Goodbye Diane!

November 2006

Dear Special Friends,

With an Open Heart . . . In early September I spoke with President Stephen Aizenstat about my decision to leave Pacifica. In turn, Dr. Aizenstat sent a letter to all the members of the faculty and staff, and he began his very kind message by writing "With an Open Heart . . ."

Now, with this same feeling, I want to let each of you know that I am retiring from Pacifica. I have enjoyed every day of my tenure serving in the Admissions Office. When I started nearly 12 years ago there were three programs, six tracks, and one campus. Today there are six programs, 12 tracks, and two campuses. Pacifica thrives, and this is wonderful news for all of us. Each of you who crossed the threshold to become part of the Pacifica family can acknowledge the power of the work you are or were involved in at Pacifica. My work has not been a job; it has been my vocation where irreplaceable and memorable friendships have been forged since my first day at Pacifica.

You have touched my heart in so many ways. You have inspired me with your stories, your commitment to the work that you have done or are now doing, and the friendship you have so graciously and generously given to me. I have welcomed your enthusiasm, and I want to thank you for your open heart. Indeed, I recall our conversations, and I treasure each one. Pacifica is a special place, and it is so because of you. May you always know that I wish you only the very best, as you have so often done for me.

It is my fervent hope that your experiences at Pacifica and beyond continue to bring beauty, kindness, spirit, and love into your life. At Pacifica's 30th Anniversary Celebration in June 2006 – Harvesting the Dream, Seeding the Future -- I saw so many of you; what a wonderful opportunity that was for me. Already plans are in place to gather again on October 19-21, 2007, and Steve has invited me to attend. I am looking forward to seeing you at this special event next year.

With my deepest affection and gratitude,

Diane Huerta dmh2007@verizon.net