Category Archives: 25 Year Club

25 Years @ The Middlebury Institute with Nukhet Kardam

25 Year Club, Human Resources, Institutional News, MIIS News & Events

Nukhet Kardam, Professor at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies, recently passed her 25-year mark of employment.  Nukhet took a few minutes to share her thoughts of “Life at the Institute” over the past two and a half decades.

1. What did you do prior to coming to work at the Middlebury Institute and where were you located?

I was working as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Pomona College in the Department of Politics in Claremont, California.

2. What job titles have you held while working at the Middlebury Institute?

I think I came as Associate Professor, and then became Full Professor. I was the Program Chair for the MPA Program for several years.

3. Take us back to your first year as an employee at MIIS. What were the most significant things happening in your life outside of work then?

It was 1993, my son was 6 years old and started elementary school in Pacific Grove. We moved as a family to Pacific Grove and rented a house and hoped that my husband would find a job in this area, but it never happened. The first year I was at MIIS, he was on sabbatical from Scripps College in Claremont and he continued working there as a faculty member until he retired in 2008.

4. What are the most significant things happening in your life outside of work now (that you’d like to share)?

I am putting on “Aging Creatively” workshops for people in my generation. I absolutely love it and would like to expand these workshops, perhaps offering them to faculty across Middlebury who are close to retirement or already retired.

5. Have your interests/hobbies/athletic endeavors changed over the past 25 years? Have any of these been influenced by your work at MIIS or due to your association with others who work here?

I have realized that I don’t just want to be an intellectual and focusing on my mind, but become a ‘whole person’. So, I have become a Qi Gong and Zumba instructor. I am convinced that to live a fulfilled life, one has to combine all faculties and functions (imagination, thought, feelings, sensations) and trust one’s heart. I am on a Sufi spiritual path and I would like to combine my creativity, philosophy, and spirituality to offer to others and learn from others.

6. What is your fondest memory or experience that you’ve had while working at MIIS?

I don’t have a fondest memory. What I enjoy most is hearing form my former students and having a continuing relationship with them.

7. Many people change jobs/careers multiple times in their working life. Something must have kept you here for 25 years. Is it anything that you can put into words?

Yes, the ability of the school to allow me to change and grow. As I changed, the school accommodated me and allowed my creativity and different ideas to take shape and blossom. As the school changed, I stuck with it. What school would have given me the chance to write a book about my grandfather, go to Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference, and ultimately publish a book on Identity (from Ottoman to Turk and Beyond: Watercolor Identities)? This research was very close to my heart and also led to a successful seminar I still teach called Powerle Identity and Multiculturalism.

8. What are your plans for the next 25 years?

Offer “Aging Creatively” workshops around the U.S and in Turkey; teach Zumba Gold and Qi Gong classes, continue playing the piano and learn jazz piano and composition.

9. Do you have a favorite place on campus?

My office is perfect – large, great view, and all.

10. Is there any person on campus (or retiree, former employer) that mentored you, or you feel helped you grow into your job, grow to enjoy your work and your time at the Institute?

Yes, I could mention Ed Laurance who mentored me when I first came. We taught a couple of courses together which helped me a lot. Amy Sands, as Dean and then later Provost, always supported me and provided space for me to change. Amy McGill has been and is a great supporter.

11. If you could give one piece of advice to a new employee at MIIS, what would it be?

Give yourself time to grow into the job, make sure to get to know people from different programs, including staff, faculty, and students. Become part of the community and ENJOY it.

12. Is there anything else that you would like to share about your time at MIIS?

I have loved it!!

25 Years @ Midd with Arabella Holzapfel

25 Year Club, Human Resources, Midd Points

In this post we recognize Arabella Holzapfel, Electronic Resources Manager and Library Systems Specialist, for her 25 years of Service to Middlebury. Arabella shares some recent travel experiences, her favorite hobbies, and some of her fondest Middlebury memories. Read on to learn more about Midd from Arabella’s point of view.

What did you do prior to work at Middlebury College and where were you located?

This could be a very long story. Immediately prior, I was the Children’s Librarian at the Bixby Library in Vergennes. Before that, I was a graduate teaching/research assistant at UVM in the Physics Department. Before that, I was a process engineer at a (now defunct) semiconductor manufacturer in Arizona. Between and among and prior to those times, I worked in retail, volunteered at animal hospitals, did research in astronomy and various other things during my first 25 years of life in Denver and elsewhere in Colorado, and the following 5 years in Arizona. (Perhaps that’s more than you want to know.)

What job titles have you held while working at Middlebury?

They have all been in the Libraries: I started as a part-time Science Library Assistant at the Science Library in the Science Center that used to exist at the same geographic location as the current Davis Family Library. Following that, I was a Catalog Associate at Starr Library, then a student supervisor at Armstrong Library, then the Periodicals Assistant back at Starr. My position now as Electronic Resources Manager is basically an evolution from Periodicals Assistant, as the library world has changed and as Middlebury’s library staffing has changed.

Take us back to your first year as an employee at the College. What were the most significant things happening in your life outside of work then?

