Washburn University “Cans” Emporia in Food Drive Competition

         Topeka, Kan. – Washburn University won the annual food drive competition against Emporia State University, known as “Can Emporia.” Washburn raised $23,275 to Emporia’s $17,139 in monetary and food donations. In Topeka, the majority of the proceeds are donated to Bods Feeding Bods (on the Washburn University campus) and Harvesters, with some canned goods also going to Project Topeka.

            “Each school likes to be able to claim bragging rights but, in the end, we all win because we come together to provide food for those in need in our communities,” said Dr. Eric Grospitch, vice president of student life for Washburn University. “At Washburn, we have student groups, faculty and Topeka partners, like USD 501, participate - all wanting to out-give our friends at Emporia. It’s the kind of competition we like to encourage.”

            It is tradition for the Washburn and Emporia State Student Governments to hold an annual food drive competition to benefit local food pantries. While the competition is affectionately known as “Can Emporia” on the Washburn University campus, it’s referred to as“Can the Bods” at Emporia State. The competition takes place during the month leading up to the Washburn vs. Emporia State football game, with the winner being announced during the game.

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