A visit from Patches the Sloth brought relaxation, smiles, and a message of self-care ahead of finals week.
by Bethel University
McKenzie, Tenn — Over 200 students, faculty, and staff members at Bethel University had the opportunity to visit and pet Patches, a two-toed sloth, during a campus event on Tuesday, December 2.
Sloths move very slowly and deliberately, which was part of the ‘self-care’ message conveyed to students as they approach the final week of the fall semester.
Visitors lined up excitedly for their turn to see the sloth, provided by Southland Safari in Clarksburg. Attendees were asked to remain quiet to avoid disturbing Patches as it climbed.
Students also received free bags filled with items to take home for winter break and to help them study for final exams next week. Community partners from WRAP, Hometown Health, and the Carroll County Prevention Coalition offered Christmas activities for Bethel students as well. Additionally, Bethel University's Student Government Association (SGA) and the Title IX and Prevention Services Office provided various handouts and giveaways.
"We are supporting our students in mind, body, and spirit as they strive for academic and personal excellence. Facilitating self-care events remind our students that they are not alone during these difficult seasons,” said Nikki Klopfenstein, Assistant Professor and Title IX & Prevention Services Coordinator. “The Title IX and Prevention Services Offices, along with Hometown Health, are just a few of the on-campus supports we want to encourage our students to take advantage of as they continue to reach new heights.”
The Title IX and Prevention Services Office, Hometown Health, and Southland Safari co-hosted the event.