The Pickens Flea Market: Engaged learning on the road
By Judith Chandler

Universities are not just made up of bricks and mortar, new construction and ivy-covered walls. The heart of a university, like any other institution, is the people who ensure its vitality. Sustaining a true sense of community is one of the most valued traditions here at Furman.

During the past few years, the university has sponsored ice cream socials, a Mardi Gras celebration, Easter egg hunts, rafting trips and other seasonal activities. In keeping with this fine tradition, the Division of Continuing Education conducted a unique staff-development activity on August 14 to prepare for its move to Hipp Hall.

After the initial sign-up, slots were opened for others who might be interested in sharing this activity with us. Representatives from the Dean's office, the Chaplains Office and from Marketing and Public Relations signed on to participate in this historic sojourn. And so it was that 10 hearty folks boarded a rented van (each person chipped in $6) at 6:45 a.m. in the chapel parking lot, and with Brad Bechtold at the helm, we traveled without incident to the world-famous Pickens County Flea Market.

At this amazing venue, the participants fanned out to observe, dicker over, and even purchase items for their personal amusement or work-related use. A good time was had by all (the point of the trip), and we also succeeded in our secondary but professional aim of selecting items for our new digs in the garden level of Hipp Hall. Following the feverish shopping spree and the expenditure of all pocket money, the group reconvened at the van at 10 a.m. and proceeded to brunch at a favorite dining spot in Pickens.

Having viewed an amazing variety of livestock at the market, we proceeded to eat like pigs before heading back to campus. We also held a contest to see whose purchase was the grand prize winner. The award went unanimously to Linda Cook, who serves as our representative to the Staff Advisory Committee. She had thoughtfully purchased, with her own funds, a lovely pig, which has been installed in the department workroom.

All staffers caught making any negative comments at any time will be required to deposit a quarter. The proceeds from these fines will used for subsequent staff development activities involving food.

In the spirit of community and collaboration, retreat participants would be glad to consult with your staff about planning a similar activity at no cost to you or to the university. While more traditional methods, such as ropes course training or a weekend retreat, may be appropriate for your group, please contact us if you would like to know the secrets of a fun, positive and inexpensive team activity.