Dear Columbia College Women and Community,
First and foremost, I extend my sincerest sympathy, support and care to the families and friends, and broader CCW community members, who have been affected by the fires in Southern California, especially those who have lost loved ones and homes. May those who are displaced find a safe place to dwell for the time being. I’m grateful for the many who have offered shelter, food and kindness during this time.
Upon reflecting on what’s most important to me and what I will focus on in the year ahead, the common thread is spending quality time with my family and having a meaningful impact on my community.
One of my most rewarding experiences as president of CCW so far has been collaborating with CCW board and committee members who are leading in extraordinary ways. We have robust programs that feature notable alumnae, outreach efforts to get new alumnae more involved, mentoring in partnership with the Odyssey Mentoring Program, professional panels, wellness events and more. We also drive initiatives that enable us to raise funds for the CCW Scholarship Fund, which provides eligible students with a fully-funded College education for four years. Being able to gift this scholarship is a highly rewarding result of CCW’s work.
This is the year to resolve to get involved with CCW, and I call upon each of you, as part of the CCW community, to lean in! Whether you are thinking of contributing to our events or joining one of our four committees or are interested in serving on the CCW board, I want to hear from and meet you! There are so many ways to contribute to CCW’s mission, and I hope you will reach out to learn more and join our passionate community. We have a robust list of programs for 2025, many of which are free and hosted virtually. Check out the list below — I hope you will join us!
Last year, I had the privilege of traveling around the globe — to visit my daughter, who studied in Europe in the Fall; to see close friends and other family members; and to reconnect with several of my dearest Class of 1990 friends. I am very grateful for these moments.
This year will be one of celebrations and notable transitions including my Columbia College 35th and Business School 30th reunions along with my son’s high school graduation and move away from home. A mentor said to me that you can’t buy time or health, and that has stuck with me. Life is valuable and way too short; therefore, I have made family, friends, community and health my top priorities, and this will continue throughout 2025.
Wishing you and yours a healthy, successful and fulfilling year!
Best regards,
Nancy Pak CC’90, BUS’95