A Memory to Share

Although Jean's death was painful for all of us, it reminded me of a memory that I'd like to share. I knew of Jean, through her articles etc., before I actually met her. So I was a little intimidated when I first met her through our work with the state school psych. association. However, I quickly developed an affinity to match my respect when she flatly stated during one of our first conversations about an idea - "Matt, that dog don't hunt!" She was always positive, cheerful, and insightful. I very much enjoyed conversations about her children and advice from her about mine.

A few months after we met I attended one of the Trainers of School Psychology receptions at a national conference (NASP). I was a new assistant professor at a relatively small program, so when I walked into the room I did not know a single person. I awkwardly walked around and was ready to leave when Jean came bouncing up to me. It wasn't quite a run, but it was rapid movement that was clearly an emergency response. She smiled and said "Let me introduce you to some people," then wrapped her arm around mine while clasping my hand in hers. Remember, this was a woman that I had only fairly recently met and could count on one hand the number of times I had talked to her. I must have responded with some physical note of surprise because she stopped, smiled at me like the way you smile at a child who has done something wrong but was so ridiculous in their actions that you find more humor in the act then offense, patted my hand and said "Oh don't worry, I've had a few glasses of wine." She then took me around and introduced me to every person in the room.

I honestly don't remember a single person to which she introduced me that day, but I'll never forget that altruistic act of personal generosity. My heart absolutely breaks for her family, friends, and everyone that she touched, but I'm sincerely thankful that I knew her well enough to experience the pain that her loss brings.