University of North Texas

More than 17 groups and individuals participated in the University Union's annual Pumpkin Carving Contest Oct. 28. 

Some of the submissions took up to 12 hours of work to complete and designs and techniques ranged from painting and intricate carving to even some electronic work to bring these creative designs to reality.

The event benefitted the State Employee Charitable Campaign, SECC, where more than $170 was raised from change used to vote for fan favorites. “The competition has grown steadily every year, with more and more organizations taking the opportunity to show off their creativity and get into the holiday spirit while benefiting a great cause,” said Stefanie Ritz, assistant director of assessment, marketing and planning.

“This event is a fun way to celebrate the fall season and bring the community together, whether it’s by carving a pumpkin or checking out the different ideas, the union invites people to share and enjoy the differences among our campus community,” said Zane Reif, director of activities and the union.

Carol Wilkinson, Design Works manager, and the staff at Design Works oversaw the event which marked the unofficial start of the countdown to the Halloween holiday.

Winners include:

• Most Traditional Pumpkin – “Black Cat” by Mayra Nunez of Student Legal Services
• Most Artistic Pumpkin – “Gimme’ Some Sugar, Baby!” by James Larabee
• Most UNT Spirit – “Mean Green Scrappy” by Amy Fuller of Center for Student Rights and Responsibilities
• Best UNT Department – “1337.0.14NT3RN” by Union Technical
• Best Concept and Best All Around – “Scrappy Wins World Series” by Christine Bloczynski of Orientation and Transition Programs
• Find a gallery of the submissions and winners at the University Union's facebook page.

The Student Government Association will host a student forum at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 1 in Wooten Hall, Room 322, to discuss the Master Plan Project for the University Union. Faculty and staff also are invited to attend.

• Learn more about plans to build a new University Union.

- Steven Meehin, marketing specialist, University Union