Killpack, Marian (Garrett)

KILLPACK, GARRETT

Posted By: Mary H. Cochrane, Volunteer
Date: 7/1/2019 at 12:33:18

Horizons
Graceland University, Lamoni, Decatur County, Iowa
Summer, 2014, Vol. 30, No. 1, Pages 6 & 7

Graceland Forever: Marian Killpack
An integral member of those creating Graceland's caring community, Marian Killpack has offered a lifetime of service. On June 1, Marian Killpack retired as Vice President for Student Life, Dean of Students, but her influence on thousands of students continues.

"I am so grateful for the relationships along the way. My testimony is that the essence of Graceland is still at Graceland; students have the same opportunity we had; the Graceland transformation is still happening." ~ Marian Killpack

Marian's laughter and energy are contagious, as she relays memories of her experiences over the years. She talks as fast as a freshman with exlamation marks, her smile flashing and arms waving as she laughs. There is no hint of slowing down after 43 years. "I love being with young people; so full of hope and potential. They are inspiring and I'm energized!" Marian was and is passionate about people and relationships. She has invested her life, developing friendships here on "the Hill."

"43 years is all...and four years as a student." ~ Marian Killpack

Marian Garrett came to Graceland College as a student in the fall of 1966, and graduated with the class of '70, with a degree in psychology. Her good friend Carol Lindgren brought her to grad school. "Carol got an application for Indiana State University and actually filled it out for me," she says, spilling over with enthusiasm. When the opportunity arose a year later to be a Graceland hall director, Marian returned to "the Hill," and the unplanned decision was a life changer. She knew she belonged here. Dale "finally" asked her to marry him and Lamoni became their home. Their heritage is laced with Graceland. Her grandmother graduated in 1932, his great-grandmother in 1898. Their three children are alumni" David '96, Kimberly '99 and Kristina '05; 12 of 14 nieces and nephews are also alumni.

The May 18 graduation cerelmony was the last time Marian read the names of the graduates as they walked across the stage. She doesn't spend time dwelling in nostalgia, but gets right to the celebration. "When I'm standing there as they come across the stage - it's just wonderful. Graceland has transformed them. This year, I'll finally 'graduate' as well."

Horizons asked Marian what her retirement plans are and she immediately responded, "I'm going to do whatever I [Page 7] want to do! Travel plans to visit timeshares, garden, read, quilt, visit my five grandchildren..."

Director of Resident Life, Deb Skinner said, "There are only a handful of people in Graceland's history who have been as much a cornerstone of so many students' Graceland Experience as Marian Killpack. Her influence on the House system as it developed and matured, her development of the House President role as a student leader, and finally the transformation of the Student Life division is immeasurable. As it says on the wall in her office, "Invest in People," she has chosen to invest in the one legacy that will last far beyond her tenure at Graceland. She has shown me how to live a life of fulfillment, joy and purpose in the service of others. I will be forever indebted to her."

Transcription by Sharon R. Becker, November of 2015