One of our Thanksgiving traditions at BMCC is the Tree of Thanks. This year our community can either write their message of appreciation for a colleague, friend or family member on the life-sized paper tree outside the Office of Student Affairs or enter their message on a padlet showing a virtual Tree of Thanks.
I’ve been checking in on these messages, and they are uplifting. In our excitement about BMCC’s partnerships with colleges and universities near and far — from local institutions to those outside the United States — it’s good to remember that the BMCC community is going strong right here, in New York City.
I am thankful for every one of you, from the professor who leads students in vital STEM research, to the student who mentors their peers, to the counselor who instills a sense of hope in someone who is struggling. I am thankful for students and staff who ask the tough questions and contribute to our continual process of improving our services. I am thankful to our corporate partners who put dynamic careers within our students’ reach, and I am thankful to our funders who enable us to think outside the box and develop innovative programs.
There is a long list of people I appreciate deeply, and you might have a long list as well. I encourage you to tell them that you appreciate them. Speak out in emails, in a passing word to a colleague, in gestures on platforms like our Tree of Thanks. Speak your thanks with a donation to the college, as in our upcoming CUNY Tuesday fundraising drive.
I believe gratitude makes us stronger, that it reinforces the positive. Let’s keep the cycle of gratitude alive, as we enter this season of giving. Let’s enter the holidays with a renewed commitment to our important work. Thank you for everything you do to keep BMCC strong. I wish you and your loved ones a glorious Thanksgiving.
Sincerely,
Anthony E. Munroe
President, Borough of Manhattan Community College
