The Utah Tech University psychology department hosted the annual Vagina Project with this year’s theme being “Universal Love.” The event had interactive exhibits, booths, snacks and performances all promoting health and wellbeing.
This project was a free event hosted Feb. 6 in the Dolores Doré Eccles Fine Arts Center lobby and main stage.
Hallee Hassell, a junior psychology major from Odgen, helped set up the event. When asked about why events like the Vagina Project are important, she said, “I think it’s how we are here… so why would we not want to learn about love?”
Some of the exhibits and booths included:
- A love letter writing station where attendees could write messages to themselves or loved ones.
- Emotional support dogs offering comfort and stress relief.
- The Utah Tech Poetry Pharmacy provided personalized poetry for attendees based on their emotions.
- The Dove Center provided resources and information on domestic violence prevention and support.
- Multiple Utah Tech departments, including dental and art, contributed to discussions on self-care and expression.
One of the companies at the event was Avanti Beauty Academy, a beauty school based in St. George. They were there painting nails and educating attendees about their company.
Jaicee Judd, an employee at Avanti Beauty Academy, said, “We just like to support women and women’s health and resources in the community.”
The night also had educational lectures from students and professors. With the theme being “Universal Love,” some lectures included how to battle loneliness, stigmas around women’s sexuality and more.
Amanda Scott, assistant professor of English, gave a lecture on how love is stronger than hate. Tying in personal experience, she said, “I truly believe we have to care for ourselves.”
Students came to the event for many reasons. Some came for extra credit provided by psychology professors, others came to support friends or to learn more about what the event had to offer. The event fostered an open, inclusive atmosphere that encouraged conversation and understanding.
At the end of the event, a drag show was hosted by Southern Utah Drag Stars. The intimate crowd cheered the queens and king while celebrating and embodying the theme of the night.
Vee Gooch, a junior exercise science major from Spearfish, South Dakota, said, “I mean, from a feminist standpoint, I think it is really empowering to just have a community of… girls and women and obviously guys too [to come together].”
Overall, the Vagina Project successfully fostered an environment of inclusivity, education and celebration, leaving attendees feeling more connected and empowered.
