Happy Spring!
Shenandoah is heading into the final weeks of classes before commencement. It’s been wonderful to see and hear the outdoor concerts and other performances being offered to the community this spring! The main campus is, as always, beautiful this time of year.
As I mentioned in my last column, the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® did go on last week with some modifications. We were happy to see so many events take place but missed watching the parades. This year, Shenandoah gifted the community with a fabulous display of fireworks during the festival. Normally held on the John Handley High School campus, the fireworks were set off on the SU campus. I can only imagine how much fun the SU students and staff had that evening!
Recently, I drove my daughter onto main campus for her first vaccination appointment with the SU/Valley Health POD. Catherine hadn’t been on campus in several years and she marveled at all the changes that have taken place. As I waited in the parking lot for her to finish her vaccination appointment, I thought about all the years our children were involved with SU through the Arts Academy, lessons, concerts, and summer programs. How lucky they were to have grown up with such a cultural resource in their hometown!
As the school year draws to a close, I hope you are planning some relaxing and fun activities for the summer. This has been a difficult year for many, and we all need the opportunity to refresh and renew our energies and focus. Personally, I am looking forward to spending time with my family, working on a few house projects, heading to the beach, and catching up on my reading! What are your summer plans?
I hope wherever you are, that you and your families are safe and well. We all look forward to the time when we can take off our masks and navigate this new normal.
Warmly,
Susan Helsley
President, SU Alumni Association