Music, decorations, and the smell of fresh cookies filled residence halls at Indiana Wesleyan University as students and visitors traveled across campus for the annual Cookie Crawl. The event brought people together to explore themed residence halls while collecting cookies along the way.
Cookie Crawl is a campus tradition that invites participants to walk from hall to hall, experiencing decorations and activities created by residence life teams. The event encourages students to interact with others across campus while enjoying a relaxed evening.
Many residence halls decorate according to different themes each year. Students and staff work together to transform common areas and hallways into creative displays.
Nikki Brown said this year’s event saw strong participation from students and visitors. She said the large turnout helped create an energetic and welcoming atmosphere.
“It was great participation this year. We had so many people that showed up,” Brown said.
Brown said preparing decorations and props also helps students build stronger relationships with one another. Working together on the event creates a sense of teamwork among residence hall staff.
“Creating all the props and working the event builds such a great community and environment with each other,” Brown said. She added that it also helps introduce new people to the campus community.
Students involved in decorating halls typically begin planning ahead of time. Teams brainstorm theme ideas and gather supplies before setting up decorations in the days leading up to the event.
Elana Harrington said the creativity of the residence halls stood out this year. She said each hall put a great deal of effort into its decorations.
“I think Cookie Crawl was especially fun this year,” Harrington said. “All of the halls really went all out.”
Harrington said it was difficult to choose a standout display because every hall contributed strong ideas. She said the variety of decorations made the event enjoyable for participants walking through the halls.
Residence hall teams often collaborate during meetings or shared free time to prepare decorations. This teamwork allows students to contribute ideas and help bring the theme to life.
The Student Activities Council also helps coordinate the event each year. The organization works behind the scenes to manage logistics and support residence life teams.
Regan Hummel, administrative director for the Student Activities Council, said Cookie Crawl is one of the group’s more relaxed events. Despite its simplicity, she said it remains one of the council’s favorites.
“Cookie Crawl is one of our more chill events, but also one of our favorites,” Hummel said.
Hummel said the council organizes cookie distribution for each residence hall and ensures there are different options available. This includes providing both regular and gluten-free cookies for participants.
While residence halls focus on decorations, the council helps coordinate communication and supplies. This collaboration helps ensure the event runs smoothly.
Hummel said one of her favorite parts of the event is walking through the halls and seeing the creativity of the displays. She said residence life teams often go beyond expectations with their themes.
“They get fully into it, and it’s so fun to watch,” Hummel said.
Organizers say the event continues to be popular because it encourages creativity and connection among students. Cookie Crawl allows participants to explore residence halls and engage with others across campus.
The tradition remains a highlight for many students each year. By combining creativity, teamwork and community, Cookie Crawl continues to bring campus together.
