English 
正體中文 
Yuan Ze University held its grand annual Christmas Lighting Ceremony titled “2025 YZU Snow Realm・Time Trace・Dance of Light” on the evening of December 3 (Wednesday) at the plaza in front of Building 5. The event attracted more than 500 participants, including faculty, students, alumni, residents, and members of charitable organizations.
As the main Christmas tree and colorful light installations lit up the night sky, the festive scene created a warm and hopeful atmosphere. The moment the lights switched on, a symbolic glow of love and blessing filled the plaza, officially marking the beginning of the university’s Christmas season.
University President Ching-Jong Liao, Dean of Student Affairs Yi-Chun Liu, Yeh-Man Foundation CEO, Zhongzheng Village Chief Tsai-Te Wang, Xingren Village Chief Chen-Jung Lee, and Yuan Ze University Alumni Association President Kun-Nan Wei served as special guests for the countdown ceremony. With the crowd chanting in unison, the lights gradually brightened, illuminating the entire square.
President Liao remarked that the annual lighting ceremony was more than just a festive tradition—it served as a moment of unity and compassion. This year’s celebration featured musical and dance performances, handmade treats, and a charity fair, bringing together local residents, international students, and disadvantaged youth, reflecting the university’s commitment to a multicultural and inclusive campus while fulfilling its social responsibility as a higher-education institution.
Yeh-Man Foundation CEO Yung-Tsai Wang, in his speech, expressed gratitude to Yuan Ze University for its long-term support and encouragement for disadvantaged children, helping them grow with love and education.
The evening showcased a diverse lineup of performances. Ripple of the Past, a band formed by YZU alumni, opened the stage with nostalgic melodies, evoking shared memories among students and graduates. Later, the Little Boy Band elevated the energy with heartfelt and engaging performances, prompting the audience to hum along and sway to the rhythm.
Student performance groups—including the DJ Club, Pop Music Recording Club, MIDI Rock Club, Yuan-Sheng Guitar Club, Spring of Life Christian Fellowship, Gospel Fellowship, ACG Research Club, and MV Dance Club—also took turns performing. Their creativity and dynamic presence highlighted the spirit and talent of Yuan Ze University's younger generation. The event was jointly organized by the Department of Chinese Students’ Association and the DJ Club, with students overseeing planning, stage design, and on-site execution—fully demonstrating the university’s emphasis on experiential learning and student leadership.
Beyond performances, the event featured a warm and interactive DIY dessert activity area. Led by members of the Baking Club, Japanese Culture Club, and students enrolled in Japanese language courses, children from Yeh-Man Foundation had the chance to make Japanese-style fresh doughnuts. Many wore expressions of excitement and pride as they completed their handmade treats. The air soon filled with the sweet aroma of freshly made desserts, creating some of the most touching scenes of the night. Staff from the foundation noted that children look forward to returning to Yuan Ze University each year, and the experience has become a meaningful and unforgettable memory for them.
Residents from Zhongzheng and Xingren districts also actively joined the celebration. Village Heads Wang and Lee expressed appreciation for Yuan Ze University’s continued involvement with the local community, noting that the festive event allowed residents to enter the campus while also bringing the spirit of academia closer to daily life.
More than just a visual and musical celebration, the lighting event served as a symbol of compassion, connection, and gratitude. Through light, music, creativity, and shared companionship, Yuan Ze University once again demonstrated its commitment to University Social Responsibility (USR)—warming hearts in the winter season. The university announced that additional Christmas-themed events would continue throughout December and invited the public to join and extend the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
