BATESVILLE, Arkansas — The 31st Annual Lyon College Service Day on Oct. 22 engaged hundreds of students, faculty and staff in community service projects across Batesville and Independence County, setting a new record for total hours served.
This year, 43 faculty and staff members joined 429 students to contribute 1,354.5 hours of service in a single day. Volunteers worked with local nonprofits, schools and community organizations on projects ranging from outdoor cleanup to assembling pantry supplies and supporting animal care facilities.
Before volunteers departed for their assignments, Batesville Mayor Rick Elumbaugh, Lyon College Student Government Association President Zoe Papazoglou and Lyon College President Dr. Melissa Taverner spoke to the group, offering words of encouragement and gratitude for their service to the community.
Rev. Maggie Alsup, Lyon College chaplain and director of service, who coordinates Service Day activities, said the impact extends beyond the hours logged.
“Service Day is a living expression of who we are as a campus community,” Rev. Alsup said. “Our students show up with compassion, energy and willingness to help wherever they’re needed. The fact that we set a new record this year speaks to their commitment to making a real difference right here at home.”
Service Day is a longstanding Lyon College tradition that emphasizes service learning, community partnership and Lyon College’s mission to foster responsible citizenship. The event is coordinated by the Office of the Chaplain with support from campus leadership and local organizations.
Many Batesville-area nonprofits rely on volunteers throughout the year, and Service Day offers an opportunity for students to form lasting connections that continue beyond the event itself.
