On Wednesday, Nov. 19, Waynesburg University hosted its Light Up Night and Christmas Village in Johnson Commons, organized by the Student Activities Board (SAB).
To kick off the festive evening, faculty and staff continued the longstanding tradition of serving the University’s Thanksgiving meal to students in Benedum Dining Hall, while President Douglas Lee welcomed the campus community at the door. Students were encouraged to dine together, with some professors even inviting their students to share in a “class meal.”
Outside in Johnson Commons, surrounded by small fire pits and string lights, the Symphonic Band and Lamplighters Choir performed traditional Christmas songs and conducted carolers, as the recently decorated Christmas tree stood in the background.
Around the Commons, vendors set up booths selling handmade Christmas items. Among the vendors were individual students and representatives from SAB and the University’s eHIVE, selling hot chocolate, branded Waynesburg gear and custom wares.
Anthony Jarrell, University chaplain, read the story of Jesus’ birth and offered a few remarks about the season, before leading the group in prayer. President Lee then spoke to and expressed his gratitude for the campus community, before lighting the tree.
“I really live for those special moments,” Jarrell said. “You can't necessarily predict it. Sometimes you can tangibly experience God's presence in a community of the people…. where you see people putting aside whatever the next ‘to do’ is and they're just present with each other and they're celebrating something; that to me is so special.”
Consistently ranked a best value school, Waynesburg University’s Strategy for the 21st Century affirms its commitment to developing an entrepreneurial mindset and ethical leadership skills for all students. Rooted in its mission of faith, learning and service, the private, Christian University is located on a traditional campus in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania.
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