50 years, celebrated
October 29, 2009
Colleagues, friends and students yesterday celebrated Professor Mary Mindess’ 50 years of service to Lesley University and early childhood education.
Mary Mindess with Lesley President Joseph Moore
The tribute featured personal stories from colleagues who have worked alongside Mindess through the years, some of whom even donned top hats and boas for a choreographed musical tribute.
A lasting tribute was contributed by MFA Program Center Director Anthony Apesos, who unveiled the portrait he painted of Mindess. The painting will become a permanent addition to the Lesley campus, and an appropriate place to hang it is being considered. The event was preceded by a panel discussion entitled “100 Years of Kindergarten: The Potential for Long-Term Investment.” The entire event was part of Lesley University’s Centennial Year celebration.
Through her years of teaching — and as the founder and driving force behind the Kindergarten Conference, later named the Early Education Institute — Mindess has influenced thousands of children through the careers of her students. Professionals throughout the field have benefited from her work.
Mary’s impact is perhaps most fittingly conveyed through the words and thoughts of her colleagues and students, and here’s what just a few of them had to say:
Mary Mindess with colleagues - The Lesley Troupe
“Not only did she teach her students, she taught the rest of us to be good university citizens. Mary’s leadership over the past 50 years has kept us focused on the prize - our legacy - that the education of young children is still the most important work we do.” - Martha McKenna, Provost
“She’s traveled that long and winding road enthusiastically. Does that not come to mind when you think of her? ‘Enthusiastically.’ When she comes into a room, whatever the issue is, it’s a better issue than it was before. It’s a better time to work on it.” - Mario Borunda, Dean, School of Education
“All of today’s children. We know that the fate of humanity lies in their hands. So Mary, never stop your good work.” - Sondra Langer, Professor Emerita
“How fortunate for the thousands of students she was taught, the thousands - literally thousands - of children served by those students and how fortunate for Lesley University.” - Joseph Moore, President
“I wish I had her before! This is my first semester with her and I’m already in love. Why did I not have her sooner?” Jessica Arnold, Lesley College Senior.
Anthony Apesos debuts a portrait
“It’s the most difficult thing to paint a well-loved person. And that’s what I’ve done and I hope it’s worthy of you.” - Anthony Apesos, Center Director, MFA Program
“She was a phenomenal mentor. I continue to stay in touch. She still is enthusiastic, child-centered. I think she influences so many people that she taught.” - Cecila Doyle, SOE ‘83, Kindergarten teacher in Blackstone, Mass.
“She just made a huge difference in my experience at Lesley. She is who you see. She was so supportive to me, had a great sense of humor and there were no boundaries to our relationship.” - Carol Moriarty, Lesley Trustee, LC ’74.
A photo album of the event is on the Lesley University Facebook page, readers are encouraged to share their messages and thoughts about Mary Mindess’ career there.