By Melissa Hicks
In our blue-white zone, gratitude is more than a sentiment. It’s a way of life. While Happy Valley is celebrated for its scenic beauty and Penn State pride, the true soul of our community shines through in our everyday expressions of thankfulness and the many ways we practice it together.
For more than 2,000 Penn State students each year, gratitude becomes tangible in The Art and Science of Human Flourishing, a course that redefines traditional classroom learning. In this class, students share personal stories, explore mindfulness, meditate, and journal. They learn to see gratitude not as a fleeting feeling but as a powerful strength that builds resilience.
Classes often begin with the ring of a bell and a moment of quiet. “Just a few moments of reflection at the start of class changed how I felt for the whole day,” one student shared. Another reflected, “I was surprised at how easily I could leave my stress behind. Coloring and reflecting calmed us all.” Many praise the course for creating a safe space where honest conversation is encouraged. “There were no wrong answers. Even ‘I don’t know’ was welcomed.”
Professor Robert Roeser, who leads the course, emphasizes a mindful approach: “What we are doing and feeling is alright. We only need to notice it and be mindful of it.” Students often credit the class with building their confidence, compassion, and sense of belonging. As one first-year student put it, “This course helped me find community at Penn State.” Students leave with more than knowledge. They gain real tools for cultivating gratitude and compassion in daily life.
This spirit of gratitude echoes across campus. The Thrive initiative offers workshops and simple gratitude practices accessible to all. The PRO Wellness program shares research highlighting how gratitude positively reshapes our brains, fostering optimism and mental well-being. Events like Thank a Donor Day bring the Penn State community together to celebrate the generosity that makes education possible for so many. THON, America’s largest student-run philanthropy, transforms thankfulness into real action and support for others.
Gratitude also finds a stronghold in Penn State athletics. Under Coach Cael Sanderson, the wrestling program embodies a gratitude-centered philosophy. “If I’m truly grateful, I’m going to maintain that regardless of the outcome,” Sanderson says. He teaches his athletes that hard work, humility, and appreciation matter more than the final score. “Count your blessings, and then make your blessings count,” he reminds them. This mindset fosters deep trust, care, and resilience on and off the mat.
It’s this deep-rooted sense of gratitude that sets Happy Valley apart. It flows through small moments—a kind word, a heartfelt thank you, a moment of reflection—and builds the strong connections that define our community.
With Thanksgiving arriving tomorrow, may gratitude brighten your days and thankfulness shape your season. Take a moment to jot down three things you’re grateful for. Or better yet, share them with someone you care about. Even the smallest act of gratitude can send ripples through our entire community.
From all of us here at Connect Happy Valley, have a safe, joyful, and deeply meaningful Thanksgiving. Gratitude isn’t just something we say. It’s who we are and how we thrive here in our blue-white zone.
