Big Event an opportunity for college students to give back to Hastings

Hastings College Student Association President Kevin Wright expects 300 students, faculty and staff to participate in the college’s first Big Event celebration on Saturday, May 4 starting at 9:00 am throughout the City of Hastings. 
A tradition started in 1982 at Texas A&M and now celebrated at campuses around the country, the Big Event is a day of service that aims to give back to the local community.  
“The event provides students with the opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to the Hastings community for their continued support throughout the years,” said Wright, who characterizes the student response as strong.  
He continued, “Considering that this is the first year for this event, having about a third of the student body participate really says great things about the Hastings College community and its commitment to service.” 
Projects will take place at Start Over Rover, assisted living facilities, local parks and other locations throughout the community.  
Hastings, Neb.-native and current Student Association Vice President Allison Kern said, “The residents of Hastings have been very supportive of the college over the years, from attending sporting events to providing us with internships.  We are excited to be able to give a little bit of gratitude back.”
    
The Hastings College Student Association leadership hopes that this event will continue and become an annual tradition at the college and continue to expand. This event is sponsored by CPI, Bryan LGH and Dutton-Lainson. 
 
Founded in 1882, Hastings College is a private, four-year liberal arts institution located in Hastings, Nebraska, that focuses on student academic and extracurricular achievement. With 64 majors in 32 areas of study and 12 pre-professional programs, Hastings College has been named among “America’s Best National Liberal Arts Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report, a “Best in the Midwest” by The Princeton Review and a “Best Buy in College Education” by Barron’s. Hastings College: Pursue Your Passion®. Visit Hastings.edu for more.