Stony Brook University marked the start of the holiday season on November 4 with its seventh annual Light the Brook event. The Academic Mall was adorned with lights to celebrate student achievements. This initiative, organized by the Undergraduate Student Government (USG) and co-sponsored by the Division of Student Affairs and SBU Eats, drew a large crowd.
The celebration commenced at the Administration fountain, featuring speeches from student and university leaders. Attendees engaged in club tabling, hands-on activities, and enjoyed performances by Music in Medicine, the Pipettes, and SBU Flow. Festive giveaways, crafts, hot chocolate, and desserts were available for participants.
At 5:15 pm, attendees counted down to illuminate the Academic Mall. Rick Gatteau, vice president for Student Affairs, recalled the event's humble beginnings seven years ago. “Who’s excited for the seventh annual Light the Brook?” he asked. He recounted how students initially bought string lights from Home Depot to decorate a tree in front of Psych A building.
“This is so important for our community at Stony Brook,” Gatteau continued. “It speaks to the joy, the love, and the care we have for each other.”
SBU Interim President Richard McCormick expressed his pride in Stony Brook's community spirit during his first Light the Brook experience. “This is my first Light the Brook," he said. "I’m really proud of you, and proud of our university — Light the Brook!”