Remembering Lana Watson
On February 28, 2024 we celebrated the life and legacy of our friend and co-worker Lana Watson. Beyond the walls of St. Patrick Center, she was a guiding light, leaving and indelible mark on the lives she touched. Her journey was one of dedication, resilience, and a commitment to creating a better world for those experiencing homelessness.
Lana’s friends and colleagues describe profound moments and simple pleasures.
Lana had a gift for elevating those around her, using her leadership to inspire her co-workers and friends to join her on a transformative journey. Jonathan Belcher, Senior Director of Programs - Long Term Transformation, reflected on Lana's impactful leadership: "SSVF, Supportive Services for Veterans’ Families, is one of the most successful veteran programs in the country, often acting as a mentor to new programs being developed. Workforce development flourished under Lana’s guidance, marked by the establishment of a beautiful new café at the Central Library." Lana's leadership also played a pivotal role in the growth of Grants Per Diem (GPD) and Rapid Rehousing.
The SSVF program, under her stewardship, has served over 3,000 veteran households — an achievement far from low-hanging fruit. Rich Totsch, Director of SSVF, recalls their hard work and shared accomplishments over the years, "I can't tell you how many thousands of veterans received employment."
"We had many conversations not only about work but also about things that were important to us beyond the office," said Rich, emphasizing her ability to connect beyond professional boundaries.
Lana's dedication was seamlessly intertwined with her humility. Sue Haverman, Director of Workforce Development, recalled Lana's role as a collaborator and a leader. "I've wondered how many times that I have tested her patience, my creative ideas coming up, but she was always there to support me and to be there as my mentor."
A consistent theme emerges about Lana - her warmth and compassion. Chris Mendes, Director of Grants Per Diem (GPD), describes a down-to-earth person who made simple kind gestures, no matter who it was. "She always had a bowl of candy or a basket of candy in her office... She just genuinely cared for everyone that stood before her." Lana's kindness wasn't conditional to simply meeting workplace quotas but manifested in the daily exchanges, a comforting bowl of candy, and genuine concern for her team.
Terri Brown, a colleague and friend of 15 years, brings to light the simple, light-hearted moments of their growing relationship. "I got to know her for the first two years when we exercised in St. Patrick Center’s gym, and we talked a lot about our families," Terri reminisces, highlighting the everyday interactions that showcased their growing friendship. These moments, often filled with laughter over shared stories or the admiration of downtown plants during their walks—"we walked quite a bit when it was warm outside and we would snip some of the plants around downtown"—paint a picture of Lana's ability to find joy in the simple things. Terri's anecdotes, like the humorous story of babysitting Lana’s frenzied cat—"The cat...kept me up for at least five nights without ever stopping along with bouncing on my bed at 2 am and 3 am"—offer a glimpse into the lighter side of life. Through Terri's eyes, we see not just a leader, but a friend who was genuinely funny, kind, and a constant source of support and laughter.
As Sue fondly remembered, Lana's mutual interests were in chocolate and growing things. That and Lana's affinity for beekeeping became a metaphor for her personality. "We shared conversations about the joy of beekeeping. As a matter of fact, Lana was an incredible influence. She got me hooked, and I became a beekeeper three years ago," Rich shared.
He amusingly recalls the time his new bee suit became undone, and he got stung "over 80 times," after which Lana questioned his commitment to beekeeping but still empathized with his pain.
The bees were more than just her passion, they represented something greater. Just like the intricate dance of bees, Lana brought her team together, fostering collaboration and unity. Chris Mendes beautifully captured Lana's impact — "Thank you, Lana, for being our guiding light, our queen bee, and our dear friend."
As we reflect on Lana Watson's legacy and the mission of St. Patrick Center, let us be inspired to carry forward the torch of compassion, resilience, and humility that she so beautifully embodied. In Lana's spirit, let us approach our work with the same dedication and kindness she showered upon each life she touched. St. Patrick Center's mission is a beacon of hope, a call to action, and a commitment to transforming and enriching countless lives in the St. Louis area. Let Lana's unwavering belief in the power of unity, and the compassion she brought to every interaction, guide us in making a lasting difference. As we face challenges and celebrate victories, let us remember that every act of kindness, every supportive gesture, contributes to the profound impact we collectively have on our community.
Lana Watson, a queen bee, is forever cherished in the hearts of those she led and loved.