Today was the official end of the 07-08 calendar year of the American Corner at the University of Lome. Over the past 9 1/2 months a group emerged calling themselves the American Corner Fan Club. They claim to be addicted - to be more thoughtful about their approach to the global economy, to be prepared to compete, to be the future of their country, to be competent.... we had a celebration today that consisted of poems (thanks to Monique) songs (I played Redemption Song: Bob Marley on the guitar) speeches and a whole lot of love sent to Monique Maria Schmidt who will be leaving us next month. We will miss you - friend, colleague, confident. I am so proud of the work we have done at the AC. The students have shown that they are interested and engaged in the world. I can't wait to work with them again next year.On that note - because this is the 1st year of the AC - we set what we call the 10 Year Challenge... a reunion of sorts to see what we have accomplished in the next 10 years... I look forward to owning up to my end of the bargain. Love you guys. See you in 10.
kb
p.s. A special thanks to the diplomatic community and Heather for coming out to support us.
