The University of Florida (Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Florida Upsilon) chapter has hosted their Cajun Cookout for 24 years now, so tradition and carrying on the legacy of the brothers before them are the main things that inspire them to keep this event going strong. It has become an awesome way to connect with the UF community while giving back to important causes. This year, they decided to split the proceeds between the Collegiate Veterans Society, which supports student veterans on campus, and helping cover medical expenses for Sarah Holmes, a member of Kappa Delta who was seriously injured after being struck by a car on UF campus.
“It meant a lot to us to come together and support both an incredible organization and one of our fellow Gators during a really challenging time,” Harrison Wagner, Service and Philanthropy Chairman, said.
Planning for the 24th annual Cajun Cookout began in early December after Harrison was elected. The team kickstarted fundraising by reaching out to members’ families with sponsorship packages that included tickets, banner recognition, and custom t-shirts. Weekly committee meetings followed, where they reviewed audio from past planning sessions to evaluate what worked and what didn’t. With years of experience behind them, the process has become streamlined, allowing the chapter to focus on making the event as fun and impactful as possible.
At the start of the spring semester, the Cajun Committee visited local Gainesville businesses to secure sponsorships and donations. On campus, they promoted the event through sorority dinner announcements and the popular Cajun Queen contest, which drove social media engagement. Regular updates on the chapter’s Instagram also helped boost visibility and keep momentum going.
On event day, ticket, t-shirt, and raffle sales brought in about 10% of their total. Altogether, the team proudly raised $45,479.86 in support of the Collegiate Veterans Society and Sarah Holmes’s medical expenses.
“Every year, our goal with Cajun Cookout is to keep the traditions that have been a part of our chapter for nearly 25 years, while also building new ones that future generations can carry forward. Breaking the fundraising record this year was definitely exciting, and I hope it’s a milestone that keeps getting surpassed in the years to come,” Harrison shared.
