Students, faculty and staff at Sul Ross State University came together Saturday, April 11, for the university’s first “Big Event,” a campuswide day of service focused on giving back to the Alpine community.
A total of 35 volunteers completed five service projects benefiting local organizations and public spaces. Participating groups included members of the Black Student Association, Student Athletic Advisory Committee, Geology Club, Sul Ross Volleyball and Campus Activities, along with faculty and staff volunteers.
Service sites included the Alpine Animal Shelter, Alpine Public Library, Alpine Elementary School, Davis Mountains State Park and Indian Lodge. Volunteers also assembled domestic violence survivor kits for the Family Crisis Center of the Big Bend.
The Big Event is an annual tradition at universities nationwide, designed to unite campus communities through a single day of service. Organizers at Sul Ross said the initiative reflects the institution’s commitment to civic engagement, community partnerships and student involvement beyond the classroom.
“Our students very much want to get involved and interact with the community,” said Katy Williams, director of civic engagement and student assistance. “Events like this are a great way to get the campus community connected with local resources, people and each other.”
This year’s event was held in conjunction with the Sul Ross Campus Activities Student Organization Olympics, creating an atmosphere of collaboration, school spirit and service. University officials said they plan to expand The Big Event and make it an annual tradition.
