Bake sales, often associated with school fundraisers, team building or community events, have long been a cornerstone of grassroots fundraising in American culture. While simple in execution—a table of homemade treats exchanged for a few dollars—the bake sale represents far more than just a sugar rush. It is a symbol of community collaboration, creativity and the sweet success of small efforts yielding big results. In an era where digital campaigns dominate fundraising strategies, the bake sale remains a nostalgic and effective tradition that continues to inspire connection and generosity, one brownie at a time.
NMU’s radiography program took on this tradition on Tuesday, April 8, from 10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Tabling in the Jamrich building, the department set up to raise money for their boards exam.
“The boards exam is $275 a person and just other general expenses,” said radiography student Kristin Skogman. “We are raising money for the class, and we have our own bank account that this all goes into.”
Bake sales are often student-led events, providing a unique opportunity for students to take ownership of a project from start to finish. Typically, the planning process begins with forming a committee or small group, where responsibilities are divided among participants: some focus on baking, others on advertising and a few manage the finances or logistics.
“For NMU’s radiography program, we are half clinical-based and then most of our learning and academic abilities are spent in the classroom,” said radiology student Maddie May. “So, every week we have a clinical day that is roughly 10-hour shifts at the hospital. We also participate working with technologists who are certified citizens who can take X-rays themselves.”
Healthcare students have a plethora of challenging coursework and demanding clinical hours. However, it’s important to have a balance between school and personal life. Connecting with the community through a bake sale is a great way to enjoy the company of classmates in a fun way.
“We have our own little lab that we practice in and move each other around. I think it’s really fun. It’s also very consistent, where you have to keep going over the same material for a very long time,” May said. “And then you get to apply that set of material at the hospital. And I think it’s very in sync with each other, and very overall a good working program.”
In a world full of high-tech fundraising platforms and virtual donation drives, the humble bake sale remains a timeless classic. With its sweet treats, cheerful atmosphere and hands-on student involvement, it turns fundraising into an experience that’s as meaningful as it is enjoyable. Beyond the cookies and cupcakes, bake sales serve as platforms for learning, leadership and community building.
If you missed out on this fun opportunity to snatch some sweet treats, make sure to keep an eye on the Hub for more bake sales. For more information on the radiography program, you can visit the School of Clinical Sciences website.
