TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — An Indiana State University tradition that’s been happening for decades continued for a group of new students on Monday.

It was the university’s annual Donaghy Day, an annual day of service in which new ISU students do various community service projects throughout the area the day before classes start.

The students helped out at 30 different locations around the Wabash Valley. A group of about 500 students helped to serve their community by packaging meals that will go to Vigo County School students who may not have much food at home.

Organizers say the ISU students’ faces light up when they hear about the difference they’re making.

“I love that Indiana State does this because it’s something unique that we do, that our institution says we want to show and instill this passion for community service in students right when they enter ISU, so tomorrow they go to classes, the day before, they’re doing community service,” said Alex Whitmore, Assistant Director of ISU’s Center for Community Engagement.

Whitmore also said ISU is grateful for the community partners that offered volunteer opportunities and that he hopes all the new ISU students have a great school year.