The 28th Annual UAHT Community Fish Fry raised over $10,000 last night to support the UAHT Foundation which provides scholarships for students. Cars were lined up all the way around Hempstead Hall with people eager to hand over their tickets and grab a scrumptious fish dinner cooked by the Lions Club. Over 540 people were served plates featuring fried catfish, Tyson chicken, french fries, and golden brown hushpuppies. Anna Powell, Executive Director of the UAHT Foundation, praised the hard work and diligence of the community partners who help make the fish fry so triumphant each year. “This fundraiser is underwritten completely by sponsors and would not be successful without them and the support of the Hope Lions Club. For 28 years the community has supported this event and I am proud to have the privilege to continue the tradition,” said Powell. Hope Lions Club Vice President Janet Choate shared with SWARK.Today the Lions Club’s sincere dedication for this event. Choate said, “Our motto is ‘we serve,’ and any event which serves our community, we want to be a part of that.” 

The success of last night’s fish fry was evident in the amount of money raised for scholarships and the number of people who came to support the cause. However, the success could also be measured in other ways: the sound of laughter and chatter in the air, the distinct smell of good food wafting over the whole campus, and the sight of hugs given when a volunteer handed a plate to a friend or family member. All of these are proof of the symbiotic relationship between UAHT and the community in the effort to support these students’ goals and dreams. Numerous volunteers were present, and whether they were working the fryer, filling containers, or handing out meals, each and every person had a smile. True success doesn't get any better than that.