To the Harcum College community, Joe Gruszka is a 2004 graduate of the Dental Hygiene program and a former faculty member. To the rest of the tri-state area, though, he’s Santa Joe.

Prior to the pandemic, Gruszka, dressed as Santa Claus, traveled all over the Delaware Valley during the holiday season. He brought the magic of Christmas to family parties, daycares and schools, and corporate events.

“My favorite thing about being Santa is watching children get older and families grow and change,” said Gruszka.

His pre-pandemic routine would be like every typical Santa – taking photos with kids while they tell him their Christmas wishes, handing out presents and candy canes to everyone, and wrapping things up with a reading of The Night Before Christmas.

“Seeing the magic and excitement in the children’s eyes always makes me feel so wonderful when I visit them, and their parents’ Christmas spirit grows as well,” said Gruszka.

After much deliberation on how things could continue despite the pandemic, Gruszka decided to see if there would be any interest in Zoom meetings with Santa.

He was surprised at how many families jumped at the idea. Luckily, Santa has a special elf, his son Robert, to help with logistics and any technical issues that arise.

“Every child needs to be able to see Santa at Christmas time, and now I can see even more boys and girls safely from their homes,” remarked Gruszka.

If you’re interested in scheduling a virtual visit with Santa, you can contact him at santajoevisits@gmail.com or follow his journey on Facebook by clicking here.