Sherman, Texas -- Austin College's student organization AC Cares invites the public to observe World AIDS Day on November 21 at 4:30 p.m. in Mabee Hall of Wright Campus Center on campus. World AIDS Day, established in 1988, is actually December 1 during the College Thanksgiving Break so students have set an early event. 

The program focuses on AIDS awareness and includes musical performances, poetry reading, and an open mic for those who would like share.

At the 2018 service, faculty, staff, and students shared songs, readings, and personal thoughts.

AC Cares is co-sponsored by Dr. Saritha Bangara, assistant professor of public health and co-director of the Public Health Program, and Dr. Lisha Daniels-Storey, assistant professor of writing and director of Austin College’s Scarbrough Center for Writing. Student co-presidents are seniors Taqwa Armstrong of Houston, Texas, and Cecilia H. Yip of Colleyville, Texas. 

“Our officer board is slowly working to transition AC Cares into more of a public health interest group in order to include and recruit students who are passionate about a public health-focused endeavor to educate the campus about HIV and AIDS,” Yip said. “While keeping our focus on AIDS awareness, one of our goals is to successfully reach out to the community about other major public health issues.” 

Austin College, a private national liberal arts college located north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas, has earned a reputation for excellence in academic preparation, international study, pre-professional foundations, leadership development, committed faculty, and hands-on, adventurous learning opportunities. One of 40 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s influential book Colleges That Change Lives, Austin College boasts a welcoming community that embraces diversity and individuality, with more than 50 percent of students identifying as persons of color. The residential student body of approximately 1,300 students and more than 100 expert faculty members allow a 13:1 student-faculty ratio and personalized attention. This year, the campus recognizes 100 years of co-education and has had several opportunities to recognize the history of women and accomplishments of current alumnae. Austin College is related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA) and cultivates an inclusive atmosphere that supports students’ faith journeys regardless of religious tradition. Founded in 1849, the College is the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original name and charter.