Being a mom to several hundred students is a tremendous responsibility, and a profound blessing. So many Davis & Elkins College staff members form deep and meaningful relationships with students, but Lisa Senic may be number one on that list. Though she does not have biological children, year after year she experiences that special parental bond.

Born and raised in Glady, about an hour from Elkins, Lisa came to D&E in 1988 to pursue an associate degree in business. Fifteen years later she earned her Bachelor of Science in business. Just three years after completing her initial degree, she was offered a position in the College’s Advancement Office. Thus began 33 years of service–and counting–to her beloved alma mater. In 2016, she stepped into her current role as Administrative Assistant in the Office of Student Life.

A self-avowed “people person,” Lisa is at the center of a constant stream of students coming and going through the doors of the Student Life Office. Her D&E story is one of relationships–formed with students and parents alike–and of the reciprocal impact those relationships have had on them and on her. More than friendly, Lisa is a steady source of encouragement, support, and confidentiality. Week after week, laughter and tears are shared, hugs are exchanged, prayers are offered, and lives are touched. In many ways, these relationships represent D&E in microcosm.

The so-called “Wall of Fame,” a large collection of photographs of students with Lisa, transforms a plain wall near her desk into a visible testament to connection and belonging. Achieving a coveted spot on the wall has become a point of pride; students have even been known to take photos of their photo with Lisa to send home to their parents. Many of those parents know Lisa as well. In 2013, she launched D&E’s parent program, establishing strong two-way communication and serving as a trusted point of contact for families.

One of the most moving annual traditions at D&E takes place during the Baccalaureate Service on Commencement Weekend. Each graduate selects a faculty or staff member to hood them with their academic hood–an honor reserved for someone who has had a profound impact on their college journey. Year after year, Lisa is chosen by one or more graduates for this meaningful role.

Lisa’s relationships do not end at commencement. Countless alumni remain in touch, extending wedding invitations and sharing birth announcements. Life’s mountaintop moments are naturally shared with family–especially their D&E mom.

For all Lisa does for others, she recently shared something humbling with me. While she is grateful when others say they are lucky to have her in their lives, she insists she is the fortunate one. Lisa wrote, “They have filled my life with such joy and a deep sense of belonging. They have carried me through some tough times they do not even know about. They are a blessing and will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Davis & Elkins College is indeed a blessed place–filled with people, like Lisa, who are themselves a blessing.

The journey continues…