A long-standing tradition of Celebration is the Human Wall of Gratitude. Lee University students line the sidewalk from the Conn Center up to the Pedestrian Mall to show their appreciation to alumni, board members, and faculty who make their Lee experience possible.

Last Friday the wall once again was formed with over 800 students, with participation from every residence hall from traditional dorms to apartments and auxiliary housing. The pedestrian mall was full of anticipation as students waited for the recessional to walk through the crowd.

“We understand that what we have at Lee is only a result of God’s faithfulness and our friends’ generosity,” said Dr. Mike Hayes, vice president for Student Development. “The Human Wall during Celebration is an inspirational way for our students to say thanks to supporters who have helped make our campus what it is today.”

Students cheered on the alumni, faculty, board members, and other guests as they exited Conn Center and filed onto the Pedestrian Mall. Some alums even recorded themselves walking through the Wall of Gratitude.

“Being able to show my gratitude to those who make my Lee experience possible was wonderful,” said sophomore Sarah Judson. “I cheered and clapped until my hands hurt and my voice was hoarse, but being able to see alumni light up as they walked through the wall was a truly gratifying experience.”

The Human Wall connects current students to Lee alum who once were in the wall cheering for others who came before them. Celebration would not be the same without this event connecting students with supporters who matter so much.