As Thanksgiving approaches, faculty champions and members of the Academic Integration Subcommittee of the Health and Well-Being Collective shared the traditions they’re most looking forward to, what they’re especially thankful for this year, and a few spirited opinions on everything from cranberry sauce to Black Friday shopping. While responses varied, one theme came through clearly: gratitude for family, friends, health and the campus community.

The traditions that matter most

“Seeing my sons (both college students) growing into adults.”

– Minsu Choi, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering

“One of my favorite traditions is to listen to Kathleen Battle’s Christmas music while I make Thanksgiving dinner. When I hear her clear, soaring soprano voice, I’m a kid again, watching my mom cook and enjoy her favorite holiday music that makes the air around us feel beautiful and alive.”

– Kelly Tate, teaching professor of English and technical communication

“I look forward to slowing down, sharing a good meal with family and friends, and taking a walk to enjoy the fall colors.”

– Arezoo Emdadi, assistant professor of materials science and engineering

What we’re thankful for

Health and family

“My wife is cancer-free”

– Eric Showalter, teaching professor of civil, architectural and environmental engineering

“My 22 and 23 year-old cats are here for one more TG!”

– Jeff Winiarz, associate professor of chemistry

“The health and well-being of my friends and family.”

– Amber Henslee, associate professor of psychological science

Students and the S&T community

“I am thankful for being able to work with such excellent students and colleagues.”

– Ryan Gilbert, Linda & Bipin Doshi Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering chair and professor

“Being a member of S&T.”

– Ozgur Satici, associate teaching professor of earth sciences and engineering

“I’m thankful for my students. They’re the heart of the university.”

– Kelly Tate, teaching professor of English and technical communication

Holiday hot takes

“Decorations can go up on Thanksgiving but no holiday music until December 1. Die Hard is NOT a holiday movie.”

– Dave Westenberg, Curators’ Distinguished Professor in biological sciences

“When you heat up leftovers, you’ve got to have a little bit of everything: turkey, gravy, stuffing, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, and canned cranberry jelly!”

– Rachel Schneider, associate teaching professor of English and technical communication

“Real whipped cream or nothing. If it is aerosol keep it out of the kitchen.”

– Eric Showalter, teaching professor of civil, architectural and environmental engineering

The great Thanksgiving debate