By CAROL A. CLARK
Los Alamos Daily Post
caclark@ladailypost.com
A sense of gratitude comes to mind on this Thanksgiving Eve 2025. When local leaders model gratitude, it sets a positive tone for the entire community, encouraging others to act with appreciation.
Research shows that gratitude has measurable benefits for both mental and physical health, which benefits the community as a whole. Gratitude also fosters stronger relationships, encourages public involvement, and promotes a more positive and resilient community.
Because practicing and promoting gratitude can help community members develop more empathy and understanding for one another, the Los Alamos Daily Post reached out to local officials over the last few days to ask why they are grateful to the community.
Expressions of Gratitude:
Los Alamos National Laboratory Director Thom Mason: “I’m thankful for the Los Alamos community and its close partnership with the Laboratory. Our shared commitment to discovery and service makes this a remarkable place to live and work.”
Los Alamos County Council Chair Theresa Cull: “I am thankful to the community members who get involved, for those who tell me what they do and don’t like, and for those who speak up for others in the community. I am also thankful for community members who give their time, talent, and/or resources to help others here in Los Alamos and in our surrounding area.”
Los Alamos County Manager Anne Laurent: “I am thankful to the community for their thoughtful and caring engagement on issues that matter to all of us. Nothing can be accomplished without people who care.”
State Sen. Leo Jaramillo: “This season, I’m especially thankful for my family, my friends, and my constituents in Senate District 5, (Los Alamos, Rio Arriba, Sandoval and Santa Fe counties), whose generosity, resilience, and spirit make Northern New Mexico such a special place to call home!”
State Rep. Christine Chandler: “I am thankful to be part of a community that steps up to lend a hand to those less fortunate, with kindness and empathy.”
Los Alamos Police Chief Dino Sgambellone: “I remain thankful for the support of County Council and the citizens of Los Alamos and the recognition through that support of the exceptional service provided by the police department employees. I am thankful that Los Alamos continues to be one of the safest communities in the nation.”
Los Alamos Fire Chief Wendy Servey: “Thanks to the community for their continued support.”
UNM-Los Alamos Chancellor Mike Holtzclaw: “I am so very grateful to the Los Alamos community for its continued support of the college … in passing bonds, supporting our Title 5 campaign, and in so many other ways. This generosity makes an incredible difference for our students, faculty and staff.”
Superintendent of Los Alamos Public Schools Jennifer Guy: “I am thankful to the caring, generous community where we live. Los Alamos supports our students and families in so many different ways every day, from showing up to cheer on our students and celebrate their successes to giving love and support to children in need. Our staff show so much kindness and dedication to students every day. It is amazing to be a part of this school district in this community. Thank you Los Alamos! I wish you all a happy Thanksgiving!”
Los Alamos Public Schools Foundation Board President Kurt Steinhaus: “First and foremost, I am thankful for the hard-working teachers and staff of the Los Alamos Public Schools. Your compassion and devotion touch our children’s lives in ways that matter every single day. Children are our future. I am also deeply grateful for the entire Los Alamos community. Your warmth and steady support remind me what a special place this is. My heart is truly full of gratitude for all, this Thanksgiving.”