As the crisp autumn air joins with the warmth of family and friends on Thanksgiving Day, I find myself reflecting on the blessings we share as a community. This holiday is a time to pause, express gratitude, and celebrate the many ways we have come together to create a brighter future for all. At Carlow University, gratitude is not just a sentiment we express; it is a principle we live by, rooted in our mission of mercy, service, and transformative education.
This year, we’ve seen our values reflected in the initiatives we’ve launched and the lives we’ve touched. I am deeply thankful for the progress we have made, for the commitment of our students, faculty, and staff, and for the generous support – financial and otherwise – of our extended Carlow family.
Given my grateful mood, I’d like to share four Carlow milestones I’m thankful for this holiday season.
1. Impact Grant
We have been blessed this year with the opportunity to help support healthcare needs in the Braddock community. This initiative, made possible through the HRSA ANEW Grant, reflects our dedication to addressing critical needs in our region. By training advanced practice registered nursing (APRN) students who serve at the Braddock Family Health Center, we are not only empowering the next generation of healthcare leaders but also living out our mission of healing and mercy in real, measurable ways.
2. Carlow Community Scholars
Another initiative that fills me with pride is the Carlow Community Scholars Program, which supports students who have experienced foster care and unstable housing. This program embodies our commitment to inclusivity and personal growth, providing students with holistic support for their academic, emotional, and vocational development.
In its inaugural year, the program served 20 students, offering them the tools to thrive and encouragement to pursue their dreams. To these students, I say: we see you, we value you, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
3. LPN Program
As we face a national shortage of licensed practical nurses, our Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Program is a shining example of innovation and service. Unlike many traditional LPN programs, ours allows students to earn college credits while gaining hands-on experience in diverse healthcare environments. This unique structure prepares them not only for immediate success in their careers but also for continued education and advancement.
This December 13, the inaugural LPN cohort will stand for the very first practical nurse pinning ceremony at Carlow. We are proud of our graduates, and to be at the forefront of addressing this critical need in healthcare, ensuring that compassionate and skilled caregivers are ready to serve where they are most needed.
4. Grace’s Garden
Initiated by one of our own students, Grace’s Garden has transformed a piece of our campus into a space that nurtures both the body and the spirit. The garden provided fresh produce for those in need and served as a gathering place that fosters community and connection – a beautiful expression of our values in action. It is a living symbol of how one person’s vision, supported by a caring community, can make a profound difference.
Go Forward with Gratitude
As we celebrate Thanksgiving, let us remember that gratitude is not just about recognizing what we have, but also about acknowledging what we can give. Each of these programs reflects the heart of Carlow University, devoted to creating opportunities, breaking down barriers, and fostering growth.
To our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends: thank you for being part of this journey. Your passion, dedication, and belief in our mission inspire me every day. As we gather with loved ones on this holiday, may we carry forward the spirit of thanksgiving in all that we do, sharing our blessings and working toward a more just and merciful world.
Wishing you, your families, and your friends a joyful Thanksgiving.
Dr. Kathy W. Humphrey
President, Carlow University