In photos: Sun and fun at the Chancellor’s Annual Staff and Faculty Appreciation Picnic

After a two-year hiatus, the Chancellor’s Annual Staff and Faculty Appreciation Picnic returned bigger and better than ever on June 3. The day was sunny, and spirits were high as more than 3,000 faculty and staff played cornhole and Jenga, danced along to the “Cha Cha Slide” and enjoyed Dippin’ Dots and Kona Ice treats. A couple canine companions even joined in on the fun, too.

The lunch menu had something for everyone: barbecue, broccoli salad, kielbasa and showstopping fudgy brownies served on compostable plates.

This year’s picnic is the 6th iteration hosted by Chancellor Patrick Gallagher and the first to be held at Posvar Patio and Schenley Drive, a move that expanded seating, added green space for games and streamlined traffic at the buffet.

The best part of the day was finally getting everybody back together, said Sharon Malazich, assistant director in Pitt’s Office of Special Events. She echoed many attendees who said they were glad to join their colleagues for the afternoon.

It takes a dedicated team to pull off the party, including the 25-member Office of Special Events and the Picnic Planning Committee in partnership with the Office of Facilities Management, Pitt Catering Co. and over 100 other volunteers.

— Nichole Faina, photography by Mike Drazdzinski