The University will host its own Comic-Con, called SigmaCon, giving students a chance to attend Comic-Con without having to spend money or travel.
SigmaCon, which will take place Feb. 11, is being put on by the University’s International English Honor Society, Sigma Tau Delta.
“This will be a fun event for two reasons: gamers, cosplayers, comic nerds and other communities of individuals can come together and share his or her passion, and because there will be something going on all day for individuals to take part in,” Sigma Tau Delta’s international student adviser Timothy Leonard said.
The proceeds from SigmaCon will go toward funding students’ research as well as their own original works. The money will also aid Sigma Tau Delta students in attending future academic conferences and conventions.
It also gives students “the opportunity to find and apply for scholarships, grants and internships,” Leonard said.
A portion of funds raised will be go to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a foundation to promote early childhood literacy.
“Every $25 we raise helps one child receive 12 books a year, delivered directly to his or her house,” Leonard said. “Everyone in attendance will be supporting children’s literacy.”
There are plenty of local comic book stores supporting the event, including Baton Rouge’s Louisiana Double Play and New Orleans’ BSI Comics.
Merchandise from both stores will be at SigmaCon, along with free autographs from the author Victor Gischler of “Deadpool,” “Punisher” and “X-Men,” illustrator Roland Paris of “Amazing Spider-Man,” “Iron Man” and “Black Panther” and illustrator Derec Donovan of “Batman ’66” and “Cyborg.”
Prizes will be up for grabs at a variety of tournaments and activities.
“AMC TV show ‘Comic Book Men’ stars Jay and Silent Bob donated prizes, as well as Paper Hero Comics in Lake Charles,” Leonard said.
SigmaCon will take place from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Admission is $10 for students and $15 for the public.