On Halloween, Davenport University opened the doors of its freshman housing unit, South Hall, for its annual Trick-or-Treat Through the Dorms event. Local families and Davenport faculty and staff were invited to join in on the fun as first-year students decorated their doors and handed out candy to trick-or-treaters.

The event has become a favorite tradition at Davenport, giving students a chance to connect with the community while celebrating the Halloween spirit. From cobweb-covered doors to glowing pumpkins and a few jump scares, South Hall was full of laughter, costumes and candy.

Natalie Wagner, director of student life at Davenport, shared that this tradition dates back to at least 2009. “It was my first year at Davenport and the first year South Hall opened,” she said. “It started as a fun way for students, employees and the community to bring their kids to experience trick-or-treating on campus. Students really get into it by dressing up, decorating their doors, and passing out candy.” 

Alan Harris, residence life coordinator at Davenport, said the event brings people together in a fun way. “It’s a great event for the community and for Davenport staff and their families,” he said. “We get great feedback from students and staff who say they feel a strong sense of community while walking through the halls. Participation from students is usually good, and once they see the little kids in costumes, even more join the action.”

This year’s event included fun games and an obstacle course for the kids in South Hall’s social lounges. Trick-or-treaters were also asked to vote for their favorite decorated door, with prizes going to the top three. 

Taking part in the event were Neil Shepard, professor, and his daughter, Catherine, who was dressed as a pumpkin. She couldn’t hide her excitement when she said, “My favorite part of Halloween is getting candy. Maybe this year I’ll share my candy… maybe!”

Events like this help students feel more connected.As the night came to an end, South Hall was full of laughter and candy wrappers, a sure sign of another fun and successful Halloween at Davenport University.