Hello Wellsians!
I thought I’d take this Tuesday morning to celebrate how amazing each and every one of you is! As many of you know, due to health reasons, Janet Mapstone recently left the Wells community to take care of herself and focus on her health. It was very sad to see her leave, and I especially, along with her friends and coworkers, miss her presence already. Janet has dedicated herself to the College for 37 years. In today’s world, that type of dedication is admirable and so rare. Janet truly loved the College and enjoyed helping the College thru the positive and challenging changes it has faced throughout her near half a century of work here. She has held many positions, but her most prominent, and the one I believed she devoted most of her time to, was ClassNotes, which more recently has turned into the alum newsletter we all know as WellsNotes. Janet was very successful in managing and editing this publication, and she formed many friendships with the class secretaries, alums who shared their story, and staff that helped her produce the publication.
Since Janet’s chapter at Wells has come to a close, I was asked to help Director of Alumnae and Alumni Relations Laura Sanders edit ClassNotes. With editing, this meant I would have to read through all of your updates for this May’s issue; yes, 81 pages worth! I give Janet major props for doing this! It takes a certain eye to accomplish such a task, and I have to say, I feel truly honored to have had the opportunity to read every one of your updates submitted for this issue. I enjoy your wit, and I’m amazed at all the wonderful careers each of you hold or are pursuing—some of you are going back to school and changing your career path after being in one industry for a long time: what courage you Wells women have! I’m amazed at how well you keep in touch with your classmates, and how you’re there to support each other through difficult and trying times. And moreover, I’m astounded that many of you still recount your days at Wells with profound respect and love for all that Wells has done for you, and that many of you still attend Reunion and will continue to make the venture to Aurora for years to come. You talk of reclaiming spaces on campus just like you did in the “party” days, of professors whose lectures still influence you today, and of making new memories at your next Reunion.
Simply put, I’m amazed by Wells women. On behalf of Janet and me, I would like to thank you for sharing your life and for enduring the Wells connection! We feel completely honored that you continually share your lives with us and your thankfulness for the Wells education. The education we know today as—The Education of an Extraordinary Life.
Have a great week!
~ Clarissa (Clare) Scott
Oh, Janet Mapstone, we sing to you….
We miss you so much. Wishing you restful days filled with all your heart’s desires.
Janet ~ I second Fran’s comment above! I hope to see you in a few weeks when I’m in town. Thank you for all the many years of service, your wit, and sense of humor.