OA-FALL 2023

A Passion for Serving The Journey of Glenna Crews Orr ’71

By Elizabeth Reel ‘21, Content Marketing Manager

“Love the children first, and then teach them.” This is a most beloved quote from Saint Mother Theodore Guerin. For 183 years, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) has empowered students to be the best they can be and to make a difference as part of her legacy. Glenna Crews Orr ’71, who graduated with a degree in education, is just one SMWC alumna who has made a difference in thousands of people’s lives. The education

experience in places like Germany and Panama gave her a sense of fulfillment. “It was just important to me to continue on and make a difference during those years.” While in Germany, Orr started an intergenerational program with her students connecting them with seniors in the area. She created similar programs in her time in Panama and her return to the U.S. “It was a way for the children to experience an adopted grandparent program,” Orr shared. In the early 2000s, Orr was asked to write a book. She initially declined

department at SMWC holds a special place in Orr’s heart. “I always knew that I wanted to be an educator. The education department

but the editors suggested that she write a book about her programs as a testimonial. Days after

was and still is so strong and sound. It is so well established. I quickly

her book, “Open Minds, Open Hearts,”

became so appreciative of what the program and school had to offer me,” Orr said. Following her graduation in 1971, Orr dove into the workforce and became an elementary education teacher, got married and started a family. With her drive to always learn, she earned a master’s in early childhood education from Mercer University and a master’s in reading from Virginia Tech. As a military spouse, Orr found opportunities to teach overseas while living on base with her family. Although working full-time and raising a family, Orr always found balance. Orr’s teaching

was released, she endured an experience that no parent wants to go through. Her daughter passed away following the birth of her son, Charlie. “My life stopped. My life changed forevermore. But this is where my faith began to keep me safe. It began to help me find my way,” Orr shared. After a year and a half, Orr became active again. One morning, she woke up and said, “I think I’m going to volunteer at the Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home one day a week.” Orr was comforted greatly through her time volunteering and eventually began teaching again at Northern Virginia Community College.