To my dear friends,
It is with a good deal of sadness that I announce my retirement from Johns Hopkins as of Sept. 30. I have truly enjoyed working with the Alumni Association but, after 21 years, it is time to say good-bye.
Each of you has played an important part in advancing the Alumni Association and in making my experience at Hopkins a very special time. You are an amazing group of women and men dedicated to providing healthcare to all. Beginning with the opening of the Johns Hopkins Training School for Nurses in 1889, Hopkins nurses have always been taught to be critical thinkers, to ask questions, and to be strong advocates for their patients. This legacy continues as the Class of 2011 graduates and becomes the newest group to join the Johns Hopkins Nurses’ Alumni Association (JHNAA).
The JHNAA continues to move forward. Two major projects that the Association has sponsored during my time in this position, the nursing archives project and the publication of the beautiful book, Our Shared Legacy, Nursing Education at Johns Hopkins, will preserve your incredible history. Currently, the focus of the Board is to involve alums in the informal mentoring program, connect people through regional groups, networking, and Facebook. I know the Association will continue its mission with the full support of the alumni, students, and the School.
I have been fortunate to work with so many of you over the years on homecomings, class reunions, networking events, prospective student receptions, and mentoring and regional connection groups. I admire your dedication to Hopkins and to your profession. I cherish the many friends I have made working for the Johns Hopkins Nurses’ Alumni Association. You have contributed in many ways and I know you take great pride in being part of the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing.
Thank you for your support, your involvement, and your participation, but most of all, I thank you for your friendship. I will miss being at the Alumni office but I will always be an advocate for the School of Nursing.
All my best to each of you. I will miss you.
–Melinda