There is so much to be grateful for this Thanksgiving season. As one of my favorite children’s authors, Kobi Yamada, reminds us in his book “Feeling Grateful: How to Add More Goodness to Your Gladness,” the best things in life aren’t things, but experiences lived, emotions felt, and connections made.
My life is overflowing with each of these as dean of the College of Education and Health Professions.
I experience something interesting here every day. Right now, I’m learning new skills from students across our college. It has been fantastic to meet so many students who are participating in the “Dean Kate Goes Back to Class” video series with me. I’ve learned everything from archery, taught by future physical education teachers, to how to make a thumb spica splint with an occupational therapy student.
When it comes to “emotions felt,” it’s hard to choose just one example. Just a few weeks ago, we hosted a luncheon to recognize our determined and dedicated student scholarship recipients and the benefactors who have opened so many doors for them. Many generous benefactors support our students and the college, and I am genuinely thankful for each one. I love hearing the moving and passionate stories behind why they give.
From our WE CARE-A-VAN tours across the state that lead to new friendships and partnerships to everyday interactions with colleagues, our connections run deep in the college.
As the month of Thanksgiving begins, I’m especially inspired to care forward. I invite you to join me. Try something new. Tell a student why you’re so proud of their good work. Reach out to a colleague you haven’t talked to in a while. Let’s tackle something new, embrace our emotions, and foster connections with intention this November.
“The best things in life often aren’t things at all. They are experiences lived, emotions felt, and connections made. These are the things that sparkle in our memory. And it is when we are feeling grateful that we can perform our most beautiful acts and appreciate our most treasured moments.” ~ Kobi Yamada
