Employees who have started their journey into retirement have been honored by the University of Oregon. More than 200 UO employees have retired from the university since July of 2019. Each is recognized in the UO retirement yearbook for their years of service.
“Congratulations on your retirement,” said President Michael H. Schill in a video message to the retirees. “As a university, we celebrate your many years of work, dedication and support of our mission of teaching, research and service.”
Collectively, the retirees from this academic year and the last have provided more than 5,000 years of service. Many have shared memories, words of wisdom and what they are looking forward to most during retirement in their UO retirement yearbook profile. A few excerpts of wisdom that the retirees pass on include:
“Don't be content to stay in the same place for a long time!! Don't be afraid to reach out and have more adventures learning new jobs and meeting new people.” — Julie Buller, award set-up administrator, Office of Research and Innovation.
“Team up and collaborate with your colleagues on everything from conference presentations to walking buddies. Create learning communities. Study something brand new every year so you remember what it feels like to know little or nothing about the subject; it will make you a more empathetic teacher. Find a good mentor and later mentor someone else.” — Laura Holland, senior instructor, American English Institute.
“Come to work every day with a smile on your face.” — Lal Singh, custodian, Campus Planning and Facilities Management.
“Work hard, make good friends, don't be afraid to ask for help and to ask questions, and do your best to lead a balanced life. Take advantage of all the wonderful things the university has to offer.” — Brad Foley, professor, School of Music and Dance.
“No matter how stressed you may feel as the work piles up - the personal connections you cultivate with faculty and students can provide a source of comfort. When you least expect it, you'll find that someone will notice you are struggling, and either lend an ear or put a cookie on your desk, just when you need it most.” — Hope Marston, graduate coordinator, Oregon Consortium for International and Area Studies.
“When you get out of bed in the morning say to yourself ‘I get to go to work’ as opposed to saying ‘I have to go to work.' You will be happier and others around you will be happier too. Stay positive!" — Joey Mitchell, systems integrator, Information Services.
“Take part in activities beyond your department — cultivate relationships with colleagues across campus. There are so many brilliant people at UO ... try to enjoy our collective achievements.” — Madonna Moss, professor, Department of Anthropology
“Focus on what is important — giving students the gift that education offers.” — Doug Wilson, senior instructor II marketing, Lundquist College of Business
“Take the time to explore and get to know the UO campus…You will be amazed at what you'll find and what it has to offer students and faculty/staff alike.” — Mary Barrios, UO ticket office manager, Erb Memorial Union
Due to limitations of in-person gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic, human resources is unable to host a retirement reception this year.
HR identifies retirement honorees using employment dates in Banner and notifications from units and department representatives. If retirees have not been contacted by human resources as part of the retirement recognition program, they can contact Sandee Bybee, HR employee engagement and communications manager, to resolve the issue.