Thankful Thoughts for the Giving Season

Human Resources is all about people, so this year, we're taking time to celebrate the people and moments that bring joy to our lives. As Villanovans, we’re fortunate to be part of a community rooted in generosity and a spirit of service. With that in mind, we’ve been reflecting on how we can embody these values in our daily lives. During our latest development series, we invited attendees to share what they’re most thankful for this season.

November 13, 2024 HR Development Series

Here are a few of the things that our community shared they are thankful for this year:

• My amazing team and leadership

• Ability to take care of oneself and their wellbeing

• Family

• Friends

• Supportive community

• Growth opportunities

• Having a place to go for Thanksgiving

• My foster kittens

• A passing grade on the SHRM exam (hopefully)

• My little sister

• Weekly game nights with friends

• My imaginative kids

• New connections

• Good health

• New experiences with amazing people

• My supportive parents

Reflecting on this list, it’s clear that the diversity of answers showcases the richness of our program. Villanova HRD brings together students from a wide range of life stages, creating a vibrant and dynamic community. These differences are what make our program so special, offering unique perspectives and experiences to learn from. One common theme among our students did emerge, the deep appreciation for the people in their lives who offer support and encouragement.

While this is reflective of HR's role in an organization, it also speaks to the Villanova community as a whole. Villanova prides itself on its core tenets, Veritas, Unitas, and Caritas.

Veritas means truth, and Villanova exhibits this value by enriching the lives of those in the community, and spreading that knowledge throughout the world in each journey a Villanovan takes.

Unitas means unity. Villanova prides itself on our togetherness and our ability to grow beyond graduation. In the words of beloved former coach, Jay Wright, "Once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat." These words remind us to carry our Villanova values with us no matter where our paths take us.

And finally, Caritas, meaning Love. Caritas is reflected most strongly by Villanovans around the holidays when we reflect on how fortunate we are to have such a strong community and how much power we have to spread that joy through service and selflessness. Each year, Villanova organizes a Thanksgiving outreach effort to collect and donate supplies to local community partners. To get involved, follow this link to support their effort, and be sure to check out Villanova's continued community service throughout the holiday season with their upcoming toy drive!

While the holiday season becomes a time when many of us focus on giving back, it's important to give back and show thanks throughout the entire year. As Human Resource students and professionals, we know our work is important to care for employees on a day-to-day basis, similar to the continual needs of our community. If you're interested in getting involved with Villanova's service and missions, follow this link to view more opportunities.

During this season of reflection and gratitude, we hope you will take time to ponder the things you are thankful for in your life. We hope everyone has a happy and restful Thanksgiving!