Oct. 21, 2022 — Sometimes, the best way to express appreciation for a valued friend or colleague is with a little something sweet. On Oct. 19, the University of Florida College of Medicine’s second annual Gratitude Day, college faculty, staff, students and trainees gifted special-made chocolates molded in the shape of an alligator to peers for whom they are grateful.

The initiative was designed to create and uphold an environment of teamwork and support among team members and to reward the college community for the positive impact they have on the people around them.

Some classmates and co-workers presented each other with the treats and a smile, such as Mark Segal, M.D., Ph.D., the senior associate dean for faculty affairs and professional development, who gave a chocolate to Ellen Zimmermann, M.D., the associate dean for faculty development and a professor in the division of gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition.

“I am so thankful for Dr. Zimmermann’s energy, enthusiasm and great ideas with regard to faculty development,” Segal said.

Share in moments of the gift exchange below and see some of the love captured between friends, mentors and co-workers this Gratitude Day.