Show your appreciation at ‘Leading with Gratitude’

Are there people who have made a difference in your journey at Elon? Someone who has supported, encouraged, or inspired you along the way? Take a moment to let them know just how much they mean to you at the "Leading with Gratitude" event.

Head to the Moseley Living Room on Nov. 18 from noon to 3 p.m. for “Leading with Gratitude,” an event hosted by The Center for Leadership that will bring the power of gratitude into our community and help us acknowledge the many ways we lift each other up at Elon University.

The event will provide participants with all the necessary supplies to create a heartfelt thank-you note. Be sure to bring the recipients’ campus box number or mailing address. The Center for Leadership will get your message delivered.

In the hustle of campus life, it’s easy to forget how impactful a simple thank-you can be. Whether it’s a professor whose class changed your perspective, a staff member who goes out of their way to make your day better, a friend who’s always there for you or a mentor guiding you through the challenges of college – expressing your gratitude is a powerful way to show appreciation and spread kindness.

Event organizer Megan Papadopolo (left) and Olivia Brown, assistant director of the Center for Leadership (right)

“Some people go through their entire Elon journey and don’t take the time to thank someone who has really impacted their time here.  This event is a prime time to do this,” said Megan Papadopolo ’26, the event organizer.

Papadopolo wants students to stop by to share their gratitude and celebrate the people who make Elon an incredible place to be.

“A person who has been there for me during my time here is Olivia Brown, the assistant director of the Center for Leadership. She is honestly the reason why I am involved as I am.  Without her, I would not have taken my first steps into leadership. I always felt like I was not qualified to be in a leadership position, but after working with Olivia since my freshman year I do not have that feeling anymore.”

What to Expect

  • Identify a leader you appreciate: Name a faculty/staff member, friend, colleague, or mentor.
  • The chance to make someone’s day: Everyone appreciates being recognized, and you have the chance to make a meaningful impact with just a few words. Your gratitude could be the encouragement someone needs!
  • A moment to reflect: Writing a note lets you reflect on the journey you’re on and the people who have supported you. It’s a small but significant way to foster well-being and connection in our Elon community.
  • Coffee and hot chocolate: Grab a warm drink and relax!
photo of three dry erase boards where names are listed in response to the question, "who are your leaders?"
Identified leaders at the 2023 Leading with Gratitude event.