Maxwell to host student membership drive with pizza party, dance

The University of New Mexico Maxwell Museum of Anthropology is the midst of its annual student membership drive, in which it gives away free memberships to the first 75 UNM or CNM students who sign up in person at its museum store before Friday, Aug. 30. To promote this membership drive, the Maxwell will host a student pizza party on Friday, Aug. 30, from 6 to 7 p.m. in its courtyard. The venue is located west of Duck Pond and behind the UNM Alumni Chapel.

The free event will include gluten-free options and refreshments while supplies last. Registration through its Eventbrite Page is encouraged but not required.

Following the student-only dinner, the Maxwell is welcoming Erica Ortegon, aka DJ La Ruda, who spins classic SKA, Rocksteady, Reggae, Dancehall, and Xicano Oldies for its popular Museum Dance Party: Back to School Edition. The event is being held in collaboration with the community organization Headphone Dance Party, led by KUNM team member Brandon Kennedy. Over 100 wireless headphones will be available for participants to dance the night away in a cultural space transformed by glowing and colorful lights.

The event is free and open to all on Friday, Aug. 30, from 7 to 9 p.m. Registration through its Eventbrite page is not required but helpful so that attendees can suggest dance songs for the collective music playlist.

Maxwell Museum's Curator of Public Programs Julián Antonio Carrillo said, "As we set out for a great Fall semester at the museum with free workshops, new exhibits, field trips, an inaugural board game night, and more, we want to welcome our students and community into our space and cultural programming. This kick-off event is meant to bring folks together and what better way than through food, music, dance, and good vibes."