What’s in a Namesake?

I remember that evening last December, casually scanning my inbox while fidgeting with my iPhone.

I didn’t expect to see an email about Fish Camp … let alone the congratulatory words letting me know I’d been selected as a namesake for a session next summer.

My pulse raced as I read the email twice … three times … making sure I fully understood what I was hearing. Me? Justin Romack? A namesake? Who nominated me? Did they have any idea what a profound honor this would be for me? I was blown away!

That silly, ridiculously giddy excitement hasn’t faded a bit as this camp has started coming into view. We met the two most incredible, most commitment, most enthusiastic co-chairs, Cullen and Brooklyn, last month … and Sheridan talks about them more than me nowadays. We also got our color and session , as well – and let’s just say the Romacks are amping up the purple hues in our wardrobe. The highlight this week was meeting the 24 counselors who will be instrumental in engaging and leading Camp Romack’s incoming freshman … and I can’t wait to get to know each of them even more.

There are so many layers to this Fish Camp experience … From the selfless service … to the leadership … to the community and inclusion … to the mentorship and development …to the tradition and excitement … and so much more. I wanted to jot down thoughts and experiences as we live this journey over the next few months and beyond – so that we don’t forget, and so that my family and friends can see just why I’m head over heels for this amazing university and community of students I have the pleasure of working alongside.

If you have questions along the way, drop me a comment or send me a message. I’ll do my best to answer questions, share stories, post pictures and keep you in the loop every step of the way. Thanks for reading – and I can’t wait to have you aboard as we go fishin together!