Letter From The President
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Glancing out at the sun-dappled foliage on a crisp, bright morning I’m inclined to think that fall is my favorite season. In fact, I think, fall may be my favorite color. We’ve had such a busy few months that opportunities to stop and reflect seem few and far between, but the striking autumn colors of the Helderberg’s almost force me to stop and think about all that we have achieved at the Institute over the last few months.
I’m delighted to announce that we have received significant long term support for our Nonfiction Program from the Jonathan Logan Family Foundation. The Logan family has long been committed to strengthening democracy by their support of news, media and investigative journalism. The Foundation’s support is testament to the high quality and importance of the program thus far. Jonathan Logan has been a friend and supporter of the program from the outset. In recognition of his support we are renaming the program the Logan Nonfiction Program.
Continuing with the nonfiction theme, the latest class of nonfiction fellows arrived and are now firmly ensconced at the Institute, producing more critical and excellent work. We have added a video editing suite to support documentary film makers and plan to add a second editing suite soon.
Dr. Diana Woolis continues to make great strides in developing the Center for Learning in Practice, which supports professional learning and knowledge networks. In order to support our commitment to global good, one of our first focus areas will be teachers of refugees in camps and displaced elsewhere around the world. We are also exploring other global sectors such as early childhood development for we believe there is much potential.
Many of you joined us for our first annual Octoberfest at the Helderberg Brewery, where much of our various brews were imbibed. The brewery has been open barely 6 months and it’s clearly proving to be a big hit. For the growers and brewers amongst you, we are hosting an introduction to hop production and processing workshop on November 11th, then getting back to drinking the stuff at the Egg Nog Party on December 3rd. We hope you will be able to join us.
We have a new team member in our restaurant. Patrick Clark, a Rensselaerville resident, has joined John Murray’s team as Sous Chef. Patrick attended the Culinary Institute of America and I’m reliably informed his breads and pastries are a joy to behold. Recently married, Patrick is currently enjoying his honeymoon. Congratulations, Patrick, and welcome to the team.
It was great to see all the kids from Nature’s Way at the Institute for trick or treating, and the Halloween Parade from the fire house through the village seems to get bigger and bigger each year. With Halloween out of the way, I guess it’s Thanksgiving next. As we hurtle to the end of another jam-packed year, look out for our year-end giving campaign. Your support will help us continue all of this good work and more into 2017.
All the best,
Gareth