More than 140 Tusculum students, staff, faculty and friends participated in the first annual Sit Lux Celebration at Tusculum College on December 1, sharing in activities such as tree trimming, ornament making and dessert devouring to celebrate the beginning of the Christmas season.
The event was held at the Niswonger Commons and later moved with the first Christmas march of the Tusculum College Lantern Bearers to Annie Hogan Byrd Fine Arts Building for the official lighting of the Grand Christmas Tree. Along the route guests were treated to holiday music from both Tusculum’s own Coach Mike Joy and participants singing carols, and were enjoyed a performance by the Tusculum View Elementary School Chorus at the AHB building.
This new campus holiday event was planned by the Student Activities Board and Student Affairs as an all-in-one event for students, faculty, staff, alumni, families, friends and the community and will be held annually to commemorate both Tusculum College’s history and the holiday season.
“As we look to our past to build traditions for the future, Sit Lux will incorporate both old and new traditions of Tusculum College,” said Jonita Ashley-Pauley, Associate Dean of Students.
Tusculum faculty and staff served rich, decadent holiday desserts to students and guests, who also participated in the trimming of the Niswonger Tree while enjoying the sounds of the season as played by Greeneville High School’s jazz band. There was even a surprise visit from Santa Claus, himself.
Following the Lantern Bearer procession and a Holiday prayer provided by Campus Minister Dr. Steven Weisz, the Grand Tree was lit, glowing with the more than 43,000 lights added by campus Facilities and Maintenance staff.
“I congratulate you on beginning a new tradition that will continue for many years to come,” said Interim President Russell Nichols.