The rain did not allow the tree lighting ceremony to take place, but it did not stop the Staff Senate from showing its holiday spirit to the University community.
The Staff Senate held its 13th annual Holiday on Campus Tuesday at the Karl Maddox Field House.
Holiday on Campus is a charity-oriented event sponsored by the Staff Senate through donations from area businesses and campus volunteers. The event’s purpose is to give back to the LSU community.
Every year the Senate asks adults to bring a canned food item to donate to the Baton Rouge Food Bank and each child to bring a wrapped gift for the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program.
Randie DeJohn, Staff Senate committee member, said the event raised approximately three barrels of canned foods and four huge boxes of toys.
Marlene LeBlanc, chair of the Staff Senate Holiday on Campus committee, said the rain did not have an affect on the event.
“We were concerned when they canceled the tree lighting ceremony,” LeBlanc said. “But we had a relatively good turnout.”
LeBlanc said more than 400 people attended the event. A variety of activities were provided for children to participate in.
LSU Recreational Sports provided games such as a putting green, bowling, basketball and a scooter activity.
Other activities included magician David Miller’s Christmas magic show, door prizes ranging from homemade jewelry to gift certificates, Christmas music and the Red Stick Slap Stick Clown Alley made balloon objects for children.
LSU athletes, cheerleaders and the Golden Girls also volunteered their time to meet with attendees and take pictures with children.
Most importantly, Santa took pictures and gave presents.
Staff Senate President Eric Reid said many donated their time and helped it to grow.
“I was very satisfied with the attendance, and I expect it to grow even more next year,” Reid said.
Media law professor Craig Freeman attended the function with his 15-month old son. He said his son enjoyed the games and had a lot of fun.
“I am happy they provided the event for the LSU community,” Freeman said. “I am looking forward to next year’s already.”