A farewell message from Dwayne Hodgson
(departing) Programs Manager, Global Learning Partners

Thank You!

I wanted to write just a short note as I wrap up my work with Global Learning Partners. During my nearly five-and-a-half years with GLP, I have had a chance to work with some fantastic folks in many Dialogue Education workshops, and on write countless proposals and contracts. The work has taken me from Ottawa to Raleigh to Maputo to Los Angeles to Vienna to Edmonton, and I have emailed, Skyped or called people in every continent save Antarctica (the potential for new courses there being somewhat limited-- at least until the new Penguin Edition of Jane's book comes out). Since 2002, I've witnessed how Dialogue Education has reached thousands of learning facilitators, teachers and trainers, and I'm proud that GLP has been able to nurture this growth. I'm also pleased that I've contributed to developing some systems that can help GLP work more efficiently, and to creating more opportunities for collaboration with the new Partners, other associates and organizations.

The next phase for me is not yet clear, but I am excited about finding opportunities to apply what I've learned about learning design and facilitation and program management with environment and international development groups here in Ottawa and overseas. I am hoping that some of this work will include some projects with GLP, and I look forward to seeing many of you at the next Dialogue Education Institute.

Before I go, I'd like to thank:

Jane Vella, who has inspired many of us with her work on Dialogue Education and who has the gift of making you feel like you're the most important person in the world when you're talking with her!

Peter Noteboom, for his patience with my "J", and his steady hand at the wheel through a few storms and many a good tailwind.

Jeanette, Reuben and Jude, for their hospitality whenever I had a chance to visit Toronto -- let me know if you're ever selling that rock-hard, pull-out bed!

The staff whom I've had the pleasure of working with over the years: Connie Kuipers, Christina de Jong, Tamara Atkins-McGraw, Kurban Versi, and now Debra Cagwin.

The Partners -- Peter N, Jeanette, Valerie, Peter P, Karen, Darlene, and Marian -- for all the new energy they have brought to GLP and their vision for how the company and Dialogue Education can grow.

My wife, Tricia, and kids, Zoe and Isaac, who have played quietly in the background when ever I've been on the phone and who've been patient with my travelling for work.

And the Academy, my mother and my father, because....uh, that's what you're supposed to do in these speeches.

God Bless you all as you work for learning, understanding, wisdom and peace. Please stay in touch; I'll be on my Back Deck and at dwayne.hodgson@yahoo.ca.

Peace,
Dwayne

 

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