On a crisp August morning, over 200 first-year and transfer students at St. Mary’s College of Maryland kicked off their college journey with purpose, diving into the heart of Southern Maryland through the revitalized “Hawks in the Community” orientation event. This signature program, reinstated after a hiatus, sent students across St. Mary’s County to volunteer, explore, and connect with the region they’ll call home. From harvesting potatoes to supporting local museums and businesses, the initiative wove service and civic engagement into the fabric of their welcome to campus.
At Historic Sotterley, a group of students rolled up their sleeves, harvesting nearly 300 pounds of potatoes for the Growing for Good program. This effort directly supports local food pantries, addressing food insecurity in Southern Maryland, where access to fresh produce can be limited. The students’ work bolstered a critical community resource, with the potatoes destined for distribution to families in need across the county. Meanwhile, others tended to community gardens at Lexington Manor Passive Park and the college’s Kate Farm, planting seeds—both literal and figurative—for sustainable local food systems.
Beyond agriculture, students spread out to diverse service sites. At Patuxent Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore in Lexington Park, they organized donations and assisted with operations, supporting affordable housing initiatives. Others explored the region’s rich history, volunteering at the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum and Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, where they helped preserve and share Southern Maryland’s cultural heritage. Along the St. Mary’s River waterfront, students partnered with the St. Mary’s River Watershed Association on an oyster restoration project, contributing to efforts to improve water quality and marine ecosystems in the Chesapeake Bay region.
Not all activities were hands-on labor. Some students immersed themselves in the cultural and economic life of the area, touring Historic St. Mary’s City or strolling through Leonardtown’s vibrant downtown. They sampled local flavors at Blue Wind Gourmet, Bubbles Bzzz, and Nena’s Oriental Store & Carry-out, getting a taste of the region’s culinary diversity. Others shopped at nearby businesses, stocking up on dorm essentials while supporting the local economy. These experiences introduced students to the unique character of St. Mary’s County, from its historic roots to its modern-day charm.
The return of Hawks in the Community signals more than a one-day event; it’s a reaffirmation of St. Mary’s College’s commitment to civic engagement. The program, a tradition paused in recent years, aligns with the college’s mission to foster learning through service and collaboration. By connecting students with organizations like Historic Sotterley, Patuxent Habitat for Humanity, and the St. Mary’s River Watershed Association, the initiative builds bridges between the campus and the broader community. It also introduces students to the region’s geography— from the rolling fields of Sotterley to the waterfront of Piney Point—and its people, from local farmers to small business owners.
For many students, the day was a first step in understanding Southern Maryland’s complex identity. St. Mary’s County, with a population of roughly 114,000, blends rural landscapes, naval history, and growing commercial hubs. The county’s economy leans heavily on agriculture, tourism, and the Patuxent River Naval Air Station, making community partnerships vital. Events like Hawks in the Community not only provide practical support but also cultivate a sense of belonging for students. “It’s amazing to see how much we can contribute in just one day,” one student shared during the potato harvest, echoing the enthusiasm felt across the group.
The program’s structure ensured every student found a way to engage. Whether they were digging in the dirt, sorting donations, or exploring Leonardtown’s art-filled streets, they gained hands-on experience and a deeper appreciation for their new home. The college’s emphasis on service reflects a broader trend in higher education, where institutions increasingly integrate community involvement into student life. At St. Mary’s, this tradition is deeply rooted, with past Hawks in the Community events leaving lasting impacts on both students and local organizations.
As the day wrapped up, students returned to campus with more than just muddy shoes or bags of local goodies. They carried a sense of purpose and connection, having contributed to causes that strengthen Southern Maryland. The potatoes they harvested will feed families, the oysters they helped plant will filter the river, and the businesses they supported will continue to thrive. For these new Hawks, the event was a powerful introduction to the values that define St. Mary’s College: service, collaboration, and a commitment to making a difference.
