After 35 years of dedicated service, Founder Terry McGill is retiring from Sister Schools. Don’t miss this special announcement from him reflecting on his journey building this organization from the ground up.
When I first went to Uganda more than thirty-five years ago, I had no idea it would become a lifelong journey. So many people over the years have joined me on that journey I can’t even begin to count them all. Family members, friends and so many others who became friends, volunteers, travelling companions, board members, coworkers and donors. It’s been such a privilege getting to know all of you; together we’ve modeled compassion, faith and generosity to tens of thousands of students in Western Washington and rekindled hope in even more children in Ugandan schools and orphanages. Thank you all for helping make the last thirty-five years possible.
After much thought and reflection over the past year, I’ve concluded that now is the time for me to transition out of Sister Schools. Over the past two years we’ve assembled a tremendous team of motivated board members and quality staff and I’m excited to support them as they guide Sister Schools in the years to come. Although I will no longer be employed by Sister Schools, I will be continuing to support its new leadership when needed, and I hope you will as well.
As I reflect upon the last thirty-five years, it’s the smiles I will remember. The smiles of excitement, astonishment even, on the faces of our Seattle kids when they see their ball, their dress, their pencil in the hands of a Ugandan child. And the smiles on the faces of Uganda children, smiles of amazement at the thought that someone in this world valued them enough to help. As I’ve been telling kids for decades now, it’s not the item that really matters, it’s the love that went with [it] - every crayon, every shirt, every book, pen and marker. For a child in a village school in Uganda, knowing that someone cares enough to help you brings hope that transforms a life. What a privilege it’s been to serve these last thirty-five years. Again, thank you all for making it possible.
Sincerely,
Terry McGill
The Sister Schools Board and Staff is so grateful to Terry for creating this organization, and for everything he’s done to set us up for success for years to come. We are honored and excited to carry the torch, continuing his work to expand horizons and unlock education opportunities for children on both sides of the globe.
Please join us in honoring Terry’s legacy by leaving a special note for him here. We will collect these messages into a keepsake book for Terry and his family to treasure.
