What began as a simple conversation between two student leaders quickly evolved into a dynamic, community-building event inside the Lazer Garage, home to Onondaga Community College’s Automotive Technology program.
“I reached out to Becca and suggested our clubs collaborate,” said OCC Veterans Club President Dominick Kastner. “We realized we have a lot in common when it comes to our members.”
“We have a lot of students who are a bit older, balancing part-time jobs, and not always on campus connecting with others,” said Automotive Club President Becca Seargent. “We wanted to create a space where people could meet others with similar experiences and lifestyles.”
That shared vision came to life on April 15, when the OCC Veterans Club and Automotive Club joined forces for an hour of hands-on auto repair demonstrations, good food, and meaningful conversation. The event delivered a welcoming environment where students could learn new skills, build friendships, and expand their networks.
“We wanted to bring more awareness to both of our clubs, and we did,” said Kastner, a United States Army veteran who will complete his Liberal Arts & Sciences degree next month.
What started as a simple idea turned into a powerful reminder of what can happen when people come together with a shared purpose.
