned, providing opportunities for former students to reconnect and celebrate their alma mater. Various alumni groups, including the Rutgers African-American Alumni Alliance and the Latino Alumni Association, will host events designed to engage and honor alumni contributions to the university community.

Rutgers Day is open to the public and offers a diverse range of activities attracting attendees of all ages, celebrating community and scholarship in a collective spirit.