Today@Sam Article

Bearkat Tradition Supports Community Need

Dec. 6, 2021
SHSU Media Contact: Hannah Crandall

GoodShephardCans.SQUAREAdhering to the university motto, “The measure of a Life is its Service,” the Department of Student Activities donated 5,000 canned goods to the Good Shepherd Mission of Huntsville on Dec. 2.

Throughout November, canned goods were collected from the Sam Houston State University community as part of the 100th annual Tree of Light celebration. For every four canned goods donated, participants received a free Tree of Light t-shirt.

“They get a shirt out of it, but I’ve had people come in and give just to donate to a good cause,” said Steven Begnaud, assistant director of Student Activities. “It’s one event that really gets a lot of buy-in from our community.”

In addition to the canned goods raised by the Department of Student Activities, the Office of Alumni Relations also gives a check donation to support the vision of the Good Shepherd Mission.

“We help them in both of these ways to give back to the Huntsville community that has given us so much and allowed us to thrive here,” Begnaud said. “We want to do everything we can, whether it be hot food, shelter or clothing.”

This annual tradition provides a great way to spread holiday cheer and live out the university motto. Another opportunity for Bearkats to participate in service during this season of giving is the Tree of Hope, put on by the Department of Leadership Initiatives. For more information on this program, visit https://www.shsu.edu/dept/leadership-initiatives/cls/TreeofHope.html.

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