Article by: Bree Padgett, Contributing Writer

Get ready to rev your engines! The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and South Alabama Motorcycles (SAM) teamed up for the Spring Auto Show Fundraiser on Sunday, March 15, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Shelby Hall parking lot in Mobile. This exciting event was the biggest fundraiser of the year for SAE’s Formula team, Jag Racing, helping them fund the building and competition of their race cars. This year, partnering with SAM added a whole new level of excitement, bringing motorcycles into the mix and spreading the word about this growing student organization.

For students, families, and community members, the auto show delivered an afternoon full of entertainment. Attendees enjoyed music, delicious food, fun games, and the chance to see some incredible cars and motorcycles up close. Competitors vied for trophies in multiple categories, and the event also featured a design a car and racing suit contest, encouraging creativity and giving students a chance to leave their mark on the show. Cole Geisler, SAE’s Vice President and newly elected President, emphasized that the event is meant to be family-friendly, offering something fun for everyone, whether you’re a car enthusiast or just looking for an enjoyable afternoon.

Jeremy Kihana, Operations Manager, explained that being involved with SAE has given him the opportunity to combine his love for motorsports with hands-on leadership experience. From planning the fundraiser and coordinating with sponsors to organizing the logistics of the show itself, SAE members are learning how student organizations can collaborate with departments, local groups, and the community at large. “It’s exciting to get the public involved,” Kihana said. “Our fundraiser isn’t just about raising money, but it’s about connecting people with motorsports and giving students a real opportunity to get involved.”

The auto show is an important source of funding for SAE and Jag Racing, as every dollar raised goes directly to supporting the team’s projects and competition goals. Cole Geisler said the event also serves as a way to showcase the student organization to the wider campus and local community, helping build partnerships and awareness for future events. The team hopes to grow the show even more in the future, attracting other student organizations and departments to participate and making it a true community celebration.

Whether you were entering a car or motorcycle, checking out the vehicles, or getting creative in the design contest, the Spring Auto Show shaped up to be a fun and memorable event for everyone. Attendees marked their calendars, brought their friends and family, and came to rev the engines with SAE and SAM.

Front row (kneeling), left to right: Zoe Collier, Liam Smith, Cole Geisler, Demetrius Barnes, Noah Shaltain, Ben Alumna, Timothy Nelson, Alan Rockemore, Jonathan Doyle, Brandon, Jeremy Quijano, and Vladimir Reaves (not pictured)