By Kierstin Richter.
On Friday, Nov. 9, The Kappa Iota chapter of Phi Mu Fraternity hosted their first-ever Bonnamu philanthropy event, raising over $10,000 for Children’s Miracle Network.
The festival was planned and directed by philanthropy chair, Karley Hebert, a senior hospitality management and tourism major.
“My vision for Bonnamu was more of a big community hangout sesh,” Hebert said. “I wanted to create a new vibe – emphasizing radiating positivity, happiness and the healing power of music, but most importantly, all for the kids!”
The festival featured two stages, one for EDM and another for other performances by individuals and student organizations. Local talents included Paige Cox, Sabertooth, Tyler Gatewood, The Sweet Tea Band, Swarm, Luke Basswalker, θX Alphas, NSU Pom Line, Demon Dazzlers, MYOT Performance Troupe, Lavish LUXX and Taija Stiles, a Phi Mu herself.
Merchandise was available for purchase such as t-shirts, local artwork, Kandi bracelets and different foods supplied by local vendors.
“I think this philanthropy event really appealed to the Natchitoches community and also NSU students, which I think can sometimes be difficult,” said Vice President Caitlyn Cutrer. “Being able to watch Karley put on such a successful event makes me proud to be a Phi Mu.”
Although the festival was a new experience for the chapter, Cutrer says Hebert was wildly successful in getting everyone involved and motivated to put on the event.
“I had immense support from my sisters and from many alumnae as well,” Hebert said. “I feel some people didn’t know what to think about Bonnamu in the beginning, mainly because we had never hosted an event like this before, and it took so much hard work, passion and commitment to make the first year a success. I’m so happy with how everything played out and am so thankful for this opportunity!”
Cutrer says Bonnamu could potentially be an annual fall event for Phi Mu, but it is up to the next philanthropy chair to decide. Hebert fully supports a round two.
Photo by Victoria Perkins.
