Project Pumpkin: Campus Tradition Shines Through the Storm
Written by: Kyrie Ordanza (’28)
On the afternoon of October 28, 2025, Room 401 in the Benson University Center underwent a dramatic transformation. On one side, the room became an underwater wonderland teeming with jellyfish, bubbles, and beachballs. The other turned into a vibrant carnival, draped in classic red-and-white stripes and buzzing with the energy of a day spent on the boardwalk.
Outside, the weather was less than festive. Heavy rain forced a last-minute relocation of outdoor festivities, but the storm couldn’t dampen the spirit of the event. Inside, hundreds of local children dressed in costume were met by over 400 student volunteers and representatives from 75 campus organizations.
Volunteers handed out candy, guided groups of trick-or-treaters, and embraced a Wake Forest tradition that spans more than 35 years. Each floor of Benson was filled with laughter, a clear indicator of Project Pumpkin’s success. Despite the weather-related challenges, the event raised $15,129 for the WFU Freedom School, marking the highest fundraising total in Project Pumpkin’s history.
I’m deeply grateful for the fundraising efforts of Project Pumpkin leadership. This gift will help support the purchase of the curriculum materials for our students. Freedom School allows students to stay engaged with reading over the summer and helps prevent summer slide.
– Dr. Dani Parker-Moore, Executive Director of the WFU Freedom School
Student Leadership in Action
Student leadership is at the heart of Project Pumpkin. Many of the event’s leaders first get involved as volunteers, then move into committee roles, and eventually, a select few serve as directors. These students commit countless hours to planning and executing this beloved campus tradition.
For the External Director Derek Matthews (‘26), Project Pumpkin has been part of his life long before becoming a Demon Deacon. His sister, Sidney Matthews (‘21), previously served in Project Pumpkin leadership and now works as an elementary school teacher.
Matthews oversaw logistics and helped plan and run multiple off-campus events at local community centers, partnering with the Winston-Salem Recreation and Parks department alongside more than 30 WFU volunteers. Activities included bowling, basketball, and face painting – connecting students with the broader Winston-Salem community through joyful, hands-on engagement.
Working with the off-campus organizations was incredibly smooth. The Recreation and Parks staff – Solomon, Sean, and Jessica were amazing and made the entire process seamless. – Derek Matthews
Bringing Project Pumpkin to Life
Internal Director Grayson Weavil (‘26) managed transportation, agency coordination, and volunteer teams. She also helped organize “plunge” events – educational outreach visits where volunteers led Halloween-themed crafts or reading activities at local schools.
We send volunteers to local agencies to do Halloween crafts or readings, and get children excited about learning. This year, we visited Inspiring Hope, a local after-school program, where kids made paper plate Halloween faces and got very creative with their designs
– Grayson Weavil
On the day of the on-campus event, Weavil navigated unexpected challenges—from rain delays and rerouting buses to redirecting dozens of organizations indoors—while keeping her focus on creating a meaningful experience for the children. Reflecting on the day, Weavil shared that Project Pumpkin “confirmed for me that I have a deep sense of purpose in mentoring the next generation.”
Finding Purpose Through Leadership
Senior Director Jenna Ryan (‘26) oversaw the coordination and execution of all Project Pumpkin events, both on and off campus. Her role required close collaboration with University staff and responsibility for managing the event’s budget.
I learned practical financial skills through creating and proposing a budget to the Student Activity Fee committee and coordinating logistics for hundreds of elementary-age students and college volunteers. Leading a team of more than ten people has strengthened my ability to communicate clearly, delegate effectively, and foster collaboration toward a shared goal.
– Jenna Ryan
Her experience highlights how student leadership at Wake Forest builds transferable professional skills while offering deep personal fulfillment. As Ryan reflected, watching the event come alive “reaffirmed why Project Pumpkin is so special to me—it allows me to give back to a community that has given me so much.”
Looking Ahead
Project Pumpkin is already in strong hands for the year ahead. As Junior Director Lauren Brown (’27) prepares to step into the Senior Director role, she reflected on what continues to define the event year after year: “Every year has its own unique quality, but one thing always remains the same—the pure joy that radiates from the children of our community.”
We can’t wait to see what Project Pumpkin 2027 has in store! Follow the team on Instagram to stay up to date as they begin planning another year of creativity, connection, and community impact.