Pepper and her handler, Sgt. Dreama Pullon, stood outside of King’s Corner on Wednesday from 12-2 p.m., offering free cookies to students and faculty on campus.
The first 200 students at the event received a maple bacon cookie—Pepper’s favorite—baked in the shape of a dog bone; they were freshly made by JeanClaude Seruga, executive chef at Sodexo.
The idea was presented by ETSU Administration as a way for Pepper to express her gratitude for everyone at the university, as she has been the emotional support animal here for almost three years; she will celebrate her third anniversary next month.
“It is mainly for the students, just to show Pepper’s appreciation for how much they love her,” said Sgt. Pullon. “She wanted to give something back to the students.”
Pepper greeted the students who came to the event, and she also ate many cookies herself. She seemed very happy that so many people were able to take a break from their studies to hang out and enjoy her favorite snack.
“I thought it was a great way to see all the options that King’s Corner serves,” said sophomore attendee Jordan Fanuele. “It was also great to see Pepper and try her favorite cookie. I met up with my friends at the event and we had a pretty good time!”
Inside the store, staff encouraged students to get a cookie and to try the other selections that they have to offer. King’s Corner has a variety of drinks and treats, including items from Nothing Bundt Cake, Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop, Peggy Ann Bakery and Doe River Roasters. It is located in University Commons under Carter Hall and is open on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more information on events like this, visit @pepper_etsu and @etsueats on Instagram.
