Accommodations & Lodging, Corporate Summer Intern Housing

Smart Housing Choices for Interns: What to Look for (and Why It Matters)

Landing a summer internship is a major win. It’s your chance to gain hands-on experience, build your resume, and grow your network. But one of the most overlooked factors in having a successful internship experience is where you choose to live.

Intern housing isn’t just about finding a bed for the summer. It’s about convenience, affordability, safety, and quality of life. Choosing the right housing can make your internship easier, more comfortable, and even more enjoyable. Here are a few important things every intern should consider. Plus, we’ll share how Millersville University Housing and Conference Services provides a smart, affordable solution right on campus.

1. Stay Close to Your Internship Site

One of the best ways to make the most of your internship? Live nearby. Long commutes can eat up time and energy, two things you’ll want to save for your work and personal growth. The closer you live to your internship site, the easier your days will feel.

Millersville’s summer housing is located right on campus, making it ideal for students interning either at the university itself or within the greater Lancaster area. With easy access to local employers, downtown Lancaster, and surrounding businesses, you’ll be well-positioned to get where you need to go without the stress of a daily commute.

2. Access to Reliable Public Transportation

Don’t have a car? No problem. That’s a reality for many college interns, and it’s why access to public transportation should be high on your priority list.

Millersville is served by Red Rose Transit Authority (RRTA), with bus routes that connect the campus to Lancaster City and surrounding areas. Whether you’re commuting to your internship, running errands, or exploring the region, public transportation makes it easy and affordable to get around with no Uber fees or carpool juggling required.

3. Live Near the Essentials

When you’re working a full-time internship, convenience matters. After a long day, the last thing you want is to spend extra time and energy figuring out meals, laundry, or where to grab a workout.

At Millersville, you’ll be just steps away from key services:

  • Walking distance to a local grocery store

  • Nearby dining options including fast casual, coffee shops, and sit-down restaurants

  • On-campus gym and nearby fitness centers

  • Outdoor spaces and recreational areas for a quick break or weekend unwind

Instead of spending extra time driving or navigating unfamiliar areas, you can focus on recharging and enjoying your summer.

4. Built-in Perks That Off-Campus Options Don’t Always Offer

Here’s where on-campus housing really shines: the extras.

Unlike many off-campus rentals, Millersville University’s intern housing includes everything you need to live comfortably without the hidden costs:

  • Free high-speed Wi-Fi so you can stay connected for work and fun

  • On-site laundry facilities available, quarters are required for both washing and drying

  • Utilities included in the housing rate, so you won’t get hit with surprise fees

  • Fully furnished spaces, meaning no hauling beds, desks, or couches

  • Maintenance and support services if anything goes wrong

Off-campus apartments may seem appealing, but between added utility bills, furniture needs, laundry hassles, and inconsistent Wi-Fi, they often end up costing more and delivering less.

5. Safety, Community, and Peace of Mind

Interning might be your first time living semi-independently, so it’s important to choose a place where you’ll feel secure. Millersville’s on-campus housing is designed with students in mind, offering:

It’s the kind of environment that helps you focus on your internship goals while still feeling supported and safe.

Why Choose Millersville University for Summer Internship Housing?

Millersville University Housing and Conference Services offers affordable, flexible, and convenient housing for summer interns. Whether you’re a Millersville student or attending another college and interning in the area, you’re welcome here.

With a location that keeps you connected, built-in amenities that make life easier, and a community atmosphere that supports success, it’s a smart alternative to costly and less-equipped off-campus options.

Ready to Make Your Summer Smooth, Affordable, and Successful?

Fill out our Summer Internship Housing Request Form today to reserve your spot. Space is limited and fills quickly, so don’t wait! For questions, please reach out to conferencing@millersville.edu or call (717) 871-5938.

Promotion & Marketing, Venue Selection

Top Meeting Spaces for Corporate Events: What Sets Them Apart

Planning a corporate event requires careful consideration of the venue, as the right space can enhance productivity, engagement, and overall attendee experience. The best meeting spaces offer a combination of versatility, modern amenities, and convenient accessibility to ensure seamless events. Millersville University provides a range of high-quality venues that cater to corporate gatherings, from large conferences to small strategy sessions. With well-equipped conference rooms, multipurpose spaces, classrooms, and even athletic facilities for team-building activities, the university’s event spaces offer everything needed to host a successful and professional event.

