Mission in Motion has regularly highlighted the many ways that staff members contribute to realizing Georgetown’s mission. Previous interviews on the blog have explored the unique talents of our staff community and how these gifts are brought to bear in support of our shared educational endeavors. I hope that readers come away with a clear sense about how such a complex global organization like Georgetown needs a talented and diverse team of employees in order for the university to flourish.
This year’s Staff Appreciation Day hosted on the Hilltop Campus (a Capitol Campus event will take place in the spring) was an experience of gratitude for the committed members of our community who make Georgetown run. As the largest private employer in Washington, D.C., Georgetown has an enormous influence on the economic fortunes of this region. I was especially struck this year by the turnout, impressed by the size of our workforce, and amazed about how these essential roles, however diverse in their functions and locations across the university, come together to form a coherent whole. In the language of Georgetown’s mission and values, Staff Appreciation Day really puts a finer point on our being a “Community in Diversity.”
This rich diversity was evident in so many ways. Different offices and sub-communities among the staff, like the Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), had tables and offered resources and impromptu conversations. The spread of food was nutritious and delicious and helped spark fellowship and camaraderie. There was music and even dancing! Despite the threat of rain, the mood was friendly and celebratory. I walked away with a gift from the raffle (a nice Georgetown mug!) and some lasting memories about connecting with both new and old colleagues. I was delighted by the number of conversations that led to a commitment to set up a meeting to find more time to meet and connect.
I hope that this annual occasion helps the larger university community grow in awareness and gratitude about how staff members working in front and behind the scenes help animate Georgetown’s mission and values. I also hope that this festive gathering encourages staff members to continue seeking out the spontaneous sparks of affection that are possible when we come together as one.