First, thank you for inviting me to share this very special evening with you.
One evening of recognition is hardly enough to reflect the depth of our appreciation to our faulty members who have given their time, expertise and have shown great passion so that Oakland University may continue to serve students and our communities and be the great university set forth in our mission, vision, goals and values.
Our retirees arrive at this moment after a great deal of reflection, planning and wonderment about what retirement would look and feel like.
In retirement, I hope you will have more time for your families, grandchildren, traveling… taking up a new hobby, and maybe improving your skills of a current pastime.
There is much to look forward to as you make the transition to the next chapter of your lives….
And, there are many unknowns, expectations and myths about retirement…
There is, however, one undeniable truth: You may leave your formal job, your colleagues and perhaps a structured work day, but you will never leave your life’s calling.
At the heart of your years as an Oakland University faculty member is your passion to be a teacher… to reach out to students so they can accomplish their academic goals and become life-long learners and successful as they pursue their dreams.
And at the heart of your years as an Oakland University faculty member is your passion to be a scholar and researcher…. because you know first-hand the transformative power of learning and knowledge.
In many ways, you’ve given your lives for a cause – the cause of education.
As a faculty member, you are a member of a larger group who believes that through education comes knowledge, progress and an improved quality of life for all people.
You are part of community of idealists who believe that the pursuit of reason, decency and truth are the building blocks of a just society and a more humane world.
And when we look around at our world --- our public discourse, the many distractions keeping us from dealing with serious social and culture issues – you are needed as much as ever.
There are many reasons we grow old.
But there are also many things that keep us young.
Your passion for learning is the key that will keep your hearts open and your minds engaged.
If I were to offer advice for your retirement years, it would be do all that you can to stay active and healthy.
Be physical.
Reduce stress.
Enjoy fulfilling activities.
Surround yourself with the people you love.
And never stop dreaming about a better life, and a better world.
Oakland’s legacy was built from your dedication….and the success of our university, and the success of Oakland University graduates reflect all that you gave during your time with us.
We still expect to see and hear from you. As you know, Oakland has many ways for you to continue to stay engaged.
Come to lectures. Even offer to give a few.
Come to shows, athletic events and offer ways to continue to support the university in ways only you will know how to do best.
On behalf of the Oakland University community, we wish you all the best, and may your retirement years bring you peace and happiness.
We are so grateful for your time, talents and all that you have given to Oakland University to improve education and the opportunities of our students.