The 110th Picnic Day, to be held on April 20, 2024, will have the theme of “Picnic Palooza” and feature UC Davis staff member and alum Sheri Atkinson as parade marshal.

The 15 students of the Picnic Day Board of Directors announced the theme and parade marshal for the university’s annual open house at a campus reception Thursday.

“What better way to celebrate the 110th Picnic Day than with a palooza?” said Picnic Day Vice Chair Mina Sarmah.

“Picnic Palooza celebrates the community we have built, highlighting student empowerment, change and fun!” said Picnic Day Chair Bradford Martin.

Atkinson is the associate vice chancellor of student life, campus community and retention services in Student Affairs. She joined UC Davis 20 years ago and has served as director of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual Resource Center and executive director of Community Resource and Retention Centers. In 2014, Atkinson was awarded a doctorate in educational leadership from UC Davis.

Martin said Atkinson embodies the theme of Picnic Palooza. “She prioritizes building deeper connections with UC Davis students while embracing the fun along the way,” he said.

“Atkinson leads her efforts with grace and dignity, and she makes the student vision her top priority,” Sarmah added.

Picnic Day is one of the largest student-run events in the nation. It showcases and celebrates the richness of campus life; highlights the diverse achievements of UC Davis students, alumni staff and faculty; and provides a day of education, information and entertainment. The family friendly day includes a children’s fair, musical and dance performances, educational exhibits and sporting events.