University of Findlay Welcomes Santa to “Christmas on Campus”

**Kirby Overton’s daughter shopping for toys to donate**

The University of Findlay hosted its 21^st annual Christmas on Campus event on December 3^rd, welcoming children and their families for a day full of events, pictures with Santa, and presents.

University of Findlay students, faculty, and staff helped make the event possible, with students helping children play games and decorate crafts, and faculty and staff members making time with Santa even more special. Santa was able to provide each child with a gift that was generously donated by University faculty and staff members.

Kirby Overton, Ed.D., MBA serves as the University of Findlay’s Dean of the College of Business, but she also serves as a role model for her kids. Overton has been taking her family shopping for toys for Christmas on Campus for the past six years. “My husband and I want to teach our children about generosity, gratitude, and the importance of having empathy from an early age. We want them to grow up to be people who value servicing the community and helping those who may not be as fortunate as them,” said Overton.

When asked what her children think of going shopping each year Overton said, “My 4-year-old asked me if the kids who get the presents will be happy. When I told him they would, he said that made him happy. I’d have to agree with him.” Overton hopes that as her kids get older that they continue participating in this event and value the importance of giving and serving in other ways.

Invitations went out to local families, and RSVPs came in quickly. This year, nearly 60 children were in attendance, and each and every one of them received a gift from their Christmas list (provided to UF faculty and staff members before purchasing gifts). Each family in attendance was also gifted a turkey for this year’s holiday dinner. In addition, eight turkeys were donated to the city mission.