Christmas

Christmas break started several days ago, but I really haven't had much "break." Friday I rushed home to finish cleaning the house. One good thing about having company is that it forces me to clean the house! We were just getting that done when my family arrived Saturday at 11 am. We had a fun day watching Elf, giving presents, eating soup and playing Christmas Bingo. Sunday, my nieces helped me register my Webkinz pet (The Gipper). They left before noon and I have to admit I was lazy much of the rest of the day. I cracked open Bill Bryson's book, The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid. There was some other last minute details needing attention. Monday - which felt like Saturday - we took care of Saturday jobs (laundry, dishes, etc.). We left for my Dad-in-law's.

Christmas Eve was spent at St. John's in Elkhorn, WI. I'm working with the pastor there to "host" Valpo Sunday. Christmas with a three-year-old was, as you would imagine, delightful. He played and played and badgered us to open presents. We spent the afternoon at Rick's relative's house where Robby had "cousins" to play with and we enjoyed adult conversation.

Rick's dad is not in the best of health which is adding some worry to the holidays. When we're up there we are busy getting jobs done for him. His mobility is limited and his breathing has become labored.

We came home Wednesday (right in the middle of rush hour traffic, which was a mistake). After dinnner we celebrated Christmas as our family unit of three. Each of us was quite happy with the gifts we gave and received. My favorite gift received was a book about e-bay (a 2008 project of mine is to start selling some stuff). My favorite gift to give was cornhole.

So, today we will catch up. Take a break. Catch our breath. More company is coming!

We have a Pres-Elect

Yesterday, it was announced that Mark A. Heckler will begin as Valpo's 18th President in July 2008. Valparaiso University has poised itself well over the past few years and this appointment will allow us to continue to foster an environment of scholarship, freedom and faith. We should all be proud.

On a sadder note, I learned that Wilma Eickhoff passed away. She was one of the first Guild members I met when I joined the Indy chapter. Her love for others and the University made her sparkle.

So it goes, the comings and goings.

This week!

Monday - hosting a "snack break" for students studying in the Christopher Center
Tuesday - attending a press conference where I anticipate we will learn who the president-elect is, then taking Guild employees (in particular the student employees) out for a holiday lunch.
Let's get through these two days first! Maybe by then, some of the snow (we have about a foot!) will be melted!

Holly Jolly

We have the OIA office holiday party today! Lots of fun, games, and food. It is a great opportunity to get to know the colleagues in a more relaxed setting.

Then, finals begin next week! Whoa! The Guild is hosting a "study break" in the Guild reading room of the Christopher Center Monday (Dec 17) afternoon. We using some items leftover from the football stand and care packages to support the students. I'm looking forward to seeing how it goes. If it goes well, this may become a new tradition.

Valpo shines

What a great time we've been having around here!

The three finalists selected by the search committee were highly qualified.
Each complimented the University on how well poised it is to advance itself.
Each was complimentary of Valparaiso University as a campus community and what
Valpo represents as a private, Lutheran institution. Each candidate has certain
skills that could lead Valparaiso University through its 150th year and beyond.
I hope that you each took a chance to, even if only briefly, read the summaries
or CVs posted at the University's search site.

My pride in Valpo swelled as we have so much to be proud of around here. The campus is well poised to take its next steps. Our facilities keep improving, the quality of students is great, the staff and faculty are dedicated. We are strong and can become stronger!

We should know the results before we leave on break - Dec 21. Stay tuned!

TIme flies

What a couple of weeks it has been! We're covered with snow and cold temperatures have hit us like a punch in the gut! Compared to the recent mild Decembers, life is balancing itself this year.

In theory, having the Presidential Candidates on campus in December was by design since January and February can be even less desirable. Murphey's Law assured that the candidates would have the opportunity to experience that it takes a hearty soul to enjoy a brisk walk across what used to be the frozen tundra.

More on the candidates in a later post, however I will say that all would bring something to the table and it is easy to see why they were chosen as the finalists. My role, as a member of the support committee to determine what their visit would include, has been involved. The experience was rewarding - especially being able to work shoulder to shoulder with campus colleagues whom I don't often work with. Robby has been accommodating with the early mornings and late evenings. Now, I need to get back to my real job and dig out from a full fall!

The other event squeezed in between all of the other activity was our Dec Grad Lunch. About 8 students (10% of the undergrads graduating) attended the lunch on Dec 4. Our intern did a great job setting up the arrangements and it was a pleasant opportunity to say congrats!

And, Guild members have been busy, too, celebrating the holidays with cookie sales, Advent events, winter lunches. The relationships build between Guild members continue to be nurtured.

more sad news

A student, Travis Brison, was killed in a car accident on his way home for break. Apparently he fell asleep at the wheel about an hour from home. This is crushing.

what is good about goodbye

It is hitting me how many people are retiring or leaving Valpo. President Harre, Chief Lloyd, Deaconess Williams, and more. The CIO for VU has resigned to take another job as well as Prof Morgan to go to Duke. Lots of goings, lots of transition. There is happiness in their starting a new phase or taking the next step in a journey, however they will be missed!

committees

For the past few weeks, I have been involved in a couple new committees or participating on committees in a new way. The biggest privilege is serving on the Presidential Support committee. This committee plans the University President candidates' visits. The search is going quick and they will be on campus before we know it. Second, was participating in interviewing the new executive chef for campus. It is exciting to think about the possibilities for Valpo with a chef on staff. Then I have also filled in as chair of the External Marketing Committee while a friend is on maternity leave. So, now I'm involved with the behind the scenes. I enjoy being able to work with a variety of people. All this activity prevents me from getting in a rut...but is keeping me busy too!

transition

Going through a transition takes a lot of patience and flexibility. I find that most people lack both.

My firefighter!

There he is, my fire-fighter. The costume was great for the unpredictable weather we get in Indiana this time of year: weather proof, warm, headgear and flashlight included. It only needed a fire extinguisher!

