Students and faculty members at Sacred Heart University gathered outside of Linda’s on Sept. 24 at 11 a.m. for the university’s “Thank You Thursday” initiative.
Tacos from Urbantaqo, who came to Sacred Heart University for Thank You Thursday.
| Instagram, @urbantaqo|
Organized by Student Life and sponsored by Residential Life, the event included a food truck, allowing students to receive free tacos from Urban Taco Company, connect with friends and enjoy a break during their busy week.
“The food truck initiative is our way of letting students know how thankful we are for them and for their commitment to SHU,” said Denise Tiberio, Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students. “We want to show our students that they are valued and appreciated.”
The “Thank You Thursday” tradition began several years ago with SHU President Dr. John J. Petillo. He intended to establish a way for members of the university community to express gratitude and appreciation for one another and each other’s contributions across campus.
“The initiative reflects SHU’s mission and core values, particularly its commitment to service, hospitality, compassion and community,” said Kimberly Swartz, Director of Communications.
Over the course of the semester, different Student Life organizations sponsor a food truck almost every Thursday.
“Students have responded enthusiastically to ‘Thank You Thursday’ events,” said Petillo. “They gather with friends, line up for the food trucks and enjoy the opportunity to connect with one another.”
Students are notified about “Thank you Thursday” events via email.
“It’s definitely good to look into and get whatever they’re offering,” said senior Ella Wickham.
Beyond providing opportunities for free food, these events aim to foster a stronger sense of community on campus. Sacred Heart currently serves a student body of over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
“I think it’s good, it brings everyone together no matter the grade,” said Wickham.
Gratitude and appreciation are the core focus of the program. Both values aim to create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable being themselves and getting involved.
“Expressing gratitude helps people feel valued, cared for and supported,” said Petillo. “When individuals know their work and contributions are appreciated, it strengthens their sense of connection to the community and encourages them to extend that same kindness to others.”
Students who have not yet participated are encouraged to stop by food truck events in the future.
“‘Thank You Thursday’ reinforces SHU’s mission, culture and core values by reminding us to treat every person with dignity and respect and to recognize the role each person plays in making the university a welcoming community,” said Petillo. “We hope students come away knowing that they are an important and valued part of the SHU community.”
