More than 300 new students at Stony Brook University participated in community service as part of their introduction to campus life. The event, held on August 23, marked the university’s fifth annual Community Service Day and was a key component of the New Seawolf Welcome program.
Organized by the Career Center and the Center for Service Learning and Community Service, the day offered incoming first-year and transfer students opportunities to engage in 14 different volunteer projects. These projects included supporting children in local hospitals, providing food for people experiencing homelessness, and working with veterans.
Stony Brook University President Andrea Goldsmith addressed the volunteers at the event. “By choosing to give back today, you are not only carving out your niche within this large, diverse academic community, you are also showcasing the tremendous positive impact of Stony Brook on our community and beyond,” said Goldsmith. “Today offers both a fantastic opportunity to get to know your fellow students and to begin building ties with the community that you will call home over these next few years.”
Goldsmith emphasized that this service day represents just one step in a longer journey of involvement at Stony Brook. “Rigorous, rewarding, and year-round work is what we’re all about at Stony Brook University. That is why Stony Brook chose you to be among our students, not only for your academic excellence, but also for the people that you are, who want to give back to their communities. I hope today’s projects will inspire you to continue volunteering throughout your time at Stony Brook and for years to come.”
Students traveled across Long Island during the event to support nonprofit organizations, healthcare facilities, and local initiatives.
As President Goldsmith told the volunteers, “You are beginning your journey here by giving back, and that is the true spirit of Stony Brook.”