.113 Marc Castañeda

Marc started his role at The Center just about 2 weeks before me, therefore cementing his status as my learn-the-ropes-together-buddy when I arrived. He greeted me with an open heart and mind and his trademark kindness that he exudes towards all those in his life. As we each began this new respective adventure, Marc was (and still is) such a comforting confidante who is such a wonderful listener and who treats vulnerability as a strength and force for good.

In the office, and even over Zoom, Marc is such a joyful personality to be around. It’s quite common for him to make me laugh or simultaneously be impressed by his knitting abilities! Marc is willing and able to take on any challenge and he does so with a positive attitude geared toward achievement and efficiency. He’s such a team player and he truly understands and exemplifies the power of human connection and working toward a common goal together. He found a family with his former Texas-Alaska ride and it shows so vividly through his compassion, understanding and diligence, both inside and outside the office.

Marc, thank you for being such a bubbly friend and colleague. Thank you for always being so sweet and for checking on me. Thank you for your great ideas, your patience, and your humility. Thank you for our lunches and walks. Thank you for always reminding me what it means to be kind and to be good. I’m so grateful to be back working with you and I’m grateful each time I see you on a Zoom call these days. Thank you. Marc, for being you.

-BD