Dear OLLI Supporters,

As I write this note I have just crossed the one-month anniversary of my good fortune of arriving here at the OLLI at Pitt.  There are a number of things to share about my initial month.  First, the outstanding Osher staff and supportive colleagues in the College of General Studies have been wonderful and are breaking me in to the ways of Osher.  Next, it is obvious that former director Jennifer Engel did excellent work with this program.  I am sure you already know that, but I can confirm it!  Among the most notable of pleasures since I became the new director of Osher at Pitt is getting to meet, listen and talk with members and instructors.  Thank you for welcoming me into your warm and wonderful community.  Thank you for your graciousness when I forget your name or lack understanding about a concern you have or am unable to answer a burning question.  What great luck I have to “land here” as I was looking for new challenges and opportunities in my professional life.  

A little bit about me.  My greatest joy in life is spending time with my three incredible children; three gorgeous grandchildren; and three mischievous dogs.  They keep me plenty busy!  I’ve lived in Pittsburgh all of my adult life (currently in the North Hills) but grew up in a small-town northeast of here.  In fact, my hometown, Punxsutawney, had its big day just a few weeks ago as the revered groundhog saw his shadow – dooming us to 6 more weeks of winter.  I have many interests, in no particular order:  all things about our human communities and how we build connections between and among ourselves; current events; politics and government; civil rights, equity and inclusion; the brain; neurosciences; psychology; etc. etc.   

I have always considered myself a lifelong learner, a trait which made Osher a magnet for me.  I look forward to learning and growing with all of you!