The Special Academic Programs (SAP) office at North Lake campus is holding monthly social hours to help students connect and relax. The SAP department supports multiple honor societies across the district. The first event took place Oct. 29.

Ariel Velez, special academic programs assistant, said the goal is to offer students a welcoming space instead of hosting a formal recruiting event.

Students often stop by the office to study, rest, use computers, or grab a snack. The social hour added board games, coloring pages, cookies and lemonade to make the atmosphere fun.

SAP plans to host monthly gatherings, with the next social hour set for Nov. 21. It will feature Thanksgiving-themed activities, such as fall coloring pages and possibly rock painting.

“We just want students to feel comfortable and supported here,” Velez said.

The SAP office assists students who qualify for honor societies. The largest program they manage is Phi Theta Kappa. Staff members also help with event organization and communication among volunteers across multiple Dallas College campuses.