Vivian Mattia
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At first it was the joy of learning.
My name is Vivien Mattia and when I heard of ELLA I thought “How wonderful to attend Spring Session of ELLA and take four courses in areas of my interest, not work related, but in areas I haven’t had time to pursue in ages.”
This led to the realization that there were fellow students who shared my passion for learning and had much to contribute to discussions with highly competent and prestigious instructors.
This was a community from many walks of life who embraced the freedom to continue learning. Soon I joined the Board of Directors and served in many capacities, including President, Vice-president, Past President and Volunteer Chair. I enjoyed using my management and leadership skills while continuing to meet new people and forging lasting friendships.
ELLA offers purpose, intellectual challenge and the satisfaction of contributing to something worthwhile. For twenty-five years ELLA has persevered through budget challenges, a pandemic and system changes. Really, it is amazing that a volunteer organization has adapted and thrived this long!
But it is the people, the learners, the instructors, the volunteers who recruit and manage courses and the myriad details that go into offering two sessions per year, one online and one in person. It is connecting with friends year after year and catching up on what has happened since last year. It is having purpose in life, whether preparing for the next class or using lifelong skills to assist in sustaining the organization.
How fortunate we are to be part of ELLA. Let’s embrace another twenty-five years!!