Betsy Knott - These are three characteristics of all of the Wabash alumni I encountered this weekend as I was the first from our office to begin fall travel, heading to Texas for the southern tour of the Colleges That Changes Lives (CTCL) college fairs. The first day of the tour can be quite brutal, covering both Houston and Austin in the same day. However, Wabash alumni always seem to make it more fun and entertaining.

My first stop was the Kinkaid school, where I met with college counselor Greg Birk ’77. I can see why Greg feels at home at Kinkaid; the tradition and school pride abounds that place only as I’ve seen at a handful of others. Everywhere we turned, from the leather couches in the “freshmen” area to the steps of the beautiful auditorium and theatre, gold and purple swept through the hallways. I even learned about the history of Kinkaid, and found it amusing that they, too, have a historic bell that captures the essence of the place.

Saturday evening, I was joined at the table by Rob Shook ’83. Rob showed up about 45 minutes early, book in hand. He explained to me that a neighbor of his was taking a class, and Wuthering Heights was the book that was being covered. Rob commented that his neighbor pleaded with him to read the book so he could have someone to discuss it with before his class, and Rob happily obliged. Upon further investigation, Rob shared that he was a guide-dog trainer, taking in young Labrador pups and teaching them how to deal with all situations. After handling them for a year, and taking them to band concerts, crowded malls, and busy college fairs, Rob returned them to their home training site. I asked, “Isn’t it hard to return a dog after you’ve taught them how to handle noise, little kids, and the most bizarre situations?” He responded, “I’ve taught them as much as I could, and it’s great to be a part of something that will help others. Besides, I get to return home on a plane with a new seven-week old pup.”

I ended my stay in Texas meeting up with four alumni and a set of parents who want to continue to spread the word about Wabash. Teresa and Santos Olivarez (parents of Matt ’08) contacted me last spring, recognizing the impact Wabash had made on their son, and asked to help in any way they could. Last Sunday, they hosted an alumni training event at their home, and allowed me to explain how best we could use their service. As always, the event allowed Wabash men of years past to reconnect, and tell stories of their time spent in Crawfordsville.

All in all, my time in Texas was well spent and energized me for the weeks to come as I prepare to spread thy honored name. Thank you, Wabash men in Houston and Austin, for giving me a few new stories, the continued support I know I will rely upon again, and a reminder of what is so special about this place.