The Bolger Conference Center, located in Gordinier Hall, provides both small and large meeting rooms that can be configured into various layouts to suit different event needs. This venue is fully equipped with tables, chairs, and advanced audio/visual capabilities to support presentations and discussions. Additionally, its direct connection to dining facilities allows for convenient catering arrangements. Within the Bolger Conference Center, the Lehr Room stands out as a premier meeting space, accommodating up to 350 attendees. It offers flexible seating arrangements, technical support, and a professional setting suitable for large gatherings.

The Student Memorial Center (SMC) Meeting Rooms offer versatile spaces for corporate events, including both small and large rooms that can be adapted for various setups. The Reighard Multipurpose Room (Room 114) within the SMC features a 25-foot-high ceiling and flexible court configurations, making it an excellent choice for events requiring staging for speakers and large screens. Additionally, SMC 18, a 1,024-square-foot meeting room, can accommodate up to 175 standing guests or 82 seated attendees, providing a comfortable environment for business meetings and networking events.

Beyond meeting spaces, the SMC also features athletic facilities, including basketball courts and a fitness center, which can be utilized for team-building activities, wellness breaks, or recreational events that complement the corporate gathering.

For smaller meetings, training sessions, or workshops, Millersville University also offers fully equipped classrooms that provide a more traditional setting for corporate events. These classrooms feature modern technology, including projectors and smartboards, to facilitate interactive presentations and learning experiences. Depending on the specific room, seating capacities range from 30 to 100 attendees, making them ideal for breakout sessions, training seminars, or lectures. Their structured environment ensures a focused atmosphere while still offering flexibility for various seating arrangements.

Each of these venues at Millersville University is designed to facilitate professional and engaging corporate events, offering essential amenities such as adaptable furniture, high-quality audiovisual equipment, and convenient access to dining and lodging services. These meeting spaces provide a professional atmosphere that enhances the overall event experience, ensuring a productive and memorable gathering.

For additional information or to schedule your next event, please contact us at conferencing@millersville.edu or call (717) 871-5938. You can also submit an event request online here. We look forward to helping you plan a successful and memorable experience for your team.

Event Planning Tips, Logistics & Operations, Technology & Audio-Visual Services

Millersville University’s Technical Operations Department: Elevating Campus Events with Professional Support

Millersville University’s Technical Operations Department is committed to delivering comprehensive audio, video, lighting, and electronic support for a wide range of campus events. Whether you are organizing a meeting, conference, lecture, cultural event, or concert, our team is equipped with the expertise and technology to enhance your event with professional technical services.

Event Support

The Technical Operations Department specializes in providing technical assistance for a range of campus functions, including:

  • Meetings and Conferences: Delivering the necessary technical infrastructure for seamless communication and presentations.
  • Lectures and Seminars: Ensuring speakers have the audio-visual support needed to effectively engage their audience.
  • Cultural Affairs and Concerts: Providing high-quality sound and lighting to enhance performances and audience experiences.
  • Social Events: Offering portable audio/video equipment rentals for dances, movie nights, and other social gatherings.

Services Offered

Groups can have access to a variety of rental equipment and services tailored to diverse event needs:

  • Audio Equipment: From full concert setups to wireless, wired, and lapel microphones, we ensure high-quality sound for events of all sizes. Additionally, we provide laptops, projectors, and portable screens.
  • Visual Equipment: Our inventory includes televisions, DVD players, large-screen projectors compatible with multiple media sources and overhead projectors to meet various presentation requirements.
  • Lighting Solutions: Advanced lighting equipment is available to create the perfect ambiance and highlight key elements of your event.
  • Recording Services: We offer professional audio and video recording services to capture and preserve your event. Live streaming services are also available, supported by our skilled team at Millersville University.

How to Request Services

In addition to providing technical support, our team offers onsite assistance throughout your event, ensuring a smooth and successful experience. Our services are also designed to be budget-friendly, making professional event support accessible to all.

To request services from the Technical Operations Department, please contact Assistant Director Michael Kurland at conferencing@millersville.edu, call (717) 871-5938 or fill out an event request form.

By partnering with the Technical Operations Department, you can ensure your event benefits from professional-grade equipment and experienced technicians, contributing to a seamless and memorable experience for all attendees.

