Introduction
If you have taken LLI classes in the last three years, you have probably met or seen Robin Berger on campus or online. I first met her in an off-campus hiking class she helped organize and was impressed with her clear communications about class information, weather, cancellations, and driving directions. Robin has become an in-demand session manager because she is so good at organizing and, also, at contributing a voice of calm when anything, including Zoom technology, needs special attention.
A Little Background
Robin, a long-time resident of Woodstock, has undoubtedly gleaned many life skills from her numerous jobs. She started off with a degree in art education, developed a weaving business, waitressed, did textile design, worked with her husband in his computer business, did graphics work for the Kingston Freeman, and received a masters in Teaching Reading and a degree in English as a Second Language. Most recently, she retired from the Rhinebeck schools after 15 years of teaching. This varied work history seems to support what others know about her: She is willing to jump into new things with utmost energy and dedication.
Robin Recruited
Soon after joining LLI, Robin accepted an invitation to attend a Bard LLI Council meeting. These meetings are open to all LLI members. She remembers being “blown away” by the hardworking folks and the extensive, impressive organization apparent in all the LLI committees. In true Robin fashion, she just couldn’t leave all this hard work up to these people. “I needed to contribute!” So, she offered her skills.
When the LLI Online Team was being formed, co-chair Carmela Gersbeck said that Robin was one of the first members she reached out to. Robin immediately agreed to join. Carmela reports that Robin brings a quiet strength to our meetings and that course presenters love working with her. Others on the team add that, while Robin does not say a lot in meetings, they always listen when she does chime in. She offers centered observations and smart, pithy ideas in a manner that calms everybody down. Says another, “She almost always makes me think, ‘Wow! I didn’t think of that!’” Plus, they add, she is just a pleasure to work with and makes things fun!
Session Managing
When first learning to be a session manager, Robin was brand new to Zoom. But she adds, she is pretty flexible and will try anything once! “I may not be the best but will try.” Not a problem for her. Robin truly enjoys being a session manager and developing good relationships with presenters. Supporting a class presenter requires copious preparation and lots and lots of practice. There is so much more work going on behind the scenes on the part of class presenters and class managers than people realize. The hard work pays off. Also, if she manages a class with a limited enrollment number that she really wants to take, she is, understandably, guaranteed a spot—a perk from her point of view.
Session Managers Here to Stay
A combination of in-person and online learning is undoubtedly in Bard LLI’s future. Robin sees advantages for some classes being on Zoom: people can get to know faces and names of participants, slides or videos can be more easily viewed, and taking classes from home is obviously convenient. Robin encourages every Bard LLI member to attend an LLI Council meeting to get a sense of what all the committees do and see how LLI works at many levels. Then, if possible, inspired as she was, find a way to get involved. (Council meetings are generally held on the third Monday of the month. Anyone interested in attending can contact Linda Stanley at [email protected] to reserve a place.)
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