High Points of the Valley (Graphic Illustration)

* Susan Stuebner, incoming president of Marietta College, appears ready to get to work quickly when she assumes the role. During an introduction to students and staff, she talked about her enthusiasm for the Marietta Forward plan. “Marietta Forward is a great roadmap in terms of where the institution can go … I’m really looking forward to having conversation not only about Marietta Forward but how do we present Marietta to all constituents and help them understand how great this institution is and what a great education students can get here,” Stuebner said. But she went further: “There’s a lot of wonderful points in Marietta Forward but I think we have to pull out the most pressing ones and get started on those right away.” Good. Stuebner appears to have the experience and the desire to be exactly who Marietta College needs right now. Having said that, we cannot ignore the vital role played by Interim President Margaret Drugovich, who certainly handled some tall tasks that will not be on Stuebner’s list. So, thank you, to Drugovich; and welcome, to Stuebner. The future looks bright.

* Though our region’s history and contribution to the progress of our country is well documented, it is not always easy for visitors to get a good grasp on them. Those who go to Mountwood Park will have easier access to that information thanks to a $10,000 donation from the Antero Foundation that will help improve the Mountwood Park Museum and Visitors’ Center and the Volcano History Museum. “Our state has a rich history of producing oil and gas and one of the best ways we can honor that history is by enhancing the ability to learn about and embrace it,” says Kevin Ellis, regional senior vice president of Antero Resources and board member of the Antero Foundation. “Antero is committed to supporting our community and we’re grateful to contribute to Mountwood Park in this way.” Locals and out-of-towners alike will surely be grateful for the enhanced experience.