The Arts at Castleton

Arts

Dear Class of 2020,

Though I’ve only had the pleasure of knowing you since October, I feel truly blessed to have been able to experience your growth, creativity, and drive this year. You are an exemplary group of seniors. You made me feel welcome in my new position, you spoke up about the things you liked and the changes you wanted, and you made the Fine Arts Center a brighter and more interesting place each time you walked into it. Learning your names, your interests, and your artistic and academic goals was a delight, and your class has left an indelible mark on my time here at Castleton.

The professors in the Fine Arts Center sing your praises day in and day out, even if some of them are a little hard on you in class. I got to know you all through our interactions in the hallways and offices, but hearing your professors rave about your talent and drive gave me a deeper understanding of the dedicated artists and students you all are. It’s hard not seeing you every day, and it’s harder knowing we won’t be able to congratulate you in person, but please know that your professors and I are overwhelmed by your successes and that it has been an honor to witness them.

Your presence in the Fine Arts Center is irreplaceable, and we will miss you all dearly when you graduate. I am forever amazed by the incredible leadership you have exhibited in the arts; the music ensembles, dance performances, theater productions, and the Christine Price Gallery will not be the same without you. We are so grateful to have had such an incredible class of artists lead us this year, and the examples you have set in the classrooms, the practice rooms, and on the stage will not be forgotten by the students who come after you. You will be the standard we set for our new leaders, and you will be the examples we give when we talk about what artistic excellence is.

I cannot wait to see where you go and what you do. I know it will be amazing.

Sincerely, Marisa Valent Soundings and Fine Arts Center Manager