Trinity generosity and integrity are more than alive and well.

They are thriving.

Further testament to this came today in the form of two letters from recent visitors.

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I have never sent a note to opposing school officials following the outcome of a high school sporting event, but I felt compelled to reach out to you in hopes that you get word to Mr Dennis Lampley.

My family and I am very grateful for the assistance offered my 82-year-old father last night in getting into the stadium (by gator 4 x 4) and to his seat for the varsity soccer game vs Floyd Central. You see, my dad is struggling with severe arthritis in his hip, making it almost impossible for him to walk. In addition, he is struggling with dementia as he learned earlier that day from his evaluation results with the doctor, which will have an impact on his daily living. My dad has never not seen his grandson play soccer since he was probably five years of age, so this made it even more special for us.

So while most of us take it for granted to walk from the parking lot to a stadium seat, it is more of a calculated mission for my dad. Mr. Lampley removed many of the obstacles, making the experience that much easier for Dad. And in my dad’s words, he “was very grateful for the hospitality showed by Trinity, the gentleman that helped him, having the opportunity to watch a good game and his grandson play.”

Ironically, I didn’t know who “Lampley” was when I met him but I do now. I think my dad and he would get along well, as my dad was once a college football player and high school coach.

If you could pass on our gratitude to Mr. Lampley, we would appreciate it.

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I attended the JV and varsity soccer games last night at Trinity.  When I left for work this morning, I realized that I had (very irresponsibly) left my wallet and sunglasses in the stands.  I walked to the stadium, but the stands had been swept clean and I couldn’t locate either one.

I went to the rotunda and spoke with Carrie Joy, who advised me that the stadium is cleaned by the son of the Facility and Grounds Manager, Bill Hogg.  Carrie immediately contacted Steven Terry, who was at the stadium, and he checked the concession stand and found both the wallet and sunglasses and delivered them both to me.  My wallet contained a substantial amount of cash, which was clearly visible from the outside.  All the cash and cards were present and accounted for.

Mr. Hogg put me in touch with his son, Michael, who relayed that he was simply doing his “job” after I thanked him for finding and returning my items.

You and I both know that temptation can take many forms and strike even the most noble-intentioned.  However, I believe that Trinity is one of the few places around that would safe-guard items such as these while passing through multiple hands, only to be returned fully intact.

Trinity breeds and fosters this type of ethical and moral behavior.  Carrie, Steven, Mr. Hogg, and Michael are humble, but shining representatives of the culture that Trinity demands.

My grandfather always told me: “When you’re dumb, you suffer,”  which I believe to be true. But this time, the goodness of others significantly reduced my suffering.

Thanks to you and your staff.  Keep up the good work, even if you are just “doing your job.”