By Betsy Carreño and Gillian Adkins
For the first time since Aug. 21, 2017, Dominican students and faculty gathered across campus to watch the total solar eclipse.
On April 8, at approximately 2:07 p.m., a total solar eclipse was seen from Dominican’s campus. 100 people spread across the Quad on picnic blankets and quilts to enjoy the watch party hosted by Campus Activities Board (CAB). Eclipse glasses were disbursed by CAB to attendees.
On the soccer field, 75 people gathered in groups to enjoy the event. Debra Kash, director of auxiliary services, handed out goodie bags to faculty and staff, which consisted of cosmic brownies, starbursts, water bottles, and a stress ball in the shape of a star.
According to Nasa, a total solar eclipse advanced across North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
“A total solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the sun. The sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk.”
Many students were excused from classes early to watch this monumental event. Some had never seen it before, and others were excited to enjoy the warm weather.
“I’m here because the weather is beautiful. I love seeing everyone out enjoying the weather,” said sophomore Mia Dubin. “I’m [mainly] here to see the eclipse because I’ve never seen it before.”
Students were excited about the opportunity to come together as a community.
“I’m here because I want to see all the beautiful people of Dominican University and to enjoy an extravagant natural phenomenon,” said sophomore Wilbur Webb.
The staff also expressed their excitement about this event.
“I’ve always been a huge fan of space, so any celestial event I’m going to be there,” said CarrieLynn Reinhard, professor of communication arts and sciences.
The next total solar eclipse that will be visible in Illinois will occur on Sept. 14, 2099. Numerous students will be over ninety-years old, making this eclipse even more special.
Senior Cesia Villatoro said she attended the event because she wants to “tell her kids” about what she saw.
Even if the eclipse lasted for under a minute, there was plenty of excitement in the air as students returned to their classes and responsibilities after a brief break from the end-of-the-semester stress.
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