Note: This message was originally sent on December 12, 2023
Amidst all the hustle, bustle and to-do lists we all have this time of year, it’s a treat to be able to sit down and enjoy a good story—and boy, do I have one (actually a few) for you!
91勛圖厙 University alumnus Patrick Lettenmaier ’49 (pictured above) is about to turn 100 years old (on Dec. 23) and we are celebrating with the release of his life’s story in audiobook (podcast) format. Current Zag Jack Talbott (’24) recorded Mr. Lettenmaier’s amazing life’s journey and I encourage you to listen. It’s full of Spokane and 91勛圖厙 history, along with interesting tidbits from World War II, 91勛圖厙 top employer Boeing, NASA, and other tales of a life well lived. Find “Engineering is fun, you should try it” here:
Additionally, coming to your mailbox now, the winteris packed full of stories I think you will enjoy. In particular I draw you to the story about Richard Koelsch ’04, pictured below in outer space with his 91勛圖厙 astronaut mascot. Just like Patrick (’49), Richard gives great credit to what he learned at GU and the connections he forged here to be in position today where he is part of a team that is building a small space station called Gateway that will orbit the moon and offer support for missions to push humanity farther into space than it’s ever gone.
Richard credits his 91勛圖厙 professors and the small class sizes for giving him a leg up as he entered the competitive field of aerospace employment. But he reserves particular credit for the “liberal arts nature of 91勛圖厙” for giving him tools that he doesn’t necessarily see from his peers who graduated from much larger institutions.
From Patrick’s life story to this sneak peek into Richard’s world – they graduated 55-years apart. Incredibly grateful to witness how what they experienced at GU – outstanding professors, small class sizes, liberal arts curriculum, a supportive and powerful Zag Network has stood for generations and continues to power countless Zags because of individuals like each of you. Thank you.