I came home from Sheana’s presentation to the sad news of Bill Brown’s passing. What a remarkable man he was! One of those “most unforgettable people you’ve ever met”   Outspoken, positive, pragmatic, intelligent and caring about his colleagues and totally supportive of the WISE program and the young people, including his own four children and grandchildren, that it impacts. I especially miss our conversations about the struggles of the New York Knickerbockers. I send my love on to Phyllis and her family in this difficult time. Bill touched us all in many ways. I will truly miss him. He made a difference, as they say, in so many lives.

Sheana’s presentation was titled: “My Walk with God and Journey into Healthcare” It was especially fitting as it dovetailed with Bill’s passing. Sheana’s life has been marked by tragic circumstances: parent divorce, Great Recession’s impact upon her Dad’s income. For a time this semester she was the care giver for her 7year old sister. Her journal reflects days without heat, cold showers, nights without supper, all the while in training to become a Certified Nursing Assistant with labs, tests, practicum, and internships in nursing homes.

Over all of this was her positive, sunny disposition based upon her Christian life, giving over her life to God, and a wonderful seemingly happy outlook on everything. Her presentation was a “tour de force”. She spoke passionately, calmly, positively, and with articulation about her faith, struggles, and growth through the WISE Journey.

Her wonderful mentor, Marian Zajac, has become a surrogate Mother to Sheana in the process. Her church youth leaders have opened their home to Sheana and her life has greatly improved since then. She will take the Certification exam for Certified Nursing Assistant status tomorrow. She now works part-time and will interview on Monday for a CNA position at the Ellenville Hospital.

Sheana’s goal is to become a Missionary Registered Nurse.  During the post presentation evaluation, Maggie Colan, task force member who was greatly impacted by Sheana, offered two suggested readings: “The Five People you Meet In Heaven”, by Mitch Albom, and “the Year of Living Biblically”.  Maggie also suggested that Sheana investigate joining the Peace Corps following  her completion of the Associates Degree in Nursing as a way to obtain the support needed to finish her long term goal of a Masters and Doctorate.

Sheana’s conclusion about her WISE Journey: “I grew so much, I am  very grateful for God giving me Ms. Zajac’s mentorship. I am grateful for Franny’s leadership and for the Rondout Valley WISE Task Force. I want to keep learning, because life, with God’s help, can be richer for what we learn.”

To say that I am a little emotional about Sheana’s positive outlook and personal improvement is putting it mildly.

Andy Lutz