As part of an annual tradition, the Lee University Financial Aid Office hosted “Christmas Around the World” on Tuesday, Dec. 15. The party, held specifically for international students, or any others unable to travel home for the holidays, took place in the Centenary Room on Lee’s Campus.

Several staff and faculty, along with their families, gathered to celebrate the season of giving with more than 60 students, faculty and staff in attendance. Each student received a gift bag filled with items provided by members of the Lee family.

The evening included a dinner catered by Las Margaritas, an opening prayer from Vice President for Enrollment Phil Cook, and an assortment of games including relay races and gift card musical chairs. Prizes were awarded to the winners of each contest and drawings took place for other gifts.

Santa and his elf, played by Steve and Loretta Staufenbiel, distributed Christmas gifts to all of the students. The evening was concluded with a prayer by Alan McClung, dean of students at Lee.

“This event is an opportunity to bring staff and faculty together to celebrate with students who were unable to go home for the holidays,” said Mary Creekmore, financial aid counselor. “We want to reach out and brighten their day.”

Sponsors for this year’s event include Charles and Annette Gentry, Chip and Penny Howell, Jason and Stefanie Taylor, Tommy and Theresa Renade, Greg and Deb Redmon, Phil and Cecil Staufenbiel, Steve and Loretta Staufenbiel, and Dr. Steve Hartline’s office, along with participating Lee staff and faculty.

“I really like the opportunity to be a part of a Christmas party,” said junior biochemistry major Paul Adeyemi of Nigeria. “I appreciate all the food, the gifts, and being able to get together with everyone during the season.” Like many of Lee’s international students, Adeyemi has not seen his family since arriving at Lee in fall of 2013.

Donations for the party were made by several local companies including Ed’s Supply, Comfort Air, L&B, All American, Cleveland High School Football Booster, The Staufenbiel’s, Big Lots, White Wing Christian Bookstore, McKee Foods/Little Debbie, and Dr. Steve Hartline Dentistry.