Gov't Mule, Derek Trucks, Lewis Black, Bill Cosby, Lil' Kim, Jay Leno and Margaret Cho all have two things in common: they are all nationally-renowned entertainers, and they all performed at UB in the past two years.
Many UB students say they feel that, in the past few semesters, UB has attracted more worthwhile acts and concerts than in previous years.
"It's awesome," said Evan Bronchick, a junior exercise science major. "They brought a great concert to Fallfest this year, and now they (have brought in) Chris Rock, one of the best comedians out there - you couldn't ask for more."
"I have been at UB for over three years now and I am very impressed over the big names that have come here," said Brian Palmer, a senior history major.
According to Maggie Hausbeck, director of Student Association Entertainment, formerly University Union Activities Board (UUAB), SA Entertainment has been doing its best to offer the student body superior events.
"There are more events on campus now of a higher profile, so I think that has raised people's awareness," said Hausbeck.
Hausbeck added that a main reason UB has been able to attract big names in recent years is because UUAB has been eliminated as the middle man between SA and the performer.
"SA used to contribute each year to UUAB, which is no longer, and they frequently co-sponsored events with them as well," said Hausbeck. "The money SA formerly allocated to UUAB is now kept within the SA entertainment budget to subsidize programming, rather than paying money to another organization."
Although SA Entertainment has made a concentrated effort to promote various entertainment events at UB, some students said they are less aware of certain events.
"I think that some things are good, like when they have special speakers and concerts, but other than the biggest events, I don't even end up knowing about them," said Ray Marzella, a junior communication major.
While some students believe the efforts made by SA Entertainment are worthwhile and well received, others, like Devon Benson, a junior pharmacy major, believe the entertainment offered at UB could use some improvement.
"I really enjoy the ethnic shows that UB has every year, but the rest of the events seem to be aimed toward little kids," said Benson. "No wonder everyone heads to the Main Street bars all the time."
Andrea Winnick, a junior interdisciplinary degree programs social sciences student, said she is most impressed by SA's attempts to satisfy the interests of all UB students.
"Even if I don't participate in or enjoy all of the activities SA provides, I think they try hard to accommodate the broad and diverse population of UB," said Winnick. "They really try to offer something for everyone, which can't be an easy job."
In order to continue the selection of nationally renowned acts, Hausbeck said SA Entertainment has various methods for gauging the entertainment desires of students. For instance, members of SA are allowed to attend select UB101 classes to determine student interests, while also informing the students on how to get involved with their school's entertainment.
According to Hausbeck, this also allows for the staff and the students to speak one-on-one about any questions or concerns.
"As always, we try and collect as much feedback as possible from the general student population," said Hausbeck.
Darryl Nunes, a junior business administration major, said Hausbeck and SA Entertainment have been successful in their endeavors to keep the student body entertained.
"I think that the SA offers great entertainment opportunities because they are usually popular among the students," said Nunes. "The comedians and guest speakers are some of the biggest names in the world."
Photo: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki
