Northeastern State University to kick off the holiday season with Lights On ceremony - Dec. 1

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University (NSU) will welcome the holiday season with its annual Lights On ceremony on Dec. 1 in front of Seminary Hall.

The event brings together students, faculty, students and community members to watch Seminary Hall light up for the season. This year’s ceremony will be co-hosted by NSU First Lady Sara Gunhus-Hanley and Tahlequah Mayor Suzanne Myers.

The event will feature performances by Tahlequah school choirs and local dance companies. Children will also receive a special ornament and have the opportunity to visit Santa.

This year's ceremony will also mark the return of a familiar part of campus life. For the first time since 2019, the Seminary Hall clock and chimes will return to operation, restoring a familiar landmark and sound to the NSU campus. The chimes replacement was made possible by BancFirst which made a donation in honor of the university’s centennial to be used for projects that would impact the Tahlequah campus.

NSU President Rodney Hanley said the ceremony offers a chance for the university and surrounding community to come together as the semester draws to a close.

“The Lights On tradition is a wonderful opportunity for us to pause during a busy time of year, reflect on the achievements of a successful semester and celebrate together,” said Hanley. “With the return of the Seminary Hall clock and chimes, we're also bringing back a familiar part of our campus that holds meaning for generations of students, alumni and community members. It's a fitting way to celebrate the season and the connections we share.”

For Dr. Robyn Pursley, assistant dean of the College of Liberal Arts, the ceremony is a favorite event.

“Lights On Seminary Hall is one of my favorite events each year,” said Pursley. “It is truly a kickstart to the holiday season and brings together the campus community and the local community in a wonderful way to celebrate traditions and the connections we have with each other.”

The ceremony will begin at 5:30 p.m. in front of Seminary Hall on the Tahlequah campus.

For more information, contact Pursley at mageern@nsuok.edu.

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