LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Wayland Baptist University recently welcomed folks from the community to its annual Thanksgiving lunch. This event is all about bringing people together and sharing a warm meal with the Wayland family.
Students like Marcus McLemore, a senior, really look forward to it. “It’s great! You get to see families you don’t usually see, and it just embodies what Wayland is all about,” he said.
Another senior, Andrew Hall, enjoys the chance to make new friends. “People come for the food, but they leave with a sense of community. There’s a lot to choose from, so everyone can find something they like,” Hall shared. He also mentioned the diverse mix of attendees, including international students, which adds to the experience.
Tiffany Mackey, the general manager of Sodexo’s Wayland operations, noted that the cafeteria isn’t just open for this holiday meal. It serves as a dining option for the community all year round. “We often see families, veterans, and local residents come in for a meal,” she said.
University president Donna Hedgepath emphasized the importance of shared meals. She’s proud that the event fosters a sense of belonging. “I hope everyone feels loved and appreciated. We all play a role in each other’s successes, and this meal is a way to celebrate that,” Hedgepath explained.
In recent years, the trend of community-focused Thanksgiving meals has grown. A survey by the National Restaurant Association found that 30% of people chose to dine out or participate in community meals during the holiday. This reflects a shift in how we celebrate — favoring connection over traditional cooking at home.
Bringing people together over food has a long history, dating back centuries. Historically, Thanksgiving was a time for communities to unite in gratitude, and it remains a vital tradition today. Events like the one at Wayland Baptist show how these gatherings can adapt while still holding onto their essence.
Through these shared experiences, people can strengthen their connections and nurture a sense of gratitude — values that are more important than ever.
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