Redevelopment of Norris University Center’s East Lawn to begin this summer
April 5, 2024
Northwestern University welcomed Evanston neighbors and guests to the free annual Community Picnic on July 22, hosted by Nim Chinniah, executive vice president of Northwestern, and the University’s Office of Neighborhood and Community Relations.
About 1,500 people attended the picnic on the east lawn of Norris University Center overlooking Lake Michigan. The event featured free admission, local food favorites and arts activities.
“Our picnic celebrates Northwestern’s vibrant partnership with the City of Evanston and our Evanston community,” said Alan Anderson, executive director of Neighborhood and Community Relations.
Celebrating Northwestern’s vibrant partnership with the City of Evanston and the Evanston community
Families were treated to food from Hecky’s Barbecue, Tomate Fresh Kitchen and YoFresh Yogurt Cafe, three of the area’s favorite eateries, with additional options from Northwestern Catering also be available.
President Morton Schapiro joined the festivities and welcomed community members.
Kids this year were treated to activities designed by the University’s Arts Circle, in addition to a bounce house, balloon animals, cotton candy and face painting.
Northwestern once again provided composting collection bins, and volunteers from sustainNU, the University-wide initiative to reduce Northwestern’s impact on the environment, were on hand to help guests compost and recycle. Unserved meals were donated to Campus Kitchens to be repackaged for community members in need.
Northwestern’s office of Neighborhood and Community Relations connects people and organizations to University resources to build a stronger, more unified Evanston. Learn more about its work by visiting Neighborhood and Community Relations online.
