Students Find Themselves in Wonderland

On Friday, April 21, the historic Down Town Club in Old City Philadelphia was filled with delicate china teacups, beautiful gowns and the ever-present smile of a Cheshire cat for the Annual Salus Soiree. The theme for the evening was Through the Looking Glass, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s classic novel Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. Salus Soiree is sponsored by the University's Campus Activities Committee and brings students from every academic program together each year for a night of socializing as the spring semester winds down.

According to current Student Council vice president Kaitlyn Kolzow '19OD, the planning committee took an elegant approach to crafting the décor for the evening.

“We have a bunch of centerpieces featuring the original Alice in Wonderland book artwork, beautiful glass elements and a checkerboard floor to capture the whimsical Wonderland vibe,” she said. “One of our very talented students, Lariesa Schwab '19OD, also hand painted a Cheshire cat for the event.”

The grinning feline stood atop an automatic playing piano, the focal point in the 3,000-square-foot cocktail room. With breathtaking views of the city, it was a popular spot for photos during the Soiree.

Students enjoyed dinner, desserts, a specialty signature "Queen of Hearts" drink, a photo booth with thematic props and dancing in addition to exciting raffle prizes courtesy of the Student Academy of Audiology and the Salus American Academy of Developmental Medicine and Dentistry.

Monae Kelsey, associate director of Student Engagement and assistant director of Admissions, said the night was enjoyed by students across programs.

“The Salus Soiree was excellent this year,” she said. “The decorations, the students’ play on the theme, and the sheer opportunity to relieve study stress with friends was great. I think the real winner this year was the venue and food.”

Photos by Celeste Gomez