MARYVILLE, Mo. – The Northwest Missouri State University community watched as a Black Hills Spruce Tree outside the campus’ historic Thomas Gaunt House was illuminated with strands of colorful lights Thursday night during its ninth annual Holiday Tree Lighting.

This year’s event featured remarks by Northwest President Dr. John Jasinski, Maryville Mayor Jason McDowell and Jason Hawk on behalf of the Campus Ministerial Alliance. The Horace Mann Laboratory School’s Bearcat Choir and The Northwest Spirit and Truth Gospel Choir also performed.

During his remarks, Jasinski referenced the beauty of the Northwest campus, which is designated the Missouri Arboretum, and the University’s role as a unifier.

“This tradition is very important to Northwest Missouri State University because it uplifts each and every one of us, our cultures and our backgrounds, for all that we stand,” Jasinski said. “Let this tree shine in your hearts. Be civil to one another and to all those that may disagree. Provide love. Provide unity. Be Bearcats in whatever you do and show the rest of the world how we can treat each other to uplift love throughout the holiday season.”

People attending the ceremony were welcomed inside the Gaunt House afterward for refreshments as well as the Gaunt House patio, where Northwest’s mascot, Bobby Bearcat, was dressed in a Santa costume and sat for pictures.

In conjunction with the tree lighting, the Jasinski family annually selects a philanthropy. This year, the Jasinski family is focusing giving efforts on the University’s Pay It Forward Fund and Food Pantry. Community members may find needed items and provide donations to the Food Pantry throughout the year by visiting nwmissouri.edu/studentaffairs/foodpantry.

The historic Gaunt House, located at the south edge of campus, was built during the 1870s and serves as the presidential residence.