Dear Jewell,
A little over four years ago, I made one of the most important decisions in my life in deciding to come here. Jewell was only my first college visit, but after meeting professors, staff, and the swim team, I knew that this was where I belonged. While the sunrise and sunset view from the top of The Hill is hard to beat, and the view of Kansas City is breathtaking, nothing can beat a community of passionate and caring individuals who are committed to supporting each other and making a difference in their community.
I arrived at Jewell with the dream of becoming a teacher and a goal of improving my swimming by competing at the college level, but my journey has become so much more than that. However, managing the demands of William Jewell academics and athletics wasn't always easy. There were many times when late nights in the PLC, practices, meets, exams, papers, and the demands of teaching started to take their toll. But, every time I thought of giving up, I didn't just have a swim team behind me to cheer me on but also a William Jewell team and community to support me. I will never be able to fully express my gratitude for all of the ways you all have offered support and helped me to become the person I am today. To my coaches, the athletic department, my professors, the education and Spanish departments, the staff, my classmates, and my team, all I can say is thank you. God has blessed me so greatly by putting some of the most incredible people in my life.
What I love about you, Jewell, is that this small college community has become another family. At Jewell, I have found staff who serve with a smile, classmates and teammates who have been with me through the ups and downs of assignments and practices we never thought we'd complete, and professors who gave up their time to allow me to sit in their office as conversations went from assignments, to swimming, to life, and then to my future dreams. These people not only cared about me in all areas of my life, but also encouraged me to pursue my passions.
As hard as it was to stay up late studying just to hear my alarm blaring before 5 a.m. for practice every morning, I know that my journey here was worth it. I will miss pushing myself alongside my teammates as we achieved new goals, learned how to persevere, and made the most of every moment we had together. I will miss laughing and dancing through practices, cheering on my teammates at the end of their lanes, and Friday happy notes. I am leaving mentally and physically stronger, passionate about Spanish, and empowered to become an educator who teaches students the power of learning and ignites their passions and curiosities. Thank you for believing in me and inspiring me to constantly become better. While my time at Jewell may be nearing the end, I will never forget all that I learned and experienced in and out of the classroom. The memories I made and the friendships I have developed will forever be remembered. I will never forget you, Jewell. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Jacqueline Leonard
