Steve Fishler, Kendal’s much loved Interim Executive Director has retired from Kendal and has gone home to his wife and, once again, a normal life. During his nine-month term in office, he found a place in the hearts of our residents. Our very talented Anne White, who serves as the Treasurer of the Residents Association, expressed in poetry what all of us feel.
“Ode to Steve on the occasion of his departure from Kendal-on-Hudson” by Anne White
You came, you saw, you healed our wounds, the deep distress at loss of longtime staff, the sense of Kendal values swept away.
You came, you listened carefully to voices loud and timid, seeking out the essence of our Kendal culture.
You came, you gained our trust, repairing tears in Kendal’s fabric of community and caring.
You came, you steadied us, you led with confidence, articulating clearly what you could and could not do.
You came, you built a brilliant team to lead us forward, residents and staff and board aligned.
You came, you won our hearts with empathy and competence, good humor, steady leadership and vision.
Now it’s time to say goodbye. In crisis mode, no gathering, no party with champagne and caviar. Instead, we offer thanks in pen and ink for all you’ve done to keep us safe and build
a stronger, more resilient Kendal by the Hudson.