Event Planning Tips, Logistics & Operations, Venue Selection

Why More Businesses Are Choosing University Venues for Their Corporate Events

When planning a corporate event, selecting the right venue is crucial to its success. More businesses are discovering that university venues offer a unique, professional, and cost-effective alternative to traditional hotels and conference centers. With state-of-the-art facilities, comprehensive event planning support, and a vibrant atmosphere, universities provide an ideal setting for conferences, leadership retreats, and company-wide gatherings.

A Unique and Professional Atmosphere

Universities foster an environment of learning, innovation, and collaboration – qualities that align perfectly with corporate events. Unlike conventional hotel conference rooms, university campuses offer dynamic spaces that encourage creativity and productivity. Whether hosting a strategic planning session, a leadership summit, or a large-scale industry conference, the academic setting can inspire fresh ideas and meaningful discussions.

State-of-the-Art Facilities and Versatile Spaces

One of the biggest advantages of choosing a university venue is the access to modern, well-equipped facilities. Universities offer a variety of spaces, from large auditoriums with high-tech audiovisual capabilities to smaller breakout rooms designed for team discussions. Many campuses also feature stunning outdoor areas, providing businesses with flexible options for networking events or corporate retreats.

Comprehensive Event Planning Support

Most universities have a dedicated conference services team to assist with event logistics, making the planning process seamless. These professionals help businesses coordinate venue selection, technology setup, catering, and more, ensuring that every detail is covered. With expert event planners on hand, organizations can focus on their event’s content and objectives while the university handles the logistics.

Cost-Effective and Budget-Friendly

Compared to traditional conference centers and hotels, university venues often offer more competitive pricing while still providing top-tier amenities. Many universities provide packages that include venue rental, technology support, and catering at a lower cost than commercial event spaces. This allows businesses to maximize their budgets without sacrificing quality.

On-Site Lodging Accommodations and Catering Services

For multi-day events, many universities offer on-campus lodging during the summer months, making them a convenient choice for corporate retreats and training sessions. Contact the university to inquire about lodging accommodations available year-round. In addition, universities often provide in-house catering services with customizable menu options, ensuring that attendees have access to fresh, high-quality meals tailored to their dietary needs.

Accessible and Well-Connected Locations

University campuses are often located near major highways, airports, and business hubs, making them easy to access for both local and out-of-town attendees. Many also have ample parking and public transportation options, ensuring a smooth arrival experience for guests.

Host Your Next Corporate Event at Millersville University

If you’re looking for a university venue that offers all these benefits and more, consider Millersville University. Our Conference Services Department is dedicated to making your corporate event seamless and successful. With a variety of modern meeting spaces, top-tier technology, professional catering services, and expert event planning support, Millersville University is an ideal choice for businesses looking to host impactful events.

For more information or to book your next corporate event, please email conferencing@millersville.edu or call (717) 871-5938. Let us help you create a memorable and productive experience for your team!

Venue Selection

The Hidden Gem of Millersville – Creek Lodge

Creek Lodge, a hidden gem on Millersville University’s campus, offers a welcoming and functional space for small groups.
Nestled behind Pucillo Gym and East Village, this house is located within a nook of the woods accessible by a gravel road.
Holding a maximum of 25 people, Creek Lodge includes a main floor with a full kitchen and several conference rooms.
In the basement, there are additional conference areas that are able to be broken up for various events as well.
This facility is equipped with essential amenities such as electricity, water and Wi-Fi. If you are looking for a great spot for your company’s retreat, or even a baby shower, make Creek Lodge your next event location!
Venue Selection

Discover Your Summer Home: Corporate Intern Housing at Millersville University in Lancaster, PA

Are you interning in the Lancaster, PA area throughout the summer months and need a place to stay? Don’t worry—Millersville University Conference Services has you covered.

During the summer, many students head back to their hometowns to be with their families. However, some of us take on internships that are far from home. For these students, Millersville University Conference Services offers housing options in the Lancaster area.

The Corporate Intern Housing Program (CIHP) offers a unique opportunity for college students, who are not enrolled at Millersville University, to access convenient and affordable housing while interning in Lancaster County. This program is available only during the summer session months, which is from May until August.

Millersville University is pleased to offer the following occupancy period for corporate interns very year. Please note that this program is intended for summer-long internships and does not operate like a hotel with day-to-day or week-to-week housing.