GoodSEARCH

Here's a new easy way to raise money for the Guild. Just start using GoodSearch.com as your search engine and online shopping mall. Every time you search the Internet or make an online purchase at one of their partner merchants, GoodSearch makes a donation to the Guild. It's powered by Yahoo! so you get great search results! We've already made $1.72! Imagine what we could do if all Guild members and their friends used this!

Halloween

Robby will be a "fire-frighter" for Halloween. Pics to come. Last night, Guild members delivered some "Scare-Packages" to students. We will transfer the $25,085 for the 12 Guild Campus Gift grants today. More a TREAT than a trick!

networking

So, a couple days ago I joined "LinkedIn" another virtual social networking site. It isn't as straight forward as I found Facebook to be when I joined that a couple years ago. That said, I'm amazed at the people I'm connecting with. What also strikes me is how successful so many of my friends have become since I knew them in a more innocent (?) time... in college or earlier. I'd like to credit the fact that many are Valpo grads with built in ambition and smarts. This is going to be a great way to expand my network. To quote a Valpo prof, "network. network. network." It IS all about the networking!

quotes I like

Those who say it cannot be done should not interrupt the person doing it.
- Chinese Proverb

Some people see things as they are and say 'why', I look at things that never were and say 'why not'.
-Robert F. Kennedy

If you can't convince them, confuse them.
- Harry S Truman

I'm a funnel

Lots of priorities out there. One person to do it. Sometimes, things get stuck in the funnel bowl before they can fully filter through.

Guild Campus Gift grants are being announced to the recipients today. Guild board member is taking them around. I have already received one thanks. This is one of the many rewards of the Guild members' effort.

Attended a lunch where they described their "new" way of raising funds. Sounded just like the Guild. Hmmmm... Give money to an endowment, have a say, volunteer as time permits. We're on to something, here.

commuter marriage

When I go to Valpo, Rick goes to Northwestern. This is "his" building. The irony is that I worked about three blocks from this building at my previous job.

I commute about 50 minutes to Valpo (one-way) and Rick commutes about 1 h 15 minutes to Evanston (one-way).

He deals with city traffic, but does get a better view.

Homecoming

Homecoming was a great time. The weather was beautiful - just a little hot! It was wonderful to see lots of alumni and Guild members. There is something about worshiping in a full Chapel that really gets you right there. Five Guild members received alumni awards, which made me proud.

Mitch

Mitch Daniels, Indiana's Governor is on campus today. This should be interesting!

Free Publicity

Here is something that made my day (week? month?)! The Guild was the feature story in the SummIT - IT's electronic newsletter that goes to all students, faculty and staff. I had the opportunity to share how the Guild (once accused of being a bit, well,...dated....) is utilizing technology. We have entered the modern world. Hoo-haa! Already, the Guild has also had a new brief in the Torch, Campus Chronicles and Alive! For those who think the Guild is not doing enough to publicize itself on campus...well, I beg to differ. There is no maximum to what we can do to publicize ourselves, but so far this semester, we have seriously exceeded the minimum!!

regaining control

It has just been a little crazy. Added responsibilities within OIA - a definitely good thing - has drawn my attention toward strategic planning and budgeting. The Guild Board is on its way for a meeting next week meaning a year-end report needs to be developed for the first time; and a first quarter report now must be addressed. Fundraisers are starting up: football stand, ornaments, wreaths, pecans. The Guild participated in a Grad Finale yesterday for Dec grads. The Guild Bulletin will be mailed today. Prep for an LUA presentation in Oct. Making Dinner Fun. Homecoming. Tellers meeting. Monthly e-update. Webpage. Family Weekend. Christmas cards, PR. Details. There hasn't been time to breathe!

Today, I will catch my breath. Or, at least, remember to breathe.

world

The weekend away did a world of good. All goals were accomplished. Now I am writing many reports: LUA, OIA strat planning docs, Q4 & Q1 (Guild financials for the BOD), Director's report. If not writing reports, I'm writing letters.

just feeling stretched

My mind is so full of everything that needs to get done that I can no longer think straight. There are little to dos, and big to dos. I may crack. Fortunately, I'm going away for a long weekend to celebrate friendship, hard work complete, and relax. There will also be a little hiking and drinking. Maybe I'll come back refreshed enough to gt my head back in the game.

911

I will always remember this day 6 years ago. I had stayed late Monday night to prep for Convention because Rick was going to California and I didn't need to rush home. The next day I rushed into the office because our student employee, Jenn, was scheduled to come in at 8:15. I flipped on the radio and immediately could hear a different tone in a usually upbeat morning program. Jenn came in and I said, we need to go find a TV. There has been a tragedy.

We walked from Kretzmann to the Union under a clear blue sky trying to make sense of the pieces we knew so far. At the Union, no one seemed to know what we knew. We walked to Alumni Hall where Jenn was an RA and could pull out a big screen TV. We turned it on and tried to begin to pull together the pieces of what was happening.

Freshmen, who had only been on campus a couple weeks, were coming down the stairs to be confronted with a group gathered in front of the TV and unspeakable images on screen. We watched the towers crumble, we heard about the pentagon, we prayed for the people on that plane in PA, our blood ran cold.

The rest of the day was foggy. I was in contact with my family, talked to Rick who saw this unfold from a hotel room and ultimately ended up having to drive across country in a rental car with his colleagues to get home, I filled up my tank, I wondered aimlessly around the grocery stocking up on this and that not knowing what the next day, hour, minute would bring.

Then I wondered how everything would get sorted out. I anticipated significant life change. Though life in America has certainly changed, the day-to-day feels the same. We still mourn the casualties of that day and casualties that have have occured since. It is hard not to remember.

blogging

Valpo added a new blog application to its webpage. Our student intern, Amanda, is getting ready to start posting blogs on her reflections on student life. Erik, the last intern who did this, is off in Chicago looking for employment. I hear he is close to finding something.
Today we will pack up the 400+ ballots to take them to Indy for counting tomorrow. We have 10 tellers - more than last time - and have (hopefully) simplified the process. It will be exciting to see the results! The results of the grant ballot will come out in Oct. Candidates should be announced sooner.

