PB&J and Meditation Event Fosters Community and Mindfulness at SOC

Professor Stacey Patton leading meditation at the School of Communications (M’racle Bryant-Morgan/101 Mag)

On Nov. 18th, journalism professor Dr. Stacey Patton hosted a unique event combining mindfulness exercises with the nostalgic comfort of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. 

The “PB&J and Meditation” gathering provided students with a moment of relaxation and community-building amid the stress of academic life.

Dr. Patton, who also serves as the journalism sequence coordinator, explained that the event is part of her broader teaching approach, which integrates mindfulness practices into the classroom. 

“I have long incorporated mindfulness exercises and guided meditation into my classroom experiences,” she shared. “Students carry a lot of stress, and this is a way to foster community and help them center themselves.”

The event included a 20-minute guided meditation session, followed by peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, a simple but beloved comfort food. Dr. Patton emphasized how mindfulness helps students reconnect with their bodies and minds. 

“It’s beautiful to see students being vulnerable and open, breathing, and connecting with their bodies in a world that often keeps us disengaged,” she said. “Mindfulness is the opposite of that, and it’s powerful.”

Students after mediation, grab a PB&J and snacks (M’racle Bryant-Morgan/101 Mag)

When asked about the choice of PB&J, Dr. Patton lightheartedly said, “Because I like peanut butter and jelly… it’s fun. I’m an adult, and I love it—it makes me feel like a child again.” 

She hopes to make the event a monthly tradition. 

 “I like feeding students, and I love things that resemble a party, so this is right up my alley,” she said.

The event received positive feedback from students, including Robert Hill, a student in the School of Communications. 

“We are approaching finals, and everything is about to wrap up quickly, so there is a lot of stress,” he said.“This session really helped me release that stress, especially at the start of the week.” 

Dr. Patton’s combination of mindfulness and simple joy offered a refreshing approach to student well-being, fostering connection and relaxation during a busy academic period.