To all the alumni, donors and friends I have had the distinct pleasure of working with over the last 20 years, I would like to say thank you.
It is with mixed emotions that I share with you the news that I will be moving on from the School of Optometry and Vision Science to take on a new role at the University of Waterloo as the Director of Advancement for the Faculty of Health.
This is an exciting opportunity as the focus of the University shifts to Health Futures; bringing together engineering, math and science and health (including optometry) to imagine and create what’s next in health care. This has been further propelled by the announcement of the new Regional Hospital on University of Waterloo’s north campus.
I’m hoping that I can use the broad knowledge and insights that I have gained throughout the years to help put health at the forefront and to further put optometry in the spotlight. At least I’m going to try!
However, my decision to take on this new role comes with a price. I will not be able to see and interact with all of you on a regular basis. This makes me sad and I’m going to miss you terribly!
The relationships that I have built with many of you over the years mean a lot to me. I have enjoyed your company immensely. Through the good and the bad. The dancing, the laughs and even the tough conversations. I have grown and learned a lot both professionally and personally.
Look at what we have accomplished together! We built a new addition (opened in 2009), set up a ton of new scholarships and are now underway with construction of the Waterloo Eye Institute (WEI). As you know, the WEI has been almost fifteen years in the making (it has been quite the journey) and we wouldn’t be where we are today without you believing in and supporting the vision. I’m proud to say I had a small part in it.
I want you to know that struggled with the decision to take on a new position for a few reasons. First, we’re not done yet! And second, because of you. You have made me who and what I am today. For that I say THANK YOU.
While I’m starting a new chapter, I’m not going far. Just across the street actually! I will forever be a cheerleader for optometry and will be your champion when I can.
So, this isn’t goodbye, it’s just a pause until I see you next time.
Sincerely,
Andrea Carthew
