Finals are approaching, but all I can think about is turning the tassle. I have been anticipating this letter for so long and planning to just relay how I can’t wait until May 12, 2001. After renting the cap and gown for fifty dollars, filling out and addressing all of my graduation invitations, everything has started to hit home. I sat in my Art History class for the last time, more awake than I have ever been, knowing that I may not ever have the priviledge of listening to Joyce Howell express her passion for art. I tend to walk across campus as much as possible, whereas I used to drive as much as possible. This past month, I guess you could say that I have tried to "stop and smell the roses." When younger friends and classmates ask about my first years of college, I always reply with, "you wouldn’t have even recognized me back then." Every time that is said, a sense of growth and confidence overcomes me. At Virginia Wesleyan, I have experienced much personal growth and reinforced my beliefs. Because of the many inspirational people I have encountered through this college, I truly feel confident stepping out into the real world.
Each of you is exceptional in so many ways and The Chronicle couldn’t have survived without your hard work. Those who were in the workshop and other contributors, thank you for your service to the campus community. I also thank you for dealing with my Tuesday night meetings and deadlines. It has got to be difficult seeing me as a friend during the day, but knowing that everything changes the moment I step in the classroom or begin to talk about the assignments for the next issue. I send special thanks to Lacy and Sara consistently great columns. Mike, it’s time for you to carry the paper on your shoulders. It is truly a burden of love. All I ask is the same thing Christy Kincade and Dr. Ruehlmann asked of me: "First, make it the best you can when you have it and second, make sure it will continue on after you’re gone." As your predecessor, I can honestly say that The Marlin Chronicle is lucky to have you as its next Editor-in-Chief. Best wishes to Emily, Josh, Sara, Rebecca, Kelly, Erika and Victoria. You are in the best hands with Mike as your boss. This being my last staff editorial, I would just like to personally thank those who helped me get here and continually support me today. Mom and Dad, thank you for your endless support and telling me that I can conquer the world. Lindsey, you’ve been there through all of it. Thanks for your listening ear and shoulder to cry on.
Matt, the way we always understand each other is rare. You are my best friend. Vin--your extraordinary belief in my abilities and encouragement has made me a better person. VWC faculty and staff, you have helped me leave this place feeling exceptionally educated and prepared to take the next step.
"What’s your favorite memory of VWC?"
"My favorite memory was playing the best game of my soccer career against Roanoke." --Jen Norton, Senior
"My favorite memory is my "alleged" incidents from my sophomore year that I can’t remember." --Seth Brady, Senior
"My favorite memories are the trips to the Waffle House with Cara King my freshman year." --Josh Snow, Senior
"My favorite memory is freshman year when a large group of people would gather and hang out on the steps of the Grille late at night." --Glenda Brinson, Senior
I was delighted to see your article on labryniths in the last issue of the Marlin Chronicle. It may interest you to know that VWC is the proud owner of a 30-foot labyrinth based on the Chartes model (and I have one of the Cretan finger-labyrinths in my office). It was created for the college for last summer’s Sacred Arts Summer Conference, but needed some extra work. It went back to South Carolina where it was made and just got back to us a few weeks ago. Beginning next semester, it will be put out in the theater for several days at a time at the beginning and end of each semester, so students can walk it any time they like. (Dates tentatively scheduled for Sept. 11-Sept. 3, Nov. 27- Nov. 30, Jan. 22-Jan. 23, and April 16-April 17). Each of these sessions will begin with a "Tuesday or Thursday at 11" session offering a history of the labrynith and its use as a meditational tool.
Just thought you’d like to know-
Sandi Billy
The Center for Sacred Music (FA 11)
**Phi Sigma Sigma did participate in the Greek Service Auction. They were mistakingly left off in the last issue.
**The Perspectives question from last issue was incorrect. In Vermont, there has been no change in the law regarding the legality of same-sex marriages.