Annual University Christmas Party A Merry Evening

The Hardin-Simmons campus met on Anderson lawn Thursday night for the annual University Christmas Party.

After a festive dinner served in the cafeteria, everyone made their way to the lawn. Santa arrived in style this year, escorted by the Six White Horses in a white mule-drawn carriage.

Mallory Parker, senior history major from Houston, said, “I really enjoyed Santa arriving on the surrey and with the Six White Horses, showing a West Texas style Christmas.”

Chapel Director Travis Craver read the Christmas story and Dr. Laura Pogue gave the invocation. Student body president, Erin Hagood, read the crowd favorite, Hardin-Simmons’ edition of “Twas the Week Before Finals.”

Special guest Joyce McAfee did the honor of counting down from 10 for the lighting of campus. McAfee, an HSU alumna from the class of 1957, was joined by Santa for the big reveal.

Festivities included caroling, ornament crafts, and seasonal refreshments including hot cocoa

At 7:30, the School of Music Christmas Celebration took place in Behrens. Toys for Tots donations were accepted at the entrance.

The wonderful holiday evening was hosted by FreshCo, Freshman Leadership Council, Facilities and Aramark. Other groups such as SABERS and SPARK also assisted in making the night possible.