Dear Chautauqua Family, 

Lately, I’ve been thinking about the importance of being present and cherishing the special moments that define our lives. As I enter this holiday season, rich with traditions and rituals, I’m inspired to actively embrace the present moment. Let’s all take the opportunity to fully immerse ourselves in our communities and families, welcoming the joy that surrounds us. I am particularly reminded of what a privilege it is to do so, with so much of our world struggling with violence and tragedy; those people and situations are also very present in my heart and prayers.

In this spirit of intentionality, I found myself revisiting Colleen Macklin’s July 2023 playful lecture during our week on games. At that moment, she formed a community of Chautauqua gamers within our beloved Amphitheater, and her advice from that lecture continues to ring true: “Take some time away from your daily cares and worries and just be with each other in a spirit of play, in a spirit of community.” Let’s take heed of this wisdom, cherishing moments of togetherness, playing games with those we love so we can understand each other better, and celebrating our shared stories. 

This holiday season is not only a time to revel in the magic of the present but also to anticipate the special anniversary awaiting us in the upcoming year — “The Seasons and Stories of Chautauqua: The 150th Anniversary Season.” This milestone is a testament to the ideas, stories and connections that have defined Chautauqua’s mission for the past 150 years.  

As we gear up to gather on our grounds in just six months, there’s still much to be done — more stories to tell, new friends to welcome into our Chautauqua community and more games to be played. In the meantime, season’s greetings from these festive grounds. Wherever and however you celebrate, may you and your loved ones have a season filled with warmth, community, laughter, and the promise of extraordinary stories yet to unfold in the coming year. 

Happiest of Holidays, 

Michael E. Hill, Ed.D.
President, Chautauqua Institution