A day of celebration

Today my great uncle Al will be buried. He lived to be 100.5. There are plenty of memories of him being a jack of all trades: carpenter, baker, horticulturalist. He lived a full life. It is also my grandpa's 90th birthday. They broke the mold when he was born. He has been a farmer, contractor, playboy. A lifetime is a body of work filled with surprises, routine, and memories.

A Community Mourns

Yesterday Valparaiso University hosted a memorial for the two visiting scholars who passed away August 24, 2007 on their way to Valpo. There was a horrible storm that night and the car they were riding in hydroplaned crashing into a truck. Professors Xiangyang Xu and Wei-min Liu were killed. A Valpo professor was seriously injured. Representatives from Zhejiang University, Valparaiso University and even the Deputy Consul General of the People's Republic of China spoke. The service was conducted in both English and Chinese.
It was terribly sad. We mourn for the lives lost. These were two up and coming men with much to offer. Their lives were cut short since both were only in the upper 30s. We mourn for what we never knew. We never got the opportunity to know these men. We mourn for their families and the loss they are experiencing. We mourn for the loss of innocence as we are reminded of how fragile our lives are and that this could happen to anyone of the people Valpo sends abroad annually. It is sad how closely this touches our lives. A week before these scholars largely were unknown to our community.
A ray of hope was how the Valpo community came out to show their support. I estimate that over 500 people were in attendance. VU's international community, faculty, staff, students, folks from town were all unified in grief. One of the blessings of being part of the Valparaiso University community is how we can come together in both joy and sadness.

Labor Day

Yep - Valpo is open on Labor Day. Though it was cut "short", we had a great weekend. We attended the Walworth County Fair in Elkhorn, WI and a Milwaukee Brewers game. Brewers won and Robby got to run the bases after the game. Boy, can that boy run! Back to laboring...

Ohmigosh!

The Guild Endowment Fund ended last year with a grand total of about 212K in it. Yesterday I learned that it ended 06-07 with a pinch over $405K in it. A 91% increase. CRAZY! Way to go Guild members for making it happen!

Yesterday was a breakthrough day in other ways, too. I read the first draft of our strategic plan - and love it. A friend was hired at VU. Way to go. After a string of routine days, it was fun to feel like the Guild has taken a giant leap forward!

Something old, something new

Something borrowed, something blue? So the Guild is making every effort to continue any activity that Guild members participated in before the transition. One of these activities is selling Entertainment books. Not a new fundraiser. However, the Guild has a link directly on its webpage where ANYONE can purchase the book (for a discount) and the profits benefit the Guild. San Diego is overseeing this project this year. I'm excited about the collaboration and potential.

In addition, we received our first official Member Originated Activity form yesterday for the care package packing taking place in Milwaukee. This is another opportunity that members can use to initiate activities. Over the past year, we've transitioned many of the bigger fundraisers - cake project and football stand. The operations are very much the same, the difference is that the Guild is the treasurer. So far so good, now it is time to extend this to other fundraisers. I hope the membership recognizes that fundraising is still part of the Guild's contribution to Valpo and that even though much has changed, we've done our best to preserve what was working in our former structure.

Convocation

Convocation went well. I really appreciated what Pres Harre had to say and hope that they post a transcript or video to the web. Annual Commitment Plans and ballots are pouring in as the ballot deadline is Friday! Out of the blue, the former Treasurer of the Big Valley CA chapter called yesterday. She was in town and wanted to close the chapter checking account. The chapter disbanded in 2001 (I think). I gave her a quick tour of campus and shared what was new in the Guild. It was a delightful break in the routine!

Here we go again

First day of classes, opening convocation. President Harre's 20th convocation - and last. An exciting beginning full of the pomp that comes with collegiate life. It also means the end of casual days and summer. It is also my dad's birthday. He would have been 66.

The countdown

Classes begin in less than 24 hours. Yikes! Students are back. Thank goodness the weather improved before move in began. Just a little rain. I'm wondering how many parents got stuck due to the flooding. 80-94 was closed! I can imagine how frustrated it was for the student just wanting to start their life to be stuck in a minivan with their parents. At this time of year, I always reflect on how the beginning of college is a fresh start for many freshmen. They will meet life long friends, discover who they are and make 1000s of memories that last a lifetime...and it all started here at Valpo on Saturday.

Purple

The other day on Facebook (which I LOVE), I put my status as "feeling purple." I was feeling a little blue (a string of rainy days, a husband out of town and a mountain of work...can do that to a girl) and seeing red. Seeing red came from two sources 1. I'm frustrated with how a relative is acting and 2. I received a call from a past Guild supporter who didn't like the Guild before the change in structure...and, of course, doesn't care for it now. It is not the same Guild she claims. She was condescending and I was offended because so much of ME is in the new Guild. I'm letting it go...

The Board of Directors asked the question a couple weeks ago on whether the Guild should change its name to assert itself as a new organization. The Guild Advisory Team considered this very seriously and had some good reasons for not changing. I agree that now is not the time. That said, lately I have felt like calling it Guild2 or Guild: the sequel. Hopefully like High School Musical 2, it will be as successful as the original.

Rain

This weather is a downer. Robby and I entertained ourselves as best we could. Rick was up at his dad's hoping to mow lawn...but it is too soggy to attempt it. I hope the weather improves for move in day! Students come back at the end of the week....YIKES!

Flat Tire

After nearly 20 years of driving it is bound to happen...especially with the miles I put on my car! I had a flat tire. It all worked out. Seeing the glass half full, I'm thankful that I was in a safe location (on 49), had my cell phone (charged), it was sunny, I had gone to the bathroom on a whim before driving home, and I had snacks. It was also a relief to have two Good Samaritans stop to see if I needed help as well as a state trooper. When I assured these kind folks that help was on the way (I have road side assistance), they would drive off. Robby asked, "Why didn't they help us?" That was one of about 10,000 questions he asked during the experience. We got home about 90 minutes late - which was the most frustrating.

