On an unusually warm autumn day in November, nearly sixty senior citizens stopped by St. Robert’s Auditorium for an afternoon of bingo and brunch as part of LMU’s annual Senior Tea. For nearly ten years now, this tea-time tradition has been connecting local senior citizens and LMU students for an inter-generational afternoon of sharing, smiling, and having fun!
One student participant pointed out that there aren’t many opportunities to interact with seniors nowadays, which makes this event so special. He marveled at the how much fun it was listening to the stories of some of his “bingo table mates”.
The event was organized by LMU’s Resident Student Association (RHA), a service-minded student organization that seeks to build community, advocate, and develop leadership amongst its members.
Sophomore Business major and RHA President, Hayden Tanabe notes that “the Senior Tea has developed into an event that students look forward to each and every year.” Not only do the students have a great time, but they learn something too. Tanabe explains, “By engaging with our neighbors outside of the gates, our students gain a better perspective of how they can fulfill the mission of our University.”
After the catered brunch and several lively rounds of bingo, many of the guests donned props and costumes for an old-school photo booth session. Before departing, they each received a commemorative tea cup, complete with tea bags, and an invitation to return next year.
