Those looking for an opportunity to give back to the community, while also finding good deals on local food and products, can take part in a silent auction on campus Thursday.

The Student Executive Council for the College of Communication and Information Sciences will hold its 18th annual silent auction Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the rotunda of Reese Phifer Hall.

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The auction is open to students, faculty and members of the community.

Katerina Peña, a senior majoring in advertising and the president of the SEC, said the motto for the organization is “students helping other students” and the money raised from the auction will be given directly to students through book scholarships presented in the fall through C&IS.

“Usually they don’t know that they’re coming,” Peña said. “It’s always really great. And when the people receive the scholarships, it’s rewarding to know that your fellow students helped you get this money.”

All of the merchandise and products up for bidding at the silent auction are donated by local businesses or members of the community. Peña said she tries to push the idea that the silent auction not only benefits students, but also helps businesses get their names out in the community.

Christine Covell, a senior majoring in public relations and the communication specialist for SEC, said she’s seen a wide range of items donated for the auction.

“It’s really cool to see what different ways businesses can give back in their own styles,” Covell said.

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Covell said the competitiveness of the auction can bring out a different side of people.

“Those who are usually quiet and reserved can get quite competitive when it comes down to the wire,” Covell said.

Peña said a new component of the auction this year is the opportunity for Creative Co-op students to donate their works to be sold, Peña said.

“Not only is it helping the community and also getting book scholarships, but I also wanted to promote students,” she said. “To have your art on someone’s wall, that’s awesome.”

Promoting the students’ art and products is what she is most looking forward to about the event this year, even if all the student pieces are not sold.

“Even if someone walks by and they can’t buy it, if the business cards are there and someone takes it, I hope that helps,” she said. “I’m definitely really excited about that.”

In addition to the student pieces, the auction will include items from several local businesses, including The Locker Room, Glory Bound and Black Warrior River Brewing Company.

Unlike a traditional auction, bids are not placed out loud but written down for each product. Covell said bidders do not have to be present to win their bid. Winners will be notified after the auction at 3 p.m.

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