Since its origins as "Hobo Days" in 1913, Buenafication Day has become a beloved tradition at BVU. Originally a relaxed and unstructured day of spirits, games, and festivities, it has evolved into a serious undertaking of civic responsibility at its most enjoyable.

In its most recognizable form, Buenafication Day has been an annual event since approximately 1980, when Student Senate and the administration arranged a weekday when classes were closed and students were instead given the opportunity to beautify (or "buenafy") the campus. Students were roused in the morning with banging pots and pans and met at the stadium for an announcement of on-campus service opportunities in the morning, and the evening was filled with entertainment.

Today, Buenafication Day is led by a committee of various students and administrators and is co-sponsored by the Office of Community Engagement, the Student Activities Board, Residence Life, and Student Senate. Students serve their community either by doing work on Buena Vista's campus, or going out into the community to clean buildings and grounds. The afternoon involves "BVU Against Hunger," where students participate in a service project based on meeting a community need. There is also, of course, the traditional evening entertainment, and smiling faces can be seen all over the community and students have fun during this day of service.

Last year, Beavers near and far completed service projects in more than 10 states and on campus. Our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and Beaver family members remain committed to Education for Service.