Appreciation ceremonies are part and parcel of working in any organization.  They are important for morale.  Recognition in public fora give people much needed pats on the back and an additional energy boost when motivation wanes.

For myself, though, appreciation ceremonies leave me cold.  Upon reflection, I find that I look less for appreciation and more for support.  Gestures are one-time.  Support is long-term.  You want me to feel appreciated?  When I apply for a grant, give it to me. When I make a decision, back me up.  When I need resources--people, money, equipment--help me find them.  This, far more than any dinner or gold watch, tells me that I am appreciated, that there is faith placed on me, and that what I contribute is valued.  Invest in me. Believe in me. Listen to my concerns and help me think through them.  This is real appreciation.

In the absence of support, appreciation is a hollow.  It's just a gesture, lip service, a photo-op for the cameras. After it's documented, it's filed away into obscurity and forgotten.  But support, real appreciation, you remember forever.