Recap of the Season: 2023-2024
The ASU 365 Community Union is dedicated to transforming Sun Devil Stadium into a year-round hub for cultural, educational, and wellness activities, fostering community engagement and enriching the ASU experience.
In the 2023-2024 season, the ASU 365 Community Union hosted a variety of events that catered to diverse interests. The Movies on the Field series, a highlight of the season, featured screenings of popular films such as "Barbie," "Top Gun: Maverick," and "The Polar Express," attracting large audiences from both the ASU campus and the wider community.
ASU 365 Community Union’s Rúla Búla Pop-Up brought back the beloved Tempe Irish pub, Rúla Búla, for a limited seven-day experience at Mountain America Stadium in November 2023. The pop-up recreated the original ambiance with the bar, art, decor, and signage from the pub, which closed in 2021. Attendees enjoyed a selection of the pub's classic food and drinks, including its signature fish and chips, Reuben sandwiches, and pints of Guinness. Live music and special programming added to the nostalgic atmosphere, making it a memorable event for both old patrons and new visitors.
Sparky's Fairway was another event highlight in Spring 2024, transforming Mountain America Stadium into a unique golf experience. This innovative event allowed participants to tee off towards targets on the field from an Inferno Bay on the north side of the stadium. It provided a fun and engaging way for the community to interact with the stadium in a completely new context. This event, like others hosted by the ASU 365 Community Union, emphasized creativity and community engagement, aligning with ASU’s mission to foster a vibrant, inclusive environment.
The Cafeteria Comedy Club series hosted by ASU 365 Community Union has been a standout feature of the 2023-2024 season, bringing laughter and community engagement to the indoor spaces of Mountain America Stadium. This series included performances by notable comedians such as Jessie "Jetski" Johnson (Bad Friends Podcast) and Marcello Hernandez (Saturday Night Live). Hernandez's show attracted a sold-out crowd and featured openers Stan Chen and Anthony A., who entertained the audience with their relatable humor on cultural identity and personal experiences. By transforming non-traditional spaces into venues for arts and culture, the ASU 365 Community Union has effectively utilized the stadium beyond its typical athletic purposes, creating memorable experiences and bringing people together
Additionally, the Stadium Yoga sessions and Stadium Workouts provided unique opportunities for wellness and fitness enthusiasts to engage in healthy activities within the iconic stadium setting. Mountain America Stadium is now also the proud home of ASU ROTC, allowing cadets to utilize the outdoor space and specialized workout gear for their trainings. The Coca-Cola Community Art Sun Deck Mural Project, supported by Coca-Cola, was another standout initiative, celebrating global diversity and world culture through student-created art.
These community events significantly advanced ASU's mission by fostering a sense of belonging and engagement among participants. By providing free, accessible activities that promote physical health, cultural appreciation, and social interaction, the ASU 365 Community Union not only enhanced the campus experience but also strengthened ties with the local community. These efforts underscore ASU's commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and community service, making the university a vibrant and welcoming environment for all.