Connie has served in the Development Office with real creativity and skill, especially in the area of communications. As I have surveyed the seminary's needs in my early days here, I have identified communications--both within the school and to the school's wider community and the local
and national church--as a key area where we need to put energy and resources. Connie's demonstrated expertise, along with her knowledge of and love of the school and its friends and graduates, make her the obvious choice to take Seabury to the next step of connectedness.

These moves mean that Communications will no longer be part of the Development Office, thereby freeing that department from concerns about routine communications, publications, and website. Connie will work closely with Elizabeth, however, because Communications and Development are so
clearly related. At the same time, much of her work will move into the areas of public relations and recruitment, and she will also coordinate her efforts with the Department of Academic Affairs as we put additional resources and energy into student admissions, recruitment, and financial aid
in the months and years ahead.

I am obviously thrilled to be able to make these two announcements. At the same time, they come with the realization that Marc Young, who has done so much for Seabury in both key areas of Development and Communications over the years, is finally going to be able to retire as he has wanted to do for some time. The Board and I are deeply grateful to Marc not only for his leadership over the years but also for his willingness to stay in his role long after he wanted to retire in order that Jim Lemler and I would have adequate time to find a successor. Marc has served Seabury so well that, in a real sense, no one can replace him. But we will find ways this spring to recognize and thank him for his extraordinary ministry among us.