A big special birthday surprise!

When I came to the SPICE office this morning at around 8:40 for some last minute meetings before heading to Abu Dhabi for a major women's conference, my students were already there planning a big surprise for me. 

This was even more special because as chess players, they study late at night and are allergic to waking up early in the morning :) I am so lucky to have the greatest group of young men and women at Webster University. I am so proud of them.

I would also like to thank EVERYONE for the warm birthday wishes. I literally received thousands of messages, texts, and emails, etc. I am unable to thank each one of you but please know that I really appreciate it. Thank you so much!

Please keep your thoughts and prayers for everyone in Boston and West, Texas!