The Collegio Pittsburg's student voice since 1916
Mitch Adams, Reporter
Chemistry, pre-med students, and the student organization Women in STEM at Pittsburg State held a chili cook-off to raise funds for Safehouse Crisis Center.
Three faculty judges were selected and tasted at least nine different chilis. Ratings were based on a set of guidelines and personal preferences. David Hogard, the newly appointed Director of Admissions, served as a guest judge.
“This was one of my first times being a judge for a chili cook-off, so I was honored to be asked,” said Hogard. “When I would take a sample, what I would think is ‘would I want another bowl of this chili’
Different varieties of chili were available for any person to purchase inside of Heckert-Wells Hall. Prices were $4 for a single bowl of chili, or $5 for a bowl of chili, a choice of dessert and a drink. All proceeds will be donated to the Safehouse Crisis Center. The center provides services to people in the community that have been affected by domestic violence.
“They welcome both men and women,” said biology student and Chemistry Club President Erik Jantz. “Some shelters are only women, so they are unique in that. They also allow pets.”
The reason this organization was chosen to receive the donation was because of the already formed relationship between members of the Chemistry Club and Safehouse Crisis Center.
“It’s an organization that I was familiar with being an RA (Resident Assistant),” said Jantz. “It’s one of the resources that we know to direct people to that situation. Another one of the officers knew someone that worked with them, and we felt like it would be a good cause to donate to.”
A mix of professors and students made chili pots, with two made by students.
“Well, we have a lot of very passionate professors that like to make chili,” Jantz said. “Every year they get very excited about bringing their chili to this event. Also, in the winter, it’s going to be somewhat cold outside usually…but people are cold, and they want to warm up, chili’s a good thing to sell.”
The winners of the competition were Dr. Khamis Siam in first place, students Elizabeth Barnes and Kayla Watts in second place and Dr. Peter Chung winning third place.
Over $300 was raised for the cause and will be donated to the Safehouse Organization.