Seniors Represent `Ideals' At Holiday Tree Lighting

Seniors Allison Kustic, Katya Palacios, Mayling Zito, and Dante del Rosario were given the honor of flipping the switch at Dominican University of California’s annual holiday tree lighting ceremony last night.

Chosen from student nominations, the seniors each represented one of the four Dominican ideals – study, reflection, community and service.

Because of COVID-19 safety precautions, the audience watched the ceremony via Zoom. The small group attending the ceremony in person included Political Science major Allison (service) and Dominican/LINES Ballet BFA major Mayling (community). Business and Music double major Dante (reflection) and Katya (study), a Political Science major minoring in Latin American and International Studies, participated virtually from their homes.

President Mary B. Marcy and President-Elect Nicola Pitchford also attended the ceremony outside Angelico Hall and joined Paul Raccanello, Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students, plus student leaders via Zoom to countdown the traditional lighting event, which was hosted by Campus Ministry and the Siena Leadership Team.

The 60-foot tall Blue Spanish Fir tree will remain decorated with bright, white lights throughout the holiday season.

Photo above of (left to right) Hannah Burton (standing in for Katya Palacios), Mayling Zito, Allison Kustic, and Nick Loduca (standing in for Dante del Rosario).