I think most peoples’ responses in this section probably have to do with family concerns but I knew from an early age that I did not want children, so I had different things happening. When I started working here, I was happily married and, as I recall, some of my off-work time was focused on coming to terms with the fact that I did not really like research (in Physics) and I was clearly not cutting it as a graduate student (excelling in classes, but bored with research) after entirely too many years. At the time, my resume was a real hodge-podge; I hadn’t worked anywhere for more than a year or two, so I kind of expected the same would be true at Middlebury. As it turned out, my work at Middlebury has helped me “find myself” in ways that continue to surprise me – even after 25 years!

What are the most significant things happening in your life outside of work now (that you’d like to share)?

In late January, our dog, Dash, passed away, and my husband and I began living without four-legged companions for the first time since before we met 30 years ago. We have many interests that we haven’t pursued as much as we may otherwise have due to the joy and responsibilities that come with four-legged companions, so we’re in an exploration phase right now. One thing we are thinking about – by boat, we can get from our house on Otter Creek in Ferrisburgh to Lake Champlain then through the canal system to Lake Ontario, then up the Saint Lawrence to Montreal then back to Lake Champlain and Otter Creek and our house. That would take longer than I could take off from work at one time before I retire, but we might try some pieces of it in the near future. I have also gotten involved in town planning on the Ferrisburgh Planning Commission and regional planning at the Addison County Regional Planning Commission. I have found that work frustrating, challenging (in a good way), thankless, and gratifying all at the same time.

Have your interests/hobbies/athletic endeavors changed over the past 25 years? Have any of these been influenced by your work at the College or due to your association with others who work here?

My main interests are knitting and pretty much everything to do with old, classic sailboats; those interests haven’t really been affected by my work at Midd. However, over my 25 years here (and very occasionally before that), I have dabbled in golf and I hope to be able to spend some more time on the golf course over the next several years. If I did not work at Middlebury, I would definitely not be able to afford to play golf regularly.

What is your fondest memory or experience that you’ve had while working at Middlebury?

There have been numerous ones; I would like to name two if that’s ok. First is a few blessed friendships that I have with some of my colleagues. For example, my friendship with Michael Warner and his (now) husband, Joseph Watson, sparked my foray into local and state politics, which in turn resulted in personal growth that went in unexpected directions. I am sure that I am a very different person than I would have been if I had not worked side-by-side with Michael for a number of years. That is one example of how my colleagues have changed my life. Second is having had the opportunity through Staff Council and then as the staff constituent on the College Board of Overseers to be inspired and amazed at the commitment, integrity, and personal qualities of some of the trustees and members of the administration. There is a reason that Middlebury is the remarkable institution that it is.

Many people change jobs/careers multiple times in their working life. Something must have kept you here for 25 years. Is it anything that you can put into words?

I think it is a combination of the people I work with, the mission and values of the institution, and the opportunities for engagement and professional and personal growth. The golf course is nice, too!

What are your plans for the next 25 years?

At this stage of my life, I know that keeping healthy makes everything else more enjoyable, so getting exercise, improving my diet, and all the other things involved with staying healthy are becoming priorities. More than that, I would not hazard a guess!

Do you have a favorite place on campus?

The view from the balcony of Kirk Alumni Center, and the eastern view from the upper level of the Davis Family Library are among my favorites. There are also a number of groves of trees around campus that are nice to hang out in for a while. (I guess I’ve been unable to answer any of these questions with “just one”!)

Is there any person on campus (or retiree, former employer) that mentored you, or you feel helped you grow into your job, grow to enjoy your work and your time at the College?

At the risk of not mentioning many who have been influential, I definitely want to mention that when Rebekah Irwin was my supervisor, she was instrumental in helping me create a job that I think really draws on my strengths.

If you could give one piece of advice to a new employee at Middlebury, what would it be?

My motto is “There’s only one rule: have fun!” and as an employee at Middlebury, you have access to more than you might think. Some examples: I am researching a car purchase right now, so I consult Consumer Reports (go/databases, under C) without cost because I work at Middlebury. The library has a stunning array of books and other resources of all kinds (go/summon or go/midcat to find them). Middlebury has a golf course, a ski area, a natatorium, and other athletic facilities. Then there is the opportunity to audit a class or take it for credit if the faculty member agrees. (I’ve done this with Japanese and Dance.) If Middlebury has it, then as an employee you can more than likely use it (sometimes at a discount, sometimes at no charge).

Is there anything else that you would like to share about your time at Middlebury?

These are comprehensive questions, so there is not much I can think of to add. Overall, I feel extremely fortunate to have found my way here.

25 Years @ Midd with Julie Tumminia-Tomsuden

25 Year Club, For Faculty, For Staff, middpoints

sept-2014-sunsetIn this post we recognize Julie Tumminia-Tomsuden, Sr Programmer Analyst at Information Technology Services, for her 25 years of Service to Middlebury. Julie shares some her recent relocation, some advice about working at Midd, and some special people from her career here. Read on to learn more about Midd from Julie’s point of view.

What did you do prior to work at Middlebury College and where were you located?

 

I had recently completed my bachelor’s degree at Johnson State College and was living in Montpelier, VT where I worked at the retail store job that helped pay my way through school.

