The Times They Are a-Changin'
For 17 years, the JRPC, the pursuit of peace and the connections with all of you have filled my life. I have been so fortunate to spend my work days immersed in the conversations that fill my heart and feed my soul. Today, thanks to my husband and partner, Rusty, and so many others who support me, I am grateful I have the opportunity to close this door and search for new adventures that can equally feed my soul. Today, thanks to my husband and partner, Rusty, and so many others who support me, I am grateful I have the opportunity to close this door and search for new adventures that can equally feed my soul. Every transition has a sort of cliffhanger aspect to it – what and more importantly who will follow?
After 17 years, I wanted to know that the Center I had spent so much life energy on would continue and thrive. And today, I am beyond thrilled to tell you that we have found someone who sees this work as the same “dream job” I saw so many years ago. Jacqueline Flewellen has the energy, experience and passion to make sure that Missoula will continue to be a beacon of peace. You are going to be as delighted as me when you meet her. Please join me in welcoming her and offering our support.
I am a better person today thanks to the support and example of many of you. Thank you for the love and support you have given me – I will be taking that with me on every new adventure – and hopefully seeing you at our Peace Party or out for a coffee now and then.
and now for the transition…
While we are aware that as humans nothing is permanent and change is inevitable, it can be challenging to lean into transitory moments. In a few short days at the Peace Center, I have seen community members and close friends embrace Betsy, tell stories, light up with a smile, celebrate her time at the center, and ask about her retirement plans. Even though Betsy’s role has shifted, the legacy of her leadership and peacebuilding live on in our programs, with our members, and in her willingness to spend weeks facilitating a detailed plan of our transition. I am certain that the gifts she has shared with all of you are countless and I hope you join us this year at the Peace Party on October 17th, 2021 to commemorate her years of service. If you feel moved to share, please reply with your favorite memory or a few statements of gratitude for Betsy.
As for me, I am thrilled to be here. This has been my dream job since my early days of activism at the Resource Center for Nonviolence in Santa Cruz, CA ten years ago. I will share more about myself in the coming weeks. For now, let us honor Betsy and express our gratitude for her wisdom, dedication, and instrumental community peace programming!
Authors: Betsy Mulligan-Dague, Former Executive Director & Jacqueline Flewellen, Peace Center Director