McDaniel College Bids Farewell to Sarah Stokely

Sarah Stokely wears many hats in her position as Associate Dean of Student Academic Life in the Office of Academic Affairs. She is an amazing leader, counselor, professional, and friend and we are sad to see her go.

There is a theme that has been repeated throughout her time at McDaniel. She cares about people. Taking time, solving problems, showing kindness and compassion, giving advice, treating everyone with respect, offering support, and being sensitive to the needs of others are just a few of the many qualities Sarah Stokely used when working with students throughout her time at McDaniel.

She has touched and changed many lives and we all are better off for having the opportunity to work with, learn from, talk to, and know Sarah. Here are just a few of the expressions of thanks from students, parents and others to Dean Sarah Stokely.

Student thank yous:

“Thanks for always being there to talk to.”

“I just wanted to thank you again for what you did for me this year. My family and I really appreciate it. It shows us that there are good caring people and I am glad to be here… I can’t wait until next year when you are my DEAN!”

“You have been such a big part of my success here over the past three years!”

“Thank you for your support and great kindness. You always have such helpful advice. Most of all, I’ve always appreciated how welcoming and respectful you’ve been.”

“Your caring and understanding of my situation was very helpful. You’ve made my time at McDaniel a life-changing experience!”

“Thank you…I wouldn’t be officially graduating without you. I really loved McDaniel, and I’ll miss it so much.”

“Thank you so much for the peace of mind you gave me last semester and for being patient.”

“I am so grateful to you for helping me through these hard times. The College would not be the same of it were not for you.”

“Thank you for going to such lengths to help me figure out such a perfect resolution to my situation.”

“Thank you for everything you have done for me…You are a true inspiration and a wonderful person.”

“I know I can rely on you to help me with any concern I have. I’m looking forward to the next years with you as my academic dean.”

“I also really appreciate the fact that you sought me out and that you were so willing to offer me help.”

“Thanks for your words of encouragement during this time in my life. It means a lot to know that you care.”

“Thank you for offering your support to me during this stressful final semester. The compassion and concern you expressed put me at ease.”

Parent comments:

“Thank you for your support, advice, personal involvement.”

“Thank you for your time invested at our meeting last Friday as well as preparatory time! We were, all 3, impressed by the time and interest that you gave us…being supportive and respectful…while maintaining a direct approach…you showed respect and sensitivity.”

“People like you in the system who treat students as individuals are often a rare and under-supported breed! And we are grateful for your help.”

“Thank you so much for taking the time to meet with my husband and me. It was very informative.”

Faculty and Staff:

*“Thank you for initiating and gathering us together for our special office lunches. We even learned to cook vegan! (*from the Staff in Academic Affairs)”

“Everyone sings your praises.”

“Thanks for all the help…You are awesome.”

We will miss Dean Stokely’s cheerful, caring and nurturing spirit. She brings out the best in each person she meets.