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In December 2019, our long-time and highly esteemed colleague, David Blazevich, The Bernard Osher Foundation’s senior program director left to take the helm of the Fleishhacker Foundation in San Francisco. The Osher NRC staff had little time to mourn his departure as we focused on fulfilling many of the functions David had always deftly taken care of. Thankfully, in early March of 2020 (remember what was happening about then?) Dr. Kelly Jane Rosenblatt was named program director at the Foundation. In the initial days of her new job, she was plunged into rough waters, witnessing the coming tsunami of eminent pandemic crisis for the Osher Institutes (to keep the seafaring metaphors going here). Kelly Jane instantly became part of our NRC team – out of necessity. It was a camaraderie formed by overcoming adversity and eventually, by celebrating successes. It’s said that the strongest storms make the best sailors. Through the pandemic, Kelly Jane was the best of sailors. Since then, she has remained a trusted advisor and wise strategist in partnership with us – and with so many of you OLLI leaders across the country.
As the carefully and long-planned transition of administrative oversight from the Foundation to the Osher NRC moves ahead, we thank and salute Kelly Jane, as she moves on. Her wit, counsel, and deep understanding of Mr. and Mrs. Osher’s intent for the Osher Network’s future has made a meaningful contribution to this Network. The Osher NRC will remember her example as we navigate the work we do in service to your Institutes for years to come.
Osher Foundation President Mary Bitterman said it well, “Kelly Jane worked magnificently through the pandemic – her nearly five years of service at the Osher Foundation have been characterized by professionalism, fealty to the Osher vision of serving our grantees with respect, encouragement, admiration, and collegiality. We know that Kelly Jane will continue to focus her myriad talents on important issues, and she will always endeavor to make the world a better place. Just as we will always hold a special place in our hearts for Kelly Jane, we know that she will retain the same attachment to the Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes across this great nation.”
We collectively owe Kelly Jane our abiding gratitude as she takes a bit of family time before considering her next career and personal adventures. As well-wishing sailors say, fair winds and following seas to you, our dear friend.
With appreciation and best New Year’s wishes to you all,
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