Tea Time Explores Student Involvement, Summer Reading and Licorice Jelly Beans

President Sue Thomas welcomed Laura Bates, executive director of the Student Union and Campus Recreation, for the first “Tea Time with Sue” of the new semester.

Now in her 16th year at Truman, Bates oversees the facilities, staff and students in both the Student Union Building and the Campus Recreation Center. This includes extensive involvement with major events such as Truman Week, Homecoming and organizational recruitment. During their conversation, Bates discussed the number of students who participate in Fraternity and Sorority Life and the impact those organizations have on local and national philanthropies.

Other topics of conversation included Bates’ literary-inspired tattoos, her dogs Sophie and Jake, and her fondness for licorice-flavored jelly beans. The entire podcast conversation can be found on the Truman Spotify channel. Follow Truman on social media for video excerpts from “Tea Time with Sue.” The complete video is also posted on the Truman YouTube channel.

Throughout the school year, President Thomas will welcome guests for one-on-one chats that shine a light on the people and things that make Truman the special place it is. New episodes will be announced in the Truman Today as they become available. Guests for “Tea Time with Sue” can be nominated at truman.edu/teatime.