Learn to increase SME engagement and satisfaction by centering gratitude in both virtual and in-person activities. This presentation emphasizes the effectiveness of a culture of gratitude in increasing subject matter expert engagement. Our experience interacting with medical professionals in the production of high-stakes examination materials has revealed the benefits of personalization in SME communications. Using a data-backed analysis, we will demonstrate how implementation of an empathetic and personal communication style correlated with notably increased SME satisfaction over the last 5 years. The presenters will describe concrete steps we believe led to increased SME-reported satisfaction scores and what has been anecdotally described as an energetic and driven culture at both virtual and in-person activities. A procedure-driven focus on gratitude can lead to improved outcomes as evolving technology has some SME feeling disconnected from institutional goals.