Show us tradition

Each year at the University of Dayton, our students' hearts grow three sizes during Christmas on Campus festivities. Not only is it a time to open our arms to the local community but also to spread holiday cheer within our own community of faculty, staff, students and alumni. 

University of Dayton Magazine student journalist Cara Gfroerer wanted to spend her last Christmas on Campus as a student talking to those within the UD community about their most treasured holiday traditions.

What is your favorite holiday tradition?

Connor Bonino ’24
Finance
Clarendon Hill, Illinois

“My family comes together to watch the Polar Express on Christmas Eve with hot chocolate, and we order pizza.”

Bailey Papesh ’24
Graphic Design
Channahon, Illinois

“We have an annual pierogi dinner on Christmas Eve each year.”

Daarynah Jave Willoughby ’17
Alumni Community Leader
Dayton, Ohio

“My favorite Christmas tradition is having a good old fashioned cup of eggnog.”

Kate Sartino ’24 
Communication
Chicago

“My favorite holiday tradition is my family's annual tradition of going to Colorado. We go skiing together and make my grandma’s crescent moon cookies in her memory.”

Ermias Gatling ’24 
Communication
Florissant, Missouri

“My favorite holiday tradition is baking cookies with the whole family. We do it every year.”

Liam Nelligan ’24
Discover Arts
Chicago

“I just enjoy spending time with my family. This year I’m especially looking forward to exchanging gifts with my dad.”

Jeanne Sering ’23 
Predentistry
Indianapolis

“After eating dinner, my family comes together to sing karaoke! My favorite song to sing with my siblings is ‘Gotta Go My Own Way’ from High School Musical.”

Did we miss one? What is your favorite holiday tradition? Tell us at magazine@udayton.edu.