Last month, the dean’s office had the pleasure of hosting the annual McKay School Christmas Lunch. Many prayers were answered that day, as a previously dry winter turned into the first big snowstorm of the season. The snow put the event at risk, however, as we were anxious about having so many people on the road with an active snowstorm. We consulted UDOT, our event coordinator, our office windows, many of you, and inspiration.
As we watched the sun come out in Lehi and start to make its way south, we were encouraged. We sent some scouts ahead to check on the state of the roads and eventually, as you know, made the call to proceed with our party plans. And many of you were able to come, safe and sound.
We sat in a beautiful location, enjoyed the sight of the freshly fallen snow, and ate delicious food. There was a moment where I stopped and listened to the sound of your voices, which were raised in friendship, collegiality, and Christmas cheer. This is a most cherished memory for me. At that moment, the gratitude in my heart for each of you and that moment we were able to share was overwhelming.
Dean Osguthorpe aptly articulated my feelings when he stated, “Everyone came bearing a gift today, and we magnified the feelings of love and compassion that are the mark of a Zion-like community. Even the early morning weather-related consternation contributed to the spirit of the event, as I think it was inspiring for everyone to look around and reflect on the surprisingly large turnout—a manifestation of everyone’s uncompelled desire to be together and a powerful indicator of our strength in the MSE.”
We have many activities planned in 2022 and, COVID-19 willing, we hope to see you all at these events this year. These events serve a greater purpose than discussions or business items. These events enhance a culture we want to have at the McKay School: a culture of unity in the gospel, of rejoicing in our shared vision, and of deep love and concern for one another.
All faculty, staff, and administrative employees are invited to attend the following events:
Thursday, February 3, 11 a.m.
Faculty Meeting*
Thursday, March 17, 11 a.m.
Cluff Lecture and Awards—The Cluff Family Endowment funds this lecture. An outside scholar is invited to campus to enlighten and instruct us in an education-related field. Awards are given to faculty who exemplify excellence in teaching, support to the BYU–Public School Partnership, and educator preparation. In 2022, our speaker will be Megan Tschannen-Moran, PhD, a professor of educational leadership at William & Mary School of Education.
Thursday, April 21, Time TBD
McKay School Convocation
Tuesday, May 3, 5:30 p.m.
Spring Picnic—An early evening dinner for you and a plus-one.
Friday, June 3, All Day
CLASS-Y Day—A day-long, off-campus retreat to learn more about the BYU–Public School Partnership and the role each of us plays.
Wednesday, August 24, All Day
McKay Day—A day-long, off-campus meeting to kick off the new academic year.
October, Date and Time TBD
Homecoming Gathering—A pre-Homecoming game social and dinner for you and your family.
Thursday, November 3, 11 a.m.
Faculty meeting*
Friday, December 9, Time TBD
Christmas Lunch—A festive holiday luncheon to enjoy the company of your McKay School friends and colleagues.
*Don’t let the title of this meeting fool you—this is a meeting for faculty, staff, and administrative employees. If only faculty attendance is requested, we will indicate so on the email invitation.