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Recently, the College of Education’s Advising Center and Office of Clinical Experiences celebrated Random Acts of Kindness Week by assigning members from each office a colleague to treat to a Random Act of Kindness sometime during the week. The idea came about through collaboration amongst the faculty and, although voluntary, was openly embraced by all of the employees. The week was filled with an array of Random Acts of Kindness: from fresh flowers, to homemade peanut butter cups, to kind notes and treats left in mailboxes, to a cookbook of favorite recipes, and even a certificate for a lunch date! After someone received their Random Act of Kindness they added a “thank you” note to a whiteboard to thank the anonymous coworker that sent it to them.

Dorothy Abruzzo-Klumpp, Associate Director of the College of Education’s Advising Center, noticed that the Random Acts of Kindness had a positive impact on everyone in the offices. "Everyone seemed more upbeat," observed Dorothy. "They were engaged in solving the mystery of who sent them their Random Act of Kindness." The initiative also sparked some members to go above and beyond. Many left anonymous treats, such as candy or a bowl of fruit, for everyone to share!

The week ended with a lunch where many employees gathered to reveal who sent each Random Act of Kindness and watch a performance of “Come and Get Your Love” by É«ÀÇÉçÇø’s own Profecy A Cappella. Dorothy suggested that other campus offices participate in similar initiatives, "because they can bring a range of benefits to employees including heightened energy and esteem and a generally happier atmosphere." Both offices look forward to partaking in this event again soon, so much that they may not be able to wait for next year’s Random Acts of Kindness Week! 

Tell Us About Your Random Acts of Kindness!

During this time uncertainty, many of us are rediscovering our connections to our communities - both at home and at work. Have you been the recipient of a recent act of kindness? Or perhaps, you're doing your part to help others? We could all benefit from positive and inspirational stories, especially as many feel so far apart. Please share your stories with us at ourvoice@rowan.edu , so that we can share with our Student Affairs friends!