TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University will welcome the holiday season with its annual Lights On ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1, in front of Seminary Hall on the Tahlequah campus.
The event brings together students, faculty, staff and community members to watch Seminary Hall light up for the season. This year's ceremony will be co-hosted by NSU First Lady Sara Gunhus-Hanley and Tahlequah Mayor Suzanne Myers.
The program will feature performances by Tahlequah school choirs and local dance companies. Children will receive a special ornament and have the chance to visit Santa.
This year's ceremony will also mark the return of a familiar part of campus life. For the first time since 2019, the Seminary Hall clock and chimes will be back in operation. The chimes replacement was made possible by a donation from BancFirst in honor of the university's centennial, designated for projects that impact the Tahlequah campus.
NSU President Rodney Hanley said the ceremony offers a chance for the university and surrounding community to come together as the semester draws to a close.
"The Lights On tradition is a wonderful opportunity for us to pause during a busy time of year, reflect on the achievements of a successful semester and celebrate together," Hanley said. "With the return of the Seminary Hall clock and chimes, we're also bringing back a familiar part of our campus that holds meaning for generations of students, alumni and community members. It's a fitting way to celebrate the season and the connections we share."
Dr. Robyn Pursley, assistant dean of the College of Liberal Arts, called the ceremony one of her favorite events.
"Lights On Seminary Hall is one of my favorite events each year," Pursley said. "It is truly a kickstart to the holiday season and brings together the campus community and the local community in a wonderful way to celebrate traditions and the connections we have with each other."
For more information, contact Pursley at mageern@nsuok.edu.
Comments
Join the conversation. Comments are public and appear right away — please keep them civil and on topic.
No comments yet. Be the first to respond.