Facebook pixel Wildwood BBQ Bash Highlights

Wildwood BBQ Bash Highlights

Thousands of guests descended upon the Wildwood campus of St. Louis Community College for the 15th annual Wildwood BBQ Bash, Sept. 27-30. Organized by the City of Wildwood and St. Louis Home Fires, this three-day event featured award-winning barbeque, dozens of vendors, live music and fireworks.

The Wildwood BBQ Bash moved to the Wildwood campus in 2017. Since then, STLCC has invested time and energy into the partnership.

“While this was my first Bash, I truly enjoyed seeing the crowds and the energy on campus,” said Carol Lupardus, Ph.D., president and chief academic officer of STLCC-Wildwood. “The Bash is a unique event, and we’re honored to be a part of it.”

One of the biggest benefits of hosting the Bash is that it provides the STLCC Foundation with an opportunity to raise money for student scholarships through the sale of paid event parking. Although the weather proved challenging, proceeds from the 2019 fundraiser totaled $8,567.75. Since the fundraiser began in 2017, the Foundation has raised more than $27,000 at the Wildwood BBQ Bash.

“We appreciate the community’s support of our fundraising efforts,” said Jo-Ann Digman, executive director of the STLCC Foundation. “These funds will have a positive impact on the Wildwood campus, and we look forward to awarding scholarships to our students.”

Along with the Foundation's fundraiser, STLCC had a strong presence at the Bash. More than 40 students and employees volunteered their time to promote the College at STLCC's booth. In addition, Associate Professor Eric Driskill and STLCC alumni provided sign language interpreting for the deaf community during concerts and announcements for the second consecutive year. Paul Huddleston, radio station supervisor, participated in his first Bash. Both he and students spent the weekend broadcasting live on STLCC-Florissant Valley’s radio station, The Wave, during concert breaks.

Gina Tarte, STLCC-Wildwood's marketing and communications coordinator, was also recognized for her contributions to the Bash. Frank Schmer, Bash organizer and owner of St. Louis Home Fires, presented Tarte with an award and thanked her for all she has done on behalf of the College to make the Bash a success.

Back to top