Dear Bologna,

Thank you for being not only my professor, but also a friend, mother, mentor, confidant, and role model to me. Most people call you crazy (including myself), but what we mistake for craziness is none other than the love, diligence, and passion you put into your work. You endlessly encourage and motivate your students to be fearless, take risks, and you've truly taught us the meaning of what it is to perform and create excellent art. Everyday you show me something new about myself and my work, and without you I don't think I would have made it as far as I have.

You amaze me everyday with the knowledge you hold and the undying enthusiasm you have to come in and share that knowledge with us. As your stage manager, I can't say that it makes me happy when you turn our rehearsals into classes (for time reasons, of course), but there isn't one day I leave without walking out a little smarter than I was before. You challenge us all in the best ways, and you empower us to be our best selves.

Professors usually don't show interest in the personal success of their students, but that has never been the case with you. Your office hours are pretty much the free counseling sessions that hold this department together. We've all occasionally come in frenetic and anxious with 99 problems, bursting into tears, and wondering what to do with our lives and you just calmly sit us down and work your magic. By the end, we wondered why we were so upset in the first place. And while that's great, what's more important is that you care. You genuinely care about the lives of all 100+ students you see day to day. Making sure we're happy and healthy, that we're doing well in school, and even sending us to the doctor when we're too stubborn to admit we're sick. I still can't comprehend how you deal with all of our advising, acting, and personal issues while simultaneously living your own life as a playwright, actress, professor, and director.

I truly can't tell you enough how grateful I am that FDU gave me someone who has taught me so much in the short time I've been here. You inspire me every day to be more selfless and compassionate, to do what I love, and to confidently go out into this world and make the most of what I have. Thank you for constantly challenging me and showing me that I have more potential than I could ever dream of. I don't know what I'd do without you.

Sincerely,

The Goof