UW Oshkosh Chancellor Manohar Singh inaugurated what he hopes becomes an annual tradition at UWO Dec. 2, with the Lighting of Sankari Park.
The park, named in honor of former professor Farouk Sankari, and located between Clow and Radford Hall, became a beacon of light and community spirit, hosting a new hallmark event intended to foster unity during the holiday season.
“We’re here because of the Sankari family,” Alex Hummel, Executive Director of University Relations said. “We’re grateful for the family members of our beloved faculty member Farouk Sankari.”
Farouk, a professor in the Political Science department, died of a heart attack on Nov. 16, 1990.
According to Singh, this idea started as an imagination of his, that started with snowfall, and with the help of his administration and the Facilities and Grounds department, they became reality.
“(They) take my sometimes imagination that may not be practical, and they translate it,” Singh said. “Their dedication is much more beyond what I had imagined.”
Singh also thanked the UWO Choir who was in attendance, whose voices brought an “unimaginable, beautiful” sentiment of bonding.
“Since ages, this is the moment where we come together and celebrate our togetherness,” he said. “And the music that you gave us is just a topic.”
Singh’s remarks then transitioned to the university’s mission of togetherness, noting that the effort was not just about serving the students, but about supporting the entire community, while highlighting the university’s commitment to its students, noting that 46 percent are first-generation learners.
“We have dreams that we want to fulfill,” Singh said. “We have moments that are tense, but then we have moments that we can celebrate, the spirit of love, affection, kindness (and) giving. This day is a reminder of how we can prevail together.”
Singh then concluded his remarks speaking about the unity that this season brings, whether one is religious or not.
Singh and Sankari’s family then led those assembled in a countdown, before the lights were illuminated, leaving many onlookers impressed.
“Especially with all the snow, it’s perfect,” a student said.
The lights created a magic, which Singh said was a core symbol of the university’s shared spirit.
“We are one, always. And these lighting up of the parks and the trees during these days, it’s just a reminder how beautiful life is and how beautiful we are together as a university, Singh said.”
