NACOGDOCHES, Texas –– Stephen F. Austin State University’s Police Department will host a National Night Out celebration from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 4, at the turnaround in Parking Lot 3, located in front of the Lehmann Chemistry Building and Kennedy Auditorium on SFA’s campus. 

Begun in 1984, National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships between police departments and community members in an effort to build neighborhood camaraderie. Most events take place on the first Tuesday of July, while Texas and other select areas opt to celebrate on the first Tuesday in October.

“In recent years, there has been a rise in distrust toward law enforcement,” said Ian McDonald, SFA patrol corporal and community relations officer. “UPD strives to build a strong bond with the SFA community, including students, staff and faculty, as well as residents of Nacogdoches. Events like this help promote the idea that we really are here to help and care about the holistic well-being of all our community members.”

The event is free and open to the public. Hot dogs, chips, sweets and drinks will be served; an inflatable bounce house will be on-site; and games, such as corn hole and washers, will be available.

For more information, contact UPD at (936) 468-2608 or updemail@sfasu.edu.