This year marked the 75th anniversary of Cornhuskin’, one of Meredith’s student traditions meant to “create unity and build spirit” according to Meredith’s website. While Cornhuskin’ is typically held in the fall, activities were moved to the spring this year due to COVID-19. Cornhuskin’ Week was held from April 5 to April 9, and the week of virtual and socially distanced events kicked off with a theme reveal for each class. The Class of 2021 chose the theme “The Wizard of Odd” to hint at another tradition unique to odd-numbered class years, The Oddballs. The Class of 2022 chose the theme “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Onyx” to celebrate the year they receive their class rings. The Class of 2023’s theme was “At Last We See the Light,” and the Class of 2024’s theme was “Good Luck Angel.”
Members of the Meredith community were able to cheer on the Class of 2021 during the parade on April 9 and were able to watch the main event of Cornhuskin’ through a link that was sent out later that same evening. In addition to sharing the virtual skits that were created by each class, the main event announced the new members of Bathtub Ring, an a capella singing group that traditionally comprises upperclassmen from even-numbered class years. The new members of Bathtub Ring are Ally Cefalu as Ethel Sue, Lilly Fox as Ralph, Taryn Gillaspy as Zeke, Sarah Jennings as Rufus and Elyse Wagner as Otis who are all members of the Class of 2022.
The main event also included video clips from past parades, skits, Tall Tales and Hog Callin’s to commemorate the tradition’s 75th anniversary. Similar to how the main event was held virtually this year, other activities that took place during Cornhuskin’ Week were modified to accommodate Meredith’s COVID-19 Community Standards. Canvas Art was created so students could safely complete portions of a larger mural. This event replaced Can Art, a tradition that is normally a teamwork activity to see which class creates the best can art design in 30 minutes. A virtual tie-dye party was held on April 7, and the Meredith Activities Board (MAB) hosted a virtual pot/pan painting party and Cornhuskin’ trivia night on April 8.
Despite COVID-19, Cornhuskin’ Week was held successfully thanks to the work of Meredith Recreation Association Cornhuskin’ Co-Chairs Jeanine Carryl, ‘22, and Consepcion Cruz, ‘23, and each class’s Cornhuskin’ Co-Chairs. Though future years’ Cornhuskin’ will likely be more traditional, the 75th anniversary event will be remembered in history.
By Molly Perry, Features Editor
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