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Faculty Tribute - Devondra McMillan
Clementine Sutter ’25 in Features | May 28, 2023
Stepping into Latin as a II Former with lofty hopes but cataclysmic fears, I felt that I had encountered the worst case-scenario. The preface to the year seemed more of a warning than an introduction. I became keenly aware of my imminent failures throughout the Latin course, for we terrified freshmen were now in the hands of Devondra McMillan, “DMac,” whom I soon found was one of the best Latin teachers I have ever known.
DMac outlined the challenges to come honestly: we should expect to fail some quizzes, get lost, feel confused, and to struggle. We were informed that amidst the small, tight-knit Latin community at Lawrenceville, we would shed a few tears. However, we would learn to grow in confidence and overcome the complexities and difficulties of the language. While the sentiment became difficult to accept when I failed my first quiz, my last two years in DMac’s Latin class bear testimony to the statement.
DMac always pushed us to learn more. She reminded us to take a step so far out of our comfort zone, we don’t even know where the security went. While we insisted that Latin translations were just “word soups,” she taught us that case and conjugation mean something. She taught us how to dive deeper into texts and how to appreciate a good use of chiasmus. DMac is capable of finding the poetic genius and intricate workings of Ovid, the Roman poet, that I don’t even think Ovid himself knew he had created.
Moments in the Dean of Students Office remain some of my core memories. Truly it is here that bonds are formed, stories are told, candy is consumed, and the world’s best baked goods are enjoyed. DMac has a way of inspiring friendship, like a glue capable of single handedly forging an indelible bond between a group of students.
Dearest DMac, thank you for some of the best memories and laughs and tales of my lifetime. Thank you for your constant kindness and understanding. Thank you for sharing your genuine, infectious passion for Latin. Thank you for being a role model and a friend to all lucky enough to know you. You will be missed. Vale for now.
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