It is not too late to confirm your stay here at Millersville University! If you are interested, fill out a Corporate Intern Housing Program application through the link below:

https://www.millersville.edu/housing/conference-services/corporate-intern/

If there are additional questions, please reach out to Michael Kurland by phone (717-871-5938) or email (michael.kurland@millersville.edu).

Intern Spotlight

Get to Know Andrew DeLanzo Millersville University’s Conference Services Intern

As I reflect on my time at Millersville University, I find myself filled with gratitude for the many opportunities this institution has given me. Among these opportunities, my internship with University Housing & Conference Services stands out as one of my favorites. Working alongside the team at Conference Services, led by Director Dr. Scott M. Helfrich and Assistant Director Michael Kurland, I learned so much about the industry, gained many insights into university operations, and sharpened my marketing skills.

Learning about Marketing, Blogging, and Social Media

I became well-versed in in many different aspects of marketing during my internship, including blogging and using social media to increase visibility, awareness of the department, and user interaction. I learned the ins and outs of successful blogging from SEO strategies to content creation. On top of that, I gained knowledge of the nuances involved in setting up and perfecting business profiles on X, Instagram, and LinkedIn, as well as the skills of account management. I gained knowledge about setting up company accounts on these platforms, tracking and analyzing metrics within the app, and utilizing these insights to produce more interesting content. The blog site also taught me how to evaluate Google Analytics data and track these numbers over an extended period of time. I then used this data to add to quarterly reports and make better-informed decisions on content. I also learned a great deal from the webinars attended with the American Marketing Association (AMA) membership I was provided. Such topics included AI, content creation, social media personal selling, and business management.

What I Learned About Myself

One of the coolest aspects of my internship was the self-discovery it facilitated. Unleashing my creative potential, I realized the depth of my creative capabilities. Through the many projects and tasks assigned to me, I found myself constantly thinking outside the box and devise innovative solutions. Whether it was conceptualizing engaging blog content or brainstorming marketing strategies, I embraced each opportunity as a chance to unleash my creative potential. I also discovered a new sense of determination when faced with a challenging task. For example was to create the social media channels for Conference Services. As this was from scratch, I found myself frustrated in the beginning seeing a lack of engagement and growth on these platforms. But I stayed determined. Now our Instagram has over 100 followers and we have made some nice connections. This internship truly taught me the importance of adaptability and perseverance in achieving my goals.

Favorite Blog Post

Among the many blog posts that I wrote here, it was actually not a specific post, but rather a series of posts that I wrote towards the end of my internship. The particular series that stands out as my favorite is the case study blog series. Through this initiative, I had the opportunity to connect with some of our current clients, including Girls on the Run Lancaster & Lebanon, Lancaster County Wood Carvers, The Mid-Atlantic Fiber Association, and The Natural Museum of Nature and Science. This was done to uncover insights into why these clients actually chose to return to Millersville University for their events and what makes MU great.

Most Memorable Project

In terms of my most memorable projects, developing consumer personas for the department has to stand out as the highlight. This creative assignment not only allowed me to flex my creative muscles but also provided the department with useful material related to the needs and preferences of our target audiences. The personas crafted during this project will serve as invaluable tools for informing future marketing strategies and decision-making processes.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, my aspirations remain rooted in marketing. Whether within an agency setting or within a corporate environment, I am committed to using my skills from pre and post this internship experience to drive impactful outcomes. My internship with University Housing & Conference Services has equipped me with the knowledge and confidence to excel in the fields of sales, marketing, and communications.

Event Planning Tips

Crafting Memorable Events: 8 Steps of Mastering Dining and Catering Services

 

As event coordinators, we know that the success of any event depends not only on careful planning but also on the quality of the meal that participants are given if they require it.  Whether orchestrating a conference, banquet, intimate social gathering, camp, or athletic event, the culinary aspect plays a major role in shaping guest satisfaction and overall event success. In this comprehensive guide, we look into the multifaceted world of event planning, exploring key considerations and best practices for integrating dining and catering services into your events. From menu customization and sustainability initiatives to venue logistics and cost-saving strategies, join us as we navigate the intricacies of crafting memorable events through thoughtful dining experiences.

