Riley Clarke ’25 sees only possibilities. With the expansion of the Quad and the completion of new facilities, he and his fellow student council leaders saw an opportunity to enhance the annual Christmas at our House community event.
The much-anticipated, beloved event has evolved over the years, from holiday home tours to recent on-campus events like a boutique, high tea, interactive Advent celebration and a student art gallery. “We wanted to embrace a sense of family and have everyone who came feel they were part of this experience where student culture and student participation really shined,” says Riley, who is spirit commissioner for Student Council.
Student Council introduced a week in early December of themed dress-up days and lunch activities for students, culminating in Christmas in the Quad, an evening event on the last day for students, educators and the broader Mountain View community. Festivities included student-led activity tables around the Quad, a performance stage for student groups, food and even a live Nativity and petting zoo.
“This event was a chance for people to gather in Holy Cross fellowship,” says Riley, who oversaw logistics, coordinated with student groups and various departments on campus and served as emcee for the evening.