On December 9, 2008, The Division of Student Affairs hosted the 16th Annual Holiday Celebration for Children.  One hundred children, along with their teachers and principals from schools throughout Miami-Dade County; attended.  Community sponsors and over 350 FIU employees participated in the festivities which included lunch, entertainment, and a toyshop for the children and prizes for adults. Dr. Rosa Jones expressed the spirit that this event brings to the University:  "This day is our beginning of our celebration of the Holidays."  President Maidique commended the FIU family for making this event one that "reflects that FIU is of the people, for the people, and by the people."  The sentiments of everyone at FIU are that they get so much joy from seeing how much happiness this event brings to the children.  

This event was started 16 years ago.  Its purpose is to provide merriment to underprivileged children during the holiday season, as well as to expose them to a college environment and hopefully plant a seed that will inspire them to do well in school and seek higher education.
The success of this event over the years has been because of the collaboration of the FIU and corporate communities. FIU volunteers from every level in the University -- executives, administrators, faculty, staff and students -- serve as volunteers and provide special services. Major contributions from corporations and local businesses have been a blessing and have brought so much joy to many children.