John V. Roach Honors College Develops Leaders with Gratitude

Ron Pitcock, Wassenich Family Dean of the John V. Roach Honors College, dives deep into the power of gratitude and its role in shaping ethical leaders at TCU. During the TCU Innovates podcast with President Daniel Pullin,  Pitcock explains that the essence of gratitude extends far beyond polite gestures—it’s about fostering intellectual humility and cultivating a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of our world. “When our students learn to be grateful, they develop a sense of curiosity, humility and responsibility that helps them engage meaningfully with the world around them,” Pitcock says. The Rhetoric of Gratitude course in the Honors College is a perfect example of how TCU nurtures this value. The course encourages students to consider their personal values, engage with local nonprofits and reflect on the larger implications of their decisions. Pitcock says, “Education is not just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about learning how to make a difference in the lives of others.” In the episode, Pitcock also highlights how studying abroad broadens students’ perspectives and deepens their understanding of ethical leadership and global citizenship.  “The world extends far beyond Fort Worth, Texas,” Pitcock says. “Our students are learning that curiosity and a genuine interest in the world around them is what drives meaningful contributions, both locally and globally.”