ESCAPE retreats in a virtual world: Ensuring ‘a sense of belonging’

Student leaders prepare for a virtual ESCAPE retreat this fall

Each year Georgetown first-year students are invited to join a special retreat weekend called ESCAPE. They “eat s’mores, listen to music, and take part in vulnerable conversations” while enjoying the tranquility of the Blue Ridge Mountains from Georgetown’s 55-acre Calcagnini Contemplative Center.

Inspired by the Jesuit principle of cura personalis, or care of the whole person, the program is open to students from any or no religious background. “It creates a sense of belonging for first year-students,” explains program director Maddie Kling.

This fall the retreats will be virtual for the first time, but as Kling explains “we are including the best pieces from the past 30 years.”

The student leaders have been hard at work planning discussions and activities that ask students “What are we escaping from?” Learn more in this new video.

Title:ESCAPE retreats in a virtual world: Ensuring ‘a sense of belonging’