Stony Brook Southampton held its annual Windmill Lighting and Winter Wonderland Reception on December 5, continuing a beloved tradition. The event attracted local community members, as well as faculty, staff, and students from Stony Brook University.
The gathering took place at the Southampton campus library. Attendees enjoyed music by members of the Stony Brook University orchestra, seasonal refreshments, a photo booth sponsored by the Alumni Association, children's crafts table, face painting, and an appearance by the mascot Wolfie.
Interim President Richard McCormick addressed those present. He highlighted the windmill's historical significance since 1888 at Shinnecock Hills and its role in celebrating the Stony Brook Southampton community. “As Stony Brook is strengthening our community relationships and reinvesting in our Southampton campus infrastructure, we are laying the groundwork for even more ambitious contributions to eastern Long Island,” McCormick said. He referred to developments like the expanded Southampton Hospital and workforce housing for staff, alongside academic expansions.
McCormick also noted that the event’s venue is Long Island's first LEED Gold Certified library and houses the Pollock-Krasner Study Center. He mentioned other campus features such as the Food Lab, School of Health Professions, Lichtenstein Center, and School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences.
Acknowledging key contributors to campus improvements, McCormick thanked Wendy Pearson for her leadership in revitalizing Stony Brook Southampton. The event was attended by several dignitaries including State Senator Anthony Palumbo, State Assemblyman-Elect Tommy John Schiavonni, Suffolk County Legislator Ann Welker, and Southampton Town Supervisor Maria Moore.