Tailored Menus for Every Occasion

Customized menus are the cornerstone of a successful event, catering to diverse tastes and dietary preferences or restrictions. Whatever you are planning should offer a variety of menu options ensuring that every guest finds something to enjoy while at their event. For instance, discuss specific menu options such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and/or kid-friendly options with your catering specialist, rather than the standard menus that are that do not take the client’s specific needs into consideration.

Indulge in Sweet Moments

For special occasions, such as weddings or milestone celebrations, the dessert selection can leave a lasting impression. Whether it’s an intricately designed cake from a local bakery or a decadent array of pastries, incorporating sweet treats adds an extra touch of delight to your event. For instance, within our facilities at Millersville University, we have an on-campus bakery through our catering department equipped to craft an array of delectable pastries, wedding cakes, and any other desserts essential for your event. When strategizing for your occasion, it’s recommended to explore the offerings provided by your venue rather than seeking external vendors.

 Embracing Sustainability

In today’s environmentally conscious landscape, incorporating sustainable dining practices is important. From sourcing local ingredients to minimizing waste through composting and recycling initiatives, prioritizing sustainability aligns with both ethical and practical considerations. When considering a venue, check with your event staff to determine what sustainable practices they incorporate.

Venue Logistics and Designing Considerations

Selecting the right venue is crucial for accommodating guests comfortably and facilitating seamless dining experiences. Whether you’re working with a small meeting space or a large conference hall, consider factors such as layout, accessibility, and proximity to catering facilities.

The ambiance of your event extends beyond just décor—it encompasses the entire sensory experience, including dining arrangements. From table settings to casual buffet stations, thoughtful design elements enhance the overall atmosphere and complement your event’s theme or aesthetic. When planning your gatherings, don’t forget about the utensils plates, tablecloths, and napkins at the table as well. Consider the logistical aspects of dining, including meal service formats and attendee preferences. Whether offering buffet-style meals, grab-and-go options, or catering to specific dietary restrictions, convenience and variety are key to ensuring guest satisfaction.

Alcohol Policies and Beverage Options

If your event includes alcoholic beverages, it is necessary to be aware of venue restrictions and licensing requirements. Offering a selection of beverages, including non-alcoholic options, ensures inclusivity while adhering to regulatory guidelines. Additionally, consider the various alcohol service options available, ranging from full-service open bars to cash bars, or even predetermined alcoholic drink selections such as wines and beers. By carefully considering these options, you can tailor the alcohol service to suit the preferences and atmosphere of your event while ensuring compliance with venue policies.

Seamless Dining for Attendees

Streamlining dining experiences for attendees enhances overall event flow and guest satisfaction. Implementing efficient dining solutions, such as pre-ordered meals or self-service stations, minimizes wait times and maximizes enjoyment for guests. For example, at Millersville University for conferences we have meals loaded onto to electronic “Conference Card” that allows guests into the dining facilities rather than more complicated processes, such as meal ticket distribution, paying with cash or credit card, and referencing roster lists.

Transparent Pricing and Payment Options

Navigating budgetary considerations is a critical aspect of event planning. Whether you’re working with a fixed budget or seeking cost-effective solutions, transparent pricing and flexible payment options provide clarity as well as peace of mind throughout the planning process. This should be accomplished through a detailed scope of work that includes food prices, set up/take down requirements, linen service, decorations, staffing, and other associated logistical fees. It is crucial to understand what is an is not included in your catering and dining package. Do not make the mistake of assuming that various services are included in your package.

Negotiating Discounts and Cost Savings

For large-scale events, negotiating discounts with venues can help optimize your budget without compromising on quality. Explore cost-saving opportunities through volume discounts or strategic partnerships. Work with your venue to see if deposits are required up front or if any discounts should be applied. Also, you may consider speaking with your venue about discounts based on group size. For example, for 1-50 guests it is “X” amount, for 51-100 guests that amount is reduced by 5%, for 101-150 guests’ the price is reduced by an additional 5%, and so on. Not all venues offer discounts and the price will be as advertised or quoted.

Dining and catering services serve as the vibrant threads that weave together unforgettable experiences. As we conclude our exploration of these essential elements, it becomes clear that the success of any gathering lies in the meticulous attention to detail and the commitment to exceeding expectations. By tailoring menus to suit diverse tastes and dietary needs, embracing sustainability practices, and designing ambiance that captivates the senses, we elevate ordinary events into extraordinary occasions.

