It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas around the Texas Southmost College campus and to kick off the holiday season the college hosted its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Students, faculty, staff and community members lined the sidewalks outside of Gorgas Hall to see TSC President Jesus Roberto Rodriguez and Board of Trustees Ruben Herrera, Adela Garza, Eva Alejandro, J.J. De Leon Jr. and Alejandra Aldrete light up a towering tree adorned with red and gold ornaments and poinsettias.
“Watching our tree illuminate our campus is always an amazing sight,” said TSC Board of Trustee Chair Ruben Herrera. “But the best of all this year is the togetherness. Seeing everyone come together again for this tradition and unite for the holiday season is what makes this experience worthwhile.”
Those in attendance were also treated to holiday performers dressed in red and green with Santa hats and reindeer antlers atop their heads from the TSC Raul J. Guerra Early Childhood Center Little Scorpions, in addition to performances by TSC student John Paul Savino and TSC Instructor Antonio Durant and the Bruce Aiken Elementary Cheer Team.
“We are excited to continue this longtime tradition this year. It really kicks off the season,” said Rodriguez. “We take pride in adorning our campus during these months with trees and lights for all to enjoy. TSC is everyone’s college, it belongs to the community. This is for them.”
TSC student Miguel Gutierrez said the lighting ceremony has really gotten him into the holiday spirit.
“It’s beautiful,” said the Brownsville native. “The entire night was fun, and as a student, I feel a sense of pride in our campus seeing it shine bright at night. I’m glad traditions like this are back. It gives us hope and brightens our days, especially with the stress of finals. This really is wonderful.”
Rodriguez agrees with Gutierrez and says he hopes the ceremony spreads a message of hope.
“The holidays are about togetherness and hope in the present and the future,” said Rodriguez. “The Board of Trustees and I wish our Scorpion Family and everyone in our communities a Happy Holiday season and Happy New Year.”