TLU students, faculty, and staff sent a big thank-you to the community on September 20, during the fall H.O.T. Dogs Day of Service event, hosted by the university’s Center for Servant Leadership. 

Participants gathered on the library lawn early that morning for food, music, and games before heading out to get to work, both across town and on campus. 

The “H.O.T.” in H.O.T. Dogs stands for “Helping Others Together,” and that’s exactly what the volunteers did. This year’s theme is Falling in Love with Service, in keeping with the university’s emphasis on servant leadership as part of the college experience.

“Big thanks to the TLU students who showed up to help in our community garden at Emanuel’s Lutheran Church!” said TLU Marketing Generalist Natalia Almquist, who also attends Emanuel’s. “They jumped right in with so much joy and gratitude, and we’re beyond thankful for their hard work and support.”

Junior Michelle Lopez volunteered with a campus cleanup group which was overseen by Dean of Students Dr. Kyle Wych. “We made rounds across campus, picking up litter and helping to keep the grounds beautiful. It was fun spending time with Dean Wych and seeing firsthand how much he cares about our campus and students.”

“It is always great to give back to the community whether the greater Seguin community or TLU through volunteering,” said Wych. “Whether it is an hour or three hours of service, serving others is what we do at TLU. Making connections with the Seguin and surrounding communities and seeing all the students, faculty, and staff be a part of the service day is what makes TLU such a special place.”

Lopez agrees. “H.O.T Dogs Day was a powerful reminder of how much our community uplifts us as TLU students. Volunteering gave me the chance to give back to the people who help us thrive. It was meaningful, energizing, and deeply rewarding.”