Christmas Time at Fairmont State University
Fairmont State University kicked off Christmas in a new fashion this holiday season. The Student Life and Student Government Association (SGA) decided to team up to make something special happen for those on campus who celebrate the holiday. The organizations came up with the idea of purchasing and planting a real spruce pine tree outside in the Falcon Center Quad to use. On Wednesday, November 11, 2020 from 12:00-1:00 p.m. and Thursday, November 12, 2020 from 12:30-1:30 p.m., students were invited to come hang ornaments on the tree, as well as enjoy hot chocolate or snap a picture with Freddie the Falcon. Fairmont State University President, Dr. Mirta Martin, was all for the idea, as this is her favorite time of the year, and wanted to do something nice for the students.
Usually, a tree lighting ceremony takes place inside the Falcon Center after Thanksgiving break, and before students leave for Christmas break. But due to COVID-19 social distancing and students not being on campus after Thanksgiving, things had to go a little different this year.
Despite the differences of the 2020 event, Evan Fossen, Assistant Director of Student Life and Event Organizer, stated, “The event was a great way to connect people and provide a little bit of joy, which is much needed in these times. I love when I get the opportunity to bring people together for something positive through my work. I know many of the organizers feel proud that the installation of this new tree is a lasting legacy and decorating it can become a new tradition for campus.”
