Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

St. John’s University Campus Ministry is organizing a one-day retreat, titled Shake it Off, on November 2. The event will use the music of Taylor Swift to encourage self-discovery and personal growth among participants. Scheduled from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the retreat will take place in room 201 at The Peter J. Tobin College of Business.

Antony Abi Awad, Residence Minister for Retreats and Leadership, explained the purpose of the event: “Art gives voice to our emotions and experiences.” He added that engaging with music that resonates can be therapeutic, aiding in emotional processing and healing.

Taylor Swift is recognized as one of the most decorated artists in US music history, with four Album of the Year GRAMMY Awards and numerous singles surpassing one billion streams each. Her Eras Tour is noted as the highest-grossing music tour ever.

Beyond her achievements, Swift's music addresses themes of heartbreak, resilience, and self-discovery. Her album folklore offered an escape during the pandemic, while her latest work, The Tortured Poets Department, delves into introspective themes.

The retreat is open to all students free of charge. It aims to provide a supportive community where attendees can share their experiences related to Swift’s songs. Mr. Awad emphasized that this shared experience fosters solidarity among participants: “This shared experience fosters a supportive environment where individuals can learn from one another and gain encouragement and insight as they navigate their journeys.”

For additional details about the retreat, interested individuals can contact Mr. Awad via email or visit his office at Sullivan Hall.