York's Thanksgiving Feast: A Heartwarming Celebration of Community and Gratitude

Thanksgiving 2025 at York College was a warmly received opportunity for the campus community to come together and “break bread” two days ahead of the official holiday with family and friends.

Sponsored by the Office of the President, York Student Government (YSG), Office of Administrative Affairs, Student Activities, as well as donations from external entities, the annual feasts for day and evening students featured turkey and all the traditional trimmings enjoyed by students, faculty, and staff. President Claudia V. Schrader, along with directors, staff members, and student volunteers, served holiday favorites, accompanied by apple and pumpkin pies, cider, soda, water, and other non-alcoholic beverages to those who attended and enjoyed their meals at seasonally decorated tables arranged in the well of the Academic Core Building or chose to return to their offices to savor theirs at their desks, keeping pace with important projects.

Additionally, 30 turkeys were donated by Pastor John Boyd of New Greater Bethel Ministry in Queens Village. The turkeys were raffled off to the delighted students who won them. This generous contribution added an extra layer of excitement to the already festive gathering.

“York College thanks New Greater Bethel Ministry, Pastor Boyd and all our donors for their generous support in bringing our campus family together for this annual celebration,” said President Schrader. “I also extend my gratitude to the volunteers who give their time and energy to make this such a festive and joyful event.”

Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, the event featured live entertainment that kept attendees engaged throughout the event. Music Professor Dr. Tom Zlabinger and his York College ensemble of faculty and students kept the atmosphere lively with an eclectic set of songs -- including a spirited rendition of Black Sabbath’s “Paranoid,” delivered with all the vocal energy of the now-late Ozzy Osbourne. With performers on flugelhorn, keyboard, guitar, accordion, and more -- plus three standout vocalists -- the group enchanted with their impressive musicianship