September 28, 2004 - 5:00pm
A major transformation is about to take place at Malaspina University-College.
Thousands of lights, beautifully decorated trees, wreaths and special decorations will turn the upper cafeteria and surrounding area of the Nanaimo campus into a winter wonderland during the 10th annual Festival of Trees, November 26 to December 8.
"The Festival is expanding to two weeks and moving to Malaspina’s Nanaimo campus," said Foundation events manager, Susie Caswell. "We want to establish a closer connection between Malaspina and the community."
The Festival of Trees, traditionally held at Beban Park, has been a unique and wonderful part of the Christmas season in Nanaimo for nine years, said Pat Dennison, Chair of the Malaspina University-College Foundation.
"This year is a transition to a new kind of celebration which we hope will be equally special for volunteers, community and ultimately, for the new generations of students who rely on Malaspina University-College for their future," said Dennison.
As a major fundraiser for the Malaspina University-College Foundation, the Festival of Trees has raised almost $300,000 for computers, science equipment, musical instruments, tools for trades programs, student bursaries, and computer and research facilities over the past nine years. This year, the goal is to raise $50,000 for the new Library and student bursaries.
Caswell said the Festival "is going back to the original concept of an old fashioned Christmas celebration." A highlight will be a campus light-up and gala dinner, auction and casino on November 26.
"We’re particularly grateful to Canadian Tire and owner Al Abbott, our major corporate sponsor, for donating $10,000 worth of energy efficient lights for this year’s Festival," said Caswell. "The donation will definitely help us create a festival atmosphere on campus."
Caswell is looking for additional corporate sponsors and community volunteers who may be interested in sponsoring or decorating a tree or wreath. Decorated trees will displayed in the upper cafeteria and raffled off to raise funds for the Library and student bursaries.
Other highlights include the Festival corporate lunch for invited guests on Wednesday, December 8. A Family Day and public light up will take place on Saturday, November 27, featuring children’s activities and entertainment, campus tours and refreshments.
For information about the 10th annual Festival of Trees or about how you can get involved as a volunteer, call Susie Caswell at 740-6216.
Tags: In the Community
