North Central Missouri College kicked off its holiday tradition of lighting the tree and lights located in front of Geyer Hall for students and staff in their annual Light the Way event. NCMC launched the holiday season on campus with a reading of Clement Clarke Moore’s The Night Before Christmas, read by Arielle Houston, caroling led by the Pirates women’s basketball team, and the official tree lighting countdown.
Elementary-age children of NCMC employees are entered into a random draw to be selected as the individual who flips the switch for the lights. For 2024, Grayson Oram was chosen to do the honors. Grayson’s favorite things about the holiday season are “Santa and presents!” For Christmas, Grayson would like Legos. Grayson was excited to light the tree and happily exclaimed, “I heard Santa is coming!” Grayson also enjoys the hot chocolate at the Light the Way event. Grayson is five years old and a kindergartner at Trenton R-IX Rissler Elementary School. He is the son of Lindsay Oram and Heath Oram.
After the tree lighting, children and NCMC students were invited to Cross Hall to participate in games and activities organized by NCMC student organizations and athletics. Children and students could also get their pictures taken with Santa.
The tree and Geyer Hall lights turn on at dusk for viewing and enjoying. Those wishing to see the tree and lights can view them in downtown Trenton, MO, on the main campus in front of Geyer Hall on Main Street.
Photo: Grayson Oram in front of the tree at NCMC Geyer Hall