The library at Los Medanos College turned into a hub of strategy and relaxation on Thursday as students, staff and community members gathered in room L109 for “Chess & Chill,” a new event organized by Student Life, the library, and the Umoja Scholars program.
The event was a simple, laid back gathering where students could meet, play games and unwind. offering a chance for both experienced players and casual learners to connect.
“It’s good a few students came out. We played chess and Uno,” said Cameron Bluford, the library’s technical services and systems librarian. Bluford admitted that he was more of a casual player and still learning the game of chess but enjoyed its many intricacies. Even so, he said the calm atmosphere made it enjoyable.
The event reflected Student Life’s focus on creating more opportunities for students to engage outside the classroom. Ivan Urrutia, program coordinator for Student Life, said the department looks for ways to bring students together through simple, approachable activities.
“We like to see someone’s vision come through,” Urrutia said, as he advocated for even more events that students would like to see on campus beyond things like Chess & Chill. He emphasized that Student Life wants to encourage more student-driven projects in the future.
For students who attended, the afternoon became about more than just passing time. David Brown, who played several matches during the event, described the game as both challenging and rewarding.
“The value of pieces is determined by how you play,” Brown said. “It’s not that hard to learn. It’s very easy to adapt.”
Brown, who attended with his friend and fellow chess enthusiast Mark Tusubira, said part of the appeal was the chance to play against someone who thinks in a similar way.
“We both really think really strategic,” Brown said while analyzing a match between him and Tusubira. He added that one of his favorite tactics involved carefully managing specific pieces. “I prioritized the bishops to gain positions. The knights are what I really try to utilize when I’m playing more seasoned people.”
Tusubira, who met Brown in high school, agreed that chess requires a constant focus on both strategy and patience. “Each piece has its own value,” Tusubira said, noting that the way he and Brown push each other in games has kept their interest in chess strong over the years.
Brown also said part of his strategy involves reading his opponents as much as the board. “I study my opponent’s body language,” he explained, adding that physical cues can often give away confidence or hesitation in key moments of the game.
The “chill” aspect of the evening matched the name of the event. Some students leaned back and watched others play, while others shuffled through decks of Uno cards at nearby tables. The library setting gave the event a quieter energy, but the conversations and laughter made it feel far from formal.
Events like Chess & Chill highlight the ways Student Life and campus partners are working to build community. Urrutia said his hope is to continue offering programs that combine fun and social interaction with opportunities for learning.
By the end of the night, students left having not only played games but also made new connections. For Brown and Tusubira, it was another chapter in a long-running rivalry. For others, it was a first step into chess or simply a chance to meet people in a stress-free environment.
What united everyone in the room was the reminder that community on campus does not have to come from big events or complicated programs. Sometimes, all it takes is a chessboard, a deck of cards and a place to chill.
