Join the Movement: Empower Through Art and Action

This event isn’t just about leaving with a bowl; it’s about carrying away a symbol of hope and resilience. Every handmade piece tells a story of solidarity against hunger.

The Genesis of a Grassroots Initiative

A global phenomenon rooted in compassion, the Empty Bowls movement has found its way into the heart of George Mason University. At its core lies a simple yet profound concept: participants contribute a donation to receive a handcrafted ceramic bowl and a modest meal. The bowl, taken home as a memento, serves as a poignant reminder of those who go without sustenance daily.

The inception of this initiative at George Mason traces back to an unexpected source—a pottery studio. It was here that Maggie Daniels, a professor specializing in tourism and events management, and Lauren Long, executive director of Student Involvement, discovered shared passions beyond academia. Their mutual interest in pottery sparked a vision to channel creativity into meaningful action, culminating in the establishment of Empty Bowls at the university. This endeavor aims to bolster the Food and Housing Insecurity Fund managed by the Student Support and Advocacy Center (SSAC), addressing critical needs among students.

Battling Basic Needs Challenges Among Students

Statistics paint a grim picture, revealing that approximately one-third of college students endure some degree of food insecurity annually. Margaret Olszewska, director of SSAC, elucidates the breadth of this issue, which spans from inadequate nutrition due to financial constraints to missing meals entirely. Such deficiencies hinder academic performance and overall well-being, necessitating comprehensive support systems.

To combat these challenges, the Food and Housing Insecurity Fund offers diverse programs tailored to varying levels of need. Collaborations with entities like Sodexo facilitate the distribution of 2,400 meal swipes across campus dining halls and ensure access to the Patriot Pantry, benefiting over 800 unique users in 2024 alone. Additionally, partnerships with organizations such as the Capital Area Food Bank provide students with purchasing cards to procure perishable goods at local grocery stores. Furthermore, the fund plays a pivotal role in securing temporary housing solutions for students facing abrupt disruptions in their living situations.

A Zero-Cost Event Fueling Philanthropy

Determined to maximize the impact of their efforts, Daniels and Long meticulously planned a no-cost event. By enlisting generous contributions from various quarters, they ensured that all proceeds from ticket sales and a silent auction could be channeled directly into the fund. Hosted within the prestigious confines of the Center for the Arts, the event boasts an array of attractions including a delectable soup menu crafted by Sodexo, live music performances by Green and Gold Soul, and exclusive auction items donated by local vendors.

Jenita Thurston, district manager for Sodexo, highlights the alignment between Empty Bowls and the company’s mission to eradicate food insecurity while promoting sustainable food practices. Julie Thompson, executive director for the Center for the Arts, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the significance of such collaborations in nurturing a vibrant campus culture.

Celebrating Creativity Through Handmade Artistry

One of the most anticipated aspects of the evening is undoubtedly the selection of bowls. Each participant is gifted a uniquely crafted ceramic piece, generously donated by talented potters from Manassas Clay and other studios throughout Northern Virginia. These creations, ranging from diminutive teacups to expansive serving dishes adorned in a kaleidoscope of glazes and finishes, not only serve functional purposes but also embody artistic expression. Moreover, their compatibility with modern kitchen appliances ensures long-term utility.

Olszewska marvels at the authenticity of Empty Bowls, attributing its success to the genuine care and concern ingrained within the George Mason community. She views it as a testament to the unwavering dedication of faculty and staff members extending beyond professional boundaries to uplift students. Similarly, Long underscores the transformative power of innovation and collaboration inherent in George Mason’s ethos, celebrating the synergy that defines this remarkable institution.