Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday; it is the perfect time to pause and reflect on the great things in our lives. The combination of laughter, memories, family, friends, and delicious food makes Thanksgiving a significant day each year to recognize what we are all most thankful for.
In this blog, East Ohio College (EOC) explores the deeper meaning of Thanksgiving, its history, and our staff’s favorite memories, dishes, and more. Keep reading to get in the spirit of Thanksgiving and how the holiday brings loved ones together year after year.
Why Do We Celebrate Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving has a rich history dating back centuries. In November 1621, to commemorate the first corn harvest in America, Pilgrims and Native American Indians gathered for a three-day feast.
As years passed in the early days of American history, a Thanksgiving celebration became common practice. The holiday has since evolved into the festive occasion we know today, including traditions such as the Macy’s Day Parade, Thanksgiving football games, turkey trot races, and Black Friday shopping. However, at its core, Thanksgiving has always been a day to slow down and reflect on the things you are thankful for, surrounded by good food and great company.
The East Ohio College team has many reasons to be grateful. Read on to discover the EOC staff’s favorite Thanksgiving dishes, what they are most thankful for, their most cherished traditions, and who they’d love to invite to Thanksgiving dinner!
What Is The EOC Team’s Favorite Thanksgiving Dish?
“Sweet potatoes.” – Tammy Clutter, Nursing Director
“My favorite Thanksgiving dish has to be classic stuffing! There’s something about that savory mix of herbs, bread, and vegetables that brings all the flavors of Thanksgiving together. It’s warm, comforting, and pairs perfectly with everything else on the plate. And, when it’s cooked just right, it has that ideal balance of crispy edges and a soft, flavorful center.” – Amanda Bednarek, Faculty and Lab Coordinator
“Sweet potato casserole.” – Hillery Haupt, Clinical Coordinator
“Turkey and stuffing.” – Jamie Stine, Dental Assisting Program Director
“Noodles and gravy.” – Craig Monte, Career Management Director
“Homemade noodles, sweet potato casserole, and of course all the desserts.” – Kristen Scott, Medical Assisting/Medical Office Administration Program Director
“Homemade noodles.” – Jennifer Harris, Assistant Director of Nursing
What Is The EOC Team Most Thankful For?
“My family. I still have both my parents, my son, two sisters, and two nieces. We are very close, and all are healthy and happy.” – Tammy Clutter
“I’m most thankful for my husband and children—they are my greatest blessings. My husband is my rock, always there with love, support, and encouragement through every moment. My children bring so much joy and purpose to my life; watching them grow and learn is a gift I treasure every day. I’m also incredibly grateful for my relationship with God, which strengthens and guides me. This faith gives me peace, resilience, and a sense of purpose, helping me stay grounded and grateful for all that I have. Through all of life’s ups and downs, my faith and my family are truly what I hold most dear.” – Amanda Bednarek
“My happy and healthy family.” – Hillery Haupt
“My daughter. She has taught me how to be a better person. She has made me become stronger of a person and to not worry about the small stuff.” – Jamie Stine
“I am thankful for my family because of the joy they bring me and the fun times we have together.” – Craig Monte
“I am thankful for my Lord, family, work family, students, and friends. I could not be who I am today without each of them in my life. They all play such an important role in my life. So blessed to have such wonderful people in my life. I thank God for them every day.” – Kristen Scott
“My family. It took me a lot of years to be able to have my children.” – Jennifer Harris
The EOC Team’s Cherished Traditions
“Family dinner with ALL immediate family at the table.” – Tammy Clutter
“One of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions is going around the table and sharing something we’re grateful for. It’s a simple moment, but it reminds us of what truly matters and gives everyone a chance to reflect on the good in our lives. Hearing each person’s thoughts—from the youngest family members to the oldest—always brings a lot of warmth, laughter, and sometimes even a few tears.” – Amanda Bednarek
“Having pie for breakfast (everyone is always too stuffed after dinner for dessert, so we have it for breakfast.)” – Hillery Haupt
“Preparing a meal for my family and my husband’s family with my mother-in-law.” – Jamie Stine
“Gathering as a family, eating good food and watching football.” – Craig Monte
“Being with my family, baking, cooking and eating.” – Kristen Scott
“Watching the Macy’s parade while getting dinner going. Then, eating and relaxing.” – Jennifer Harris
Who Would The EOC Team Love To Have At Their Table?
“My grandfather. He was a very wise man, and I would love to get his take on today’s world.” – Tammy Clutter
“If I could invite one person to Thanksgiving dinner, it would be my mom, who passed away. She was the heart of our family and had a way of making every gathering feel warm and welcoming. I miss her laughter, her stories, and the love she poured into everything she did, especially around the holidays. Having her at the table again, even just for one more Thanksgiving, would mean the world. I’d love to share this time with her, hear her voice, and see her smile, making our Thanksgiving truly feel complete.” – Amanda Bednarek
“My Grandmother. As a child, I always spent so much time with her in the kitchen, cooking and baking. She has always been so proud to see that I enjoy preparing meals for my family just like she did when she was able.” – Jamie Stine
“My parents because I miss them.” – Craig Monte
“I would invite my Grandfather Imburgia and my Grandma Perkins because they both had passed away before I could meet them. I hear such wonderful stories about them.” – Kristen Scott
“My Dad. He passed away before I had my first child. I would love to sit and talk with him.” – Jennifer Harris
Wishing You A Day Filled With Recognition, Gratitude, and Community
From the East Ohio College family to yours, we wish you each a very happy Thanksgiving celebration filled with laughter, new memories, remembrance of the past, and delicious meals. When you are gathered around the table with your loved ones, take a moment to consider what you are most grateful for.
East Ohio College is thankful to every student and graduate who has entrusted our institution with their education. Your importance to our faculty and staff cannot be overstated, and we wish you a happy holiday season.