Celebrate May 11–15: Share themed photos, send e-cards to enter gift card drawings, and join the SOM pre-party on Friday.
Appreciating Our Staff graphic

May 11, 2026

Dear colleagues:

Every day across the School of Medicine, our staff brings our mission to life—often in ways that happen quietly and behind the scenes but make an extraordinary impact. From supporting learners and advancing discovery to ensuring seamless patient care, your dedication strengthens every part of our community. This week, we are proud to celebrate Staff Appreciation Week and recognize the vital role you play in all that we do.

This year, I hope you will join me on the front lawn of the James B. Williams Medical Education Building (SOM Building) from 9 to 11 a.m. on Friday, May 15, for a pre-party ahead of the university Staff Fest celebration. Stop by to enjoy music, lawn games, snacks, and swag (while supplies last) with your SOM colleagues—and enter for a chance to win gift cards.

Additionally, I encourage you to participate in daily themed activities, share messages of appreciation, and connect with colleagues throughout the week. We have highlighted a handful of you in staff shoutouts on our Staff Appreciation Week webpage, celebrating the many ways you make a difference.

Thank you for your continued commitment, compassion, and excellence.

With deepest appreciation,

Sandra

Sandra L. Wong, MD, MS
Dean, Emory School of Medicine
Chief Academic Officer, Emory Healthcare

 

Ways to Engage During Staff Appreciation Week

 

Share Your Smiles

Post a selfie or team photo aligned with each day’s theme for a chance to win gift cards. Share using #SOMMedStaff26 on social media or email your photos to sue.kim@emory.edu.

Monday, May 11: Unique Hat Day

Tuesday, May 12: Favorite Mug Day

Wednesday, May 13: Favorite Vacation Day

Thursday, May 14: Favorite Snack Day

Friday, May 15: Wear Your Emory Swag

Send a Note

Use the Celebrate Others platform to send an e-card to a staff colleague to show your appreciation for them this week. Each e-card you send enters you into the gift card drawing.

 

Recognize Your Team: Manager’s Toolkit

We encourage supervisors to celebrate their teams this week and beyond. Visit the Staff Appreciation Week Manager Toolkit on the SOM intranet (login required) for ideas and resources.

 

Gather with SOM colleagues before Staff Fest

Join colleagues for a full day of celebration on Friday, May 15. The School of Medicine will kick off the festivities with a Staff Fest pre-party from 9 to 11 a.m. on the front lawn and lobby of the James B. Williams Medical Education Building. Stop by to enjoy music, lawn games, snacks, and SOM swag—and enter for a chance to win gift cards.

Then head to the Quad from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Emory’s 48th annual Staff Fest. University staff, faculty, and retirees are invited (Emory ID required).

Enjoy:

  • Complimentary lunch catered by Williamson Bros. BBQ (while supplies last)
  • DJ, music, and dancing
  • Volleyball tournament and field games
  • Chalk the Walk art contest
  • Ice cream and activities across the Quad