As National Employee Appreciation Day approaches, we’re excited to share insights from the 2024 Employee Appreciation Survey—which highlight what matters most to Vanderbilt staff. Over 800 staff members shared their voices, and the results are clear: swag, Turkey Toss and service awards remain top favorites, while many expressed a strong desire for more leadership and technical skills training.
“At Vanderbilt, our staff are the heart of our community, and their voices matter. In response to the survey, we are enhancing appreciation traditions and deepening our investment in professional development,” said Sydney Savion, vice chancellor for people, culture, and belonging. “This is just the beginning of our ongoing commitment to ensuring every staff member feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.”
From Insights to Impact: Your Voice, Our Next Steps
Your voice is inspiring real change. In response, Vanderbilt has launched several new initiatives, including:
- Kudos – A new digital platform for staff recognition
- Reimagined Turkey Toss – Making a favorite tradition even better
- Online Service Awards Storefront – Featuring Vanderbilt-branded gifts, including 25-year chairs
- Tech Tuesday & Thrive Thursday – Regular sessions focused on professional growth
And we’re just getting started. We’re continuing the conversation to understand why recognition and development matter to you. Join a virtual or in-person focus group—a space for open dialogue to share insights, uncover key themes beyond survey data and shape meaningful initiatives. Your voice matters. Sign up today.
Celebrate National Employee Appreciation Day with Us!
March 7 | 8–10 a.m.
Fleming Yard (by Alumni Lawn/Rand Dining Center)
Enjoy coffee, connection and gratitude with colleagues, and as a token of our appreciation, the first 500 employees to arrive with their Vanderbilt ID will receive a Vanderbilt coffee mug.
Shaping the Future Together
People, Culture, and Belonging is committed to building Vanderbilt as a destination for top talent—a place where everyone belongs, has access and opportunity, and where every story matters. Thank you for all you do to make Vanderbilt a place where we dare to grow, push boundaries and shape the future together. For more information, email pcb@vanderbilt.edu.
