Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center

Have you ever wanted to be a part of the past, present, and future all at the same time? Those of us who have had the priviledge of being a Lake Junaluska Singer now have that opportunity. We can recall the past and be a sustainer of the program today in order to create a path of ministry for the talented, young, devoted singers of the future. I was incredibly touched when Roger Dowdy and Jimmy Carr asked if I would accept the challenge of creating an Alumni Association for the Singers. My immediate response was, "Only if Daniel Varnell will be the Vice President and can help continue to build a database of contact information." Daniel said yes, and shared the database that was already in existence. Because of this, we were able to  contact former Lake Junaluska Singers and create a fabulous board that spans the history of the Singers.

This wonderful group of people have already begun their work, setting forth goals in the areas of membership, development, and archives. You will be kept informed of the needs and activities of all of these through e-mail (if you are in the database!)

Also, a committee to design and organize the Choral Gathering 2011 is being formed. You will hear more about this educational reunion event from Michael Mays, the chairperson, as planning continues.

And last, but not least, we need to "pass the collection plate" because of the decision of the Southeastern Jurisdiction Conference of 2008 to have the Ministry Programming events become self-sustaining over the next four years. That means that by the SEJ Conference of 2012, the Lake Junaluska Singers must be self-supporting if they are to continue. It is imperative that those of us who can, do at least two things:

1. Pay a minimal membership dues fee and
2. Give to the Glenn and Lounelle Draper Endowment

It is so exciting to be a part of this development. The Alumni Board looks forward to creating many wonderful ways in which all of us can participate. Won't you join those of us who have already committed to keeping the Lake Junaluska Singers a viable and vital part of the ministry of the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center?

Lake Junaluska Singers Alumni Board: