Holiday Story Time Brought Cheer Across Generations

Volunteers across Bowie State University helped bring the campus mission to life during Story Time with a Bulldog Holiday Edition, a virtual community program that connected readers with children and care home residents for a week of uplifting storytelling. Hosted by the Staff Council in collaboration with the Faculty Senate and the Service Student Advisory Board, the initiative encouraged joy, imagination and a sense of togetherness during the early weeks of the season.

Held Dec. 2 - 5, the program invited staff, faculty and students to serve as storytellers who shared holiday and winter themed books with young readers and older adults who often appreciate moments of companionship at this time of year. Volunteers logged in from their offices and homes to read picture books, short stories and personal favorites that offered comfort, inspiration and a meaningful point of connection.

This annual tradition is made possible through the shared leadership of Annette Wedderburn, Staff Council events chair, and event co-chairs Tanya Jones and Jabari Walker. Jones and Walker have championed the program's continuation each year and helped ensure that Story Time remains a standing service initiative for the council. With Wedderburn leading event coordination, the effort brings together students, staff and faculty in a united act of service that reaches far beyond Bowie State's physical campus.

Through the program, the university continues to honor its commitment to meaningful engagement by reading not only to children but also to seniors and community members who may be unable to leave their homes or connect socially during the season. Each session offers companionship, joy and a reminder that participants are valued members of the Bulldog family.

"Story Time with a Bulldog is our gift of connection," said Wedderburn. "It is a moment where students, staff, faculty and our neighbors beyond campus pause to share joy, laughter and imagination together. Especially during a season when some may feel isolated, something as simple as reading a story can bring comfort and remind someone that they are seen, supported and never alone."

For volunteers, the experience held personal meaning. "This was my first time reading for Story Time with a Bulldog and it was truly rewarding," said Janiya Shanice Redd, a junior business administration major with a concentration in marketing. "It reminded me of moments with my own family and friends during the holidays. The laughter, the coziness and the love. Being able to share that feeling with others, especially those who might be missing someone this season, meant so much to me."

What began as a small engagement effort has grown into a valued tradition that reflects Bowie State's commitment to service and compassion. For children the sessions provided a spark of wonder. For seniors in care homes they created a chance to meet new faces and enjoy thoughtful conversation. For the campus community Story Time showed how leadership and service can be expressed through simple acts that lift others.

As Bowie State continues to build opportunities for meaningful engagement, Story Time with a Bulldog stands out as a powerful example of the university's mission in practice through creativity, connection and care for the broader community.