The story of Paddington Bear conveys themes of kindness, open-mindedness and the importance of welcoming others.  

Paddington, a bear from “darkest Peru,” arrives in London, England, as a stranger and finds compassion and acceptance from the Brown family.  

Michael Bond, the story’s author, was inspired to write this beloved series of children’s books after discovering a lone stuffed bear in a London store on Christmas Eve in 1956. He bought it as a gift for his wife.  

The bear’s “refugee” status reminded Bond of the children evacuated from London during World War II or those who escaped from mainland Europe as the war began. Since the publication of the first book in 1958, “Paddington Bear has come to embody values of warmth, politeness and inclusivity.”  

A symbol of kindness at Missouri State  

Just as Paddington Bear found friendship, guidance and acceptance in a new and unfamiliar place, so do faculty, staff and students at Missouri State University. 

Paddington’s story symbolizes openness to others, reminding all of us of the value in offering support, patience and understanding to those seeking new beginnings. These values resonate with themes of embracing differences, extending warmth to newcomers and experiencing the transformative power of kindness. 

Gratitude campaign with the McQueary Bear 

This year, the McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) elevated its annual gratitude campaign with a small token of appreciation. 

Before Thanksgiving break, all MCHHS full-time faculty and staff received the 2024-25 McQueary Bear as a symbol of the Paddington spirit – a memento celebrating the lasting impact each faculty and staff member has on students.  

The MCHHS Bear serves as a reminder that kindness and support can make all the difference in helping someone feel at home. 

Welcoming new students

However, the MCHHS Bear story does not end there. In spring and summer 2025, all new MCHHS students will also receive their own bear to commemorate their journey to a new home.  

This bear will serve as a reminder of Paddington’s story, where a small act of kindness —taking in a bear — leads to countless wonderful experiences and lasting friendships. Whether you are a bear from Peru, London, Springfield or anywhere else in the world, Missouri State/MCHHS is a supportive place where all Bears are indeed welcome. 

Be on the lookout for the MCHHS Bears, as “all bears need a good home.” 

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