Turn that frown upside down and spread a little thanks throughout the Hocking College community. Join the Hocking College Foundation for the second annual Smile-A-Thon from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on February 27, 2014 in the Light Dining Hall.

The initiative, organized by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), is designed to increase student understanding of philanthropy and grow engagement on campus; nearly 100 educational institutions worldwide participate in the annual Student Engagement and Philanthropy Day.

During the event, students, faculty and staff have the opportunity to thank someone who has made a positive impact on their lives. They will be asked to donate one dollar to the emergency fund for students in need. Then participants may complete a "smiley face" card thanking someone who helped them succeed at Hocking College. The cards will hang on the wall of the Light Dining Hall and then will be delivered to the person being thanked.

"It is so important for students to begin making preparations to be philanthropic leaders within their community," Libby Villavicencio, Hocking College Foundation Executive Director, said. "On February 27, we want to celebrate the value of involvement by expressing gratitude to individuals who have supported them in their educational journey and throughout their lives."

During the two days before the event, the campus community is encouraged to sign a "Random Acts of Kindness" pledge.  Stop by the Light Dining Hall Tuesday and Wednesday, February 25 and 26, from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. to sign a banner, committing to making someone smile every day for a week. There will also be cupcakes and other treats prepared by the Culinary Arts and Baking students.

For any questions about the event, please contact Libby Villavicencio at villavicenciol@hocking.edu or 740.753.6088.