Dear Fellow Alumni:

Why does it seem that the older we get the faster time passes. I set out to write this letter to you in November; and suddenly I find that it is January, and some of the things I wanted to say are now badly dated. It’s a little late to say "Merry Christmas," or even "Happy New Year," though the sentiment is still there. However, many exciting things continue to happen at Oakdale that I want to make sure you know about.

I really enjoy going back to Oakdale year after year and seeing all of the changes. The campus is expanding everywhere, and it’s a great thing to see. The Beacon Center is open and in use, and let me tell you, it is state of the art. Smart boards in the classrooms allow teachers to write or draw on the board and then print it out for the students. Amazing! The new duplex for staff families is nearly complete. One family moved in the week before Christmas, and the other family is preparing to move in within the next few weeks. Plans are underway for a new girls’ dormitory, and a dining room expansion is being discussed. Please pray with me for the resources necessary to kick-off these projects.

Any of you who have read my letters over these past four years know that I don’t ask you to send money; that’s just not my thing. However, the school is bursting at the seams, and our support is needed now more than ever to see that growth continue. I ask you to send is your prayers, your thoughts, and your heart. While I was on campus for Homecoming back in October, I spoke with Principal Tim Huff (’83) about ways that people can support the school. You may be surprised to know just how much you can help. The faculty and staff are always in need of furniture for their offices and apartments or for the dorms. Businesses and schools throw out literally tons of perfectly good items every year just because they want to redecorate. Much of what they throw out could be useful to Oakdale. (Of course you always want to contact the school first to see what they can use.) Be creative, you never know how much it’s appreciated. Well, that’s enough for this time. Until next time, may the Lord keep you under His wing.

Jeremy Gorman

Alumni Association President