Nancy Selinka White

Our 50th was more than wonderful. Uplifting! I'm so happy and grateful to a part of this community of exceptional, smart, funny, accomplished, and courageous women.

I didn't have such a great time in high school. My first night of freshman year at MHC, I walked around the campus. On that beautiful fall evening, I stood outside under the stars and vowed my life would be different. And it was!

Taught English in a junior high school in the Bronx for three years. Then got a job at Scholastic as a children's book club editor, which was the beginning of a lifelong career in children's books and educational publishing. Still doing it as of 2021.

Mount Holyoke gave me so much in addition to a wonderful education: self confidence, precious friendships, work ethic, a sense of adventure.

Mostly outdoor activities, although one of them (running) has had to end. Still swimming, biking, hiking, kayaking. And, of course, reading. And being with friends. And playing the piano, which would be even better if I would ever actually practice.

Too many books, movies, etc. to pick favorites. Because of my passion for swimming, favorite place to visit is any island in the Caribbean. Swimmer's paradise. If you are an impassioned swimmer, I recommend Tortola. Just rent a little cottage on the beach.

The funny one in my family was my husband, Bob Hirschfeld (Wesleyan '64). He wrote an entire opera libretto entitled "Il Cacciatore," and when asked by his high school chemistry teacher what particles can pass through glass, he answered, "rocks." He made me laugh all the time. I miss him.

It's wonderful to see old friends. But Remember that you might become friends with people you didn't know very well in school. Come, even if your closest friends aren't making it this year. You never know! And just being on our beautiful campus is worth the trip.