Sadove Student Center and the Sadove Terrace were lit up by hundreds of twinkling lights as students, faculty, staff and Hamilton community members gathered for the 6th annual Lighting of Our Village held on Wednesday, Nov. 29.

The Lighting of Our Village, hosted by the Student Activities Office, aims to create a greater sense of community on campus around the time of finals, cold weather and shorter days. Student Activities Director Ariel Adams remarked that the physical lighting of our campus is meant to serve as the “many meanings of light, including as a symbol of hope and warmth.” Promotional materials for the event explained that the organizers “hope to bring light to campus as the colder, darker winter season approaches.”

There were a variety of speakers at the event, including Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Sean Bennett; Ariel Adams; representatives from Chabad Student Group, Hamilton Christian Fellowship, Hillel and Meditation Club; and the Shenandoah Kirkland Initiative. Acapella groups Tumbling After, The Buffers and Special K also performed.

“The lighting of the village is an opportunity for our community to be together and embrace our connectivity. Mindfulness and meditation teaches us to tune into the present and recognize those connections fundamental to us. Meditation Club is excited to be a part of the lighting,” said Co-Leader of Hamilton’s Meditation Club Carlos Pichardo ’25.

The Presidents of Hamilton Hillel and the Chabad Student Group presented remarks together that explained the significance of light in Hanukkah celebrations.

Luke Hayes ’25, co-president of the Chabad Student Group, shared that “Chabad is really excited to be involved in this year’s village lighting. Chabad is grateful to be a part of the Hamilton community, and our participation in this annual event demonstrates our commitment to spreading light to those around us. We wish the Hamilton commu- nity a peaceful and joyful holiday season.”

Additionally, Sadove Support Staff, Sadove Programming, First Year Experience (FYE), Soul Food, Class of 2024, Class of 2025, Class of 2026 and Class of 2027 participated in the event. Students could go inside the Sadove Student Center where organiztions gave out hot chocolate, a variety of sweet treats and swag.