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But Thanksgiving reminds us to slow down and take a moment to recognize all we have to be thankful for. Not only does expressing gratitude make those around you feel appreciated, but research shows that it can enhance your own quality of life, helping you sleep better and feel more patient and optimistic. So in the interest of spreading restfulness, calmness, and happiness, we invited students and faculty members to share what they are grateful for on campus this year.
Xaviera Thomas ’19, biology
I am grateful for the people who work in dining services and the custodians on campus. I feel that we take them for granted, and we should show them more appreciation for the hard work they do. They are so friendly. I’m really thankful for them.
Christopher Lee, associate professor of history
I’m really grateful for the librarians and staff at Skillman Library, particularly Terese Heidenwolf, Diane Shaw, and Lijuan Xu. They have been incredibly helpful not only with my own research needs but also with helping my students with their research projects.
Miriam Swartz ’18, history and anthropology & sociology
I’m really grateful for the sense of community at Lafayette and the friendships it’s brought me that will stick with me long after graduation.
Rebecca Brown ’18, biochemistry
I am grateful for all of my friends here and my sisters in Tri Delta and all of the amazing opportunities I’ve had at this school.
Ali Ehsan ’19, economics
I am very grateful for my mentor, Juan Pedro Garces-Voisenat. He has supported me and encouraged me to take challenges. As the adviser of the College’s Social Business Investment Club, he has given us continuous support and guidance. He has helped us collaborate with the city of Easton to hopefully bring a social-business model here that can help the local community. I want to make my mark here and Professor Garces-Voisenat is helping me do that.
Rhonea Long ’20, women’s and gender studies
I am grateful for [the Office of] Career Services because they provide us with resources and a big network that can help us find jobs. I’m looking to get an internship this summer in New York City in the fashion industry, and they have been really helpful.
Paige Faasuamalie ’21, neuroscience
I am grateful for my professors. I feel like they genuinely care about me and want me to do well in all of my courses.
Jeff Liebner, assistant professor of mathematics
I am grateful for students who are eager to learn, eager to be adventurous, and eager to embrace challenges. I’m also grateful for colleagues who are very supportive and always willing to lend a hand and give advice. The people here at Lafayette make this a special place.
Asher Carlson ’21, neuroscience
I’m grateful for the Athletic Department, the soccer coaching staff, and the professors who are willing to help me as a student athlete.
Charles Evans ’19, Africana studies and government & law
I’m grateful for the black community that is my support system on College Hill. They have become extended members of my family. They are shoulders to cry on, bodies to dance next to, and partners to study with and laugh with. They understand where I’m coming from and don’t require explanation.
Seo-Hyun Park, associate professor of government and law
I’m grateful for my students, who really share in my love of learning every day.
Lovejoy Afoakwa ’20, mechanical engineering
I am grateful for my family for sticking with me, despite the ups and downs. You’ve always believed in me and encouraged me to be successful. Hopefully, we will have many more years to celebrate together. I’m also thankful for the professors here. They’re amazing with the effort they put in to make sure we understand the material and challenge us to think independently.
Megan Rothenberger, associate professor of biology
I am grateful for the upcoming new Rockwell Integrated Sciences Center. It will make it easier for us to integrate our work across departments and be in closer contact with the Office of Sustainability. It will also give the students who are part of the environmental sciences program a centralized location to gather and work together. I’m very excited for the classes and labs we will be able to have there.