Santa made his annual appearance at Fordham on Dec. 8 when the Fordham University Association held its Children’s Christmas Party at the McGinley Center Ballroom. Members of the University’s faculty, administration, and staff came with their families to participate in arts and crafts, cookie decorating, a luncheon, and a chance for all good boys and girls to get a special holiday gift from jolly old (and all around good-guy) Saint Nick.

In all, nearly 300 guests attended.

Patrick Ryan, S.J., vice president for University mission and ministry, opened the afternoon with a prayer of thanksgiving. Preparing for the feast, he added:

“Tomorrow we diet.”

Ann Gannon, co-president of FUA, handed out prizes at the post-luncheon raffle, which included tickets to South Pacific at Lincoln Center and the New York Philharmonic.

The Fordham University Association is comprised of members of the faculty, administrative, clerical and maintenance staff of the University. The group is sponsored by the Office of the President. FUA’s goal is to sponsor events and activities that bring the Fordham community together for fun and fellowship.

FUA also is planning a Bring Your Child to Work day in April, as well as the annual Easter Egg Hunt.