Jeff Hughes ’26, the proud owner of a 2019 Subaru Impreza Hatch, runs an automotive club on campus. Photos by Michel Fougères
Every other Thursday, Eckerd College junior Jeff Hughes hosts the Triton Automotive meet on campus. The student-led organization encourages those with an interest in or curiosity about cars to attend.
This club started in the spring of 2023 when Jeff was a first-year Triton and wanted to build a community of car enthusiasts on campus. As a passionate car lover, he had noticed a gap—the lack of an official group for Eckerd students who share an interest in automobiles.
The Triton Automotive club supports students’ automobile hobby on and close to campus, creating more opportunities for their passion to grow within the Eckerd sphere. The club’s mission is to bring together students who enjoy cars—whether for their performance, aesthetics or culture—and foster a tight-knit community on campus.
A variety of Japanese, German and American automobiles fill the parking lot at each outdoor meeting. Digital Media Production Specialist and Social Media Manager Penh Alicandro ’22 serves as a youthful but knowledgeable staff adviser. From performance-driven machines to those built for looks, all vehicles are welcome. More than 50 students are members of the Triton Automotive Club, but most biweekly meets consist of 10–15 enthusiasts.
The Impreza at sunset, photo courtesy of Jeff Hughes ’26
Jeff, a biology student from Denver, Colorado, describes the club as “an extension of the automotive hobby’s best aspects.”
The goal is not only to celebrate members’ passion for cars but also to build meaningful relationships.
He recruits students through word of mouth, references from friends and writing letters to the owners of unique cars on campus. He sees this technique as more personal and welcoming to prospective members.
Sophomore marine science student Bailey Mclean, from Dixon, Kentucky, says, “Being a member of this club has rewarded me with opportunities to connect with a large group of individuals and become exposed to various events in the automotive community near me.”
The club also emphasizes the importance of having its members connect off campus. In past years, attendees have visited a number of car shows around the state and in the Tampa Bay area—such as Rides by the River, Provisions Cars & Coffee, and Subiefest.
With a broader range in sight, the club is building connections with other universities and organizations to plan future collaborative events.
