SGA hosts Project H.O.O.T. day of service

Students, faculty and staff at Mississippi University for Women gathered together to give back to the community during the Student Government Association’s annual Project H.O.O.T. day of service, which was held on March 28.

“Service projects are an important part of a college student’s experience because they give students the opportunity to give back to the campus and community that supports them,” said Ethan Wilkins, SGA president. “These experiences foster a sense of appreciation and responsibility while also helping students develop essential life skills such as communication, teamwork, work ethic and problem solving. Through service, students grow not only as scholars but also as members of their community.”

Project H.O.O.T. was established by SGA in 2025 as an opportunity for The W to give back to the community that houses it.

This year’s event saw approximately 70 volunteer students.

Participants partnered with local organizations such as Forge, the Columbus-Lowndes Humane Society, United Way of the Golden Triangle Region, MUW Housing, The W’s Child and Parent Development Center and the Salvation Army.

Some of the activities included: cleaning and stocking the blessing boxes around Columbus, assisting with residence hall cleanup, beautifying campus and assisting the organizations with their day-to-day operations.

Last year, SGA passed legislation making Project H.O.O.T. an annual event to be held each spring semester. This will ensure that future classes have the opportunity to continue strengthening the connection between The W and the community which houses it, as well as develop skills crucial to success in the workplace and beyond.