Over 300 new students at Stony Brook University began their first weekend on campus by participating in volunteer activities aimed at supporting both the university and surrounding communities. The event, known as Community Service Day, is now in its fifth year and is part of the broader New Seawolf Welcome program.
The initiative was coordinated by the Career Center and the Center for Service Learning and Community Service. Students took part in 14 different projects on August 23, including efforts to assist children in hospitals, provide food to people experiencing homelessness, and support veterans.
Stony Brook University President Andrea Goldsmith welcomed the volunteers. “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 day of service marks just the start of students’ engagement with their new environment. “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.”
Participants worked alongside nonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, and other local partners across Long Island.
As President Goldsmith told the volunteers, “You are beginning your journey here by giving back, and that is the true spirit of Stony Brook.”
