Did You Know? From the President
Dear Alumni and Friends, I knew when I first arrived at Queens in 2019 that I was joining a community that was as determined and resilient as it was caring and cohesive. But lately, I’ve been struck by the vibrancy reflected throughout our entire community, even amid challenges and uncertainty. Seeing the campus buzzing with student and faculty activity energizes me. Everywhere I look, I see examples of our community living the Queens’ motto, “not to be served, but to serve.” Te Winter Issue of Queens magazine reflects this vibrancy.
Starting with the cover, which features a recent gift to Queens, a vibrant and inspirational mural by acclaimed American contemporary artist Shepard Fairey that you will enjoy learning more about. But vibrancy goes beyond what we see. It is dynamic, not static.
Troughout this issue, you will see examples of how vibrancy has shined brightly in places near and far. You will see it in the determination of individuals who rose above challenges, stepped out in faith and looked beyond their fears to find a way forward, not just for themselves but for the benefit of others. Hannah Aspden ’22, for example, won gold at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games, (her second Paralympic Games), knowing her story was an example that others would follow. Another example is Pat Sullivan ’10, who helped raise more than $50,000 for the 17 nonprofits he visited during a 182-day bridleless cross-country journey on his eight-year-old Egyptian Arabian mare. Queens’ partnership with Pianos for Peace and our commitment
to the newly renamed Stan Greenspon Holocaust and Social Justice Education Center, showcases our propensity to build bridges and encourage change through peace, justice, equity and belonging. Te Friends of the Library celebrates 50 years of cultivating a relationship with the Charlotte community and beyond, confirming that the goals set in our new strategic vision are valid and attainable. Tese vibrant actions so clearly define the Queens culture, as they transform moments of challenge and complexity into strength, perseverance and success. Today I am more hopeful than ever that a successful post-pandemic path forward is ours for the taking if we continue to nurture our united, resilient and service-minded environment. Tere isn’t a more meaningful and important endeavor than that. And I thank you for being a part of it.
Sincerely,
Daniel G. Lugo President
2 MAGAZINE
For many students, rigorous course loads coupled with unique living accommodations make owning a pet impossible amidst university studies. However, the
companionship of a four-legged friend can ease the stress of demanding semesters. With that in mind, Queens’ Assistant Dean of Health and Wellness, Jill Perry, RN, MSN, came up with a furry solution for the Queens community. Perry knows the power of puppy love, so she
adopted Sunshine and Nola from the Neuse River Golden Retriever Rescue three years ago and six years ago respectively. While the dogs belong to Perry, they have found a second home in the Health and Wellness Center, where they are cared for and cherished by students and staff daily. “Every morning I say, ‘ready to go to work?’ Ten, they jump into the car because they know they have a job to do!” As Queens’ unofficial stress-reduction team,
Sunshine and Nola have had a tremendous impact on students’ lives. Avery Marquis ’24 and Lydia Cunning ’23 walk the dogs every day. In a time when it is imperative to keep a healthy distance from others, these students have found the dogs to be a source of comfort and community.
—Morgan Williams
COMPANION ANIMALS OFFER A CUDDLY APPROACH TO STRESS MANAGEMENT
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