ELOISA GUITERREZ
STAFF WRITER
Dozens of students gathered for food and entertainment at the first coffeehouse fundraiser for Acceptance with Joy women’s household on Oct. 13 in the J.C. Williams Center atrium.
Pumpkins, gourds and leaves splashed color across white tablecloths as attendees, decked out in flannels and sweaters, enjoyed hot coffee and eclectic performances.
Acceptance with Joy, a women’s household that strives to embrace trials of all sizes with the Blessed Mother’s faith and joy, decided to fundraise with coffee, baked goods and community for the first time this semester.
“It’s about participation,” said Becka Bentz, senior biology major and the fundraiser’s ringleader. Bentz took initiative in organizing the event, inspired by her past experience of sharing talents at coffeehouses.
“It’s cool seeing how people take what you wrote,” said Bentz, who performed three original songs early on that night.
Performances included both acoustic and acapella arrangements of well-known pieces, ranging from Broadway musicals to covers traditionally found at coffeehouse events.
Two household sisters from Acceptance with Joy shared a rendition of “Aaron Burr, Sir” from Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “Hamilton” before a spontaneous performance of “Edelweiss” from “The Sound of Music” was sung on the small black stage.
A bit of comedy over guitar pickings from Pater Noster household brothers got the audience to share a few laughs as well.
Only about 10 of the acts were planned, said Bentz. More were added throughout the evening as students came up to Bentz and asked to share their skills.
Juliana Lamb, sophomore biology major, appreciated the cozy atmosphere and drinks.
“It’s great having opportunities like this on campus to take a break from midterms and the cold with live music,” said Lamb. “It really makes it feel like fall.”
Acceptance with Joy is located in St. Thomas More Hall, room 439. The event was scheduled from 9 p.m. to midnight.