Milton Hershey School Alumni Host Christmas Party for Students
Milton Hershey School is a special place all year, but a unique type of magic flows through the campus during the holiday season. Alumni have fond memories of their Christmases at MHS, and many return to campus to ensure today’s students benefit from special traditions.
The Milton Hershey School Alumni Association (MHSAA) Homestead Chapter recently hosted its annual Christmas party for Elementary Division students. On a Wednesday afternoon after school, children visited the Founders Hall cafeteria for cookies, pizza, and a visit from Santa Claus.
“This is a lot of fun; I enjoyed seeing Santa,” Ravi Chappelle, a third grader, said.
Chappelle’s friend, first grader David Bush, agreed.
“I love Christmas and pizza!” he exclaimed.
Chappelle, Bush, and other students also completed a community service activity during the festivities by sending holiday cards to alumni.
Mike Mulderig ’71, president of the MHSAA Homestead Chapter, believes it is important for Milts to give back to the school. Mulderig has been involved with the Christmas party since he returned to Hershey in 1987. He worked for MHS for 23 years as a houseparent and custodian.
“I was blessed to be given the opportunity to attend here,” Mulderig said. “I am grateful every day I wake up that MHS is part of my life, so I give back as often as possible.”
Mulderig said the Christmas party is also an opportunity for alumni to stay connected.
Like Mulderig, Chris Cook ’81 considers MHS an important part of her life. She joined the school’s faculty in 1986 as a kindergarten teacher. She retired in 2021 but still returns for events such as the Christmas party.
“This is what it is all about, coming here and being with the kids,” Cook said.
MHSAA’s mission is to foster a sense of family and community among alumni, promote and enhance the relationship between Milton Hershey School and its graduates, and support the principles of Milton and Catherine’s Deed of Trust. In addition to the Christmas party, the organization supports current students and young alumni through financial awards, hosts Alumni Fellowship Weekend, and offers financial assistance to members facing life challenges.