By Nataly Elizondo
The holiday season has officially arrived at Sam Houston State University, and campus celebrated with our oldest and most beloved tradition – the Tree of Lights. This year marks the 104th year, making it the longest-running tradition in SHSU history. Even though it happens every year, the ceremony still brings the same excitement and joy, bringing our community together.
As the sun set, the plaza was filled with activities for everyone to enjoy. There was a walk-in snow globe for photos, a hot chocolate station with sweet treats, informational tables highlighting different holiday traditions from around the world, and even a mechanical reindeer rider, all of which added an interesting touch.
The night kicked off with the SHSU Choir singing “Deck the Halls.” Their voices filled the plaza and got everybody in the holiday spirit. After the opening song, our Homecoming Queen, Penelope Holden, and Homecoming King, Kevon Paire, welcomed everyone and helped lead the candle lighting.
With our glowing candles, we listened to the SHSU Chorale perform – they sounded incredible! Their energy made the ceremony feel even more special.
Following the Chorale’s performance, the Orange Pride Dance Team took center stage with lively performances to classic Christmas songs. Their cheerful energy, combined with Sammy the Bearkat’s presence, brought even more school spirit to the night and had the crowd smiling and clapping along.
After the performances, Student Government Association President Lily Temple-Dozier shared heartfelt words about the meaning behind the ornaments and why this tradition matters so much to SHSU.
Her remarks were followed by Monte Robinson, director of the Good Shepherd Mission, who expressed his gratitude for the SHSU community’s generous donations through the annual canned food drive. Throughout November, students donated canned goods in exchange for Tree of Lights shirts, with all donations going to support the Good Shepherd Mission – a local organization that provides meals, shelter, clothing, and support services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness and poverty in the Huntsville community.
President White wrapped up the ceremony by thanking students for their honor, pride, and dedication to SHSU traditions. She closed with a quote: “Cheerfulness that never frowns bravely maintains its beauty” – words that captured the spirit of the night perfectly.
To finish, student organizations came together to hang their ornaments on the tree. With this being the last Tree of Lights for some and the first for others, it was a bittersweet moment filled with pride and nostalgia.
Both the LEAP Ambassadors and the Pre-Law Society proudly added theirs, and everyone gathered around to take pictures and soak in the moment. With every ornament added, the 104th Tree of Lights ceremony continues to grow in meaning and remains a cherished part of who we are as Bearkats!
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