One of the most highly anticipated annual events on the Glendale Campus is the MWU Dog Picnic, hosted by the Office of Human Resources. Because our campus is located near a community dog park (right behind the Foothills Public Library about a half block away), and because many on campus are dog lovers, the HR staff inaugurated this event three years ago. This year, about 40 MWU people and their pets came out to enjoy the festivities.

Of course, my two beloved dogs, Lucy and Jake, were there to frolic in the dirt and grass. HR provided each dog with an MWU frisbee, which Lucy spent some time chasing around. She didn't come close to ever catching it on the fly, but she had fun nonetheless. Jake, meanwhile, spent more time taking in the affection and compliments of the humans. He is a handsome devil. Jeanie from Media Resources was once again on hand to take portraits of the participants.


Photo: Jake, me, Lucy

The highlight of the event was the awarding of several prizes. Winning dogs received MWU ribbons with a gold medal along with a special gift bag of treats. The categories included biggest dog, won by Loki, who rules the roost at Scott (IT) and Kari (Asst Dean of CHS) Williams' home; oldest dog, earned by adorable pug Susie who lives with Vickie Soderlund from the CPG Dean's Office; tiniest dog, won by Lily, a chihuahua weighing less than a pound and the beloved friend of Kaylen Widick from the Business Office; and youngest dog, won by mixed breed Phantom who shares quarters with Clinical Psychology faculty member Ruchi Bhargava.

    
Photos: Loki and Scott; Lily and Kaylen; Susie and Vickie; Phantom and Ruchi

The event was a lot of fun for all who attended and provided a great way for MWU students, faculty, and staff to get together outside of the academic environment to share common interests (dogs!) and enjoy a beautiful day at the dog park. Thanks to Cariann, Christina, Barb, Ann, and Monica from HR for organizing and hosting such a wonderful event!