Waynesburg University celebrated the full Solar Eclipse on April 8 due to the rarity of the event, as the next full Solar Eclipse won’t be in the United States until 2045, according to NASA. 

Waynesburg University is hosting this celebration due to the rareness of the solar eclipse. According to NASA, the Solar Eclipse happens twice a year, though it is only visible in certain locations at certain times, and only happens whenever the sun, moon, and Earth all align. To be exact, the moon crosses in-between the sun’s direct beam towards Earth, blacking out the sun for a short period of time. When this happens, it is called the “Eclipse Season.” 

Waynesburg University divided out protective eyewear for all students who came to the party. Meanwhile, Waynesburg University plans on “paying it forward” by collecting and donating the used glasses to give to Latin American children to enjoy their August 2024 full eclipse. Pat Bristor, the Associate Dean of Students, sent an email invitation to donate the glasses to the box outside of the Center for Service Leadership, which is located on the first floor of the Stover Center. 

Students and Faculty alike gathered for the party when it started. Many students were very excited the school was giving students an opportunity to see the solar eclipse. “I am very excited and very fortunate,” said Leela Morcom, a Bio-Med freshman, who was excited to see the eclipse and also came because she “wanted snacks.” Max Gilroy, an exchange student from Ireland who majors in Law, said and was glad that Waynesburg University hosted this event. “We don’t

really get eclipses in Ireland,” Gillroy said. “I actually do think this is a very nice community event.” 

Even President Douglas G. Lee came to see the eclipse. “Student Development does a wonderful job on these events,” Lee said. “It’s a memorable moment that students can remember forever,” President Lee promised at the end of his interview that there will be more experiences for all students to come.