DFA

Distinguished Faculty Awards. Each year, since 1991 or so, Hobart and William Smith Colleges have asked their alumni to pick teachers who ought to be recognized as Distinguished. A few years ago, my father was recognized. And last night, a family friend (I have known her for 40 years) was recognized.

It started with a cocktail reception so everyone could mingle and chat. I didn't know many people there, so I spoke with anyone silly enough to stand still long enough for me to corner them. Had a pleasant chat with a recent grad who was there to write an article for the HWS website. And lots of other random people. The speeches came next - unsurprisingly, the two humanities professors speeches were a lot more interesting and entertaining than were those for the science teacher. I'm just sayin'.

Next, dinner on the quad under a tent. Luckily, it was not raining and mildly temperatured. The food was decent - though it was a buffet. In years past the dinner for the DFA was served at table. I liked that. More elegant. Oh well. We sat with a couple - he was finance director for the colleges. They left and another couple came to sit with us - The Bensons - both of whom went to the colleges and I think they both taught or worked there too. I know he did.

Mom was in rare form - hobnobbing (I though it had a 'k' in it) with people and generally seemed to have a great time.

Lastly, the evening was topped off with fireworks. Not a long display, but fun. I went and laid down almost underneath where they were being set off. My iPhone did a great job capturing the show - I will probably put it up on Facebook. Oh, if anyone who reads this wants to find me on Facebook - I will be there. :)

Pictures from June 4, 2011: (More pictures and the fireworks movie will be going up on Facebook eventually)


Not a bad space or a bad turnout for the awards!


Me with my mom and Mary Gerhart, the honoree. Mom is on the left - I am on the right and Mary is the ham in the sandwich...


Kristi (I forgot to ask her how she spells her name) and Danae - two very personable young women who were a part of the staff at the dinner.



A firework.