April 15, 2013
NORFOLK, Va. - Volunteers from Old Dominion University's Young Alumni Advisory Committee and ODU Athletics acted as ambassadors for Old Dominion at a local elementary school on Friday, April 12th. The volunteers hosted ODU Day at Richard Bowling Elementary School in Norfolk, featuring visits by ODU student-athletes, Big Blue and a pep-rally for students at the school.
Richard Bowling Elementary School principal, Dr. Sterling White stated, "The purpose of ODU Day is to promote going to college. This is a day that our kids live for." White continued, "When our students hear ODU athletes talking about a quality education, it makes our kids want to achieve and excel even more."
The athletes, representatives from the Student Government Association and Big Blue ate lunch with the young students and led the entire school in performing the "Ice Cream and Cake" dance, a tradition at Monarch and Lady Monarch basketball games. ODU students also read the book "Big Blue Goes to School" in every classroom.
The committee felt the activity would be a fun way to showcase the university, as well as give back to the community and encourage the students to do well in school. Additionally, it is seen as an early step toward promoting the benefits of a college education.