
Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. | St. John's University-New York
Students from the Peter J. Tobin College of Business at St. John’s University are organizing a holiday event for children at St. Mary’s Hospital for Children in Bayside, Queens. The “Winter Wonderland” celebration is scheduled for Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
The event marks the conclusion of a semester-long project by senior marketing students enrolled in the Experiential & Event Marketing course taught by Professor Jeff Taylor. Ryleigh McGinley, a senior participating in the course, said, “As a Vincentian institution, St. John’s University is committed to service and compassion. We are excited to live out that mission through this project.”
St. Mary’s Hospital for Children provides pediatric post-acute and long-term care services and has partnered with St. John’s students for this initiative focused on community support during the holidays.
For safety reasons, attendance at the event will be limited to patients of St. Mary’s and approved volunteers from St. John’s University. However, members of the wider community are encouraged to participate by donating items or making financial contributions directly to St. Mary’s Hospital for Children in support of the celebration.
Instead of selling tickets, organizers are seeking donations such as gift cards, holiday decorations, or small gifts suitable for children and families receiving care at the hospital. The aim is to create an enjoyable holiday experience for children facing serious health challenges.
Activities planned include crafts, live entertainment, gifts, and other seasonal activities designed to provide joy beyond daily hospital routines.
The collaboration highlights efforts between higher education institutions and healthcare providers to offer meaningful experiences for young patients during the holiday season.
“We extend our sincere gratitude for the support of all partners and donors and look forward to creating a truly magical Winter Wonderland celebration,” organizers stated.
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