Binghamton University Holiday Sweater Contest to benefit Bear Necessities Food Pantry

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — Binghamton University, the premier public university, boasting some of the brightest minds in academia, has one thing on its mind this holiday season: How ugly can a sweater get?

The University will find out the answer this December with the launch of the first annual Holiday Ugly Sweater Contest. Member of the campus community — students, faculty and staff— are invited to don the most atrocious holiday sweaters they can in hopes of being crowned the tackiest dresser in Binghamton. Reindeer, snowmen, garish patterns and unsightly color combos – all are welcome.

“What better way to bring the campus community together and inspire some warm holiday cheer than to get everyone together in really ugly sweaters?” said Binghamton University President Harvey Stenger. “Actually, I’m sure there are much better ways, but this was too funny to pass up!”

Participants are asked to visit room B90 of the Lecture Hall basement (LH-B90) during one of two time blocks on the last two days of classes: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6, or 1-4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7. Contestants will be photographed individually and their sweaters will be assessed by a team of verified sweater experts. The three ugliest sweater wearers will win prizes and bragging rights at their next family get-together.

Prizes include:

- Two $25 gift certificates to Texas Roadhouse

- Five food platters and a T-shirt from Chick-N-Bap

- Two pizzas from CopperTop Pizzeria

Contestants are asked to bring food and personal care items to donate to the Bear Necessities Food Pantry, which assists students in need.

Sponsored by Chick-N-Bap, CopperTop Pizzeria, Visions Federal Credit Union and Binghamton University Dining Services.

For questions, email social@binghamton.edu.