Shippensburg University kicked off the holiday season with its annual tree lighting event, a festive tradition that brought together students, faculty and staff on last Wednesday evening.
The event started at the Martin House, the home of SU President Charles Patteron and his family. Patterson posed with his family for their annual holiday card alongside students, faculty, Big Red and Shippo the Hippo.
With the recent snowfall that rescheduled the event, representatives handed out Shippensburg gloves to help keep everyone warm. The snow added a special touch to the holiday card that the Patterson family will always remember.
After the picture, everyone was invited inside to tour the Christmas-decorated home, where First Lady Colleen Patterson transformed every room into a Christmas wonderland. Multiple trees lit up each room, paired with candles that had the entire house smelling like Christmas cookies, creating a cozy holiday atmosphere.
The festivities continued at Old Main, where hot chocolate, gingerbread cookies and chocolate chip cookies were waiting for the attendees. Before the ceremonial lighting of the holiday tree, Patterson addressed the crowd.
“This is a really special time for us,” said Patterson. “Colleen puts a lot of effort into decorating. The concept of the holiday tree is a joint concept we worked together to create.”
He continued, explaining why the event is so important not only for him, but for the community.
“It is time for us to come together and celebrate the transition as you go into finals, you go into your own holidays, whatever you celebrate,” said Patterson. “I hope that as you leave Ship, you take away great enthusiasm. Spend time with your family, enjoy your time during the holidays, and be kind in everything you do. That is a theme we really like to push — to be kind to your peers. Ship is a really great place, and we are proud to be here to serve alongside you.”
The president also reminded students of an upcoming finals week tradition: “Pancakes with the Pattersons,” an event at Reisner Dining Hall that will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 9, at 9 p.m. At the event, students are encouraged to take a study break and eat pancakes served by the president and first lady.
Patterson led the countdown to light the tree, and the crowd joined in, followed by cheers of excitement as the tree sparkled, officially marking the start of the holiday season.
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