AUSTIN, TX – October 6, 2025 – SafeHorns is proud to announce the 9th Annual West Campus National Night Out (NNO), taking place on Tuesday, October 7 from 6–8 PM in the University Co-op parking lot at 411 W 23rd St. SafeHorns’ largest educational outreach of the year, this free event provides UT students with opportunities to learn important safety tips and resources while building meaningful connections with neighbors, first responders, and safety partners.
“SafeHorns believes safety begins with connection,” said Joell McNew, President of SafeHorns. “National Night Out gives students a chance to meet safety partners, discover valuable resources, including mental health support, and leave with real tools to stay safe on and off campus.”
Students will have the chance to interact with safety partners including UT Dean of Students, Code Compliance/Austin 311, UTPD, UT Outpost, West Campus Ambassadors, Lock Arms for Safety, Sobering Center Austin, Longhorn EMS, SureWalk, Texas Healthyhorns, Safely, and UT Security & Emergency Management. The event also provides students with a space to learn about mental health resources and ways to support their own well-being.
Students can also check out tables hosted by campus groups like Texas Big Dippers, where they can learn more about ballroom dancing, and Texas Men’s Ice Hockey, where they can try their hand at shooting a puck on goal.
Music will feature UT student artist Martin Leon and the a cappella group, The Ransom Notes. The Ransom Notes will perform “Cough Syrup” by Young the Giant in memory of Harrison Brown, a beloved member of the group and gifted musician whose life was tragically cut short in 2017. This performance continues the tradition of honoring Harrison’s voice, spirit, and love for music.
Students are encouraged to participate in the Passport to Safety activity by visiting each partner table to collect stamps and enter raffle drawings for prizes. Food and giveaways will also be available, along with opportunities to connect with local sponsors UFCU and Venture19, who will host tables at the event. At the end of the night, UT Student Government President, Hudson Thomas, will announce the raffle winner of two tickets to see Seventeen, the internationally popular K-pop group, in President Jim Davis’ suite at the Moody Center on October 22.
The success of SafeHorns National Night Out is made possible through collaboration between parents, students, community partners, and sponsors who support student safety, mental health, and well-being in West Campus. SafeHorns will present the Community Impact Award to two prominent members of the community for their contributions to campus and community safety. The award, a glass flame in remembrance of Haruka Weiser, honors those whose work exemplifies the spirit of positive change and community support, just as Haruka’s family named her Bright Faith after her passing.
This year’s Community Impact Awards will be presented to University Co-op CEO Cheryl Phifer and Block by Block Regional Vice President Nick Haines, recognized on behalf of the West Campus Ambassadors. Both honorees have demonstrated outstanding commitment to creating a safer, more connected environment for students and community members in the West Campus area.
About SafeHorns
SafeHorns is a nonprofit, community advocacy group made up of concerned parents, students, and members of the Austin community dedicated to improving safety on and around the University of Texas campus. Founded in 2016 in response to the tragic loss of Haruka Weiser, SafeHorns is committed to improving safety for UT Austin students, faculty, staff, and visitors on and around campus through ongoing advocacy, education, mental health awareness, strategic planning, and implementation.
About National Night Out:
National Night Out (NNO) is an annual community-building event that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. In Texas, NNO is traditionally held on the first Tuesday in October. It is designed to heighten crime prevention awareness, generate support and participation in crime prevention efforts, and strengthen neighborhood spirit and community relationships.
Contact:
Joell McNew
President, SafeHorns
President@safehorns.org
Website: https://safehorns.org/
Social Media: @safehorns
Event photos for use: https://safehorns.org/safehorns-national-night-out/
