Note: This message was originally sent on February 25, 2023
The energy on campus this morning is helping to push out the frigid temps that have haunted us this last week. Yes, College Gameday has settled into Spokane and on our campus – and the community showed up in force this morning for the live broadcast. As the enthusiasm and fun builds throughout the day, I can’t help but share out another phenomenal moment that happened this past week – a celebration of an incredibly powerful force at Gonzaga.
“On behalf of the entire University community, the many students you have taught or mentored, the many colleagues you have worked with, and the many tasks you have carried out in service of our primary mission of educating students, I want to express my deepest thanks and gratitude for your years of service and loyal dedication to this university…"
Gonzaga President Thayne McCulloh shared these words at the Anniversarian Dinner this past week to a group of employees (pictured above) who have collectively served the University and its students for more than 900 years. This annual gathering of colleagues provides a moment for GU and Dr. McCulloh to celebrate the significant milestone employment anniversaries for those who have dedicated 25 or more years of service to the University. A more robust story on each will be forthcoming from our storytelling champions in Marketing and Communications, but I couldn’t help myself to share a glimpse into this wonderful moment and these outstanding colleagues.
Of course, I can be a bit biased too….. This year, within this group of Anniversarians we were able to celebrate one of University Advancement’s team members. As you’ll read in her story, Laura Gatewood’s life has intersected with the story of the University in some truly meaningful and special ways. On behalf of every colleague, student, donor, alum and family’s life touched by Laura’s work (and to all the colleagues who create the force of support for our students), I want to express the utmost gratitude for her three decades of dedication, care, and creativity. We are truly thankful for all she is and does