Gratitude

In this season of giving thanks, I would like to express gratitude to many people in the DA community.

I’m personally grateful to those who pass me in cars when I’m riding my bike on Pickett Rd. I hear lots of people say how dangerous it is to ride there, but in fact, I rarely have even a mildly annoying experience. Thanks to everyone who gives me space on the road!

Professionally, I believe Sustainability offers hope for the future, but it requires change in the present. That’s not always a welcome ask in the midst of our fast-paced everyday activities in school, yet the support is overwhelming.

Upper School students and faculty members at pep rally

Here are some of the many people I’m grateful to:

  • Adam Braude, Kristen Klein, Lanis Wilson, and Michael Ulku-Steiner for allocating funds and making room in their schedules to provide guidance and perspective.
  • The many administrators who have given feedback on ideas and drafts and said “yes” to collaboration on projects. 
  • Hobson Hogan and the Buildings, Grounds & Sustainability Committee for embracing an expansion of their role. A recent meeting was almost entirely focused on sustainability, and it brought valuable new perspectives to what we’re doing. 
  • The Board of Trustees for endorsing a school-wide commitment to sustainability.
  • The Facilities Team for their crucial role in implementation of so many sustainability initiatives. 
  • The Communications Team who so willingly provides advice, pictures, designs, and publicity, often on short notice.
  • Verdina Walker, Jennifer Rose, and others in the Business Office for responding to my many requests for data with unfailing friendliness and efficiency.
  • The student leaders who have made so many things happen, including mulch projects, recycling, Sustain-ins, and presentations to fellow students and adult leaders of the school.  
  • The many faculty members who express appreciation for the sustainability effort and find such varied ways to connect to it in their curricula.
  • Family Association leaders who strive to minimize waste at school events and implement sustainability in that zone that is both personal and school-related.
  • The Sustainability Leadership Team–it’s a joy to work with the colleagues, Family Association representatives, and student representatives who collaborate and dedicate time and effort well beyond their other roles in the school .

2 comments

    • Carolyn Howes on November 22, 2024 at 10:08 am

    Thank you for this message of gratitude, Tina. I am excited about all the ways we are coming together as a school to make a difference.

    • Verdina Walker on November 22, 2024 at 10:57 am

    Thanks for including the Business Office! We are here to support in the best way we can.

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