Queen’s marks the season with annual reception

Campus community

Queen’s marks the season with annual reception

The university celebrates and thanks employees for their contributions throughout the year.

December 11, 2025

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Reception crowd

Queen's staff and faculty connect at the annual holiday reception.

Over 1,200 Queen’s staff and faculty came together at the Athletics and Recreation Centre (ARC) on Thursday for a festive campus gathering to celebrate the season and connect with colleagues. Hosted by the Office of the Principal, the annual event featured food and beverages from Hospitality Services, including a winter hot drink station introduced in response to feedback from last year’s attendees.

Principal Patrick Deane attended the reception to speak with staff and faculty and to express his appreciation for their hard work and dedication over the past year.

“This gathering is an opportunity to not only celebrate this time of year, but to recognize the commitment and contributions of our employees,” says Principal Deane. “I am deeply grateful for everything you do to support the life and mission of the university."

Guests once again showed their generosity by bringing non-perishable food items for the AMS Food Bank. Donation bins at the ARC quickly filled, and many attendees also chose to make monetary contributions. Everyone who donated was entered into a draw for $100 in Flex $ to spend at retail food locations on campus.

Attendees are also invited to complete a , open until Dec. 17, for another chance to win $100 in Flex $. 

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