Simple Ways to Make Kindness a Daily Habit

Random Acts of Kindness Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a movement that reminds us of the power of small gestures. At Alabama A&M University, kindness has taken on a sweet and mysterious form – thanks to the elusive “Donut Fairy.”

Why Random Acts of Kindness Matter

“I think random acts of kindness are ways to bring a bit of brightness to someone's day,” says Melody Tiemann, Associate Professor of Art and Chair of the Visual, Performing, & Communication Arts Department. Tiemann recalls a personal experience that solidified her belief in the power of kindness.

“When I was in college working retail, my coworkers for the day didn't show up,” says Tiemman. The store was having a closing sale, the line was to the door, and I was trying to manage both the floor and checkout. Around 3 p.m., a customer from earlier that day returned, set a burger and drink on the counter, and simply said, ‘This is for you,’ before walking away. That small gesture and the gratitude I felt have stayed with me ever since.”

Such moments illustrate why spreading kindness through small acts is so important. Even the simplest gestures can create ripples that extend far beyond the moment they happen.

The Magic of the Donut Fairy

Perhaps no example embodies the spirit of Random Acts of Kindness Day better than the “Donut Fairy” in the Visual, Performing, and Communication Arts Department.

“Ah, the Donut Fairy! This tradition began last fall when I became Chair of the department,” Tiemann explains. “I thought it would be nice to bring donuts to keep the faculty and staff energized for the first day of classes. They were a hit. The following Thursday, Ms. Sims found a bag of donut boxes by the Gallery door with no note, no name – just donuts. Then it happened again the next week, and the next.”

“Donut Fairy is the name we have given the generous, kind-hearted soul,” says Kimberly Sims, Senior Secretary for Visual, Performing, and Communication Arts. “They use the sliding glass door to drop them off as early as 6:00 a.m. They are from various shops and they really do keep our spirits up one delicious bite at a time.”

The only time the Donut Fairy missed a delivery was when word got out that people were trying to uncover their identity – but they returned stealthily the next day with more treats.

The Donut Fairy’s generosity has created a sense of joy, gratitude, and camaraderie among faculty and staff. “While I fear for their pocketbook, the happiness they’ve brought to the department is immense, and I am so ever thankful,” says Tiemann.

Spreading Kindness in Simple Ways

Random Acts of Kindness Day, first established in 1995 in Denver, Colorado, encourages people to make kindness a part of daily life. Whether it’s a heartfelt compliment, a note of appreciation, or treating a stranger to coffee, these acts can have lasting effects.

“People can participate in simple ways,” explains Sims. “Leave an encouraging note, help a friend confidentially, or start your own Donut Fairy tradition. Even small gestures make a big impact.”

A Sweet Mystery

With 43 faculty members, adjuncts, and two staff members in the department, speculation about the Donut Fairy’s identity continues.

“Many of us have no idea,” says Sims. “Even if we did, it’s such a huge secret that we will never tell.”

Regardless of who the Donut Fairy is, their kindness has left a lasting impression. Each week, the department expresses their gratitude through emails and messages, making sure the anonymous giver knows their efforts are seen and appreciated. This is the email they sent on Thursday, February 6.

A Note to the Donut Fairy

To the Donut Fairy:

You DONUT know how much we care,
For every treat you choose to share.
Each donut brings a smile so bright,
And fills our Thursday morns with delight.

With every bite, our hearts just glow,
You're sweeter than you'll ever know.
So, here's another thank you, tried and true
For all the kindness that comes from you!

As AAMU celebrates Random Acts of Kindness Day, the Donut Fairy stands as a shining example of how small, consistent acts of kindness can transform a community. Perhaps their story will inspire others to spread kindness in their own way – one thoughtful gesture at a time.