The university hosts an annual Tree Lighting Ceremony to celebrate the upcoming holidays.
Student Speakers
The Office of Student and Community Engagement (SCE) directed this year’s ceremony, with Clayton Hines, a sophomore member of SCE, starting off the first round of speeches with a quote from his favorite movie, “It’s a Wonderful Life”:
“All you can take with you is that which you’ve given away.”
It’s a motto found underneath George Bailey’s father’s picture. The quote leaves room for individuals to ponder how they can enact change within their community. Hines used the quote to encourage audience members to do the same.
“This holiday season, be the one who inspires change,” Hines said.
Cora Ams, a senior and student leader of Embrace, followed up with a prayer.
Kaufman’s regards
David L. Kaufman, the university’s president, shared his own welcome and introduction.
Despite the Christmas tree being of Christian traditions and origin, Kaufman said, “the tree is for everyone, regardless of [personal] faith and tradition.”
He wished for the tree to bring comfort to those who need it and for it to be “a beacon of light” to them. He also emphasized the need for community and shared what community brings to traditions like these.
Kaufman said, “As we enter this time of gratefulness, tonight is a perfect opportunity to pause [and] reflect on the difference we can make when we extend our reach beyond ourselves to those in need.”
President Kaufman concluded his speech with thoughts of love, kindness, hope and peace to fill the air as the season begins.
“I encourage you to carry the true meaning of Christmas in the spirit of generosity and compassion everywhere you go, in everything you do and in every way you can.” said Kaufman.
Community outreach and giving back
The SCE shared they have had multiple partnerships with local organizations to bring their mission of contributing to those in need to fruition. Their CHANGE advocates dedicated over 1,000 hours to supporting their community partners.
Through their AIM program, the SCE have worked with the Franklin County Juvenile Intervention Center and the National Marrow Donor Program (NMPD), formerly known as Be the Match, to encourage campus members to join the bone marrow registry.
“We believe that immersing ourselves in this community not only enriches our classroom learning, but also builds lasting partnerships between campus and community members,” said Kelsey Hagerty, a senior member of the SCE.
The SCE hopes to bring more people to join their cause in changing the world.
“Together, we are creating a ripple effect that has the power to impact, not just our community, but our nation and our world,” said Hines.
Santa Claus and #CapFam collab
