Heatin’ up the quad

The sixth annual “Heatin’ Up the Quad,” filled Tech’s main quad with students and community members to raise money and awareness for Tech’s Food Pantry.

The event, sponsored by the provost office, is part of the Tech Togetherness Initiative. Attendees judge a cooking competition.

“The goal of this initiative is to bridge the gaps and create stronger relationships between administrations, faculty, staff, and the Tech community at large,” Elizabeth Sofia, executive assistant to the provost, said.

Proceeds benefit the Tech Food Pantry located at Tech Village and feeds 25 people a week. The mission is to raise awareness of hidden hunger as well as feed students and those around the Tech community through donations, she said.

“This event was able to raise approximately $3,800 for the Food Pantry last year,” Sofia said.

This year, 35 department teams served chili, soup, chowder, wings and desserts. Sofia and her team have set a goal to have 900 guests attend, attempting to beat last year’s attendance of 881.

“Getting to talk to different people including students, faculty and visiting guest is my favorite part of this event,” Alice Camiti, a grad studies team member, said.

Contestants will be judged for their “Wings Up” table decorations this year as well. The office of the provost also is striving to decrease environmental impact at the event by using more recycle friendly products, Sofia said.

“The Office of Sustainability has been a wonderful supporter of the event. They have provided us with all the compostable bowls, plates and utensils,” she said. “They are also providing us with recyclable receptacles for other materials such as water bottles and aluminum cook trays.”