To brighten up the approaching holiday season, ULM held their annual Christmas-tree lighting ceremony at 5 p.m. Tuesday in the Quad.
The Wind Ensemble opened the ceremony with three festive pieces, which were followed by a welcoming address from Brooke Dugas, president of the Student Government Association (SGA.)
SGA Vice-President Hunter Vanderberg led the invocation, followed by a rendition of “Mary, Did You Know?” by SGA Secretary Calvin Stafford.
The English Studies Society was announced as the winner of the ULM Christmas Card Contest, and the SGA presented a $500 donation to the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home.
University President Nick Bruno spoke of the holiday celebration, saying it was “such a privilege to showcase our talent.” He was assisted in flipping the switch on ULM’s wide array of lights by a child attending the ceremony. After the crowd helped count it down, the quad was illuminated by the twinkling lights of the various trees in the quad, as well as the bell tower of the library.
Students joined the choir in singing traditional Christmas carols, such as “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing“ as the Quad began to glow with the flames of candles. According to senior Ciera Paul, the candle lighting lead by ULM’s ROTC, was her favorite part.
“Strangers turn to each other and pass on the light with the warmest smile ever. It really puts you in a great place and gets you in the Christmas spirit,” Paul said.
Decked in holiday attire, the Hawkline performed a Rockette-inspired routine.
The Concert Choir, University Chorale, Interdenominational Ensemble and Wind Ensemble entertained those in attendance with various pieces that captured the spirit of the holiday season.
Brandon Craven, a senior who performed with the Concert Choir, said, “This is my last Christmas tree lighting ceremony as part of the choir. I always enjoy doing this even though its cold,” he said. “It is a bittersweet moment for me. I love seeing the lights in Quad every year and it makes for a beautiful edition to our school.”
