Monday, February 25, 2008

Good Luck, Tom…

Whoever said “No employee is indispensable” hasn’t met Tom Hamel. After spending 7 years with the organization, first as a part time accounting manager and more recently as a senior level manager, Tom is leaving to take an exciting new position with another exceptional organization.

Tom will become Associate Director of Outdoor Explorations, a position that was created for him. Outdoor Explorations is a non-profit organization that makes the outdoors a welcoming place to people with disabilities through innovative programs that break down barriers preventing people from living life to the fullest.

Tom has been such a major contributor to our success, creating strong systems and partnerships, taking on more and more responsibility each year. We have worked side by side for 6 years (yes, he’s been here longer than me!) and it has been an honor to do so.

While we are losing a very talented staff member, Tom’s friendship is permanent, and that is most meaningful to me. We are very excited for him and wish him the very best…

Good luck Tom, but not goodbye. You know we’ll still be calling you!

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Thursday, February 7, 2008

As we ponder expansion, I’ve been visiting new elementary schools on a regular basis. This morning I entered a large chaotic school and was immediately lost. A first grader, I think, was in the hall and I asked if he could show me where the Principal’s office was.

He nodded his head yes, not looking at me but at the floor.

I asked his name, “Eddie” he told me. We walked down a long hall together, very slowly.

“Are you in trouble?” he asked. He knew exactly where to lead me.

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