Students Help to “Light the Way” at 2025 Volunteer Days

Every year, the University of the Incarnate Word’s Broadway campus transforms into a winter wonderland during its much-anticipated Light the Way Holiday Festival. This annual event invites thousands of San Antonio residents to experience the “millions of twinkling lights” that illuminate the campus, ushering the joyous Christmas season.  However, this event wouldn’t be possible without the help of UIW student volunteers.

From Monday, Sept. 8 through Wednesday Sept. 10, UIW students gathered in the Student Engagement Center Ballroom to prepare the festival lights by replacing old light bulbs with new ones. Using protective gear, dedicated students touch each and every light, ensuring that each light can shine brightly during the upcoming 39th Light the Way Festival.

“It makes me very happy to know that my volunteer hours are going to something that will make our campus prettier and that will contribute towards the enjoyment of my peers,” shared Parker Jones, student volunteer.

“It makes me feel good to know that my efforts are going towards something for our community here at UIW,” expressed Christa Mireles, student volunteer. “Not only does my contribution reach people on campus but also off campus. That is a good feeling to have!”

“I think that it’s nice that I get to contribute to the community and help make this event possible,” said Mariela Ruiz, student volunteer. “This event brings a lot of smiles to people’s faces and makes their holidays a little more magical.”

After three tireless days of dedicated work, student volunteers left wearing proud smiles, knowing that they completed one of the most essential steps in making Light the Way possible. On Saturday, Nov. 22, they will get to see their efforts come to life when the festival switch is flipped and the campus lights up in an array of vibrant colors.

“Thank you to all our UIW students for helping us prepare for the upcoming Light the Way!” shared Denise Aguilar, special events manager. “Our electricians have already begun installing the lights in the campus trees. This is truly a campus-wide effort, and we are grateful to everyone who has worked alongside us to get ready for the 39th Annual Light the Way, presented by H-E-B. We look forward to Saturday, November 22, when the beautiful lights will illuminate our campus once again!”