University Park, IL,
02
November
2026
|
10:30 AM
America/Chicago

GovState student leaders share gratitude this season

A photo of orange leaves on a tree with the word grateful in bold lettering

By Sarah Shoaf, Staff Writer

With the change of seasons and the holidays approaching, some Governors State University (GovState) student leaders took a moment to reflect on the things they're grateful for lately.

Yesenia Garza, Master of Occupational Therapy, first semester of first year

A Governors State University student Yesenia Garza smiling for a photo wearing her graduation cap and cords“I’m grateful for the life I have, the people around me, and the experiences I get to have. I try to appreciate the good moments, learn from the challenges, and remind myself not to take the little things in life for granted.”

Yesenia currently serves as the Vice President of Alpha Psi Lambda Co-ed Fraternity and is a member of Tau Sigma National Honor Society.

 

Kyah Moore, Bachelor's in Psychology with a minor in Human Communications, Senior

A Governors State University student Kyah Moore smiling for a selfie“Today, I am especially grateful for the people I've had the pleasure of meeting throughout my time at GovState. From the friendships I've formed to the guidance and encouragement I've received from coworkers, professors, and bosses, these relationships have shaped my college experience in ways I couldn't have imagined. I truly couldn't imagine where I'd be without their support!”

Kyah works at the Veterans Resource Center as a student worker and School Certifying Official. She is also President of Psi Chi International Honor Society, Vice President of Student Veterans Association (SVA), and a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) and SALUTE Veterans National Honor Society.

 

Angelique Buckley, Bachelor's in Business Administration with a concentration in Entrepreneurship, Senior

A Governors State University student Angelique Buckley smiling for a selfie“Today, I’m grateful for life. There’s something so beautiful about finding joy in life’s simplest pleasures, like being able to lay down in a nice, warm bed at the end of the day. Sometimes, it’s the little things we take for granted that make life so special.”

Angelique is a Student Leader in the Student Activities Council (SAC) and a social media consultant for Women in Cyber Security (WiCyS).

 

Alex Cruz, Master's in Clinical Psychology, expected graduation 2027

Headshot of Governors State University student Alex Cruz“Today, I am especially grateful for the unwavering support of my family and friends. Their encouragement and willingness to help have played a significant role in helping me reach where I am today. Whenever I have faced challenges or needed assistance, I have been fortunate to have people I can depend on, regardless of the circumstances.”

“Above all, I am grateful to God for shaping me into the person I am today and giving me the strength, perseverance, and determination to continue moving forward. I recognize that the support of my family and friends is among the many blessings God has provided me throughout my journey. Their presence in my life has reminded me that I do not have to face challenges alone, and for that, I am truly thankful.”

Alex serves as Student Secretary on Student Senate.