The cabinet and deans join Joan and me in extending to you and your family peace and all good for a beautiful Christmas. Likewise, I offer our seasonal greetings to those who celebrate other faith traditions at this time of the year.

The holidays provide many opportunities to celebrate community. One such tradition is the President’s Holiday Dinner, where hospitality, joy, and food were in abundance. Thank you to the 55 volunteers from the faculty, staff, and administration who served about 670 students. Special thanks to Diane Brimmer and Denise Homstad for organizing the volunteers; to Mary Simota, Carma Burfield, Chef Havin Rehwinkel, and the Aramark staff for a sumptuous meal. And a tip of Santa’s hat to the volunteers who labored in the dish room.

The annual Festival of Lights and Carols is considered by many university benefactors and friends as the opening event for their holiday season. Thank you to the staff in the institutional advancement office, the music department, campus ministry, and others who planned and supported this joyful event. To all who brought joy, laughter, and gifts to the alumni children’s Christmas celebration, thank you!  

I am privileged to accompany the Concert Choir, 9th Street Singers, and the music faculty for their annual caroling at St. Rose Convent and Villa St. Joseph. The sisters eagerly look forward to this concert. Thank you students and faculty for lifting the spirits of our founders and for "rocking" the Convent and Villa with such a magnificent rendition of Handel’s Halleluiah.

On behalf of the Hospitality Committee, I invite you to join us for fellowship, song, and prizes at the annual Employee Christmas Social Friday, Dec. 12 in the Fine Arts Center Lobby from 3–4:30 p.m.

Thanks to all for the festive decorations in your offices, treats for students, charity to those in need, and Christmas cheer to one another. Enjoy a restful recess. May peace, love, and joy be in your hearts and shared with others in the days ahead and throughout the New Year.

Merry Christmas,

Rick Artman