Two-thousand fifteen. What can I say to you?

First, I can start out by thanking you for being the year I graduated from a great university with an expansive education, not only in my degree but through my experiences as well. Kalamazoo and Western Michigan University will always hold a large place in my heart, along with the people who created the memories there with me.

Next, I’d like to thank you, 2015, for being the year that brought me to a city, in the start of my professional life, that truly needs me. This year has catapulted me in the direction that I always dreamt of going toward but maybe never really believing it could happen. With working for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles in their Civic and Community Engagement department, I am now reaching for a career in the nonprofit world. You have also brought me to Challenge Detroit, where they have shared their vast knowledge of the city with me.

2015, you’re also the year where I met and became friends with many great individuals, through Challenge Detroit, that I would have never met if you hadn’t brought them here in the same year as me. We have endured two challenges thus far, working with the Mayor’s Office and Detroit Public Schools. Those challenges, those individuals, those projects are ones that have and forever will have an impact on me and my relationship with Detroit.

And to my family, friends, colleagues, classmates, professors, mentors, and anyone of the like, thank you for being in this year with me. You are the ones who have truly made it unforgettable.

You’re the year that has challenged me to become better. Better for me, better for others, and better for my city. So thank you, 2015, you have given me what others may never experience: hope. You have filled (almost) 365 days with many feelings including happiness, sadness, empathy, passion, hopefulness, doubtfulness, encouragement, and many other synonyms for all those words.

Thanks 2015, you’re my year. And 2016…just know you have pretty big shoes to fill.

Much love,

Grace