With Gratitude to Michael Godshall

Onbehalf of the BFS community, it is an honor for all of us to reflect on everything that Michael Godshall has done for our school as he finishes his tenth year on the Buckingham Friends School Board. Most notably we recognize and thank him for his extraordinary and selfless service as clerk of the board during the past six years.

Michael and Christine joined the school community when they brought their three children to Buckingham Friends School eighteen years ago. A few years later, their family joined Buckingham Monthly Meeting.

Little did Michael expect that he would fall in love with the School so much that when there was a board seat opening, he pursued it. Little did we know that his decision would have such a transformational and lasting impact on the culture and success of the board and our School.

We, his board colleagues, offer these thoughts in appreciation as Michael steps down as clerk this summer, though we are pleased he will continue on the board for one more year after he steps down as clerk this June.

With patience, wisdom, and respect for his colleagues, Michael brought the board to life and strengthened it, which has taken the School to the wonderful place it is today.”

“Michael has been an inspiring presence for the Buckingham Friends School board. From his dedication to the School, demonstrated by the time and effort he has put in and by his detailed guidance and calm leadership, the School is in a strong position for the future.”

“I have had the privilege of knowing Michael for over twenty years. I have thoroughly enjoyed our working relationship and his dedication to the mission of BFS. He has truly kept the School in the Light at all times.”

“Michael is such a positive presence. His love for Buckingham shines in every facet of his devotion to the School.”

“Michael has done so much for the School. I’ve been a board member for seven years and during that time, Michael provided a great deal of guidance and was instrumental in my development. He’s an easy person to speak to, and we share the same passion for the School.”

“Michael’s love for Buckingham Friends and his willingness to give of himself in service to the School are both extraordinary and inspirational. His stepping up in a couple of very challenging times has been extraordinarily important and has gently reminded the rest of us of the importance of giving what we can.”

“Michael’s stewardship of BFS as board chair has been nothing short of exemplary. His deep appreciation and commitment to Quaker values has resulted in a thriving board and community at BFS.

Finally, Head of School Paul Lindenmaier shares, “I know that Michael felt called to contribute substantively during this moment in the School’s story. We can all feel gratitude for his immeasurable goodness, care, and service on behalf of our beloved School. BFS will forever be a better place because he walked this way.”

A grateful BFS community thanks you, Michael, for your steady-handed leadership, unwavering partnership, hard work, and undeniable love for our School and community. •