Norwich University

‘Twas the start of Winter Break and up on the Hill Not a Rook could be seen, the UP silent and still.

Grades had been tallied by professors with care.

Credits had been entered by the quick Registrar.

All students had traveled back home to their beds,

Visions of Alden Partridge marched in their heads.

President Schneider closed his door breathing a sigh of relief, said “Jaime, they’re home safe…let’s get something to eat!”

A hush spread across campus with dorms sitting empty Frozen walkways and snow banks graced campus aplenty.

The Wise Campus Center was a testament to its past when it had been bustling with students rushing so fast.

The bookstore stood dark, goods yet to be sold.

The mailroom locked tight, boxes empty and cold.

In the large kitchen that served rice and beans

Giant pots were hung up scrubbed shiny and clean.

At the library with books neatly lined up in rows had helped many students who wanted to know where to find answers about science and history, or how best to solve an academic mystery.

The Arena was empty, ice glistening and cold

Though soon hockey fans in maroon and gold would yell “Go Cadets!” and encouraging cheers

Filling the rafters just like the past 100 years.

As memories of students swirled through the Hill many decades of history honored those before still, when Norwich consisted of only cadets, and relocated to Northfield, after her building was wrecked.

Although small in number, but never lacking in might,

Brick buildings stand proud, a breathtaking sight,

In the summer and winter, mud season and fall, the legacy of Norwich known to one and to all.

On this cold winter’s night, a Vermont moon on the snow,

All was quiet in Northfield, houses safe in a row.

Even faculty and staff had gone home to rest,

For in just a few weeks they’d be back at the test.

Tucked warm in his home President Schneider relaxed

thinking of the University--its students and staff--

He knew one simple wish would end this just right--- "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night."

The University will be closed for Holiday Break December 24th. Staff will return to open University administrative offices on January 4th. The spring 2010 academic semester classes start on January 18th.