Hit the wall

Summer is winding down and in a way, I think I'm winding down too. I need a boost of adrenaline to finish up some projects - such as the Summer Bulletin which is 75% done. A mailing to about 650 lapsed members was sent yesterday. I hope it gets some results. Some of the people didn't rejoin because their student graduated and moved on. Some may not have rejoined because they feel there local group is dead. I hope that they see they can still support students.

Awesome weekend

The house is a mess...and really I almost don't even care. This weekend was fun. As one of the first weekends in a LONG time we didn't have any plans, we filled it up with fun family stuff. Robby and I watched movies and ate popcorn for dinner on Friday. We went to the library and beach on Saturday. Took a long nap Saturday afternoon. Grilled out and hung out with hubby Saturday evening. Bought a little yard pool and filled it up Sunday. Went into Chicago to hear Mavis Staples (for free) and eat a picnic dinner. Good times. It felt great to be outside!

I'm cake ready

I had a great time at the Cake Kick-off meeting last night. I'm ready to bake cakes! I was disappointed that there weren't more members there. I keep hearing "we want opportunities to connect" but then few people show up. This wasn't just last night - this has been at the majority of the gatherings - nationwide - that I've attended. The host says, "I was hoping more people would show up." The Making Dinner Fun fundraiser hosted on 7-31 was a success. Some Guild members were there, but the majority were non-Guild members who decided to support the Guild. This trend strengthens my confidence that the Guild's new structure will better meet the needs of our future member. Off to buy cake mixes...

8-9-07

I've always appreciated dates that have some pattern. Today we have a 7, 8 and 9 - though not in order. I liked the hype around 7-7-07 with jackpot themed weddings.

The ELCA Assembly reception was fun. People didn't eat...so there were leftovers (it is so hard to predict! At the LCMS we ran out of food). I saw a couple Guild members there. This ends a long string of summer events: FOCUS, LCMS, Strat Plan mtg, ELCA. A relief.

Tonight is the Guild Cake Project Kick-off meeting! We will have an opportunity to connect with other members and receive our cake pans. This week I will clock around 55-60 hours on the job, however much of it is with misc. stuff and I'm falling behind on "work." I anticipate a little catch up in the next couple of weeks...before students return....!

off again

After a few hours in the office and a meeting with CK (aka the boss) I'm off to Chicago to serve as a hostess at a Valpo reception entertaining Valpo friends attending the ELCA Assembly. I represented Valpo on Sunday at the ELCA's Jubilee. Valpo had a booth.

It is SO hot! We have refused to install our AC units at home...until this morning. Waking up sweaty is gross. We only installed one so we have a place to retreat. Being 4 blocks from Lake Michigan has made it bearable until this week. There is no relief from the heat in sight.

And, we're back

Vacation was awesome. I literally cried on the last night knowing that the days of going to beach, eating ice cream, reading on the porch and lake breezes were at an end. Though I like my reality, I also harbor fantasies about alternative ways of living. If I weren't here, what would I be doing? Could I be a resort owner? park ranger? charter fisherwoman?

Work actually began yesterday when I staffed Valpo's booth at the ELCA Jubilee taking place in Chicago. During some downtime I organized my list of what to tackle first upon my return to the office. The list is long. Too long considering summer is coming to an end, fast.

Campus has changed in my absence. New traffic patterns, resurfaced parking lot, the Union construction is coming along. I had the fortune of meeting with Dennis Trinkle today about how the Guild and campus technology can intersect. What an energizing and forward thinking person!

VACATION

In 2.25 hours I'm OUT OF HERE! The family is heading to Washington Island, WI for a week of relaxation. I'll be working a half day tomorrow from home - the other half I'll be volunteering at Pierogi Fest in Whiting. I've chosen a couple (hopefully) good reads for the trip. I'll be back August 6!

other sites

Some sites are just too good not to share:
Create your own simpsons avator.

The Guild is hosting a fundraiser at a Valpo establishment called "Making Dinner Fun" where people can prepare meals in advance. It takes place 7.31 and 8.16. Great place to gather, raise funds and get prepared before school starts.

Is it the end of July?

We survived the computer upgrade...or whatever... on Friday. And, we survived the strategic planning exercises yesterday. It is amazing how far the Guild has come since November 2004, the last time Susan Hooker led the Guild through its compelling and restraining forces! We didn't "finish" strategic planning exactly, but we couldn't have accomplished any more in one day. It was nice to focus on planning without having to accomplish other board related work. Now I have to crank out a ton of work so I can leave on vacation with a clear mind.

we'll be out...

Tomorrow e-mail, network drives, web and the database will be down for maintenance. Monday the Guild Board will be in Chicago strategic planning all day. Lots on the plate!

Houston

I just got back from a quick trip. It has been a bit of a whirlwind. On Saturday, I attended Rachel Cooper and Andy Viano's wedding. Rachel was an intern for the Guild in Spring 06. She created the 75th anniversary slideshow of the Guild throughout the years. Then I caught a 6:35 am flight (after getting up at 3:30 am) on Sunday. Due to weather, the flight was late landing in Houston. I was in Houston to represent Valpo at the LCMS Convention. Though I didn't expect to see people I know, I saw Carolyn Schoenborn, Jan Struck and Mary Hilgendorf - all CWC 07 speakers. Sunday night I gathered with Houston area Guild members at Joanne Fry's house for dinner. I was impressed by the dedication and friendship between the members. Monday night was a reception for Valpo alumni, parents and friends from the Houston area or attending the LCMS Convention. Again, a great way to connect. Tuesday I traveled back with Deb Albers. The trip gave me the opportunity to spend time with some other colleagues - President Harre, Pastor Cunningham, Renee Shroer, Luke Bouman and Lisa Polito. Today I'll dig out from being away from the office. Diane tells me we have received about 84 ACPs back (over 10%) in a week.

