Gratitude and good food: two ingredients to bring together more than 1,100 employees across the state for Clemson University’s annual employee appreciation luncheons. Held at three different locations, the luncheons offer an opportunity to celebrate hardworking faculty and staff who elevate Clemson’s impact.
“The Employee Appreciation Luncheon is one of my favorite recognition events!” said Vivian Watson, director of training, development and retention. “Appreciating employees is a way of boosting morale and improving productivity, and it helps foster a more positive work environment. Seeing the smiles on the employees’ faces as they engage with each other while enjoying a delicious meal is priceless!”
This year’s main campus luncheon filled the halls at The Dish in McAlister Dining Hall. Events also brought colleagues together at the Livestock Poultry Health (LPH) office and the Charleston Innovation Campus, extending the celebration across the state.
On the main campus, doors opened early to welcome excited employees to the Dish, ready to enjoy a southern lunch of barbecue and sides while enjoying time with coworkers and colleagues from across divisions and departments. Members of the University’s executive leadership team serve food to faculty and staff during the buffet-style lunch. The Office of Human Resources hosts the on-campus event with support from Clemson Home.
This year’s on-campus luncheon drew 1,173 total attendees – an increase of more than 200 people over the prior year.
Each event had its own unique Clemson touch while reflecting the same message: “Thank you.”
“Events like these are only possible thanks to the incredible support from members of the Executive Leadership Team, our college deans, Clemson Home, and of course, the hardworking staff in the Office of Human Resources,” said Caliyah Parker, HR events coordinator. “These luncheons are a reminder of the people behind Clemson’s success and reflect our ongoing commitment to building a culture of appreciation and recognition. We look forward to continuing these opportunities to celebrate and engage with our employees.”