Director's Message Archives
August 2005
Message from the acting director:
We're Moving On
The dog days of August have given way to a new academic year, full of high expectations, lots of homework, and a host of student and alumni activities. As many of you may know already, the Johnson School's Office of Alumni Affairs and Development is in the midst of many changes, and I am one of them. I have stepped out of my premature retirement into the position of acting director for Alumni Relations, a job that holds tremendous responsibility and promise. Many of you may remember me from my previous position as the senior development officer for the Johnson School, and I am very excited about my new responsibilities in the Alumni Relations Office.
I am very pleased to report that Becky Herring Mitchell has accepted the position of Associate Dean of Alumni Affairs and Development at the Johnson School. Becky has had a wealth of experience in alumni relations and development, as well as in management and strategic planning in higher education, health care, and environmental programs. She soon will be leaving her current position as Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Mount Olive College in North Carolina and join us in Ithaca on September 6.
As with many agile organizations, change is a constant at the Johnson School; and I want to report two more items. First, Marybeth Tarzian, the director of the Johnson School Annual Fund, has accepted the position of director of Alumni Affairs and Development for Cornell's College of Human Ecology. During her tenure at the Johnson School, Marybeth made a significant difference in strengthening and expanding the Annual Fund program, plus she has cheerfully assisted us with many important alumni events. Although we will lose a highly valued colleague and friend, Marybeth's promotion acknowledges her leadership and tremendous capabilities. We wish Marybeth continued success and prosperity as she transitions to her new position on September 6.
Second, Shelia Reakes will step in as the acting director of the Annual Fund. Shelia has worked closely with Marybeth and is well prepared to sustain the momentum of the Annual Fund program. Sheila has a solid history working in academic setting at both Ithaca College and Cornell, and she has been a significant influence in the success of the Annual Fund. We are fortunate to have Sheila on the development team. Under her management, the Annual Fund program is in good hands.
I look forward to the months ahead and to the opportunity to meet with as many of our regional volunteer leaders, class officers, and current students as I possibly can. I want to invite you, our loyal and cherished graduates, to contact me with any ideas or suggestions for enhancement, as well as good personal news, that you want to share. Or, just call to say "Hello."
Cordially yours,
Cyndy Tkachuck '93, acting director
Alumni Relations
cmg6@cornell.edu
