Retirement Celebration for Sandra Cheldelin: A Fire that Kindled Other Fires at S-CAR and Beyond
Voltaire once said "Appreciation is a wonderful thing: It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well." Voltaire's words have always had a profound effect on me, but they held a new meaning on the evening of November 11, 2015, when the S-CAR community, friends, and loved ones, gathered for what proved to be a very joyful retirement celebration for Sandra Cheldelin.
Sandy is the Vernon M. and Minnie I. Lynch Professor of Conflict Analysis and Resolution. Sandy is perhaps best known as one of the pivotal figures in the growth of the field of conflict analysis and resolution at Mason and beyond. The important role she played in the transition of the program from a center, to an institute, and eventually to a school, made me think of her as the "Matriarch of S-CAR," a sentiment that many people also alluded to.
The venue for Sandy’s retirement celebration was Northside Social, a setting known for its wide array of exotic quality wines and sumptuous cuisine from all over the world. In a sense, this place serves as one-stop shop for individuals who want to experience foods and beverages from other cultures. Much like the all-inclusive atmosphere that Northside Social tends to convey, Sandy’s wealth of knowledge made her the one stop person for anyone to brainstorm with or even work with.
The climax of Sandy’s retirement celebration was when Dean Kevin Avruch, Associate Dean Julie Shedd, Sandy's colleagues, former students, and friends made speeches to remember some of their fondest moments with her. A common theme was how much she loved her family and the School and how her sense of nurturing creativity, communal leadership, and mentorship improved the culture at S-CAR.
Indeed, her humility and magnanimity of heart and mind embody what the field and School of Conflict Analysis and Resolution is all about and her “radical” empathy has brought healing to many people. Dear Sandy, we will always remember you as we try to emulate your many examples. You are leaving behind a great team of people who will carry on your legacy.