Dean’s Column | June 2022

Dear Friends

A passenger with “no idea” how to fly, safely landed a single-engine aircraft after its pilot lost consciousness. An air traffic controller (who also happens to be a certified flight instructor) answered the passenger’s distress call and guided his new student safely to the ground.

As I pass the baton of leadership to your new Dean, I think back to when I first took this role. I remember feeling a bit like this passenger trying to land the plane in distress, without proper navigational experience. Little did I realize there would be an abundance of knowledgeable folks, graciously willing to guide me along the journey to a successful landing.

We indeed have a wonderful chapter, not just because of the programs, but truly because of the friends and colleagues involved. I will greatly miss having the opportunity to be a part of making the NSAGO a vital and warm place to belong.

Recently I attended the funeral service of my neighbor, Gwen. Though she was a bit of a celebrity in our town, she was always humble and unassuming to me. The final blessing in her service was a powerful reminder to each of us, and I thought it fitting as a final blessing from me.

“Life is short, and we don’t have much time to gladden the hearts of those who walk with us. So, be swift to love and make haste to be kind. And the blessing of God Almighty, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit be upon you now and remain with you always.”

Warmly,

Judy Kohl, Dean

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...