On Fri., Feb. 2, the Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) program hosted a successful Suitcase Bingo night, giving away close to $2,500 in prizes. The event was held in Denault Auditorium with over 200 participants and 10 themed baskets to choose from. 

Amanda Norris, Director of Student Life & Leadership Development, said, “The whole event is full of anticipation.” Suitcase Bingo is Norris’s favorite event to host because “It's easy, fun and I love seeing students get excited when they get Bingo and get to choose a basket.” 

The event consisted of 10 rounds of Bingo, with each winner receiving a themed suitcase reward. Winning students could choose between a variety of themed prizes like retail therapy, gaming, Disney and more. There was even an outdoor-themed prize containing a National Park pass and a SoCal-themed prize containing a $100 Visa gift card. 

While this Bingo event is annually hosted by LEAD, the suitcase element comes from the 2023-2024 school year theme ‘road trip.’ Emma Agronovitz, junior and Student Activities Coordinator said the theme is representative of how  “We are all on this journey together. It displays the community that Concordia has built for its students.” 

Harrison Schmidt, senior, said LEAD events especially spark his interest as “They are usually fun because they have cool prizes and food.” Schmidt regularly attends various events offered on campus, with Suitcase Bingo being his favorite.

The last round of Bingo was a blackout round. To win, contestants had to have every space on their Bingo card crossed off. This round was also played for the grand prize of a carry-on suitcase and gift cards to Southwest Airlines. This round creates the most excitement for students as the anticipation builds, and everyone is hoping they are the first ones to shout Bingo!

The LEAD department is looking forward to hosting more events this semester, with Gotcha, Glow and Kindergarten Day coming up soon. 

Norris is looking forward to Kindergarten Day, which takes place at the Cafeteria on March 6. Norris reminisced and said, “Last year we had cartoons playing in the caf while everyone enjoyed their lunch.” Norris explained, “The caf serves all of your favorite childhood foods like dinosaur nuggets, mini corn dogs, ice cream sundaes and many fun children’s activities.” To ensure off-campus students can participate in this fun lunch, a $1 commuter student lunch pass is offered at the CSLD on March 6. 

For more information on LEAD events, visit the MyCUI app calendar or email lead@cui.edu. 

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