Holiday Traditions
Examples of building holiday memories, both inside and outside the box, guarantee festive cheer throughout the season. The Catalyst asked SRAI Leadership to share some of their favorite holiday traditions or activities.
Marchon Jackson, Associate Vice President for Research, Office of Research, Howard University, SRAI Board of Directors At-Large Member
During Thanksgiving, I enjoy the adventure of traveling, exploring new places, and creating lasting memories with my loved ones. I really cherish the time spent decorating the Christmas tree with my family, as it’s a unique tradition that brings us all together. Cooking, baking, and decorating holiday cookies with my kids is another favorite activity, where we can be creative and have fun in the kitchen. And on New Year’s Eve, we always stay at home and watch the ball drop on TV to welcome the new year with some god beverages!
Jennifer E. Woodward, PhD, Vice Chancellor for Sponsored Programs and Research Operations, Professor of Surgery and Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, SRAI Board of Directors At-Large Member
Late on Christmas night after the festivities are over, my immediate family goes to Waffle House for pancakes and hash browns. This is a tradition in my family that began when I was a little girl, more than 50 years ago, and continues even now. It’s a fun and special time.
Dara Little, Associate VP for Research, Executive Director Sponsored Programs, Northern Illinois University, SRAI President Elect
My favorite holiday tradition growing up was participating in my school’s Christmas Eve service and then rushing home to find presents under the tree from Santa. My grandparents would come to our house, and we opened presents and snacked all night long. Those evenings felt magical. With grown children of my own now and being away from extended family we still make that evening special with a fancy dinner, attending service, and spending time together.
Pamela Montgomery, MPA, Assistant Director, John Hope Franklin Humanities Institute, Duke University, SRAI Board of Directors At-Large Member
Gathering with my extensive family of 12 siblings and multiple generations during the holidays is a cherished tradition. Our family home serves as the heart of festivities, where we exchange gifts and indulge in a spread of southern dishes. The joyous atmosphere is amplified by laughter as we engage in lively games. This year, we’ve added a unique twist to our holidays by incorporating the theme of the 12 Days of Christmas costumes! As the eleventh sibling in the crew, I’m excited to share my creativity with a costume for “11 pipers piping.” It promises to be a memorable celebration filled with love, laughter, holiday music, and festive games.
Heather M. Brown, Grants and Contracts Administrator, Duke Human Vaccine Institute, SRAI Catalyst Co-Editor
Many years ago, my aunt started buying matching pajamas for herself, my cousin, my mom and I. We didn’t live nearby and it was a way to feel connected despite the miles between us. About three years ago, we spread that matching pajama tradition a little wider. My mom and I moved to North Carolina and were living with my best friend and her family that first Christmas there, so I decided we all needed coordinated pajamas. The next year we included her parents. The year after, her brother and his family. We’re also a family of readers and now include a book with the pajamas to wear on Christmas Eve. The kids love the matching pajamas and seeing all the books, and the adults get a good laugh out of it as well!
Karen L. Bone, Senior Award Administrator, Office of Sponsored Programs, Division of Research, Florida Atlantic University, SRAI Catalyst Co-Editor
My favorite holiday tradition is one we have barely started celebrating. My daughter was born in November 2022 and on Christmas Eve last year we each unwrapped a book to read/browse that evening whiel hanging out in our living room with the Christmas tree. Since my daughter was not even two months old, you can imagine my husband and I “helped” her open hers and we did not really get much time to read and relax, but it’s something I look forward to continuing in the years ahead. I already have this year’s book for her wrapped and ready to go!
Evan Roberts, Executive Director, SRA International
One of my favorite holiday traditions is our annual holiday lunch with the SRAI staff. It’s such a great time to get together, relax, and celebrate the end of a great year!
Authored by SRAI
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