Road Trip Ready

by Ava Swearingen, student writer

Since 2016, Harding students have been offered free safety inspections for their vehicles before heading home for Thanksgiving break. Back in 2016, Brenda and Steve Breezeel set up this campus-wide service after realizing the need. 

Through their time working on campus, Brenda in the Brackett Library and Steve in the history and political science department, they had multiple students talk to them about needing vehicle maintenance. The Breezeels were quick to invite students to their home for a free check, but they eventually realized a bigger population on campus might benefit from a service like this. So, they set up the first vehicle check event open to all students on campus. Now, the event typically has several volunteers consisting of faculty, staff and their spouses. Working through an average of 200 cars each year, these volunteers set up at six stations, where they check tire pressure and oil and coolant levels. Volunteers will also occasionally check lights or brake fluid if they notice a deficiency. 

Vehicle checks are offered the week before Thanksgiving break. At this point in the semester, students have been on campus for a few months, and many of them likely haven’t had their vehicles maintenanced in that time. By checking right before a break, students are better equipped for their potentially long drives home. 

This year’s vehicle checks are scheduled for Nov. 17 and 18, from 5 to 7 p.m. Students are invited to bring their vehicles to the west parking lot of the Ganus Activities Complex, where they will be directed to a station. This event is just one of the many ways the Harding community provides for its students and cares for their safety. Tell your student to take advantage of this opportunity before they head home for Thanksgiving break this year!