489 Students Savor All-Campus Christmas Dinner
Anonymous benefactor spreads Spirit Store holiday cheer to 12 winners
Christmas came earlier than expected for 12 Beavers who were among the several hundred students celebrating a feast at the annual All-Campus Christmas Dinner, a tradition dating back to 1987. The festive evening took place on Dec. 5.
“We had an anonymous benefactor who asked if they might spread some extra holiday cheer by awarding $1,200 to be given out to 12 lucky winners tonight who each will receive $100 gift certificates to the Spirit Store,” said BVU President Brian Lenzmeier.
“The Christmas dinner is always a fun time to get dressed up and spend time with my friends while not stressing about final tests and assignments,” said Grace Fuhrman, a sophomore. “It was a surprise when President Lenzmeier announced that someone had donated money to give students gift cards to the Spirit Store, and I’m super thankful I was at the lucky table to be able to receive one!”
Members of the Vista Chamber Singers entertained as the diners, many of whom dressed their best, filled Dows Grand Ballroom and the Multipurpose Room. Sodexo Campus Services General Manager Ken Allen earned a rousing ovation while detailing the night’s dinner, which consisted of turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, vegetables, and more. It took all of 26 minutes for the faculty and staff to work with Sodexo in serving nearly 500 students present.
Students sang carols, the BVU Alma Mater, and joined friends and Buford T. Beaver in posing for photos before the lighted Christmas trees throughout Siebens Forum.
“I love the Christmas dinner,” says BVU Associate Professor of Chemistry and University Chaplain Dr. Melanie Hauser. “It is a chance for the BVU community to gather as a family and celebrate our blessings. It takes a team to pull it off every year and I’m grateful for all who helped bring it together, including the Sodexo team, Alumni and Development, Event Services, Deb Willer in Admissions, Director of Choral Activities Chris Phalen and the Vista Chamber Singers, and the President’s Office. I look forward to many more years of celebrations!”