UMW students participated in a six-day event to recognize ASPIRE, an acronym that stands for Mary Washington’s core values. Pictured here, from left to right: newly elected SGA President Jaylyn Long ’24, who conceived the idea for ASPIRE Week; current SGA President Joey Zeldin ’23; Martina Pugh; Conner Rogers; and Carlos Nunes. Photo by Sam Cahill.
From the moment University of Mary Washington students become Eagles, they’re guided by a set of values called “ASPIRE.”
The acronym, which stands for traits like accountability, respect and engagement, is so key to UMW, thought junior and Student Government Association (SGA) Vice President Jaylyn Long, that the values – and students’ commitment to them – could use a little refreshing. Her solution, ASPIRE Week, a six-day celebration representing each attribute, débuted this spring. Packed with educational opportunities, tabling events, banner signings and more, the week and its themes allowed other campus organizations to integrate their own functions into each day.
“I really enjoyed the support from campus partners,” said Long, now the newly elected SGA president. “It created a deeper connection among student leaders.”
Here’s how she spelled out the week. Read more.