By: Maddie Schmidt
Children chattered and dogs barked as Southern students and Collegedale community members gathered around the 35-foot Christmas tree in the center of campus, anticipating the countdown for the tree to come alive.
People began gathering around 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 2, on the front lawn of Wright Hall, awaiting the annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. The Collegedale Academy High School Band performed seasonal favorites in the chilly night air. Many attendees brought their families and pets to enjoy the festivities.
In an interview with the Accent, Ellie Baltodano, mother of senior business and public relations major Elyse Baltodano, said she enjoyed kicking off the holiday season at this event.
“I’m ready for Christmas and to bring on the holiday spirit,” Baltodano said, “and what better way to do that than at Southern where they tie in spirituality as well?”
Around 6:30 p.m., Joseph Khabbaz, chaplain and vice president for spiritual life, began the event with a welcoming speech, followed by Senior Vice President Robert Young, who presented an award of recognition to the Samaritan Center for its impact on the community. Wayne Brown, director of partner engagement, and Franklin Farrow, chair of the center’s Board of Directors, received the award on behalf of the organization.
Ron Halverson, pastor of the Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists located on Southern’s campus, then read the Christmas story from Luke, recounting the events of Jesus’ birth. Following Halverson, Student Association President John Hargy led the countdown to the lighting of the tree.
After the countdown, the tree sparkled and performances from six music groups followed on the promenade, where refreshments including hot chocolate, cider and donuts were provided.
Performing Christmas music throughout the evening were members of Collegedale Academy’s orchestra and choir, Southern’s Steel Band, Ringtones and Jazz Ensemble, as well as Deep 6, a community band.
Deep 6 consists of six Southern alumni, according to Brian Dickinson, a member of the band. It was not the first time the group had performed at the tree lighting; Dickinson referred to those in the group as “seasoned veterans.” Ron Johnson, a retired Southern math professor and another band member, arranges pieces for Deep 6. Dickinson explained that the ensemble includes two French horns, two trombones, a euphonium and a tuba, which he said creates a unique and mellow sound.
Many enjoyed the music. Allyson Stirewalt, nursing and pre-licensure major, as well as a singer with the Steel Band, said the music was her favorite part of the night.
Professor Ken Parsons, who organized the performances, said music helps build connections and strengthen communities.
“There’s scientific research showing that listening to music together as a group engenders feelings of camaraderie and goodwill,” Parsons explained. “Events such as the tree lighting and more formal concerts can play a significant part in building community.”
Many students enjoyed the event; James Templeton, senior graphic design major and member of Southern’s Bell Choir, said that it served as a break from the pressures of the last weeks of the semester.
“It definitely brings good holiday cheer when we’re stressed for finals,” said Templeton.
Jaziel Soto, junior accounting major, said the event was an opportunity to connect with friends and escape his worries.
“It was amazing—being with my friends and enjoying this moment in the midst of a few weeks that are really busy and stressful,” Soto said. “It is a gift from God that I have good friends and that we are able to enjoy a little bit of ‘de-stressing’ in our lives.”
Attendees lingered until around 8:30 p.m., gradually making their way back to their dorms, apartments and houses
