[Rich Kressly]

During my ten years in FIRST there has been one single constant, Carol Kauffman. 11+ years ago Carol happened to be at a function where Dean was and asked how FIRST could be brought to Philadelphia. Legend has it that Dean gave her the job before Carol even finished asking the question. Ever since then the hours have been horrific and the pay even worse, but Carol has always kept the mission at heart.

I've had the pleasure of knowing Carol as a leader of two different FRC teams, as an event volunteer, and as her regional "employee" during my three years as a Senior Mentor. It's impossible to overstate her contribution to growing and supporting the region ... well, actually, several regions.

It was awesome to be able to surprise Carol at her own, and final event, as a FIRST RD. Joe Troy of 357 spearheaded the effort during the Friday ceremony where she was presented with a trophy from the Philly Region teams, Jim Utaski represented FIRST HQ and board and presented her with a plaque and autographed book from Dean, incoming RD Don Bowers presented her with a FIRST shirt signed by teams and mentors, and other teams offered their own gifts - real flowers and a hand-blown glass flower.

In all it was a VERY fitting tribute for the person who brought FIRST to so many.

Namaste, Carol.
The region will miss you.