What's Happening?
Columbia College students, alumni, and staff organized a benefit concert to support Kathrynn Vettas, a senior audio arts major diagnosed with stage two Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The event, named 'Care for Kathrynn,'
was held at Bassline and featured performances from 17 Columbia student and alumni artists. Proceeds from ticket sales and a portion of merchandise sales were directed to Vettas’s GoFundMe to assist with her medical expenses. The concert, organized by Sessions @ 33, attracted around 100 attendees, filling the venue. Tom Joyce, the faculty advisor for Sessions @ 33, spearheaded the event to bring positivity and solidarity during a challenging time. Vettas expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support, highlighting the significance of the event as she approaches graduation.
Why It's Important?
The benefit concert underscores the strong sense of community and support within Columbia College, particularly among its creative arts students. By rallying around Vettas, the event not only provided financial assistance but also emotional support, demonstrating the power of collective action in times of personal crisis. This initiative reflects the empathetic culture at Columbia, where students and faculty actively engage in supporting one another. The concert also highlights the role of arts and music as a unifying force, capable of bringing people together for a common cause. Such events can inspire similar acts of solidarity in other educational institutions, fostering a culture of care and community support.
What's Next?
Following the success of the benefit concert, there may be further initiatives to support Vettas and other students facing similar challenges. The event could inspire ongoing fundraising efforts or the establishment of a more permanent support system within the college. Additionally, the positive response from the community might encourage Columbia College to host more events that leverage the arts for social good. Stakeholders, including faculty and student organizations, may explore partnerships with local businesses or charities to expand their impact. The concert's success could also lead to increased awareness and advocacy for student health and wellness resources on campus.
