Today: Jun 16, 2026
Chemistry major Monserrat Martinez-Garcia, a senior, and her Guiding Eyes pup Nia sitting on the floor for a picture. Photos by Lily Rand
Chemistry major Monserrat Martinez-Garcia, a senior, and her Guiding Eyes pup Nia sitting on the floor for a picture. Photos by Lily Rand

Take a break to enjoy puppies and pumpkins

By Lily Rand

Photo Editor

On Oct. 21, the office of Orientation, Transition and Family Engagement hosted Puppies, Pumpkins and Pizza, giving students a chance to enjoy a fall-themed activity on campus.

Biology major Bailie Palaka and sociology major Emma Raymond, freshmen, posing with their pumpkins.

Participants painted pumpkins, grabbed slices of pizza and interacted with the Guiding Eyes puppies Nia, Bitsy and Rover.

A table with supplies, Nia in the background.

Attendees were encouraged to enter their decorated pumpkins in the Transfer Carnival, with a prize awarded to the best design.

Nia looks on during the event.

The event offered a casual setting for students to relax, socialize and celebrate the season.

A student painting one of their pumpkins.

Many students took photos with the puppies while adding personal touches to their pumpkins.

Students engaged in painting their pumpkins and enjoying refreshments.

The combination of food, crafts and puppies created an engaging and hands on experience that drew a wide range of students.

Communication disorders major Ashley Donahue, a junior, and her Guiding Eyes pup Bitsy, posing for a photo.

By combining creativity with social interaction, the event provided a fun break from the regular campus routine and encouraged students to participate in a seasonal activity while connecting with their peers.

Nursing major Daniela Ponce, a freshman, and theatre major Amanda Lima, a junior, showing their painted pumpkins.
Orange and white pumpkins next to paint lined up on the table.
Communication major and transfer student assistant Keira Droney, a senior, writing out instructions for the event on a whiteboard.
Students lined up to enjoy pizza and soda.
Nia the Guiding Eyes pup.

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