Who gets invited to the table? Holiday gatherings offer a lesson in leadership

Last year, a doctor of physical therapy program at an institution of higher education faced an all-too-familiar challenge: how to celebrate the holidays in a way that felt meaningful for everyone. Instead of defaulting to the traditional catered lunch and gift exchange, the director invited faculty, staff and graduate students to co-create the event. The group chose a potluck featuring dishes from their own cultural traditions; scheduled the gathering at a time that accommodated teaching loads, administrative duties and studying; and added a gratitude board where everyone could publicly recognize each other’s contributions. The result? People lingered longer, conversations crossed silos and new collaborations emerged. What started as a holiday celebration became a catalyst for belonging — a reminder that when people feel seen and valued, they show up differently. This story illustrates a powerful truth: Holiday gatherings offer a metaphor for leadership. Who gets invited to the table? Who feels welcome when they arrive? Inclusive leadership ensures that everyone — not just the lou