A choir from St. James Catholic Elementary School was the best part of Tuesday’s faculty and staff holiday luncheon, says Nancy Kuntz.

An employee relations manager in human resources, she enjoyed listening to the young voices raised in song, but that wasn’t the only aspect she liked: “The food is fabulous, too!”

She was one of about 340 revellers to fill Vanier Hall’s Winclare A room for the party, which sparkled with a theme of “Winter Wonderland.” It was a nice turnout, said catering manager Dean Kissner.

“It’s a really good feeling. I see a lot of happy faces,” he said. Among the hits were a poutine bar that allowed patrons to choose their toppings and a pasta station.

Associate dean of graduate studies Charles Macdonald said he appreciated the dining selections.

“I like to be able to choose what I eat,” he said. He also said he prefers the stand-up format which encourages mingling through the room.

“It is great to speak with a lot of friends I don’t get to see every day,” Dr. Macdonald said.

Attendees added new meaning to Christmas cheer as a chorus of huzzahs greeted UWindsor president Alan Wildeman’s announcement that Friday January 2 will be a University holiday, with essential services continuing to operate during the holiday.  Staff who are scheduled to report to work on January 4 to provide other services will continue to do so.  The University will reopen on January 5th.

See an album of images from the event on the University’s Facebook page.

A singer with the St. James spirit choir shares a carol with celebrants at the faculty and staff holiday luncheon.

Catering Services staff won praise for the outstanding job it did in hosting Tuesday’s party.