Assistant Dean's Message - November 2023

November 2023

 

On a particularly busy fall morning, with an aggressive to-do list, I was feeling frustrated before the day even started. Arriving at the office, one of my colleagues had left a doughnut. Immediately, my mood changed for the better. 

That small gesture of kindness is also how Giving Tuesday got its start. During the rapid consumption of food and early gift shopping on Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday began in 2012 when a New York non-profit toyed with concept of giving back in the midst of the consumerism “tornado.” With the feelings of gratitude running high during the holidays, Giving Tuesday has become a fundraising day that not only helps with donations and dollars raised, it also heightens awareness for volunteerism and other means of support. 

This year “GivingTUesday” occurs on Nov. 28, and we are pleased to announce a special match approved by Dean Shealey just for the occasion. If you choose to give, your donation will be matched 3:1 on that day, allowing the CEHD to provide funding for much-needed scholarships in the new year. 

Additionally, should you choose to leave the CEHD in your will, we will match up to 20% of its value if you are willing to document the gift. The document is not legally binding and allows us to thank you and ensure that your legacy is properly honored. 

If you have any questions about the match or would like to speak with someone directly about giving to the college, please feel free to directly. We are so grateful for your support! 

Warmly,

Kirsten Halker-Kratz

Assistant Dean, Development and Alumni Relations

January 2025

Recently, I was the organist for a funeral of a gentleman who hiked over 216,000 miles over the span of three decades. Such a remarkable feat! He called these hikes his “journeys,” and enjoyed each of them, even if it was merely a quick walk in our local state park.

One of the best aspects of my role is hearing about your journey. I ask what brought you to Temple, to the CEHD, to your current career. Your responses are varied, but one thing is consistent from alum to alum—preparation. Your time in the nest prepared you for whatever hike you ventured upon. Often you have a mentor/professor that fortified your steps along the way. Your recollection of classes you enjoyed, internships you completed, friendships you made all shaped your Temple adventure. Thank you for giving me that opportunity to share your trek with others, and for a chance to inspire alumni to give back their time, talent and treasure to the college.

From fledgling owlets to Temple Owls, I hope to hear more of these stories as we start 2025. You can reach me at .

Warmly,

Kirsten Halker-Kratz

Assistant Dean, Development and Alumni Relations