President Chris Gibson and his wife, Mary Jo, led the countdown from the steps of Siena Hall. At "one," they flipped the enormous lever, and when the trees on either side of Siena Hall ignited in Christmas colors, a new Siena tradition was born.
The second floor of Siena Hall was transformed into a holiday wonderland. There were Christmas decorations, food stations (thanks to Siena Fresh), and a cookie decorating room for the children.The Siena College Beverage Institute poured drinks and Santa Claus roamed the party handing out candy canes to good girls and boys. And all of that Christmas cheer preceded the main event.
"The Planning Committee wanted to celebrate Christmas with a new tradition that the entire community could enjoy," said Julia Zielinski '15, associate director for communications and public affairs and member of the planning committee. "Christmas at Siena had something for everyone — a year-end celebration for our faculty, staff and administration; cookie decorating and visits with Santa for kids; treats for our current students; and a tree lighting for everyone."
Students joined employees and their families for the tree lighting, and then stayed for the hot chocolate while supplies lasted (the turnout for the lighting exceeded all expectations). The Siena College Choirs also performed, and the trees weren't all that lit up. The planning committee – made up of representatives from eight campus departments – is already plotting next year's celebration.
What the guests were saying...
"Christmas at Siena was such a magical event for my boys and I (below, right)! They loved meeting Santa and Baloo, they were completely enamoured with the Christmas carols, and loved meeting so many of my colleagues. The cookie decorating and snacks were an added bonus. What a way to kick off this season – with so much love and joy among my colleagues who I am fortunate to call my friends, at a place that I call home."
April Backus '12, director of academic programs and events
"The Christmas at Siena was a great event, and I'm excited to see the efforts to establish some new traditions. It was fun to see Siena Hall transformed and great to have a big turnout."
George Hassel, Ph.D., teaching assistant professor of physics
Br. George Camacho, director of the Damietta Cross-Cultural Center, emceed the tree lighting and adorned his habit with glowing green Christmas lights for the occasion.
"On a brisk December Sunday evening, it was a pleasant surprise to engage so many colleagues, family members, and children at Siena Hall for the Christmas tree lighting extravaganza. The environment was so cheerful and warm with delicious treats and crafts for children and adults to enjoy. The mocktail hot toddies were my favorite.
The tree lighting outside in front of Siena Hall was a magical event that brought Rockefeller Center to Loudonville, a feat that could only be successfully orchestrated by creative genius Mike Lounello and his talented team. I was amazed at the enthusiastic crowd of Siena Saints, families and friends enjoying the hot chocolate and this special moment, graced by the talented voices of our student chorus. Dr. and Mrs. Gibson as our stand-in Radio City Rockettes were dazzling as they led the countdown and pushed the magic lever to light the trees.
A wholesome, fun tradition has begun. Blessings, everyone!"