DeSales Kicks Off Holiday Season with DUCsgiving, Tree Lighting Ceremony

DeSales is home to many traditions but DUCsgiving and the annual tree lighting ceremony are campuswide favorites.

Students, faculty, and staff gathered in the DeSales University Center on November 20 to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner along with music, fun, and fellowship.

“It’s like Friendsgiving to the max,” said Christine Quiba ’24, an accounting major and member of the IDEAS club.

Quiba and Harkiran Kaur Bhullar ’24, a management and computer science double major, serve as tree lighting coordinators for the IDEAS club, which joined forces with the Student Government Association to host the tree lighting ceremony.

Once the DUCSgiving feast finished, the tree lighting and blessing were held on the campus mall behind the Dorothy Day Student Union. The ceremony featured an opening prayer and performances by the DSU Chorale, dance team, and cheer team. The men’s and women’s basketball teams also made a special appearance.

Students handed out Santa hats, hot cocoa, and other tasty treats. Those who donated to the DSU food pantry received a free long-sleeve shirt. New to the festivities this year: holiday karaoke and an ugly sweater contest.

“It’s all about the Christmas spirit,” said Bhullar. “It’s the whole combination of giving thanks to family, friends, and faculty here and also coming together one last time before the holidays. I think it captures the DeSales vibe.”