Moreover, by navigating logistical considerations, such as venue selection, alcohol policies, and transparent pricing, we ensure seamless execution and optimal guest satisfaction. Through innovative solutions and strategic partnerships, we unlock opportunities to maximize value and create lasting impressions. With passion, creativity, and a commitment to excellence, let us continue to elevate the art of event planning and dining, one remarkable experience at a time.

Success Stories & Case Studies

Case Study: North Museum of Nature and Science

Welcome to another installment of our case study series, where we dive into the collaborations between Millersville University Conference Services and esteemed organizations. Today, our spotlight shines on the North Museum of Nature and Science, a venerable institution in the heart of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Since its inception in 1953, the North Museum has been a symbol of scientific exploration and cultural enrichment. By captivating audiences of all ages with its diverse array of exhibits and hands-on activities. From encountering the T-Rex to voyaging through the cosmos in the SciDome Theater, the North Museum offers a dynamic blend of education and excitement, earning its rightful place as Lancaster’s premier museum.

Interview with Daniel Daneker, Science Fair Coordinator at the North Museum of Nature and Science

Tell us about your organization and the events that you have held at Millersville University.

The science fair has been part of the Lancaster County STEM landscape for over 70 years. In 2009, the North Museum began coordinating the science fair. The North Museum Science and Engineering Fair (NMSEF) is one of six International Science and Engineering Fairs (ISEF) in the state of Pennsylvania. The event at MU is the culmination of work and research by local middle school and high school students. At NMSEF, students display their research and are interviewed by judges from STEM industry experts and college and university representatives. Each year, the two top champions from NMSEF are provided with an all-expense paid trip to the International Science Fair (ISEF) competing with over 1500 of the brightest students on the planet.

Visit the North Museum

Uploaded by North Museum on 2021-01-16.

What have been some of your goals with sponsoring the various events?

The North Museum strives to provide a free and equitable STEM experience for the students in our community. With the generous support of the STEM community (both financially and with volunteers), NMSEF is a culmination of that goal.

What have been the successes that you have realized through your campus events?

NMSEF has bounced back from the pandemic slump. Our collaboration with MU has been part of that success. While we continue to have growth in the number of NMSEF participants, MU’s facilities are a good match for our current needs for space, facilities, technology, and food service. Another positive we have developed over the years is the excellent working relationship with the event staff as well as the College of Science and Technology at Millersville University. The dean has worked very hard to develop a series of STEM tours for the students as they participate in NMSEF. These relationships are the key to the event’s success at the venue.

What can you share regarding the event logistics that have helped make your events successful?

MU provided a perfect venue for the size of NMSEF. We not only required floor space for tables so the students could display their research and be interviewed by the judges, but also award ceremony space with a stage, media technology, and seating for 1000 people. Couple the larger space with the need for judges to deliberate in a smaller room as well as the pizza party for the students (just before the awards ceremony), and it is easy to see why Millersville University “checked the boxes” we needed for the venue of NMSEF.

Why do you decide to come back to Millersville University for your events?

In any venture, there will be problems. There is no escaping this fact. The way you deal with those problems is essential to moving forward. The way MU’s staff responded to these issues is why many advocated coming back to the venue for NSMEF. These tables were originally set up in the wrong space – okay, let’s move them and get it right. We need a second mic set up – not a problem, we can make this work. Approaching problems with a “we can do this attitude” is a very positive working relationship and it is much appreciated.

What general advice do you have for other groups that are planning events for their organization?

As with any relationship, communication is key. Early and often, keep the lines of communication open. Set clear and definable parameters and expectations to limit the surprises. When the surprises do come (and they will), remember you are on the same team and you have to work together to solve the issue at hand.

In summary, the partnership between Millersville University Conference Services and the North Museum of Nature and Science exemplifies the power of collaboration in fostering educational excellence and community engagement. Through the North Museum Science and Engineering Fair (NMSEF), students are provided with a platform to showcase their research and ignite their passion for STEM fields. With Millersville University’s unwavering support and facilities, NMSEF continues to thrive, serving as a testament to the success that can be achieved through a shared vision and mutual respect. As we look ahead, we are excited to further nurture this relationship, enriching the lives of countless learners and shaping the future of scientific inquiry together.

