PRES RPT 2022 ONYX ANNEAU

A REFLECTION OF THE YEAR A note from President Dottie L. King, Ph.D.

Happy New Year! A new year is filled with such promise. It offers opportunities for reflection upon both successes and challenges. The Aspire Even Higher Strategic Plan update included in this issue of Onyx Anneau will provide information of both. SMWC continues to make great strides in each area defined in our evolving plan. At the same time, there is much need created by the growth of the College. Resources to support our growth are balanced with those needed to address years of deferred maintenance. It is a balancing act every day. We have been so pleased, with the help of bequest funds, to create a newly renovated, shared archives space with the Sisters of Providence. This has been a dream for a few years and is now a reality. In addition to the environmentally controlled room, we created an ADA accessible restroom, office spaces, an educational viewing room and a display area. What a treasure! Among the greatest of the blessings of my job are the opportunities to know and form close relationships with the people of The Woods. The deep devotion of a committed group has made such a difference in our lives. We recently lost three “giants”. Frank Morgan was a trustee during the presidency of Sister Barbara and he remembered us in his will. Cindy Hux Martin was a trustee at the beginning of my tenure. I will forever remember her generosity of spirit. She saw the very best in everyone and she loved SMWC. I knew Jerry Hellmann best and he represented the very best of the Woods spirit. I knew him as a generous donor, a lover of fun and a man of deep faith. He gave sacrificially of both his time and resources. His reports to the Board of Trustees were filled with such joy and enthusiasm as he embraced progress. He was such a forward-thinking dreamer! More than any of these things, I will remember Jerry as one who SHOWED UP. I am thankful for Frank, Cindy and Jerry and for each of you who demonstrates great care for this fine institution. May we all be inspired to continue to Aspire Higher every day!

Blessings,

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