Dr. Katie Vanderkam

 We celebrated Katie’s graduation with a cookout at Jeff and Susan’s place today.  There were more than 20 of us with all of the VK family, Susan’s dad and sister, and good friends Michael and Roxanne and their children.  And Katie’s partner Eli and Michael’s friend Allie were there too.  It was so nice that Dan and Alex and all seven of the Conways made the effort to come to honor Katie.

Susan made one of her beautiful cakes and Jeff fixed chicken, burgers, and brats.  We contributed deviled eggs (Jim and I boiled and peeled 8 eggs) and some beer.  There was room for all of us on their spacious deck.  

We watched the hooding ceremony from our own living room.  That was far easier for me than parking a car and walking a long way.  Closer to bathrooms too!  We were thrilled to hear Katie’s name and see her honored.  

Then last night Jeff and Susan treated 12 of us to dinner at Metro North.  It meant a bit of a wait but Susan asked for a chair for me—as always, taking care of us!  I had the idea of toasting Jeff and Susan so Jeff quieted everyone down enough for my “speech.”  And I did it—and was happy to do it in front of their children, Eli’s parents, and Charles and Leigh.  I think it went over just fine!  

Three Princeton PhDs

26 years ago!

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