'You of A' Holiday Tree: A New University Tradition

Parent & Family Programs, the Arkansas Union and the Associated Student Government have joined together to bring a new tradition to campus to celebrate the holiday season — the "You of A" Holiday Tree.

Students and other university members are encouraged to take part in this new tradition by coming to the Holiday Tree Lighting at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4, on the fourth floor landing of the Arkansas Union. The "You of A" Holiday Tree will be lit by special guests, Melissa Harwood-Rom, dean of students, and the Razorback mascots. Refreshments will be provided by Chartwells.

The goal of the holiday tree is to incorporate each student, faculty and staff member, department and campus organizations into this tradition. Registered student organizations and university departments were encouraged to decorate ornaments for the tree to help achieve that goal.

"I am really looking forward to this tradition and am honored that we all had the opportunity to contribute to this event. It's important for students to be able to celebrate the holiday season despite them being away from their families. This gives them a sense of home during a stressful and busy time of year," said Alison Leach, assistant director of Parent & Family Programs.

Morgan Farmer, SOOIE coordinator of officer development, is also excited about the new tradition, "I think the holiday tree is a fun and spirited way to celebrate the holiday season for our university as a whole. The tree represents our U of A community and is such a special reminder that we are all united as a Razorback family."

After the tree lighting ceremony, the campus community is encouraged to stop by and take pictures with the holiday tree before winter break. Share these photos with the university on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter using the hashtag #YouofAHolidayTree!