Perimeter College at Georgia State University will host its annual Daffodil Festival & Symposium on March 9-10, 2024, at its Newton Campus in Covington, Georgia. This year’s theme, “Healthcare: Access & Opportunities,” aims to explore career options within the healthcare sector while addressing the challenges many face in accessing these services.
The festival will commence on March 9 at 10:00 a.m. with a keynote address by Lindsey Petrini, CEO of Piedmont Newton. Event co-chair Stephanie Langston, who also serves as a principal lecturer of Spanish at Perimeter College, highlighted the significance of the theme. “Our goal is to highlight potential career options in our community in a high-demand field while being mindful of factors affecting patient access to healthcare,” Langston stated.
On the first day of the symposium, attendees can expect presentations from representatives of Piedmont Newton and Takeda Pharmaceuticals, along with other healthcare professionals from the region. These discussions will provide insights into the evolving landscape of healthcare and potential career pathways.
Expanded Two-Day Festival Offers Diverse Activities
The symposium will continue on March 10, featuring presentations by GSU’s Perimeter College faculty and staff. Highlights include an overview of the college’s Dental Hygiene program at 10:00 a.m., followed by sessions on healthcare policy and non-traditional treatment methods at 11:30 a.m.
This year marks a significant expansion of the festival, now spanning two days, allowing for a variety of activities catering to students, faculty, and community members. Organizers will also recognize the recipient of the Daffodil Festival & Symposium Scholarship, further emphasizing the event’s commitment to education and community engagement.
In addition to educational presentations, attendees can participate in wellness activities such as sound baths, yoga sessions, herbal tea-making workshops, and daffodil Lego creation sessions. These activities are designed to promote both health and creativity, enhancing the overall festival experience.
Historical Significance of the Daffodil Festival
The Daffodil Festival & Symposium has deep historical roots, reflecting the campus’s heritage. Hosanna Fletcher, lecturer of sociology and event co-chair, elaborated on its significance. “Each year, we celebrate the Daffodil Festival & Symposium in honor of the daffodils believed to be planted by slaves more than a century ago when the property was a plantation,” Fletcher explained. “The flowers, over the years, have continued to multiply and bloom, symbolizing the growth and resilience of the community.”
The Daffodil Festival & Symposium is free and open to the public, with all presentations taking place in the college’s 2N auditorium and atrium. This event not only highlights career opportunities in healthcare but also fosters a sense of community and cultural heritage, making it a notable occasion on the college calendar.
