Leaving a Legacy

Dana Morrow Passes the Torch of Strong Community Partnerships

Dana Morrow retires in August after 35 years of enthusiastic service, but she leaves behind a legacy of early literacy, music and culture appreciation, and more importantly, access to art and education through library programs.

I rarely saw Dana without a smile. I rarely saw her without that look on her face that told of her brain formulating plans and ideas that stretched convention. Dana has an attitude and presence that codifies Outreach. The programs she created and facilitated reached out into the world, and brought back valuable experiences for the library customers to keep. I have never asked her, but I’m betting she doesn’t know the meaning of the word ‘impossible.”

I rarely had a conversation with Dana that didn’t include discussion about the importance of early literacy, or the concern about accommodating all kinds of families. She was considerate of the immigrant families with language challenges, the working parents with time challenges. She is a champion of access for all. She’s pretty much the example of what libraries stand for.

“She is a powerhouse in the community. She makes things happen through partnerships. I wouldn't hesitate to say that she's changed thousands of lives through her involvement in early literacy programs and the world-class cultural events she's worked tirelessly to bring to the public for free,” explains Emily Williams, Teen Services Coordinator. Emily has worked with Dana for over eight years. “Dana is an amazing person. She is constantly learning new things, trying new things and is excited about new experiences. Most people keep their circles (and experiences) small; Dana welcomes everyone with open arms and an open mind. As a supervisor, she has been encouraging, trusted her staff, and challenged us to try new things. She gave us room to fail without judgment and taught us by asking questions. Dana will continue to work in our community and make a difference,” Emily says.

“Dana has been a personal mentor to me since I began at the library system.  Her ability to see a challenge, identify the root cause and then empower people to change it is unparalleled.  I remember a lunch at Chelinos where she sold me on the idea of early literacy, and then invited me to join in some of the earliest Smart Start meetings.  Those experiences shaped the value I place on not only encouraging children to read, but also teaching their parents how to read to the child as well,” expresses Heidi Port, MLS Volunteer Coordinator. “Dana is a connector of people.  You have an idea?  Hey, have you talked to so and so about that?  He might be able to help you get that done.  An introduction and a couple of phone calls later and you are fast friends with this new partner! She also sparks creativity wherever she goes!  She makes you feel like anything is possible,”  Heidi continues. “I could go on forever.  Her courage in the face of great personal battles.  Her willingness to always stand up for what is true and right for the community and not just for her.  Her devotion to the library system, hiring talented staff members and fully supporting and empowering them, pausing wherever she is to brighten a day with a smile are just a few of her many talents.  I love her and will miss seeing her in the library, but you can bet I'll be seeing her elsewhere!” Heidi predicts.

“One of Dana's most lasting legacies is the unbelievable partnerships she has forged with people in the community.  Those partnerships are what led MLS to being a leader in providing high quality, cultural arts programming for people of all ages.  The Our World program introduced thousands of people in OKC to music and arts performances that you would not normally see in our town.  The variety of performers coming through has just been incredible.  Each year we have been able to offer plays and dances and music to kids during neighborhood arts.  Many of the kids would never be exposed to a "real play" so to speak.  She mentored the Lucky Penny Players by using them and their innovative plays based on children's books and stories; and also gave the Sugar Free All Stars a kick-start to their career,” says Donna Morris, MLS Executive Director. “Literacy and early childhood education has also been a passion of hers and we have advanced MLS as a leader in those arenas in our community. She has done a great job and we will miss her very much, Donna concludes.

Other performers have been catapulted into success by Dana’s willingness to take a chance on their talent. Lisa Hubbert, of the kindie rock duo Chasing James, says, “As a Neighborhood Arts musician for the past three summers, I can whole-heartedly say that it has been a joy to work with Dana!  When she has attended our shows, she does it with enthusiasm and a big smile.  She has been so encouraging in the creativity process.  It is evident that she is passionate about bringing the arts & literacy to the children of Oklahoma. Realizing that Neighborhood Arts is only a slice of what she does within the library system, I can only imagine what an impact she has made through several programs.  She will undoubtedly be missed and it was an honor to work for her!” Lisa adds.

“Dana's legacy is that she inspired everyone to share information through culture and musical programs.  For Dana, sharing is from an intellectual perspective because she is forever probing people and places to share what she learned,” explains Suzette Chang, MWC’s Teen Services Librarian. “Her legacy to share is seasoned with a bright and quick-witted demeanor, curiosity and cleverness.  In addition, Dana's legacy is a reminder that we should always explore the world and give those experiences to everyone,” advises Suzette.

“From day one in my MLS career, Dana has been giving me advice.  And solid good advice too,” shares Rondia Banks, NW librarian.  Dana has a knack for not telling you what to do, but encouraging you to find the answer with in you.  She has had many great ideas that she willingly shares and encourages you to find your great ideas too,” explains Rondia.”Dana has always helped supply books when I needed give-a-ways for programs.  Dana has built an Outreach team that functions like a fine tuned machine.  It is obvious how well the Outreach team works together when they put on programmers meetings.  It is obvious how well the Outreach team works together when they support each library location with specific needs, when they go out into our community, and when programs like Summer Reading is such a huge success.
Great Job Dana,” she compliments.

“Dana has been a mentor and friend o me for many years. When I'm around her I'm suffused by positive energy and light.  She has given me support, guidance and wisdom. I will miss her so,” concludes Jana Hausburg, Capitol Hill Library Manager.

Of course this article cannot do justice to a 35 year career in life changing opportunities, nor encompass the words of all who she has impacted. Feel free to leave your kind words in the comments, a legacy that Dana can take with her as she continues on to her next adventure.