Mississippi State welcomed the start of the holiday season Tuesday night with its annual Hail State Holidays lighting ceremony in front of the Colvard Student Union, drawing students, families and community members for music, speeches and fun campus traditions.
The evening opened with two hymns performed by Black Voices, MSU’s Black choral ensemble. Their performance set a reflective tone and brought the crowd together before the night’s speakers stepped forward.
MSU President Mark Keenum spoke first, highlighting the sense of unity the ceremony brings to campus each year.
“This is one of the memories we get to share as a Mississippi State Family,” Keenum said.
He also encouraged students to enjoy the season while remaining focused as finals approach.
“You still need to be focused as you head into final exams,” he said. “But I’m sure you’ll all make 100s and A-pluses.”
Vice President for Student Affairs Regina Hyatt followed, emphasizing the importance of community and shared celebration.
“One of the things I love the most about our Mississippi State community is that we get to share those experiences with each other,” Hyatt said.
After the remarks, Student Association President Cameron Cummings and Mark Kimoto, president of Hillel, MSU’s Jewish student organization, were invited to the front to light the Christmas tree and menorah.
Kimoto said the ceremony holds deeper significance for many students, especially during a demanding time in the semester.
“I really appreciate the lighting ceremony, kind of metaphorically, as we try to bring more light into this world, especially around that stressful time of final exams,” he said. “Just to have the opportunity to share with each other’s holiday traditions and have a little fun while doing so.”
Nearby at the event, volunteers from New Maroon Camp served complimentary hot chocolate, offering attendees a warm treat.
After the ceremony concluded, Keenum remained for photos with Bully and Belle, while students lingered around the decorations, taking pictures, chatting and enjoying one of MSU’s final community events before the winter break.
