STEPHENVILLE — Students from Tarleton State University spent their spring break serving communities in need across five states, contributing to disaster recovery, conservation and community service projects.
From rebuilding homes damaged by last summer’s devastating Hill Country floods to participating in service-learning efforts in Missouri, Colorado, Arkansas, Tennessee and Texas, students engaged in hands-on experiences that combined education with meaningful impact.
Among them were students in a crisis communication class who gained first-hand knowledge of natural disaster recovery by assisting with rebuilding efforts in the Hill Country.
Four students, Brittyn Madison, Emily McAnear, Sophia Rivera and Elizabeth Silva, accompanied by faculty members Dr. Cessna Winslow and Jim Hinson, volunteered in Tom Green county alongside relief agency Samaritan’s Purse to rebuild homes damaged by the July 2025 floodwaters.
During the Hill Country trip, the group met with local officials, law enforcement and nonprofit agencies to gain different perspectives and an inside look at the real-world communication challenges that arise during and after a natural disaster. They also worked alongside volunteers to complete tasks such as painting, drywall repair and installing hardware in water-damaged homes.
“We got to meet the people who owned these homes, flood survivors whose homes took on 5 to 6 feet of water,” said Dr. Winslow, associate professor of public relations and social engagement. “It was very sobering, and it really hit home with the students. It was very fulfilling.”
The students will produce a multimedia video project and photo essay documenting their experience. The public is invited to view these projects during a campus showcase at 9 a.m., Tuesday, May 5, in Room 386 of the O.A. Grant Humanities Building.
Campus Recreation also sponsored an Alternate Spring Break trip to Tennessee. Volunteers split their time between work on the Cumberland Trail at Bird Mountain and an office support day in Crossville.
The event combined hands-on conservation with behind-the-scenes nonprofit support. Participants contributed more than 280 total hours of service, learned the foundations of sustainable trail building, supported organizational operations, and donated unused food to blessing boxes and a local halfway house.
“This year’s alternative spring break was a powerful blend of hard work, learning and community,” said Amanda Lipps of the Cumberland Trail Conservancy. “We are grateful for every student, volunteer, partner and staff member who made this event possible. Their efforts will benefit hikers, local communities and the region for years to come.”
During the weeklong break, the Division of Student Engagement and Success offered five service-learning trips. In total, 55 students participated, each completing 40 hours of service for a combined total exceeding 2,200 hours.
In Missouri, students partnered with the Ozark Trails Association to support conservation and park preservation through trail maintenance, erosion control and debris removal. The experience emphasized environmental stewardship and sustainable land management.
In Denver and Fort Smith, students worked on housing construction and renovation projects, including framing, painting, landscaping and site preparation. Participants also explored issues related to housing insecurity, urban development and sustainability.
“Alternative spring break was an incredibly meaningful experience for me,” said Tarleton State student Brooke Nevans, who worked in Fort Smith. “It is an incredible opportunity for personal growth and new relationships. Serving a different community provides a unique experience and lasting memories.”
In Memphis, students partnered with Serve 901 to assist with neighborhood cleanup, property restoration and community beautification projects, gaining insight into urban revitalization and nonprofit work.
In San Angelo, students supported a local donkey rescue organization, assisting with feeding, cleaning enclosures and facility maintenance. The experience introduced participants to animal welfare practices and nonprofit operations.
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