By Cooper Nelson
GCU News Bureau
If there’s one event on campus that gets students rocking, it’s Java Jam.
GCU kicks off its fourth year of Java Jam events this Saturday from 8-11 p.m. on the promenade circle in front of the new College of Arts and Sciences building. The monthly open mic night brings students together through the creative talents of their peers in a coffeehouse atmosphere.
Richie Gledhill, a fifth-year senior, said Java Jam is one of his favorite GCU events.
“Java Jam is the one time a month where students can hang out and hear their fellow students inspire others,” said Gledhill, who performed a cover of a song by folk band Bon Iver during Java Jam’s first year.
“It’s a cool chance to see students go up on stage and not care about how they look, but just perform something they are passionate about,” Gledhill said.
Elise Hull, a GCU student organizations graduate assistant, introduced the idea of Java Jam three years ago when she was vice president of Associated Students of GCU. Past events were held on “The Slab” near the Latte Dah coffee shop, which became the Campus Operations office.
Jordan Hester, ASGCU’s activities team director, said this year’s Java Jams are expected to be more popular than past events -- but will contain the same acts, such as guitarists, singers and poets.
Over the years, GCU senior Frankie Mota has become known for his energetic dance moves. He’s now a Java Jam crowd favorite, and many students attend simply to see him shake it. Mota transferred to GCU during his sophomore year and has performed at every Java Jam since his arrival.
Mota is always the final act. His past performances to popular music included dance moves from hip-hop and modern styles. He has even tap danced. He sang for the first time at the final Java Jam last year. Along with showing off his moves, Mota plans to sing Saturday night.
“Frankie pumps up the show at every Java Jam,” said GCU junior Steven Egeberg, a Mota fan and supporter. “You know he’s going to give you a show -- he’s just a hit.”
Previous Java Jams have taken place on Wednesday nights. This Saturday’s Java Jam is a departure from the hump-day event. The second Java Jam of the year will be on Wednesday, Oct. 17, with Saturdays still a possibility moving forward.
“Students should come to Java Jam because it gives them the opportunity to see a lot of great, talented students that you hang out with but don’t know are talented,” Mota said. “I love it, I’ve always loved it, and I can’t wait for the first one this Saturday.”
Contact Cooper Nelson at 639.7511 or [email protected].
