First Annual Halloween Bash Unites Students for a Spirited Cause

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – HM 485 hosted the first-ever Halloween Bash on Oct. 31, 2023, aligning festivity with a purpose beyond costumes and candy.

The event provided a platform for students to exhibit their organizational skills and creativity. But beyond the masks and makeup, the gathering served a more profound mission.

Sydney Muller, a third-year student adorned as Princess Buttercup, viewed the event as an opportunity to explore her interest in event planning.

"I've definitely been thinking about going into event planning," Muller said. "Might as well come to the event and see some of the events some students plan to get an idea about it."

The enthusiasm wasn't limited to Muller alone. Andrew Broder, a third-year risk management student sporting a football player outfit, highlighted the benefits of such gatherings for all involved.

"Doing events like this helps us a lot because we worked together with my classmates and used a big budget that helped us budget ourselves," Broder said.

Beyond the spooky celebration, the event served a more significant cause by supporting needy families through United Way, an organization dedicated to advocating for mental and physical health, early childhood education, decluttering homes, aiding broken homes and many more programs.

The Bash aimed to raise funds, allocating all proceeds to this cause. These funds benefit 1 in 4 Centre County residents who rely on United Way-funded programs.

The First Annual Halloween Bash transcended the typical festivity of the holiday, amplifying the spirit of community, generosity, and student ingenuity. It underscored the power of collective effort in not just celebrating an occasion but in positively impacting the lives of those in need.

The event became a testament to the potential when passion, creativity, and purpose converge for the greater good.

Cora Rodriguez is a first-year student majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email cir5381@psu.edu.