Only a few people are recognizable by a single name – Bono, Cher, Beyoncé and Ceil.  In Salem County, Ceil (Smith) is known by that single syllable.  For those who may not be aware, Ceil, Executive Director of the SCC Foundation for the last decade is leaving to take a position at the Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA).  I believe she will be the new Toll Taker in Lane 7.  That’s a meager effort at a joke.  Ceil will be serving as Deputy Executive Director with the DRBA.  

Ceil has been the backbone of the Foundation.  Under her leadership, the Foundation has been supporting hundreds of students with scholarship assistance.  Some of those funds come from various benefactors Ceil has engaged, and others through fundraising efforts such as the Drive for Education (golf outing) and the annual Gala, last year and this year “Dancing with the SCC Stars.”  All of this is for the benefit of students.
 
I often joke that because of Ceil, I bring a check to work every day.  Some days it goes home with me, but not too often.  Just prior to writing this blog, I dropped another $1,000 check on Ceil’s desk.  Ceil is masterful at getting people enthused about the College to the point they want to be part of this magnificent experience, assisting and supporting students as they pursue their dreams and fulfill their ambitions.  

Ceil is quietly the impetus behind numerous other events on campus; most notably, she makes certain we always have cake to celebrate birthdays.  Not only has Ceil been the Executive Director of the Foundation, she has been integral to the fabric and culture of the College.  We are where we are because of Ceil.  

Ceil may be going on to other career horizons, but she will forever be part of your Salem Community College.