ACPs

The Annual Commitment Plans (ACPs) are coming in. We have a meeting today to determine the best way to send receipts to Guild members. OIA takes care of the receipts, but the letter attached to the receipt is more about general VU accomplishments than the Guild. Last year the Guild followed-up with its own thank you which was a duplication of effort. We're going to try to streamline the process, but Diane and I don't want to cause too much trouble for the folks running the receipts. If one customizes, all will want to. We hope to find compromise.

Summer Events

For decades, Guild members have hosted summer "send-offs" to coordinate Valpo students locally before they start classes. A few years ago, the Guild, Alumni office and Valpo Admission Network started formally partnering to assist the volunteers in hosting these events. From our perspective, by being more involved we could provide a consistent Valpo event and initiate send-offs in areas where there were students but no send-off. The volunteers were never completely happy with this arrangement because the consistency we tried to bring compromised their uniqueness. This year, we've decided to take a step back and support events as volunteers initiate them. The Guild is hosting six events this summer. It is taking us some time to figure out first, how to support these events without the partnership of the Alumni office and the VAN and second, how to support these events under the Guild's new structure. Fortunately, Alumni and VAN are being supportive of Guild events by providing lists, giveaways, etc. So far, it seems to be working out. It is just taking a lot of effort to stay responsive to the volunteers' needs and transition this worthwhile project. Next summer will be easier, right?

in action

The computers are, for the most part, up and running. Several people sent me e-mail that they received their Annual Commitment Plan mailing (membership renewal) and ballots. We tried to simplify the process this year but there is always room for improvement. Send ideas our way!

welcome back

After a couple days off - enjoying Whiting's fabulous 4th of July parade, Summerfest, and picking balckberries - I'm walk into work this morning to learn that the network is down. No e-mail. It kind-of throws off the day. It is due to an AC outage at Kretzmann or something. Though it is bummer, I'm guessing that others on campus are facing a worse day.

physical plant

I just took a message off of voicemail. Last week we balanced our budget and I noticed a work order charge. I figured it was from set up related to the Christian Women's Conference. This morning I learned that it was for setting up 13 tables in the VUCA lobby - 12 hours of work. All I could do is laugh. What? One table per hour? Can I have THAT job?

The weather is beautiful. I have to get about five days of work into two days because starting July 4 I'm on vacation the rest of the week. Wee-hee!

end of fiscal year

This is the last business day of the 06-07 fiscal year. This marks the official end of the Guild's first year in its new structure. We have learned much. We will learn more next year. Even with the blunders and missteps, this has been a year of growth and renewal for the Guild. Anticipating where we are financially, it appears that through member contributions and fundraising, we have "raised" as much - and possibly more than we did in the past several years (with fewer, but possibly more committed members). God has had his hand in watching over us this year many ways and many times. I'm thankful for the faith that Guild members have shown in the Guild.

President Harre

On Tuesday, President Alan Harre announced that he will retire at the end of the 07-08 academic year. As University President for the past 20 years, he is the only VU president I have ever known. Though there were tumultuous early years, it has rewarding to see his vision unfold. The University is better than when I enrolled due to his leadership and the hard work of his administration. It is so easy for us to look back and reflect on where the University has been, but I like to consider where Valparaiso University will be in 20 more years.

fighting fires

There are days when the work of several days or weeks comes to a head and suddenly several projects can be pushed out the door. This is one of those days. But, for every project that is complete, two new projects are added. Summer is flying by!

$$$

Today is the day when we start the final analysis of our fiscal year. 80% of all funds contributed/raised will be transferred to the Guild Endowment Fund's principal. 20% stays in the Guild Endowment Fund restricted account to use for operating and seed money for member-originated activities. It has been a year of catch up where for the first time the Guild will raise funds in one year and spend in the next. In the past, the Guild raised and spent the funds in the same year saying prayers and crossing fingers that there would be enough money to pay the bills and meet our project commitment. It will be exciting to see how much closer we are to our $1 million endowment by 2010 goal.

Whew!

FOCUS is over! What a great group the class of '11 will be. As I introduced the Guild to parents, I felt even more confident that what the Guild does is so important and sound (I always feel this, but sometimes I gather energy from telling others). I said, "Members make contributions to the Guild Endowment Fund which is how we support our philanthropy on campus." THAT makes sense. I would add that members have the opportunity to direct what is supported through an annual election (eyes lit up because parents liked hearing that they could have ownership). Some members, I said, chose to support the Guild with their time which may include fundraising to further bolster the endowment or coordinating activities that support students. I added that "We recognize how the next generation is comfortable connecting online so we are beginning to dip our toes into various technology. For example, we hosted our first webinar last fall to give an update on the new Union being built." This + the grants + the scholarships + how we are open to everyone (alumni, parents & friends of Valpo) really sunk in. They like the cake idea, too! We rock!

goodwill

In an effort to nurture students' wellness, I will be delivering two Guild cakes to the Orientation Students as a token of goodwill. They work so hard and are on the final stretch. Lots to do today because tomorrow, the first day of summer, Robby and I are starting a new tradition of having a "day of fun". OK, we're going to the dentist...but we'll also meet Rick for lunch and do lots of fun stuff. The movie Helvetica was awesome.

Whew!

The board bios are at the printer. It wasn't easy! At one point half of the office was huddled around a computer trying to save some fonts. We've tried to improve the look of the Annual Commitment Plan mailing this year...and we'll probably make even more improvements next year. One step at a time. Great parents at FOCUS last night. Tonight I hope to go see the movie Helvetica.

A pressure cooker

After several consecutive days of hot, there is a chance of rain that may cool things off. It is a big day filled with deadlines. Ideally by this time tomorrow, all of the Annual Commitment Plan mailer pieces will be off to print, Guild summer gathering invites will be ready, menus will be set for the LCMS reception in Houston, the monthly e-update will be ready and FOCUS session III will be complete. A pressure cooker, indeed!

four eyes

I'm getting new glasses today! I may wear them tonight at FOCUS II. Long day ahead!

From an IT guy?

Dennis Trinkle, the University's Chief Information Officer for Information Technology, has this as his e-mail signature line.

