By Elise Gobron ‘21
Mrs. Umiker and Bella, Photo
After an impressive 40 years working at St. Mark’s, Mrs. Umiker is retiring with Mr. Umiker this spring. Mrs. Umiker began working at St. Mark’s as the Assistant to the Head of School for Special Events. Over the course of her 16 years in this position, she coordinated major events around the school from Trustee Weekend to Prize Day and everything in between. When a position opened at the bookstore, she was excited to take this new job. Mrs. Umiker says that she was thrilled the position at the bookstore opened because she would be able to work more directly with students in a retail setting.
One of Mrs. Umiker's fondest memories this year was being able to give new homes to the collection of vintage St. Mark’s gear that she had collected over her 40 years of service at the school. Her collection of items including Groton t-shirts, cross country jackets, tennis hats and more were very popular amongst the students. She said that she was glad to see all the gear being worn around school and was especially delighted to see her daughter’s squash shirt being worn in the dining room, and Mr. Umiker's basketball sweater coming down the hall.
While there are many things Mrs. Umiker is sad to leave at St. Mark’s, she says that she will miss the students most of all. She says that in her time working at the bookstore it has been such a joy and privilege to provide a space where kids could stop by, chat, and even pet Bella: “a calm respite from the business of St. Mark's.”
Mrs. Umiker, fondly known as “Ginny” by her faculty friends and colleagues, is an avid gardener and participated in the establishment of the Community Garden with Dr. Harwood. “ She taught me so much about planting and tending healthy growth, but never in a pedantic way. I will miss those afternoon chats in the garden as we planted or weeded or watered.”
Many students, myself included, can certainly attest to Mrs. Umiker’s positive effects on not only the bookstore but the entire St. Mark’s community. Current V former, Tate Frederick, is among many who are appreciative of Mrs. Umiker and her “constant kind presence on campus.” Tate also says that she will miss Mrs. Umiker’s bright and warm energy next year! The St. Mark’s community will miss you dearly Mrs. Umiker, but wishes you all the best in the future and hopes you come back to visit soon!