CAMPUS: Dustyverse Involvement Week features Loteria Night
By Cynthia Torres
Assistant Editor
Published Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026
Texas A&M International University hosted its annual Loteria Night filled with games, prizes, and complimentary pizza. The Aug. 25 event was held in the Western Hemispheric Trade Center.
The turnout was overwhelming, reaching a maximum capacity of 150 with at least 40 students outside, waiting for a game spot to open.
Freshmen Alisandra Alfaro and Elsie Villanueva, seniors Samantha Muniz and Angie Aleman play Loteria in the Student Center Ballroom on Aug. 25, 2026, as part of Involvement Week.
“The event was very fun, but there was not enough space to accommodate everyone,” student Daniel Trapero said.
However, the event coordinators adapted quickly and extended the game night to those sitting outside the event room; Vice President of Student Engagement Rosalina Garcia offered the winners Dusty Dollars.
Normally held in the Student Center Ballroom, due to its large capacity, but that room was occupied and the second largest room was in WHTC. The event began with music playing as students chose their seats and sat with friends. Attendees were handed Loteria playing cards and played various games for more than two hours. Those who won also received prizes like various electronics and personal goods.
The winners were kept anonymous. As students played Loteria, they were served food and drinks such as Aramark pizza, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos with cheese, lemonade and water.
“The main goal of all events is student engagement, money comes from student tuition and this is a way to pay students back,” said Diego Collao, student development specialist. “The prizes are aimed to be college related such as laptops and folding chairs. This is also a way to build community with each other like after class for the college experience.”
The event ended after two hours. Students were able to create connections with one another as they played Loteria.
