Once a Ron's Don...Always a Ron's Don | Alumni

Written by Brenda Seto.

I remember the first time I set foot on uWaterloo campus. Away from home...meeting new people, attending class lectures, being in residence...I was scared and excited! But I found that the Dons in residence helped to make it a wonderful experience!

In my 3^rd & 4^th year, I was fortunate to be a Don with Dr. Jim Walker as my tutor (an original Don!), and was supported by Dr. Ron Eydt, Warden of residences. Dr. Eydt’s overall vision for the Dons was to create positive student experiences beyond the classroom. Dons also had to have fun despite the infinite duties and responsibilities. We met a variety of people, experienced many new situations that tested, challenged and also enriched us. I didn’t realize the full impact of this experience until later.

After being away from uWaterloo for 30 years, I recently re-connected with other Dons on LinkedIn. I became part of a group that organized RONdezvous, a reunion attended by 200+ Dons from Ron’s 30-year tenure. I learned I wasn’t the only one positively affected by being a Don. Ron and his wife Betsy instilled caring, confidence and support in us personally, through the Tutors and the Dons. We realized we still belonged to a common community which made it very natural to share experiences, whether we “donned” together or not.

The group recognized the Eydts’ caring for students and their contributions to residence life, with the naming of a space in the new Health Services Building. So far over $32,000 has been donated. The space will be based on our collective efforts.

At this stage of my life, it’s great to be involved with uWaterloo again. We’ve continued to organize social events since “Dons love to have fun!” Our next one is Oktoberfest, Oct. 19th.

I’ve also heard from folks that want to further connect and create business and mentoring opportunities with others. We have such a talented, inspiring and caring group that there’s a lot we can do to help each other and give back to our own community. Having fun and making a difference in people’s lives... I’m realizing that as Dons, it didn’t stop when we graduated. Dr. Eydt’s vision continues!!!

Brenda Seto - E3 Don, 82-83, 83-84