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Briar Cliff hosts Annual Christmas Party for Person with Disabilities

By MICHELLE DELANEY, Globe staff reporter
(Email Michelle)

The students, faculty and staff at Briar Cliff University have not forgotten one of the best parts about the Christmas season: spreading holiday cheer and giving to others.

On Dec. 6, Briar Cliff hosted their Annual Christmas Party for Persons with Disabilities.

”I thought it went really well this year. Everyone was excited, everyone that I talked to said they had a good time, and they all seemed happy when they got their presents,” said senior Briar Cliff student Hana Verhoeven.

Sponsored by BCCares and Campus Ministry, this event welcomed more than 100 residents from Mid-Step Services, Siouxland Residential Services and Opportunities Unlimited. The guests partook in lunch, caroling and a visit from Santa Claus.

After everyone ate, the Cliff Singers came in donning festive hats to sing Christmas carols. Dr. Sean Burton, assistant professor of music and director of choral activities, led the Cliff Singers and residents in such popular Christmas songs as Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, Jingle Bells and Deck the Halls.

After carols were sung, Santa Claus made a visit and, with some help from his elves (Briar Cliff students), distributed Christmas gifts to each resident.

Earlier in the month, the Briar Cliff community had a table set up in which students, faculty and staff could sign up to buy a present each resident wanted for Christmas.

Verhoeven has been volunteering for this activity since her freshman year.

“I enjoy it. They are always so happy and talkative. I just enjoy being able to give them gifts and being able to see that smile on their face when they receive them,” she said.

BCCares is a function of the Campus Ministry department at BCU, offering students volunteer service opportunities on campus and throughout Siouxland.