The University of South Carolina Aiken will kick off the new academic year with its annual Downtown Takeover from 5 to 9 p.m. Aug. 22 on Newberry Street in downtown Aiken.
The free, family-friendly event will feature live entertainment, games, activities, local food and beverages, and opportunities for students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members to connect with the university.
Now in its second year, the celebration builds on last year's inaugural Downtown Takeover, which marked the official launch of USCA's rebrand and drew hundreds of attendees from across the Central Savannah River Area.
This year's event will also celebrate several university milestones, including
USCA's 65th anniversary. Founded in 1961 as Aiken College, the university has grown from a two-year branch campus into a comprehensive institution serving thousands of students.
In addition, the event will recognize the 40th anniversary of the Cultural Series and the 50th anniversary of the Gregg-Graniteville Library. Attendees can learn more about USCA's academic programs, athletics and student organizations while enjoying giveaways and family-friendly activities.
The event will be co-hosted by Paul Crook, director of the Etherredge Center, and Cliff Bennett, host of The Morning Mix and a 1995 USCA graduate.
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This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: USCA’s Downtown Takeover returns to Aiken with music and fun
