Central Texas College Hosts Thrilling Haunted House and Fall Festival
Central Texas College (CTC) in Killeen, Texas, welcomed the Halloween season with its annual Haunted House and Fall Festival, which took place on the evening of October 27, 2023. The event attracted students, staff, and local community members, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with Halloween festivities.
The CTC Planetarium was transformed into a lively hub, featuring the popular haunted attraction, Trunk or Treat, and various student-run games. This long-standing tradition at CTC is organized by student clubs and departments, showcasing the college’s commitment to community engagement and student development.
Dr. Chasity Clemons, a CTC professor and alumna, expressed her excitement about the event, stating, “This is my 17th haunted house working for Central Texas College. I feel grateful to have been trusted with such a wonderful opportunity to carry on the legacy of the Net Impact haunted house.” She emphasized the importance of maintaining the high standards set by previous leaders, noting the event’s reputation for being “scary good.”
The festival served as a practical learning experience for CTC students. Dr. Clemons highlighted that it provides valuable opportunities for students to develop skills in event planning, teamwork, and financial management. “It gives my students an opportunity to learn how to set up and execute events, do cost analysis, and understand the financial side of putting something like this together,” she added.
Several clubs and organizations participated, including Net Impact, Student Government, Student Nursing Association, Dance Team, Math and Engineering Club, and the Anime Club. Additionally, departments such as Veterans Services, Financial Aid, Housing, and the library contributed by hosting booths and trunks for local families.
The collaborative spirit of the event was evident in the comments from graphic design professor Bobbi Waddle, who noted, “We partnered with our student clubs and organizations to reach out to the community and let everyone know we’re here. Every year it gets bigger and bigger. It’s exciting to see families come out, explore the campus, and see what CTC has to offer.”
The festival continues through the weekend, with the CTC Planetarium set to offer laser shows and a special screening of “Lights Out” at 21:00 on October 28. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and prepare for a night filled with Halloween fun, treats, and campus spirit.
Overall, the Haunted House and Fall Festival not only provided entertainment but also fostered a sense of community, highlighting the integral role of Central Texas College in Killeen.
