Kathy JewettIn this post we recognize Kathy Jewett, Senior Associate in Science Instruction in Chemistry/ Biochemistry, for her 25 years of service to Middlebury. Kathy shares her joys and interests outside of work, as well as her future plans, both of which involve volunteer work. “A close community” is just one way that Kathy has described Middlebury College, read on to learn more about Midd from Kathy’s point of view.

What did you do prior to work at Middlebury College and where were you located?

Having been raised in the Midwest (with detours to Colombia and Argentina), after college I did R&D in Illinois. When my husband Steve and I moved to Northeast Vermont 36 years ago, we were starting our family (Sara and John), he pastored a small church, and I eventually taught at St. Johnsbury Academy.

What job titles have you held while working at Middlebury?

I’m a senior associate in science instruction in Chemistry/ Biochemistry, with senior being applied recently.

Take us back to your first year as an employee at the College. What were the most significant things happening in your life outside of work then?

When Steve accepted the call to be the pastor of Memorial Baptist Church, our children were eleven and eight. I walked into the old science center, and into this job. Our lives were so busy!
 
What are the most significant things happening in your life outside of work now (that you’d like to share)?

There is more time to read, Skype, spend time with family and friends, kayak, bike, etc. Being rigidly flexible is a good axiom to live by.

Have your interests/hobbies/athletic endeavors changed over the past 25 years? Have any of these been influenced by your work at the College or due to your association with others who work here?

Changes have mainly been influenced by the changes in our nuclear family – children growing up, going off to college, getting married, having children of their own, but right now I’m enjoying singing in the college community chorus.
Our family enjoyed having students over to our home for meals, and over the years developed many special relationships. Our volunteer work is more a reflection of our involvement with Middlebury and our church, but the students participation in the volunteer efforts always encourages us.

What is your fondest memory or experience that you’ve had while working at Middlebury?
 
I’ve always appreciated that our students want to learn, and the wonderful colleagues who generously share their knowledge, enthusiasm for learning, and participation in life.

Many people change jobs/careers multiple times in their working life. Something must have kept you here for 25 years. Is it anything that you can put into words?
 
We are a close community which respects and understands differences, yet we come to an accord on the essentials.

What are your plans for the next 25 years?

I plan to keep on working, but after I retire do more volunteer work, and spend time with Steve; Sara, Tielman, and Lincoln who are at present in South Africa; John, Laura, Joseph and Daniel in Tucson; my mom, and friends.

Do you have a favorite place on campus? co40-10-08-ariel-119
 
I never tire looking out windows in BiHall , especially 5th floor in the Great Hall.

Is there any person on campus (or retiree, former employer) that mentored you, or you feel helped you grow into your job, grow to enjoy your work and your time at the College?
 
Initially Bob Gleason took me under his wing, but over the years I have been encouraged and felt respected by my colleagues; I have loved working here.

If you could give one piece of advice to a new employee at Middlebury, what would it be?
 
Find people with your passions, and enjoy the beauty of this place.

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