"I learned so much by just being around you" -Linda B-R

Dearest Vanessa,

When I joined the Empire Justice Center, I was just a kid, just a few years out of law school. That is when I officially met you. I had known of you prior to that, having been a Pace student. I just did not have the pleasure of having you as my professor.

After meeting you, I always wished I had had you as a professor. Truth be told, none of my professors ever moved me or inspired me the way you did. However, I believe I got a far better deal. I had the honor and privilege to work alongside you, while reaping the benefits of having you as a professional and life mentor. Not to mention, you probably saved Rob and I from being booted out of Pace on more than one occasion! For that, I am very grateful.

There are too many countless stories to be able to just pick my favorite memory of you. You witnessed my growth as a person. When I started, I was not even married. Now I am getting ready to send my oldest to college next year. Where did the time go!

I will always remember when you, along with the staff of JJLS, threw me the loveliest bridal shower. You asked me for my bridal registry and based on that, you gifted me the most beautiful area rug that matched perfectly with my décor. When I was pregnant, you gave me your books on parenting and had such great advice for me.

I always looked forward to celebrating birthdays in the library. Those are my fondest memories. I knew that on those occasions we would get a new personal story of Vanessa. You always had a fascinating story about something, whether it was from your past or the present. I learned so much by just being around you. However, what moves me the most is your passion for everything. I try to have that same passion, not just in my professional life, but in all aspects of my life. Thank you for sharing that with us all.

This is very bittersweet. I am sad that I have not seen you in such a long time. Pace will never be the same for me without you.

Congratulations on your amazing professional journey. I hope to see you very soon.

With all my love,
Linda B-R