Ellen Johnson-Fay (Mutterperl)

Colorado Springs, CO 80904

Undergrad college/major: Biology/Education.

Affiliations at Cornell: Sigma Delta Tau.

Advanced degrees: Doctor of Ministry.

Career/occupation: Unitarian Universalist Minister.

Important affiliations: Unitarian Universalist Ministers Association; Spiritual Directors International; NAACP; Urban League; Pikes Peak Justice and Peace Commission; MBTI trainer; NVC (Nonviolent Communication) facilitator; Master Gardener.

Marital status: Married.

Spouse: Barry Johnson-Fay.

Children: David Nelson, Deborah Nelson, Lisa Nelson, Lisa Gaudiosi, Sara Johnson, Caitlin Tonda.

Grandchildren: Kelsey Jackson, Rocco and Lucy Johnson, Elizabeth Tonda, Maddie and Hannah Alsdorf, Sam and Will Gleason.

Outstanding Cornell memory: Breakfast with former President Harry Truman organized by senior Jan Reno.

How has your life differed from what you expected? I graduated with an expectation of completing a doctorate in developmental biology, getting married and raising a family and living somewhere on the eastern seaboard. I did marry and raise beautiful kids but was drawn into religious education and then Unitarian Ministry for nearly 40 years and eventually living and retiring in Colorado Springs where I enjoy hiking up 14,000 foot mountains.

Personal reflections: After growing up in a sheltered environment in Rego Park, NY my Cornell experience opened the world to me. I eventually traveled in Europe, Africa, India, and South America – something I never dreamed of as a child. I feel grateful for good health and time to enjoy our diverse and widespread and fabulous family, as well as to give back to this amazing world in whatever ways I can. My husband and I lead workshops in Compassionate Communication, and are involved in other ways to promote a more sustainable life for all. We grow as much of our own food as this semi-arid climate allows, and hike the gorgeous trails and mountains. I’m happy to look forward to attending my first Cornell reunion – 70 isn’t nearly as old as I imagined back then!