Success will be attained if you:

Risk more than others think is safe.
Care more than others think is wise.
Dream more than others think is practical.
Expect more than others think is possible.

That about sums it up, folks!

1000

Today I will complete 1000 small tasks that have been hanging over my head. Really!

new load

The incoming students appear to be a good group of kids. At the parents reception last night, one mom shared the advice of intrusting the college bound with independence while they are still in high school. Allow them to manage their own money, have them do their own laundry, etc. This builds their confidence in a safe environment and is one fewer challenge during the first year away from home. My parents did this.

This reminds me of the first time I did laundry on campus. I blocked out an entire Thursday afternoon in Lankenau's Laundry Room. I loaded one washer, waited for it to end, loaded the wet load into the dryer and started my second load. As I'm folding my fourth dry load, a resident comes down and loads up four washers all at once. I was dumbfounded. We never could do this at home! And, it never occured to me that it was "fair" to hog all the washers and dryers. Quickly I realized this college norm. Laundry always went quicker after that! I also learned that Friday or Saturday nights are the best night to do laundry (before going out, of course).

FOCUS!

New students begin to arrive on campus for the first of four new student orientation sessions. I can imagine what it is like for these students who are excited and nervous about this "first." It is possible that they will meet friends that will last a lifetime during the orientation. They will begin a lifetime relationship with Valparaiso University. They begin to explore adulthood by taking this giant leap toward independence, while for many they still have the safe haven of a parent to go back to. Here is to the class of 2011!

One more thing

FAVOR: The Guild will be able to enhance its webpage by using the CMS I mentioned in a previous post. Could you folks comment on what sites you'd like the Guild site to aspire to be more like? In other words, what are some of YOUR favorite websites. If there are features that you'd like the Guild to add, you can let me know that, too.
Thanks in advance!

Ahhh...

I'll take Robby to school to day so that it is fully a day off. There are hundreds of errands to do, pages of books and magazines I'd like to read, miles that I would like to walk...we'll have to see where the day leads.

A million things

Today I plan to wrap up a lot of projects so I can enjoy a day off tomorrow. Diane and I started thinking through all the pieces that need to go into the Annual Commitment Plan mailing (the first opportunity to renew and complete the annual ballot). Our goals are to make it easier to get through and more professional looking. Last year we pulled it together in record time...without knowing how it would all work. This year we can build on what we did last year.

Anniversary

Rick & I celebrate 9 years of marriage today. We were married on my parents' anniversary. They were married in 1964. My dad passed away in 2003. It would have been 43 years for them. For our anniversary, we plan to cookout burgers and peppers and hang out. Last year we had plans that didn't work out due to a car breaking down and bad traffic - so this year we decided to not make plans! That's marriage!

FOCUS is coming

The Orientation Assistants (OAs) are being trained for FOCUS (new student orientation) this week. The Guild has a slot this morning to update the OAs on the Guild so they are in the know. The OAs work really hard to keep the new students excited about their choice to attend Valpo. We have lots of information in the Parents packet and have included the Guild loves Valpo students notepads in the student packet with a sticker that tells a little about the Guild.

working from home

Robby woke up with a fever, so I worked from home. Fortunately, I had some projects I could work on even as interuptions and distractions arose such as reading board meeting minutes, drafting some letters, cleaning out some files and scheduling meetings. I'm thankful that the Guild and the University is family-oriented and forgiving when these things come up.

Retreat

To plan for the coming year, I am on a "retreat" - out of the office. I will never accomplish all that I'd like to get done, but at least it is a step toward getting organized so I can avoid working as if my pants were on fire in the coming year (as it feels as though I have been doing for the past 2-3 years!). Planning includes deciding what needs to be done, when communication pieces will go out, and setting time aside for actually doing the work. If time allows, I'll begin to draft some of the pieces.

Taking Care of Business

One big rock to overcome is transitioning traditional local activities and events from fully locally operated to locally planned/nationally supported. Over the past year the Guild office transitioned the Guild Cake Project (adding Halloween and Valentine's care packages). For the most part, the transition was smooth and successful. With the Guild football stand, that means local members will continue to staff and prepare the stand for operation and the Guild office will pay the bills. We've been working on this transition since January and this fall we test it. Also this year, we're considering how to continue summer events that many cherish.

A Guild Board committee, the Member Originated Activities committee, has worked through some procedures to announce to members in August. We couldn't take on ALL activities at once. With fair and consistent practices in place, EVERY member will have an opportunity to coordinate Guild activities (before only groups with local checking accounts could which alienated Four Winds members). Though it will be a little rocky, I anticipate the members will understand and appreciate this better business practice.

Even with this confidence, it has been difficult to field the doom and gloom members feel about disbanding local checking accounts. I hear, "Well, we will miss not being able to get together." Being more optimistic, I see every reason to continue to gather. A lot of emotional energy has been spent on convincing people that we will work with any Guild member seeking to coordinate an activity that furthers the mission of the Guild. I wish people could see the big picture, have patience and have faith.

Guild Cake Project

For 50 years, Guild members have volunteered to bake and deliver cakes to Valpo students for special occasions. This past year, 293 cakes were baked, resulting in over $3000 profit toward the Guild Endowment Fund. This is a great project, but times are changing. Students don't answer their room phone, they use a cell phone. Residence halls are harder to get into, so deliver must be made in person. I'm wondering how the project will change after the Union is built. This is an easy volunteer opportunity.

Who Stole Monday?

Due to the holiday weekend, Tuesday feels like a major Monday. My son announced that he is "grumpy" today. He occasionally mirrors my feelings. We had a super weekend and I think we're both worn out, missing Daddy (who is in WI with his Dad and coming back tonight), and not quite ready to get back into the swing of things.

This will be a good day. I'm working on a final reminder letter to last year's members who have not renewed. I wonder if they didn't renew because they are out of the loop as to the new renewal process or just not interested. MK and I are having lunch to celebrate her retirement and move. Thank goodness for e-mail so we can stay in touch.

