Over 150 years of combined service retires from Adams State College (04-16-08)
Glasses clinked and voices were raised in laughter, during the Adams State College retirement dinner on April 10. Carl Coolbaugh, assistant professor of business; Dr. Randy Newell, professor of accounting; Dr. Neil Rudolph, professor of chemistry; Gary Jones, director of facilities services and procurement; Dr. Sandra Starnaman, assistant provost for the extended campus; Dr. Georgia Grantham, extended studies strategic educational consultant; and Mike Garcia, executive director of the TRIO programs, were honored by the college for their years of service and commitment. Also retiring, but not present at the dinner, are Sam Ryker, facilities services; Jeanne Reed, administrative assistant for science, mathematics, and technology; and Julie Campbell, assistant professor of management.
The Master of Ceremonies Dr. Thomas Gilmore, emeritus professor of business, said: "This is one of the times that reminds us of what is special about Adams State College. We are honoring those who have been here many years and are loyal to the students and the college."
President David Svaldi said there are 150 years of experience retiring from the institution this semester. The mood remained light as each retiree received a clock and words of appreciation from their chair, dean or vice president.
Three School of Business professors are retiring, Dr. Kurt Keiser, chair of the business department, offered his colleagues a sincere thank-you. Vice President of Finance and Administration Bill Mansheim called Jones his "go-to-guy."
Dr. Matt Nehring, chair of the chemistry, physics, and computer science department, said what he admired most about Rudolph was his commitment to his students and his dedication to his family. "This is a beautiful place to work," Rudolph said.
Former faculty and staff, current retirees, and well-wishers filled the banquet rooms. Grantham and Starnaman were praised for their work in expanding the Extended Studies program at Adams State College and taking the program to a national level by Provost Michael Mumper, "Their legacy will last a long time."
For over 30 years, Garcia encouraged first-generation students to pursue the goal of a college education. Dean of Student Affairs, Ken Marquez, said, "Mike is a valuable leader in our community."
"You are only as good as the people you surround yourself with - and I feel fantastic," Garcia said.
By Linda Relyea
