"By having an International student take part in the Thanksgiving meal and celebration, I hope that the holiday felt more special and festive — and that everyone got to learn about each other's traditions and experiences," said Sarah Driscoll, director of international student services. "I trust that engaging conversations were had over delicious meals."

Professor of Psychology Gary Giumetti prepared a traditional Ethiopian dish to make his guest, Dagmawi Bogale, feel a little closer to his home. 

Karla Natale '99, MS '14, associate vice president of community partnerships, said that she was grateful for the opportunity.

"Throughout my time as both a student and an administrator, it was always important to me to feel seen and see others," she said. "This experience furthered that. My overall experience at Quinnipiac is that it is an extension of family."

To that end, she shared her Thanksgiving meal with Miklos Leszko, of Hungary, as well as her husband, daughter, mother and fellow Quinnipiac colleague and alumnus, Jamie DeLoma '06, MS '11, director of live communications.

She said she felt fortunate to be able to share her favorite traditions and learn about her guest's.