After two fulfilling years at Preston Library, I’m preparing to say goodbye to Virginia Military Institute (VMI). I am about to start a new chapter in my professional journey.

Serving as the Head of Research and Instruction Services has been both an honor and a deeply rewarding experience. I’ve had the privilege of supporting VMI’s cadets, faculty, and broader community in their research and information needs. This includes individual consultations, library instruction sessions, and launching our chat reference service.

Over the past two years, I’ve worked to update and expand our library guides. I have supported international students. I contributed to key programs like the Summer Undergraduate Research Institute (SURI) and the Summer Transition Program (STP). I’ve especially enjoyed collaborating with offices and programs across post to make library services more accessible and engaging.

Cadets are an incredible group of students, extremely disciplined and high achievers. I will always cherish the experience of attending the Matriculation Day and the Parades. I remember watching the cadets proudly march to the music of the band and the pipe band.

Attending football and basketball games to cheer my cadets. What a wonderful blessing listening to the Glee Club in different activities. Simply walking around the post and saluting the cadets as they passed. On Wednesdays, I enjoyed lunch at Crozet Hall as part of the Spanish Table. I participated in professional development programs organized by the Center for Leadership and Ethics (CLE). I also attended activities hosted by the Office of Diversity, Opportunity, and Inclusion. I’ll carry all these memories with me wherever I go.

A highlight of my time at VMI was the opportunity to participate in the XIV Latin American Conference for Librarian, Archives, and Museologists in 2024. This event, known in Spanish as the Encuentro Latinoamericano de Bibliotecarios, Archivistas y Museologos (EBAM), was held in Costa Rica. There, I spoke about our library instruction collaboration. We integrated the library and the archives orientation through an interactive scavenger hunt for the STP Program.

I’m incredibly grateful for the chance to work alongside such committed colleagues. I am thankful to contribute to an institution with a unique mission and culture. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey. I leave with lasting memories, valuable lessons, and a deep sense of appreciation.

On to the next adventure!