Texas Border Business
McALLEN, Texas – The Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen (HECM) is partnering with Visit South Padre Island to invite students, former students and community members to The Big Event, the largest one-day, student-run community service project in the nation, for a beach cleanup on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Since its introduction in 1982, The Big Event continues to be one of Texas A&M University’s most cherished traditions, welcoming tens of thousands of Aggies each spring to complete service projects to show appreciation to the surrounding community for their support.
Each year, the HECM brings the annual event to the Rio Grande Valley. In previous years, participants have planted trees at local parks, packaged dried goods at a food bank and volunteered at animal shelters. This year, the HECM is collaborating with Visit South Padre Island to invite Aggies to help protect our coastline through a beach cleanup.
“The Big Event represents the spirit of service that defines Texas A&M. We are proud to carry that tradition forward with Aggies in the Rio Grande Valley and be a force for good,” said Ernest Aliseda ’88, chief operating officer and associate vice president of the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen. “In previous years, up to 200 volunteers have participated in this community-focused event. It’s a great opportunity for Aggies to come together for a greater purpose, and this year, we’re looking forward to helping keep our beaches clean and protected from pollutants.”
Volunteers are encouraged to register at tx.ag/BigEventSPI. The Big Event will take place at Beach Access No. 8 (White Cap Circle), located at 2900 Gulf Blvd., South Padre Island, TX 78597.
Information source: Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen (HECM)
