Light Up The Seton Hall Tree On Monday

SOUTH ORANGE, N.J. - Seton Hall University continues the tradition of holiday events starting with Mass on Monday, Dec. 3, at 5 p.m. in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, followed by the tree lighting on the University Green.

The public is invited to this free celebration on the University’s main campus at 400 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, New Jersey.

"The Tree Lighting Ceremony is truly a special tradition for the Seton Hall community as it brings together students, faculty, administration, alumni, and our families and friends, to celebrate the season," said Alison Sotolongo, director of student activities. "This event continues to grow each year with the addition of Seton Hall performance groups and new elements to commemorate the spirit of Christmas."

Winston Roberts, associate dean of students, and Robin Cunningham, associate vice president of student services, will serve as emcees.

There will be hot chocolate and candy canes for all donated by Gourmet Dining Services. Performances include the Seton Hall Sapphires, the Immaculate Conception Schola Cantorum, the Seton Hall University Gospel Choir, Concert Band, Pep Band, Seton Strings, Seton Notes, the University Choir and a group performance by the Gentleman of the Hall and Pretty Sharp.

Interim President Mary J. Meehan will be joined by freshman nursing major Alijah Vanterpool, alumnus Robert Tarte '65/JD '69, Student Activities Board President Daniel D'Amico, and Brenda Knight, Chief Shop Steward, Local #153 to light the 60-foot Norway Spruce adorned with more than 40,000 Christmas lights to illuminate the campus with holiday spirit. Fr. Brian X. Needles, director of Campus Ministry, will bless the Christmas tree.

The Division of Volunteer Efforts (DOVE) will be running its annual food and toy drives. At the ceremony, DOVE will collect unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items at its tent. DOVE is accepting the following food items: canned vegetables, instant potatoes, stuffing, canned soup, pasta sauce, sugar, salt, pasta, peanut butter or other non-perishable items. The items will be donated to the St. John's Soup Kitchen and Our Lady of Sorrows food pantry.

Displayed throughout the area will be trees that student groups decorated in support of Habitat for Humanity. Other activities will include the Coca-Cola photo booth with the polar bear, which is run by Coca-Cola student ambassador Christopher Coppola. The Pirate Santa will be at the ceremony to take pictures with participants at the tree.

(Photo courtesy of Seton Hall)

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