Dean’s Column
October 2019

Being an unabashed Anglophile since my college days, I’ve been a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien and his writings. My dog is even named Strider, after Aragorn, the future King in Lord of the Rings. I’ve appreciated Tolkien’s quote, “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” It sounds simple – but is rather profound.

For me, that means striking a balance between accomplishing my goals towards what really matters in life and enjoying the day-to-day journey.

Fall schedules have indeed kicked in. A glance at your calendar confirms that. I hope we are all deciding for ourselves what to do with the time given us. It’s so easy to react to the urgent things and miss opportunities to spend time doing what brings us life and joy. I consider our AGO chapter events in that last category!

Once again, thanks for getting involved. We miss you when you don’t.

Warmly,
Judy Kohl

Past Overtones

Dean’s Column | January 2026

Join us on February 1 for our next chapter event at Nichols Concert Hall in Evanston: our NSAGO Members’ Recital on February 1 at 3:00pm in observance of Black History Month. Our Sub-Dean Marianne Kim is coordinating this program and performers include Bridget de la...

Dean’s Column | November 2025

Snow has fallen and Advent and Christmas will soon be here. Wishing you all a successful holiday season with the added services and concerts that come with it. In the aftermath of it all, we invite you to join us on Tuesday, January 6 at 6:30pm for our annual NSAGO...

Dean’s Column | July 2025

Membership Renewal & New Board Members I hope you’re having a wonderful summer and finding some time to recharge before fall. July 1 is the start date for our newly-elected board members James Russell Brown and Eun Joo Ju. We also extend our gratitude to Derek...