These days, Meg finds joy in the Adirondacks, where she spends as much time as possible kayaking from the moment the ice melts until it begins to freeze again. She’s also rediscovered the simple pleasure of reading “real books,” savoring the slower pace she’s earned after decades of service to others.
That spirit of service began early. As a student, Meg volunteered as a candy striper at Rochester General Hospital alongside classmate Kathy Durfee D’Amanda ’76 P ‘03, ‘05, ‘09. Years later, volunteering at RGH as an adult led to a position in the Emergency Department, sparking an interest in emergency services that would become a remarkable 29-year commitment as a volunteer firefighter.
When asked what values Harley instilled in her, Meg’s answer is immediate and heartfelt: “Everyone belongs.”
One of her favorite Harley memories reflects exactly that. During a study hall, a small group of students gathered in an empty classroom to talk honestly about the cliques they noticed among classmates and how they might create a more inclusive community. More students drifted in and joined the conversation. As the bell rang, a teacher—Mr. Hewey P ’76, ’77 (History, 1964-93), she believes—recognized the importance of what was happening and encouraged them to continue, assuring them it mattered more than getting to class on time. Meg remembers that moment as transformative, helping bring the class closer together for the rest of their years at Harley.
Asked to describe the Class of 1976, Meg offers a few words that feel both personal and collective: “Together. Proud. Side-by-side.”
As she looks ahead to Reunion, Meg is most excited to reconnect with classmates and rekindle old friendships. And in true Harley spirit, she leaves current students with this advice: “Your compassion for all you befriend and those you meet.”
