WNCG students, faculty, visitors and staff invaded nearby Eastwoods Park early Friday afternoon, May 1st, for the annual WNCG Spring social event.

One of the strengths of our center lies in recognizing research as a social activity and technology is in the service of people. That being said, the technology at the event was minimal; or at least temporarily stewing in attendees’ minds, who for the most part seemed focused on chasing around soccer balls, Bocce Balls, and the delicious catered Greek food.

Current WNCG Director Jeff Andrews’ 1 and a half year old daughter exhibited precocious technical skill in navigating a soccer ball and dad around the field. Meanwhile our first director Ted Rappaport was spotted teaching some students how to throw a football -- Ted just cannot stop finding something to teach to someone! This year’s guest visitor was Nick Laneman of Notre Dame, who along with Ted promptly de-throned the defending bocce ball champs Jeff and Gustavo. It was Paul White and Harish Ganapathy who ended up taking the reigns as this years bocce ball champs.

We closed the event with the presentation of the WNCG Student Leadership Award to Bob Daniels, who has been not only an outstanding researcher but exemplary in taking various leadership roles serving to further WNCG’s mission. Congratulations and thanks to Bob and many others who continue to help make our center a success.