Winter lights will illuminate the Northwestern campus again

Winter is coming — and so is the darkness. But campus strolls will be brighter this season with the return of the popular winter lights.

During his ongoing listening tour of the University, President Mung Chiang said he heard repeatedly about the importance of the winter lights, and how they provide a boost to the community. During meetings with leaders from the Associated Student Government (ASG), President Chiang promised to work with them to bring back the lights.

“Through conversations with students and in listening to ASG leadership, it became very clear to me just how much the winter lights uplift our entire community, not only for safety but also to appreciate our beautiful campus,” President Chiang said. “Let’s indeed bring back this beloved Northwestern tradition by the students and for the students.”

Northwestern’s Facilities staff will wrap trees and poles with lights in a method that is more sustainable than ever in terms of labor, energy and carbon output.

Last November, ASG passed a resolution urging Northwestern to bring back the lights. Student leaders brought it up with President Chiang several times since he arrived this summer.

“ASG has had multiple opportunities to work with President Chiang since he took office in July,” said John Sisco, ASG co-president. “In all cases, he has been very receptive to our feedback about how to improve the quality of life on campus for students, with the reinstatement of these winter lights being proof of the kind of results our collaboration can produce. We appreciate his willingness to work with us on this and are looking forward to a brighter winter quarter.”

Whether you’re walking under Weber Arch or passing through Deering Meadow, the canopy of lights makes for great photos, social media posts, a peaceful amble or fun in the snow with friends.

“The special value in bringing our winter lights back is that every student on campus — no matter their major, background or affiliation — can once again feel communally safer and more joyful during Northwestern winters,” said Carridee Raymundo, ASG co-executive officer of justice and inclusion. “This goal has been on the mind of the student government representatives since last year, and I feel joy and satisfaction that it has finally been realized thanks to the support of President Chiang.”