For me, the holiday season begins with Thanksgiving.  I give praise for the blessing bestowed regarding relationships.  Having the time to spend with family and friends is priceless.  We reflect on traditions established by our ancestors and passed down through generations.  On November 28, I lost a true friend and former colleague, Arthur Taylor, Jr., former MSPS assistant director for programming.

In the Fall of 2001, he called the office to see if we would cover his visit to campus with his nephew. We could not; but that did not deter him from coming and bringing the young man, who was discerning between Notre Dame and Dartmouth. We laughed about our first encounter and I discussed the programs and services of MSPS.  Unbeknownst to us, Art would become a member of the MSPS team the following July.  During his five years at the University, he established networks internally and externally that provided gateways to highlight ethnic and cultural clubs and organizations. The Development Office began requesting MSPS groups to participate in their events. Arthur collaborated with departments to feature ethnic scholars and the Navajo Windtalkers. He was a true advocate for diversifying the curriculum as a member of the University’s Cultural Diversity Committee. He worked in conjunction with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi to create a tutorial program between the Native American Student Association of ND and the Potawatomi After School Program.  Upon his departure to work in the Provost Office at the University of Idaho, he maintained his ties with the University.  His friends, alumni and MSPS will miss him.  Please join the Notre Dame Community, Tuesday, December 3 at 7:30 p.m. in Zahm Hall to celebrate Art’s life.