A Note from Olivia Hay, Lady Doak Fellow '17-'19

Dear Shansi Friends and Supporters,

My name is Olivia Hay ‘17 and I was the Shansi Fellow to Lady Doak College in Madurai from 2017 to 2019. This past summer, I had the additional opportunity to work with Shansi staff in the design and implementation of the Alumni Mentorship Program. I am honored that Shansi has given me the opportunity to round out this year’s fundraising campaign by announcing this new program.

In the past two weeks, we’ve heard from Executive Director Gavin Tritt and Returned Fellow Leak Aki Wood about Shansi’s mission, strategy, and operations during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Alumni Mentorship Program is yet another example of how Shansi continues to find new and innovative ways to support their Fellows, even during challenging times. As Fellows and recent alumni like me begin to navigate increasingly complex work environments, connections to mentors will prove crucial. We are lucky to be a part of a supportive community that is willing to invest in us. To date, more than 40 alumni mentors have registered, and we look forward to seeing that number grow in the coming years.

As we reflect on a historic and challenging year, I admire how Shansi’s staff, Fellows, and Visiting Scholars have persevered and found ways to thrive. This year’s Annual Report highlights how Shansi has adapted to seemingly insurmountable challenges and found new ways to create and maintain global connections. The report is more than just a summary of a tricky year. It is a testament to the creativity and dedication of the Shansi community.

Through your generosity, we can ensure that Shansi continues to provide quality programming and life-changing opportunities If you are able to provide a gift to Shansi this year, please visit https://www.shansi.org/annual-giving to give online or find instructions for mailing. And if you would like to donate to the Hiroshima program fund, your gift will be fully matched by Shansi Trustee Kim Z. Golden. Just indicate that in the “note” field when you make your donation.

More than a year and a half after I ended my Fellowship, Shansi continues to impact me personally and professionally. With your help, we can ensure that Shansi’s work will shape future generations of Fellows.

Sincerely,

Olivia Hay ‘17

Lady Doak Fellow 2017-2019

Olivia addressing students at Lady Doak College's first year orientation