The University of Guam invited the public to its first Green Night to showcase how the College of Natural and Applied Science gives back to the island with science.

On April 20, UOG students, children of all ages and community members joined in celebrating 50 years of Land Grant Heritage. Visitors were encouraged to bring cash, use reusable bags and take a plant home.

Green Night was fun for the whole family. Visitors enjoyed food trucks, a live petting zoo, sunset yoga, garden tours, local produce and plant sales, free giveaways and more!

The college gathered its network of organizations and local businesses to host exciting presentations in the courtyard.

Luke Fernandez, the event coordinator, wanted Green Night to be an opportunity for the community to learn about the college and what it has to offer. 

He used his experience working for the College of Natural and Applied Science and as a UOG student to plan the special event.

“It is so important for others to recognize the trend of sustainable living and to build up our island’s agriculture community. Even if it takes coming to Green Night and learning from our different programs,“ Fernandez shared.

The theme was inspired by how the color green is associated with plants and sustainability. All of the activities and presentations aim to expand one’s perspective on science. 

Before sampling free honey or buying a papaya plant, each host explained how their organization or business helps the island.

Dr. Jeng-Heng Liu, an associate professor in the Animal Sciences program, hosted the farm animal petting zoo. He discussed the possibility of locally farming livestock to help Guam’s meat and poultry industry.

“With chickens and pigs, we can build a sustainable food industry to stop relying on imports and eating processed foods slowly.”

Liu’s presentation combined the topics of agriculture and health to encourage the public to support their local farmers and butchers. 

Student organizations like the Agriculture and Life Science Club represented how those interested in science can help the next generation improve the island.

Kiron Rios, president of the student club, hosted the cornhole game to win pepper plants. He shared how his club plans to teach students and the community about science. 

“We go on hikes to explore the island and learn how to transplant different species of trees. For the future, we are planning beautification projects on campus and around the island.”

Rios hopes to lead island beautification efforts by planting more trees and keeping villages clean. His club welcomes all students to join their adventures and give back to the community regardless of major.

Some visitors suggested that Green Night should be a college tradition. There are more ways for this unique event to grow.

“We look forward to including more student involvement, pushing sustainability to limit waste and expanding the number of visitors and agencies,” Fernandez explained.

Everyone who came out to support local and learn more about science contributed to Green Night’s success.

This article was written as an assignment for CO-226: Media Writing.