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History

The Big Event originated at Texas A&M University in 1982 from the ideas of Vice President of Student Government Association, Joe Nussbaum. Joe's vision was to thank the surrounding community for their support of the student population throughout the academic year through community service. In its first year, the Big Event consisted of six students cleaning a local cemetery. Over the years the Big Event gained momentum and support from the University and the student body. Currently the Big Event at Texas A&M completes about 1,100 jobs with over 10,000 student, faculty, and staff volunteers.

The Big Event at Virginia Tech was started in 2002. During its first year, with Christina McClung as Director, 60 jobs were completed by 475 students. The event has seen a steady growth in both the number of jobs completed and the number of student volunteers. In 2008, 3,500 students, faculty, and staff volunteers completed 453 jobs in the community. The Big Event at Virginia Tech continues to live up to its motto, "One Big Day. One Big Thanks."