Dr. Agnese flipped the switch with the help of board member John Miller’s grandsons at the Light the Way ceremony at Benson Stadium.

More than 6,200 guests flooded Gayle and Tom Benson Stadium to officially kick off the Christmas season at the annual Light the Way ceremony on Nov. 20. Because of the enormous popularity of the free holiday event, Dr. Louis Agnese decided to move the celebration to the stadium to accommodate the growing number of attendees.

Special guests for the evening included Congressman Charlie Gonzalez, Auxiliary Bishop Oscar Cantú, H-E-B Public Affairs Director Dya Campos, Santa Claus and guest emcees Ursula Pari and Steve Spriester of KSAT 12. Sounds of holiday music filled the air thanks to the UIW Chorale, the UIW Marching Band and the choirs from Incarnate Word High School, St. Anthony Catholic School and St. Peter Prince of Apostles Catholic School. In addition, the St. Anthony Catholic High School jazz band with featured singer Sarah Centeno entertained the crowd along with headliner Tejano music legend Patsy Torres.

As he has for the past 24 years, Dr. Agnese ended the ceremony with the flip of a switch, illuminating the UIW campus with twinkling lights. Mariachi Sol De Tejas led the candlelight procession of guests through the campus and to Central Market H-E-B for a complimentary reception.

Mark your calendar for the 2011 Light the Way, scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 19.