A requirement of membership in this group is that you are collaborative and collegial. This requirement does not map to uniform behavior. Neither does collegial mean that you have to celebrate each other’s birthdays. What it does mean is that you should be respectful of and helpful to your colleagues- AND contribute to the common scientific good of the group while pursuing your individual ambitions. Group members are also expected to communicate in a responsible, timely, and professional manner. Research is collaborative; collaboration involves depending on others and vice versa; and it is not acceptable to impede the progress of others through your behavior.
My policy is not to accept gifts from students. If you feel compelled to express satisfaction with the role I may have played in your academic experience, a handwritten note will suffice. The intention is appreciated but please do not put me in the embarrassing position of having to decline a gift.