Date: September 4, 2025
From time to time, our staff must address problems that require urgent attention. Most of us begin the day with a full agenda, so it can be frustrating to have to rearrange everything because of a sudden issue that needs immediate resolution. When I am the one responsible for creating this revised agenda, I like to pause and thank the people who make it possible to respond so quickly and effectively.
This morning, two people deserve particular gratitude. First, I needed the list of Dean’s Cross Recipients updated on the website. I reached out to Senior Vice President Nicky Burridge and copied Mr. Natthaphon Foithong, requesting that the update be made as soon as possible. Within an hour, I had an email from Natt confirming that the work had been completed. This kind of prompt response is impressive. Thank you, Natt.
Second, I am currently visiting every faculty member in their offices. During my meeting with the Rev. Dr. John Yieh, I learned that his AC unit was not working. I sent a photograph of the unit to Mr. John Erbe and Mr. Griffin Warder. Just a few hours later, I received a gracious email from John confirming that the AC was back in working order. Thank you, John and Griffin, for such a quick resolution.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and the President of The General Theological Seminary