Noon of December 24th, the warm winter sun filtered through the green vines of the balcony, scattering specks of light onto the lively gathering in the center hall of the English Center. A heartwarming Christmas celebration was taking place. This moment, brimming with laughter and emotion, was a celebration of the festive season and a heartfelt tribute to two senior foreign teachers, JK Ulrich and Don Bolduc, who were about to leave their posts.

The celebration commenced in a serene atmosphere with the farewell ceremony. The Dean of SGE Prof. Haipeng Guo recounted the decade-long bond of the two teachers with UIC and their myriad work experiences, expressing appreciation and gratitude for their years of hard work and dedication. Both the Dean and the Center Director Jon Corbett presented gifts to the departing teachers on behalf of everyone. Darrell, a center staff member and long-time friend of the two teachers, shared humorous anecdotes and banter, eliciting frequent laughter from the attendees. Every story and bond of friendship deeply touched the audience. Among the attendees was Mr. Howard Huxter, a septuagenarian, one of UIC's earliest foreign teachers, and a retired teacher from the center. Seeing so many young faces and the thriving development of the ELC, Mr. Howard Huxter expressed his gratification and good wishes.

The "Secret Santa" segment that followed brought the event to a climax. Everyone had prepared a heartfelt gift and, amid the laughter, welcomed "Santa Claus" to preside over the gift exchange. This activity not only bolstered team spirit but also added more fun and surprises to the event. The exquisite gifts and their anonymous givers ensured that everyone felt the warmth and joy of Christmas.

The performance segment featured a series of heartwarming songs, professional guitar performances, passionate male solo, and a female chorus that forgot the lyrics mid-performance, adding to the merriment. The delicious Christmas feast was a tradition of the ELC's Potluck. Everyone prepared exquisite dishes, and the sharing and tasting of these dishes created unforgettable moments.

As the year comes to a close, this Christmas celebration and farewell ceremony for foreign teachers at the English Center was an unforgettable event. It strengthened the center's cohesion, brought hope for the new year, and wished for the continued development of the English Center with Chinese and foreign teachers working hand in hand.

By Stella Yan Shi