As the year comes to a close, we thank all who have had a lasting impact on our village over the years. This year, we pay tribute to an honorary “Troublemaker of the Best Kind,” Cultural Leadership’s first Transformational Journey driver, Mr. James Robinson. Mr. Robinson safely transported Classes 1 through 5 throughout their Journey, sharing bits of his own history and experiences with students. Though Mr. Robinson transitioned this year, his impact on many of our alumni will live on.
Maayan Simckes, Epidemiologist at Washington State Department of Health, and Class 1 alum shares her memories:
“I got to know Mr. Robinson on our Class 1 Transformational Journey, and sang a rendition of “Mrs. Robinson” by Simon and Garfunkel for him when we returned to St. Louis and did our presentation to families. He made our days sweeter and brighter and made us all laugh with his “Wassuuuup??” every time we got on the bus. When I was a trip leader a few years later, we spent more time together chatting about life, responsibility, work, and the day to day. He gave me wise advice and was a kind ear and shoulder to lean on. I will always carry my memories of Mr Robinson close and know his memory will be a blessing to the many many lives he touched.”
Thank you for sharing your wisdom, Mr. Robinson. You remain in the hearts of your Cultural Leadership family!
Pictured: Mr. James Robinson and Augustus Cotten Jr. at Class 2 graduation.