Spring Cleaning

Since moving to Loke, I haven't had a chance to unpack and get organized. A pile has sat on my desk since November 06. Today is the day. One day won't be enough to clean out the files and get organized, but it is a start. Unfortunately, I'm distracted by the news that my mom will be putting her dog, Louis, to sleep. He has been in failing health for 5-6 months. He would have been 13 on June 1. Robby and I are going to her house for the long weekend. Robby loves Louis so I'm carefully breaking the news.

Let's kick it!

My son is learning about racecars today at school (he wore his Lightning McQueen shirt for the occasion). I will act like a racecar today speeding through projects such as updating the webpage, posting the e-update, finishing letters and beginning to work through the details of following up with members who have not renewed their support. In the new structure, members can make their commitment anytime within the fiscal year (July 1 - June 30) which gives everyone more flexibility than when dues were due Nov 1. Off and running!

Early Adopters

The Guild received exciting news that it has been chosen as an "early adopter" of the University's content management system (CMS) for the web. As some of you have probably noticed, we struggle to keep our webpage up-to-date. I take complete responsibility for this since it was often me not checking the site regularly to identify areas for update or not getting it into the students who did the updates. Then, the students had to work the changes into their schedule occasionally running into barriers to making the changes due to overwhelming coursework or technological glitches. The writing, rewriting, rewriting, updating, and rewriting to keep the site up-to-date could be a full time job on its own since expectations of the Guild site are as high as other for-profit sites. With our new site (launched in March), the content is managed by me - however I already see how quickly time slips by and when I go to update the site I kick myself for not doing so earlier. The CMS may not solve all our problems, but I suspect this tool will improve the content on our site putting the tools and information members and guests need more easily into their hands. I'm excited for this opportunity for the Guild and for the opportunity to learn some new tricks!

Tuesday

Paula Maust begins her work in the Guild office today. Six hours/week. We have a million "summer projects" to work on in June, July and August. Soon we will be compiling the Annual Commitment Plan - the mailing that allows members to vote and renew their support for the Guild.

Class of 2007

Yesterday was graduation. Another academic year has come to a close. It was a cloudy and cooler day (makes for better conditions in the ARC). Though I'm breathing a sigh of relief (Ah! Summer is here!), I quickly begin to hyperventilate thinking of all I have to get done. Lots of summer projects. Here is to the Class of 2007! All the best!

Yippee

A day off! And it is sunny! Robby and I are getting ready for a garage sale. We have also run a few errands - such as go to the library. There are a thousands items on my work "to do" list - but I really need a day to recharge, too. Tomorrow, after the garage sale, we'll drive up to Milwaukee to see the Brewers play the Twins. A great weekend ahead!

Senior Women's Lunch

Jill Lyons, our spring intern has done a fabulous job coordinating today's Senior Women's Luncheon. Nearly 90 women have rsvp'd to hear Dorothy Bass speak on Leading Lives that Matter. It is hard to believe that this will be my seventh luncheon. Yesterday a group of seniors went to the Sox game. Enjoy it now...this time next week they will be in the "real world"! Muh-ha-ha!

50 years!

It was a rainy day to be driving up to Wisconsin, but WELL worth the trip. Milwaukee Suburban members hosted a lovely 50th anniversary party at The Pines Restaurant in Hartland, WI. This is a dynamic group of women, one that I greatly admire. They distributed a survey to determine what members had an interest in doing in the coming year. I appreciate their initiative and drive for serving Valpo. It was fun to see a slideshow showcasing the projects they have worked on over the years. What a fun celebration!

Today is full of meetings and prep for the Senior Women's lunch. I'm out of the office on Friday - which means I have a lot to accomplishe between now and then! Candy is here to meet so I have to go!

Off to Wisconsin

I'm working at home this morning, before driving to Hartland, WI for Milwaukee Suburban's 50th anniversary dinner. It is great when Guild members celebrate milestones. Along the way, I'll drop Robby off at Rick's office in Evanston. Gas prices have really skyrocketed. I'm glad that I can work from home before my roadtrip.

Welcome to Monday

There is a different feeling on campus now that the students are slowly filtering out as they complete their tests, presentations, papers and projects. Seniors remain to enjoy Senior Week. I had a successful weekend of getting organized, so I feel more ready to conquer the world.

Postage rates go up today, which frankly frightens me when I consider the Guild's budget. In the past six years, we've steadied, and often decreased, the amount we spend on operating though costs continue to rise. In 1999-2000, the Guild spent $141, 709 (that includes everything that BOTH the University and Guild funds: operating, salaries, benefits, events, printing). In 2004-2005, we spent $123,611. Last year we were up due to having both an Executive Council and the 75th Convention. This year, we will likely spend about $130,000. Costs are steady, the increase is primarily due to annual wage increases.

If we divided the cost evenly among each of the 671 members, it would cost $193 each to keep the Guild office running! Fortunately, the University subsidizes the Guild by funding the staff salaries, benefits and about $9,000 toward operating. Where in the old structure, 50% of a Guild member's dues went toward operating costs, this year only 20% of all contributions will go toward operating (this percentage will decrease as the endowment grows). In these cautious financial times, the Guild was wise to invest its income into an endowment rather than our previous raise/spend model.

I spend a lot of time considering figures as we get closer to the end of the fiscal year (June 30). I can't believe I'm posting such a boring entry today, but honestly, this is what is currently on my mind.

TGIF

OK, I have recovered from the weekend in terms of gaining back sleep. Now, as I "dig out" I see much work to be done. Time to remotivate! To celebrate his graduation, I'm going to PassTimes with Erik at the end of the day. It is always great to see students we've worked with leave Valpo and become professionals. Graduating from Valpo was one of the darkest and brightest times of my life. I disliked having to adjust to being "on my own" when making decisions, dirt poor ($26 to buy two weeks of groceries?) and the way relationships changed during that time. I loved the independence, lack of studying/tests and really getting to know myself. The first year out of college just can't be described.

Sunny Day

In the past couple of weeks, our house has become a complete disaster. The floors have a film of sand from Robby bringing half the sand box home with him in his shoes. Junk mail has piled up. Clothes hang around our bedroom from the quick unpacking/repacking we've been doing. Fingers-crossed, this weekend I'll devote time to an "Extreme Makeover" of the cleaning kind. My motivation: next weekend we're hosting a garage sale. The work we do now is less work saved for later. To get a jump on the weekend, I did four loads of laundry yesterday (in addition to baking my final "Guild cake" of the 06-07 year), hubby cleaned up the kitchen and we started the pick-up process.

Reading Day

Students study today before finals begin tomorrow. It was advertised that the Guild would offer care packages for finals week. We weren't planning to, but decided to honor the requests we received. Today we will pull that together so students have an extra boost.

The Alumni Association offers an Online Community to connect alumni. I've requested a "Guild group" so members can utilize this to connect. It wasn't hard to sign up. The format isn't as straightforward as facebook.com, but offers lots of possibilities. Invite friends to participate.

Otherwise, today includes interviewing an intern, a meeting with the event coordinator on the University's 150th (how can the Guild be involved), a meeting about the next Valpo Prayer Book (which the Guild is funding), preparing the next monthly e-update and more digging out from the past couple of weeks.

I'm amazed!

It really hit me yesterday how far the Guild has come in one year's time. We revamped our nomination, balloting and tellering processes, redesigned all of our publications (print and online), streamlined our operating budget, launched a new BOD structure, changed our gift processing, restructured the membership recruitment process, attempted to formalize a structure for fundraising (which is well on its way, but not complete), researched national fundraiser options, and started utilizing technology in new ways (webinar, blogs, online forms).

This is in addition to being involved in on-campus events (Senior Women's Lunch, FOCUS, Homecoming open house, Homecoming West, etc.), moving across campus, hosting the Christian Women's Conference, conducting a member survey, overseeing the grant and scholarship programs, and managing the other day-to-day needs of the Guild.

It has been nonstop! This would not have happened without the patience of our volunteer members, the dedication of the office staff (way to go Diane and students!), and the support of the University.

If the Guild can accomplish so much in one year, there is no telling what we can do in the future! Supporting a University "on the go" is causing us to step up our game. So far, the Guild is braced for the challenge and thankful for the opportunity.

This may sound a little sappy (blame: lack of sleep!), however I truly believe in the Guild and frankly I'm both humbled and proud of how we do what we do for whom we do it!

OK, we survived!

No posts for the past few days? Why? Well, working from dawn(6-7 am) to well past dusk (usually to bed about 12 midnight) didn't allow a ton of time to post. On Thursday, the Guild board (BOD) and the Christian Women's Conference (CWC) committee arrived. When I wasn't in meetings, I was troubleshooting in preparation of the Conference and Guild Annual Meeting. The conference - which ran from Friday night until Sunday morning - was fabulous! The committee did a GREAT job pulling it all together. It really is a ministry. The quality of this conference is high and women's lives are truly impacted. What a blessing! On Sunday, the Guild hosted its first annual meeting in the new structure. When I reflect on all of the change the Guild has faced in the past year, I'm both astonished and awe struck. God has been at the center of this change. When I hear about other organizations that are struggling, I feel relief that we took the bull by the horns and changed. There is still a lot of work to do, but it is better than sitting around moaning, asking "what should we do?" We're taking action and moving forward. Whoo-hoo!

Details!

We're down to the wire on Christian Women's Conference planning. People are calling to sign up, cancel, change details. We're running nametags, running copies, giving final counts, crossing the Ts, dotting the Is. Better get back to work!

Spring Weekend

The day started at 7:30 am at Panera with Susan Hooker and Candy Kilpinen to plan for the BOD's July 23 strategic planning retreat. Midday included attending the LUA board meeting to show support for my OIA colleagues who have been working so hard on Valpo's campaign. The day will end with the President's Circle dinner. In between, I'm in the office catching up on Christian Women's Conference details. When I go outside, I hear music coming from Mound St. (this is traditionally a weekend when students let off a little steam before the final push caused by a semester ending) and hammers! Thrivent Builds and Habitat for Humanity are partnering to build wall panels in the "Huegli" parking lot.

April Showers

It is still rainy and a good day to complete projects. The Guild Bulletin is off to the printer. We hired Emily Trimble as the Guild's Spring 08 Intern. We're getting some letters in place before the postal rates take a dramatic spike in mid-May.

It is spring weekend - which means many groups are participating in Song Fest. The Alumni Association and University boards are on campus. This kicks off a "real" end-of-the-year when students finalize summer plans

Wrapping up details

The end of the semester is near. People often ask if we have summers off. Nope! The Guild office is open year round. We hired Paula Maust as a summer employee today. She is a Church Music & Organ major from Berlin, PA. Tomorrow I interview candidates for the Fall 07 & Spring 08 public relations internship. Today we wrap up the Guild Bulletin, CWC details, and catch up in general. The calm before the storm. OH! I'm very happy that the Guild has space on Valpo's homepage again! We got bumped when the page was updated. With our new webpage - we're back!

Undergrad Research Celebration

The weather is GROSS, so I feel sorry for the students participating in the Celebration of Undergraduate Research today. I don't miss the days of carrying posters and projects across "Valprainsnow's" campus! This is the eighth annual celebration and 60 projects will be on display in the Christopher Center Community Room. I plan to go over to see the displays and take some photos. As many of you know, the Guild funded an Undergraduate Research Endowment as a national project. That endowment funds awards to "enhance and facilitate more undergraduate research at Valparaiso University."

It is also Administrative Assistants' Day. The Guild is blessed to have Diane Noe as its Office Assistant! She keeps the Guild office running and I appreciate everything she does to help me and you!

First Post

April 24 - 76 years, 11 days after the Valparaiso University Guild was founded, the Guild establishes its first blog. We've had a student blog on our website this year. This is intended to be more of an update on the day-to-day from the Guild office perspective.