3 PAST TENSE A History of Holiday Giving t the most recent “Celebrate the Season” Open House (Dec. 4), the PSU community gathered in the ballroom to reconnect with friends around campus and exchange good wishes. Staff and faculty also brought canned food and nonperishable food items for the Sunshine Division and gifts to support PSU students who are raising children while pursuing higher education. The Open House is a longtime holiday tradition that has seen some changes. At least 30 years ago, PSU marked the holiday season with a tree-lighting ceremony held in the Park Blocks outside Smith Center. Retiree Nancy Goldman remembers going to one of those tree-lighting ceremonies in the 1980s – in the rain. She suggested to Shirley Kasparek, Coordinator of Special Events, that the ceremony be moved inside and combined with singing carols and giving gifts to needy children. “I had just read in the paper about a program to give gifts to foster children – warm coats, gloves, hats,” Nancy recalled. “It was one of those articles that tug at your heartstrings.” Nancy contacted a foster care organization and got the ball rolling. I remember going downtown with Nancy at lunchtime to shop at Meier and Frank for children’s clothing. We had fun choosing items we hoped would surprise and delight kids of all ages. “Eventually,” said Nancy, “it grew into a program in which PSU folks donated much more to the cause based on specific wishes from the kids. The PSU Chorus sang, and it was a great way for the PSU community to get together and celebrate.” A few years ago, recognizing that many PSU students combine their schooling with jobs and parenting, the campus community began collecting gifts earmarked for needy student parents. “I think it’s a really nice idea,” said Nancy, “and I like giving to those close to the institution.” In a bow to political correctness, the tree lighting ceremony was abolished almost a decade ago but the PSU tradition of gathering gifts for needy families is stronger than ever. --Dawn White PAST TENSE features glimpses into Portland State’s history. To submit a story (or an idea for one), email the RAPS History Preservation Committee at raps@pdx.edu. HAPPY HOLIDAYS from the RAPS Board! A
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