GREENEVILLE – Tusculum University is brightening Christmas for Greene County children in record numbers this year through the institution’s participation in the Greeneville/Greene County Community Ministries Food Bank’s Angel Tree program.
Left to right, Tusculum University staff members Heather Tunnell, Amy Franklin, Rachael Barnett, Rose Webb, Karen Cox and Chuck Sutton stand by some of the gifts.
Faculty, staff and students responded to the call by picking up more than 100 cards with the names of children in need. These Tusculum family members purchased the gifts individually or formed teams to acquire the items on each child’s list.
The number of cards issued to faculty, staff and students was the most ever.
“We are thrilled so many children will experience the joy of Christmas with presents that might take care of some of their everyday needs but will also hopefully produce some fun for them,” said Dr. Shelby Ward, director of Tusculum’s Center for Civic Advancement. “This is a special time of year for children, and we welcome the opportunity to join others in the community to support them.”
Individuals and groups that participated in the Angel Tree received information about each child’s clothing sizes and interests. Faculty, staff and students then headed to local stores and brought the items they purchased to Virginia Hall. The tradition at Tusculum is to fill as much of the Office of Admission’s lobby as possible.
Tusculum students Russell Priest, left, and Bode Patton hold some of the Angel Tree gifts.
The CCA and the Bonner Leader Program at Tusculum led this year’s initiative on campus and Dr. Troy Goodale, chair of the Social Sciences Department and professor of political science, provided valuable assistance.
“Civic engagement and demonstrating a caring Christian environment are two components of Tusculum University’s mission,” Dr. Goodale said. “They guide our actions every day and will continue to serve as a road map well into the future. Participating in the Angel Tree program aligns perfectly with these elements, and we are proud to marshal the necessary resources to bring a smile to children’s faces.”
For additional information about Greeneville-Greene County Community Ministries, please call 423-638-1667. To learn more about the university, please visit www.tusculum.edu.