As we gather our thoughts at the close of this year, I find myself speaking to you with a tenderness sculpted by change. A personal loss within family, paired with significant shifts among our team, has altered the ground beneath our feet. Suffice it to say, this year unfolded unexpectedly, as life has its own seasons. Ours has been touched by tragedy, transition, and transformation. With that simple truth, there will be no formal gathering.
The Thought Leadership Summit was intended to renew our shared purpose, recognize our Ambassadors, and chart the next chapters of Arbor of the Vine. What was to be the first of many award ceremonies may stand as our only one, which carries its own weight. Even so, our gratitude towards you remains steady, sincere, and deserving of its own page.
Our team showed a level of devotion far beyond deadlines or tasks.
They nurtured stories and upheld our values during difficulties. Their commitment allowed Arbor of the Vine to stay rooted in care while still reaching toward what’s possible. I offer my heartfelt thanks to each of you ladies: Ari Serrani, Ashley Fitzpatrick, Chanel F., C.S. Wingate, Dita Lee, Jenny Cline, Judy Lee, Lilian Bloom, PontificaMuse, Sibel McGinnis, and Serenity Cole – friends who will continue to support one another outside the margins.
The Ambassador Awards belong to the individuals whose work speaks for itself. Their contributions to cultural development and community engagement have shaped the landscape of our garden.
The Vine Collective Cultural Contribution Award is granted to the Editor-In-Chief, Jenny Cline, for Arbor of the Vine’s cultural development and community engagement through initiatives that promote artistic expression and social impact.
Dita Lee receives the Courageous Storytelling Award for narratives that develop unapologetic inner work and inspire social change.
Chanel F. is honored with the Emerging Voices Literary Advocacy Award for her passion for promoting youth literacy and creative writing.
Charter member, Suzanne R., receives the Lore & Leaf Artistic Expression Award for art that encourages reflection and brings stories into fuller view.
The Inkwell Award goes to PontificaMuse, advocate for independent voice in literature, media, and beyond – the very foundation on which we stand.
To you, our readers, your presence has given meaning to every choice we made along the way.
You have helped transform a small idea into a community that values thought, artistry, and compassion. Although the future of Arbor of the Vine is uncertain, what remains is our commitment to self-care with as much sincerity as we have always encouraged for you. We cannot ask you to seek well-being if we are unwilling to choose it for ourselves.
Dearest E.V.E., change often comes without warning, yet there is an arbor of hope for those who choose to live with grace. May the seasons ahead shelter you in a sense of worth that no circumstance can take away.
