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This Christmas season at Southern Adventist University, the Student Blessing Tree in Wright Hall stands tall once again. Begun in 2023 by Kim Mendoza, administrative assistant and hiring process coordinator, the tree enables students to ask for needs in the Christmas season by filling out a card and placing it into a burlap bag on a tree branch; then, employees select requests and meet these needs to the best of their abilities.

Mendoza shares, “The Blessing Tree provides a unique way for students to experience the love of Jesus.”

The blessings have been growing each year. In its first year, about 50 individuals received gifts as a result of the tree. Last year, the number grew to 75, and this year it officially exceeded 100 students.

“I love being part of something that directly impacts students,” Mendoza says. “For example, being the ‘elf’ for employees and donors who wish to remain anonymous is such a rewarding experience.”

Mendoza recalls a time last year when she got to act as ‘elf’ for a participant who requested warm clothes and shoes for the winter. “The employee wanted to remain anonymous but deliver the gift in a way that would create an experience.” Mendoza took the student shopping in the employee’s stead. She says, “It was such a blessing to be able to get to know her and help her carefully pick out items she liked.”

The Student Blessing Tree has enabled miraculous experiences. In 2023, one individual asked for tuition assistance, and the staff member who drew her name found a donor who paid off the full school bill, enabling her to finish her senior year. Mendoza explains, “The student shared that she had completely surrendered her future at Southern to God, and He came through for her in a way she never expected.”

Star Stevens, School of Religion resource secretary, has donated to a student’s bill previously. “I liked the idea of doing something specific to help a student who needed it,” she says. “It was a wonderful feeling to know that someone’s entire life might be impacted by my gift.” The recipient was so overwhelmed by the gift that she took steps to directly thank Stevens.

Mendoza says, “The Blessing Tree is just one way that employees at Southern act as the hands and feet of Jesus.”

The tree is located on the second floor of Wright Hall on the balcony, and participants can fill out a card with their needs or take a pouch from the tree to help someone else. For those who prefer to donate money, visit southern.edu/blessingtree.

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