By far my most memorable moment in my 17-year history as a FIRSTer happened this year. But let me start with a story I was told before my moment even happened.
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A few years ago, a group of students found themselves in an elevator with Dean Kamen and his parents (my grandparents). At the first stop, Dean got off, but the students, as well as Evelyn and Jack, stayed on.
Student: Oh my god, was that Dean Kamen? (turning to my grandparents)
Evelyn Kamen: Yes it was.
Student: You have NO idea, without him, I wouldn't be here!!
Jack Kamen: No, YOU have no idea...without us, HE wouldn't be here.
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Jack Kamen was a great influence on the man all us FIRSTers consider an inspiration. (I mean, come on, he raised the guy!) Unfortunately, he passed away this past August. It was a great loss to our family and to the FIRST community as a whole. This year at the Championship, FIRST and Dean made the decision to present the Imagery Award in his honor.
As Jack's granddaughter, I was asked to make the award presentation. In front of 25,000 + people. It was an honor and a privelege, and has become my favorite FIRST memory. I know he was looking down on us proudly.