TEXARKANA, Texas - Autumn showed its early colors Thursday at Texarkana College's Annual Fall Fest. Students, staff and community members enjoyed the cooler temperatures and slightly sharp breeze during the midday event, which featured, food, music and fun.
Dr. Mary Ellen Young, dean of liberal and performing arts, said the event is designed for students to engage with each other and learn what the college has to offer.
"The goal is actually to let the students know what the different clubs and organizations are available on campus and in the community," she said. "It's all about student engagement and getting involved."
Booths lined the sidewalk in the Academic Commons area in front of the Palmer Library, with student organization representatives, the National Guard, TEXAR Federal Credit Union, First Baptist at Wake Village and others offering services to the students.
Robert Jones, TC's dean of students, served as DJ for the lively music that many danced to and Jimmy John's and Raising Cane's gave away free food.
Amanda Graham, executive director for academic services, who organized the event with the help of the college's recruiters and Lee Williams, the director of admissions, said Fall Fest was a fun time for the students to see all the campus clubs and organizations.
"This year we had Raising Cane's and it has been a big hit," she said. "The kids have loved it. We also have outside vendors come and they bring giveaways to promote their business for the students."
Students who filled out cards and had stickers from at least six vendors were entered into a drawing for four $25 gift cards from the campus bookstore. The winners were announced on Facebook Live, Graham said.
"They just have fun getting to know each other and hang with each other outside of the classroom," she said. "It's to show that we like to have a little fun."