Empty Bowls Fundraiser Engages Campus in International Outreach

On November 12, students didn’t line up outside the Taylor World Outreach (TWO) office for a concert or student life event. They lined up for a bowl.  

These ceramic pieces were the focal point of Empty Bowls, an annual fundraising event that combines art, community, and global mission.  

“It’s crazy because people line up hours early just for a bowl,” senior World Opportunities Intern Lily Gerry said. “It’s become a really special tradition at Taylor.” 

In addition to the art pieces, students cook a variety of soups and donate them to the fundraiser. 

Student Leadership in Action 

Gerry has been involved with TWO since her freshman year and organized this year's event along with a group of students and volunteers. She oversaw the coordination of bowls and soups and ensured that the evening ran smoothly. 

“The actual day is so fun because of the students and faculty who come,” Gerry said. “Everyone is so excited to be a part of it.” 

Empty Bowls provides an opportunity for students and community members who are not directly involved in international work to engage with global missions in a tangible way.  

This year, Empty Bowls required $12 for a bowl, $5 for soup, or $15 for a bowl and soup combination. Even a $15 donation from a student could translate into $30 to $50 in South Africa, making each bowl more than just a keepsake. Last year, the event raised over $3,000. 

Crafted With Purpose 

Empty Bowls begins in the ceramics studio, where students from the Advanced Ceramics and Wheel Throwing classes create the bowls to be used in the event. Faculty members and community artists also contribute to the cause with various soups and bowls.  

At the beginning of this year's event, TWO was filled with beautifully glazed and unique bowls ready to be claimed by students and faculty. The generosity of both artists and students alike made the event possible.  

“It’s amazing because people don’t have to do this; they just want to,” Gerry said. “Every year, we end up selling out.” 

These bowls are more than simply decorative; they also carry purpose. This year, proceeds from the event supported Beautiful Gate, an organization that serves children in South Africa. 

Soup, Competition, and Connection 

The evening included a range of soups with accompanying recipe cards for attendees to take home. From classic favorites to original recipes, students sampled dishes while enjoying the energy of the crowd. A friendly competition among the cooks added to the excitement, as judges picked a winner. 

Attendee senior Claire Pschigoda found that the event further brought to life the meaning of servant-leadership. 

“I saw professors, children of professors, and so many students there,” Pschigoda said. “It showed me how many people on campus truly care, and it was exciting to see all generations supporting such a great cause.” 

The 2025 Empty Bowls event gave students and faculty an opportunity to come together in celebration of creativity, generosity, and mission-mindedness. It was a mid-semester reminder that even simple acts, like donating a bowl or sharing a meal, can carry a lasting global impact.