Dear Ones –
I write to share some bittersweet news.
Our beloved Rev. Dr. Sofia Betancourt, SKSM Associate Professor of Unitarian Universalist Theologies and Ethics, has accepted an interim position as Associate Dean for Academic Affairs for the Theological School at Drew University in Madison, NJ. It is a great recognition of her leadership gifts and scholarship. As you know, Drew is a remarkable educational institution with a strong mission in line with our mission and values. It is also my alma mater and a place I love. I am excited for Sofia and celebrate her accomplishments. Drew faculty and students will be lucky to have her.
Of course, mixed with the joy and excitement for Sofia’s next steps, there is the sense of sadness and loss for losing such a remarkable and beloved member of our community.
Sofia served Starr King in many different ways over the years: after graduating, she served on SKSM board of trustees, she taught as an adjunct and then was selected as SKSM core faculty through a national search. Last fall, Sofia served as Acting President. We are deeply grateful for Sofia’s dedication to Starr King and to her students and colleagues. Her service has been superb and will always be remembered.
We will miss Sofia in many ways. Luckily, she will be at SKSM for most of the month of August so we will be able to say goodbye properly.
Our Dean of Faculty has started working on plans to find faculty to teach Sofia’s courses and advise her students.
Please join me in offering words of appreciations and best wishes to Sofia as we say goodbye in the coming month.
Faithfully,
Rosemary
The Rev. Rosemary Bray McNatt, President
Starr King School for the Ministry, Oakland CA
