Mechanisms for communication are important. At VTS, we have the monthly staff meeting, where we gather and learn. Over the many months we have had this practice, we have done everything from "fitness exercises for the workplace" to "understanding your pension". And always, there is an opportunity to ask questions. In addition, once a month, we have the Dean's Table where student government meets the senior staff to ask questions and raise issues.

At GTS, we are starting this new semester with "All Hands". Every morning at 9.15am, Senior Vice President Ballou, Ms. Taryn Habberley, and I gather with all the staff of GTS. Our practice is simple: five minutes from a department giving others a sense of their work, five minutes for anyone to share information that they want others to know, and five minutes for anyone to ask others to do things that will enable them to do their jobs this day. I must admit I look forward to these "All Hands" conversations.

Over the next few weeks, we will introduce to both communities the staff at GTS. About twice a week, there will be a commentary highlighting a certain employee. Let us start to put names to faces; let us start to get know each other.

The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and President of General Theological Seminary