New Kid on the Block

We have all been the “new kid” at some point. Some experience it earlier in life than others. Some experience it more often than their friends and colleagues. Some seem to experience it over and over, or at least more than their comfort zone would like to allow.

As one of Darlington’s newest Tigers, this is where I, Luke Chaffin, find myself as your new content manager in the Communication Office.

So, what is a content manager? I have the great privilege of helping to tell the story of Darlington through the experiences of students, faculty and staff, alumni, parents and other friends of the fold. I listen. I write. I share.

All of the “new kids” have similar experiences adjusting and acclimating. I’m sure the students and fellow staff reading this have…”enjoyed”...those awkward moments at some point during the year as well.

I’ve learned, however, as the newest member of the first floor of Wilcox Hall, that this is a different ballgame. This is Darlington.

I came from a job that I loved. So why did I leave? Because this is Darlington. I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to join the community here. I couldn’t do it.

As a product of private school myself, I never pictured re-entering this “world.” I had no idea that the opportunity would present itself to me. I’m quite glad that it did. And so I took it.

10 observations [in no particular order] following my first week on these 500 acres:

Somehow Berry College has intense competition vying for the “Most Beautiful Campus in Floyd County” award. WOW! This place is amazing.
I am thrilled to finally be able to dust off my growing collection of bow ties.
Darlington students are lightyears ahead of others in their manners and how they carry themselves. This will carry you far!
There isn’t a school on earth that has better food in the dining hall. You had me at panini.
A school that strongly promotes and values service to fellow man is a school with which I want to associate myself.
Working this close to a factory that smells of chocolate will never get old to me.
I could never get enough exposure to such a wide variety of viewpoints and cultures.
This place really is one big family.
Purple goes with just about anything.
Did I mention the food?

I would like to thank each and every one of you who has reached out with your own personal welcome. Whether it was a smile in the hallway, a quick email, a handshake or a hug…as the new kid on the block, it means the DARWorld to me!

Please be in touch...I would love to hear your Darlington story! Click here to send me an email at lchaffin@darlingtonschool.org.