The college's Zoo and Aquarium Science Club showed animals to nearly 100 students in the conference center that focused around the theme of "A Place to Call Home."

"Each program we do has an overall topic," said Jessie Culbertson, education committee chairwoman of the club. "Today is habitat. This strengthens what they're learning in class. Since they're not taking field trips to zoos, we're able to have them come to a local place and see real live animals."

The club started the "Animal Encounter" this past spring as part of its service learning projects initiative. The reason for working with the students is to create an educational and exciting experience at no charge.

Jill Simpson, faculty member of the zoo and aquarium science program, said the club wanted students to experience the animals because they don't have the opportunity to take trips to animal facilities. In the down economy, Simpson said it's hard for families to go to zoos to learn about the animals.