Syracuse or Bust
May 2nd, 2008
Rachael V.
“Have you been half asleep?
And have you heard voices?
I’ve heard them calling my name.
Is this the sweet sound that calls the young sailors?
The voice might be one and the same
I’ve heard it too many times to ignore it
It’s something that I’m s’posed to be…
Someday we’ll find it, the rainbow connection,
The lovers, the dreamers, and me.”
- Kermit the Frog
Although I’m not quite as eloquent as my small green hero quoted above, I wanted to take a minute today to tell you that I, too, have heard a voice calling my name. I am concluding my tenure of nearly four years at First Book to pursue a Master’s Degree in Public Administration in Syracuse, New York.
There is something about seeing unbridled inspiration on a daily basis - in First Book Recipient Groups, volunteers, corporate heroes and education advocates - that has inspired me to choose to pursue a graduate degree in a field where I can continue my passion for changing the world.
From Los Angeles, Minneapolis and New York, to Keene, Bernice and Norwalk - and, quite literally, everywhere in between - I have had the pleasure and joy of working at book distributions, celebrating preschool graduations, speaking at conferences, visiting food banks, enjoying meals with volunteers, attending First Book Advisory Board meetings, giving books to kids and truly enjoying the inspiration of compassionate heroes at every juncture!
So to all of you I say, thank you. Until soon!
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2 Responses to “Syracuse or Bust”
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Jen W. Says:
May 2nd, 2008 at 3:29 pm
BOOO HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
We will miss you, Rachael!
jlmartongee Says:
May 2nd, 2008 at 7:27 pm
It is the end of an era. Rachael, your spirit and energy defined the FBNBB and we are all the better for having known you. If I am ever lost or stuck in traffic I know that I can call you for an alternate route! Here’s to diner food (the bigger the better), neon vests, pallet jacks, and lots & lots of books for kids!