If you liked what you learned about The North Museum check out some of their socials to find out more:

Learn more about the science and engineering fair using this link.

*Photos and videos courtesy of The North Museum of Nature and Science

Success Stories & Case Studies

Case Study: Empowering Confidence, Girls on the Run at Millersville University

Girls on the Run (GOTR) is an inspiring program encouraging unity, confidence, and healthy behavior in young girls in Lancaster and Lebanon Counties, Pennsylvania. The mission of GOTR Lancaster is to help girls of all abilities gain confidence and life skills. They also offer engaging, research-based programs that empower participants to see the possibilities, embrace their inner strength, increase their physical activity, as well as fearlessly stand up for others and themselves. GOTR leads life-changing lessons that combine physical exercise with vital life skills, such as friendship-building and empathy-expressing.

Every season ends with a celebration of accomplishments and positive effects on the community. The annual Millersville University 5K celebration is the high point of this organization’s fall season. With the encouragement and assistance of MU’s sports teams, clubs, and sororities, athletes in grades 3 through 8 learn the excitement of crossing the finish line. This event is not only an occasion to test the strength but also community and teamwork.

Interview with Jennifer West, Girls on the Run Executive Director, and Jes Wilson, 5K Manager

Tell us about your organization and the events that you have held at Millersville University.

Girls on the Run is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit that inspires individuals of all abilities to discover, build, and grow their self-confidence. Together, they experience a sense of belonging and connection as a team. Over 500 volunteer coaches each year facilitate lessons that blend physical activity with life skill development, including managing emotions, fostering friendships, and expressing empathy. At the end of the season, the team completes a Community Impact Project and a 5K together, which provides a tangible sense of accomplishment and sets a confident mindset into motion. GOTR holds a celebratory 5K every fall at Millersville University where many athletic teams, clubs, and sororities take part in cheering the girls on throughout the course and manage all our parking that day!

Girls on the Run starting line

What have been some of your goals with sponsoring the various events? 

The main goal is to create a safe and successful event so that our participants who are in grades 3 – 8 have the opportunity to cross the finish line feeling supported, encouraged, and realize that the finish line is just the beginning! Another goal is having a supportive community partner as we have found in Millersville University.

Happy participants

What have been the successes that you have realized through your campus events? 

We have found the successes for many of our participants extend way beyond finishing a 5K for the first time. We heard from a parent who ran with his daughter at Millersville University that she always told him she didn’t want to go to college but after running the 5K at Millersville University and seeing all of the athletic teams and clubs there supporting everyone, she now wants to go to college and she wants to go to Millersville University!  Another huge success is sharing the big picture of community with all of our participants and family.  They can see what the community looks like firsthand with the way that GOTR and Millersville University work together for the event.

Participant running in action

What can you share regarding the event logistics that have helped make your events successful?

Millersville is very accommodating in everything that we need for the day. We hold several meetings before the event with a committee made up of GOTR staff, Millersville University staff, and the Millersville University Police to work through the logistics of the event to ensure a safe and successful event. Communication, planning, and the engagement of the university overall make this event a huge success! Between participants and spectators, there are about 3,000 who come to the campus for our event.

Race day morning at Pucillo Field

Why do you decide to come back to Millersville University for your events? 

The support we receive starts with the President of Millersville University, to the athletic director, all the way down to the students and concession stand staff. The way the students come out to support our event takes it to the next level and our GOTR participants and families really enjoy the extra level of support and encouragement.  Each fall after the 5K, we hear from so many families that their girls loved seeing all of the college students there to cheer them on.  They feel supported and encouraged to do their best and to keep going when it feels hard.

Joy!

What general advice do you have for other groups that are planning events for their organization?

Don’t hesitate! Reach out to them today! Millersville University has created such an amazing all-around community that is very willing to work with organizations to provide a safe and successful event.  We are already planning and can’t wait for our next 5K there this fall!

In essence, the partnership between Girls on the Run and Millersville University exemplifies the transformative impact of collaboration and support. Through shared goals, meticulous planning, and unwavering encouragement, GOTR continues to empower girls and cultivate a community of confidence and camaraderie. As the next 5K event approaches, the anticipation is palpable, fueled by the promise of another memorable gathering at Millersville University.

To learn more about Girls on the Run and their inspiring initiatives, visit their website and follow them on social media:

*Photos courtesy of Girls on the Run