On Dec. 2, Sinclair College’s Dayton campus transformed into a magical winter wonderland; offering students a festive retreat from the stress of finals week. From 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., the Building 8 stage area buzzed with laughter, creativity and holiday cheer as students explored a variety of activities from cozy reading nooks to hands-on crafts, karaoke and spirited games.
The event organized by Crystal Ford Bingle, coordinator of student engagement has become a beloved tradition.
“I started hosting [the] Winter Wonderland in December 2021 as a way for students to de-stress and enjoy some fun before finals,” Ford Bingle said. “Each year, we add new elements. This year, we introduced holiday karaoke and a painting station, and the energy in the room was incredible. Students were asking, ‘One more, Let’s do one more.’ even after the event officially ended.”
A highlight of the event was the cozy fireside book nook curated by the Sinclair library. Debra Oswald, director of the library, spoke on the space.
“We brought holiday books, including selections for Christmas, Kwanzaa and other Jewish holidays. Students could sit by the fire, relax and even sign holiday cards for members of the military,” Oswald said.
First-time attendee Davonna Chambers loved the combination of calm and creativity.
“My favorite was probably the karaoke, it was so funny. But I also loved the painting station. I painted little letters for my family. It was peaceful and really fun,” Chambers said.
For the creatively inclined, the art zone offered ornament-making, plush teddy bear keychains and Piper-inspired jingle paws masks.
“I think more students should reach out to Lex and the Resiliency Center,” said Alexas Sandoval, peer resolution mediator for LGBTQ+ Support. “This is a place where students can feel comfortable, open up and get help. Events like Winter Wonderland give us a chance to reach more students.”
The Makerspace Club and Garden Club were also at the event, hosting interactive fundraisers.
James Davidson, Makerspace Club president, explained the fundraiser.
“We wanted students to explore creative projects for free or at a very low cost while learning new skills and having fun.”
From 3D printing and button-making to custom shirts and mugs, students could create holiday gifts while experimenting with new techniques.
Anya Broyles, treasurer of the Garden Club added that they look to encourage open participation from everyone.
“We aim to provide opportunities for everyone to participate in educational activities regardless of income. The proceeds help fund trips like the National Horticultural Association Conference in Columbus,” Broyles said.
Students appreciated the chance to relax, socialize and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
“The people here made it really entertaining,” said Abubakar Basubi, a returning attendee. “The singing, the interactions, it was just a lot of fun. More people showed up this year, which made it even better.”
Alumni and Sinclair foundation offices contributed by providing free pizza for students who signed thank-you cards to donors and scholarship supporters adding an extra layer of community engagement. The decorations and ambiance of Winter Wonderland created an immersive holiday experience.
“I’m eclectic,” Ford Bingle said. “We have lights, trees, big inflatables, fun balloons and light-up centerpieces. I want students to feel relaxed, joyful and have a sense of peace while they’re here. We even had a student ambassador display his paintings this year, adding a personal, creative touch.”
From cozy reading nooks and holiday crafts to games, music and artistic expression, Winter Wonderland offered something for everyone. Ford Bingle explained what makes the yearly event so special.
“Seeing students relax, have fun and feel a sense of belonging is what makes this event special. With finals coming up, it’s important to create spaces that let them unwind and feel part of the Sinclair community.”
This years Winter Wonderland event proved to be a perfect holiday escape—a place for creativity, connection and cheer.
With the success of this year’s event, Bingle is already thinking ahead.
“Next year, we might extend the hours, add new activities, and keep finding ways to surprise and delight students. It keeps growing, and I love that.”
Maliya Ayambire, staff writer
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