Campus community, area senior citizens preparing for prom night

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—It's time for area senior citizens to slip on their dancing shoes in preparation for Western Michigan University's 28th annual Senior Prom, set for Thursday, March 31, in the Bernhard Center's East Ballroom.

WMU's annual Senior Prom is an elegant and nostalgic evening of dancing and entertainment that brings together senior citizens from the Kalamazoo area with WMU students and faculty and staff members for a night of Big Band music and lively swing and ballroom dancing.

Pre-entertainment begins at 5 p.m., and the dance will run from 7 to 10 p.m. Refreshments and hors d'oeuvres will be served. No reservations are necessary to attend this semi-formal event that is free and open to the public. Free parking also is available near the Bernhard Center in Parking Structure No. 1.

About the prom

The Senior Prom began in 1988 as a way for older WMU alumni and area residents to share an evening of fun and reminisce with current students. The theme for 2016 is "Masquerade" and features decorations inspired by Mardi Gras. The evening's activities will include Bingo as well as dancing. Music will be provided by the Otsego Jazz Ensemble.

The Senior Prom is organized by WMU staff members in the Ernest Burnham-Smith Burnham and Henry residence halls with the help of volunteers. Financial assistance is provided by several University organizations, including the Residence Housing Association, various residence hall leadership councils and the Residence Life office.

For more information, contact the Henry Hall office at (269) 387-6645 or email Laura Darrah, assistant director of Residence Life, at laura.darrah@wmich.edu.

For more news, arts and events, visit wmich.edu/news.