Those of you with whom I have worked will know what I mean when I say
the third time's a charm.  This week marks my final day with the
Occupational Therapy program and, at least for the foreseeable future,
my employment with the university (never say never). When I came aboard
with Occupational Therapy, I thought I was taking an enjoyable, low key
desk job that would help pay for the completion of my undergraduate
degree. Little did I realize I was embarking upon what I will now
reference on future vitas as a 2 year paid internship in the academic
boxing ring.  The best lessons are rarely learned in the classroom--
unless it happens to be hosting a Faculty Senate or Budget meeting. I
really had not anticipated writing the cliché parting email. However,
should I forgo the opportunity to bestow certain thanks and
acknowledgements, I would be doing a disservice.

First, I would like to thank those UTC folks who have emerged as truly
supportive friends.  Y'all know who you are.  More importantly, I know
who you are and its good know I have friends. Next, I would like to
thank some people I have been proud to know who are no longer here.  Dr.
Teresa Norris, former Program Coordinator of Occupational Therapy.  The
same to Amy McBride-Conner, former OT Professor.  Both have successfully
gone on to brighter things. I would also like to thank Dean Mary Tanner
for her undying dedication to Occupational Therapy, its staff and
students.  When we were unsure of our future and that of our students,
she stepped up to lead us all, time and time again. 

Everyone at UTC needs to thank Susan McDonald who has single-handedly
guided the 2003 and 2004 OT classes through graduation.  Susan has
provided overwhelming support not only to OT and pre-OT students as they
faced knocks to the fate of their education, but to me, too.  Susan came
to UTC (commuting from Huntsville!)because of the belief in her work,
service to the community and devotion to OT education.  All the woman
wanted to do was teach OT to OT students.  She got more than she
bargained for as she found herself as Program Coordinator, Fieldwork
Supervisor and lone full-time faculty to 26 students. Not to mention
packing up a whole department (when was the last time you inventoried
everything down to the utensils and wall brackets). This is a duty she
has performed with awesome grace, perseverance and passion for what she
does- teach and heal.  Without her I'm not sure what UTC, much less our
OT students or I, would have done.  We are all in her debt whether we
realize it or not.

Some of us are lucky enough to receive the gift of great lessons at a
young age. The afore mentioned women have had an indelible impact on me.
Their compassion, dedication, openness and radiance is something I
aspire to. Images that will shape my own professional endeavors in the
future.  They have been mentors as much as co-workers and
administrators. Lastly, I want to thank the university as a whole.  I
consider my role as a UTC employee just as much an education as the time
I spend here as a student.  And, wow people, have a learned a few
things, for better and for worse.  I do firmly believe in the potential
of this university to be a well-balanced, dynamic model of both applied
and academic study.  A regional force in community development, as well
as purveyors of history, culture and the arts.  Not to mention an
enjoyable place to work. However, the most valuable thing I have
internalized here is the essential of piecing together a strong
foundation with the resources you have before building anything else.
Otherwise it may all crumble under stress.  

That's all she wrote.  Good luck to all.


Shannon Marie Smith

UTC College of Health, Education and Professional Studies
Occupational Therapy  423.425.2357
Social Work   423.425.4454            
108 Davenport Hall