The employees and students of West Liberty University took a lesson from Santa Claus as they purchased and wrapped gifts for community children this holiday season.

Beth Salatino is shown with her office full of gifts.

“Our Christmas Wish Tree offered our campus community a chance to give a gift to those in need as we took part in buying and giving gifts to local children in need. This effort has gone on here on the Hilltopper campus for many years,” said Beth Salatino, senior financial aid counselor.

Salatino was assisted in the gift drive by Rhonda Tysk, admissions transfer counselor.

Salatino’s office looked a lot like Santa’s workshop this December as she prepared to deliver the gifts to area organizations like the Children’s Home of Wheeling, St. John’s Home for Children and Florence Crittenton.

“We are pleased to be able to help and this annual tradition of gift giving is a perfect way for our campus to reach out to the community during the Christmas season,” said Tysk. There were 65 gift tags selected by employees and students and using the request on the tags, gifts were purchased and wrapped.

“We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas,” Salatino said.