What job titles have you held while working at Middlebury?

 

  • Technical Support Assistant – until end of May 1992
  • Programmer/Intern
  • Programmer
  • Programmer/Analyst/Applications Consultant
  • Programmer/Analyst/Technical Lead
  • Senior Programmer/Analyst since January 2005

Take us back to your first year as an employee at the College. What were the most significant things happening in your life outside of work then?

 

My first husband, Peter, and I were enjoying time learning about the history and people of the Champlain Valley.

What are the most significant things happening in your life outside of work now (that you’d like to share)?

 

I moved to South Carolina in August of 2015 after many years of putting the pieces into place. I’m a native Vermonter because that’s where my parents lived when I was born, but realized several years ago that my heart is truly southern.

Have your interests/hobbies/athletic endeavors changed over the past 25 years? Have any of these been influenced by your work at the College or due to your association with others who work here?

 

My second husband, Mark, is a hockey fan and we enjoyed being hockey spectators at Nelson Arena. I also took up a bit of cross country skiing at Rikert while my much braver son took snowboarding lessons at the Snow Bowl.

Many people change jobs/careers multiple times in their working life. Something must have kept you here for 25 years. Is it anything that you can put into words?

 

Many people I’ve worked with over the years have become like a second family, especially those who were there for me during my darkest days fifteen years ago when (Julie’s first husband)Peter’s life ended so suddenly.  I’ve also enjoyed the diversity of the students and programs available which has fed my enjoyment of history and travel.

What are your plans for the next 25 years?

 

I will miss my “second family” at Middlebury but have made the decision to move on to a different career path. Twenty-five years in the technology world is more than enough for me!

Is there any person on campus (or retiree, former employer) that mentored you, or you feel helped you grow into your job, grow to enjoy your work and your time at the College?

 

Ron McKinnon worked with me as a Programmer/Intern and gave me assignments to stretch my abilities technically as well as speaking in front of a group.

If you could give one piece of advice to a new employee at Middlebury, what would it be?

 

Be sure to take advantage of the opportunities available for personal growth and cultural enlightenment. Don’t get too busy to enjoy those glorious Champlain Valley sunsets!

25 Years @ Midd with Sandra Carletti

25 Year Club, For Faculty, For Staff, middpoints

IMG_7003[2]In this post we recognize Sandra Carletti, Professor of Italian and Faculty Head of Atwater Commons, for her 25 years of Service to Middlebury. Sandra shares her favorite places on campus, her interests, and a wonderful “collage of many memories” with us. Read on to learn more about Midd from Ann’s point of view.

What did you do prior to work at Middlebury College and where were you located?
I was a graduate student at the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD

What job titles have you held while working at Middlebury?
Instructor, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Professor, Commons Faculty Head (Atwater)

Take us back to your first year as an employee at the College. What were the most significant things happening in your life outside of work then?
I had been married for less a than a year, my husband, Kevin, was working in Baltimore, and I was working on my dissertation (while getting used to the freezing Vermont weather)

What are the most significant things happening in your life outside of work now (that you’d like to share)?
Being a mother to my children Selina and Max and adjusting to life after my husband passed away …

Have your interests/hobbies/athletic endeavors changed over the past 25 years? Have any of these been influenced by your work at the College or due to your association with others who work here?
Yes, I became interested in gardening, scrapbooking and other crafts after I moved to Vermont, inspired both by colleagues and people in the community …

What is your fondest memory or experience that you’ve had while working at Middlebury?
I cannot think of one in particular, it’s more like a collage of many memories: working, laughing and having dinner with my wonderful colleagues in the Italian Department; the satisfaction of teaching students who want to learn, inspiring discussions, those perfect moments of walking around campus while being aware of the natural beauty that surrounds us …

Many people change jobs/careers multiple times in their working life. Something must have kept you here for 25 years. Is it anything that you can put into words?
This has been the perfect job for me, not much I really wanted to change!

What are your plans for the next 25 years?
Continue to do what I am doing but better, learn new things, travel more.

Do you have a favorite place on campus?
The Library and the organic garden

 

25 Years @ Midd with Anne Randlett

25 Year Club, For Faculty, For Staff, middpoints

anne_clussIn this post we recognize Ann Randlett, a Staff Nurse at The Parton Center for Health and Wellness, for her 25 years of Service to Middlebury. Ann shares some of her interests, both new and old, as well as some fond memories, and kind words. Read on to learn more about Midd from Ann’s point of view.

What did you do prior to work at Middlebury College and where were you located?
I attended Middlebury, class of ’87, with a degree in BioPsychology (now Neuroscience). I worked with people who suffered from Traumatic Brain Injury for a year, then decided to get my BS in Nursing from the University of San Francisco.

What job titles have you held while working at Middlebury?
Always been a Nurse at Parton!

What are the most significant things happening in your life outside of work now (that you’d like to share)?
Just started learning yoga; love the classes sponsored by the college.

Have your interests/hobbies/athletic endeavors changed over the past 25 years? Have any of these been influenced by your work at the College or due to your association with others who work here?
I was Head Nurse at Camp Keewaydin for several years, and the work at the college was great preparation for dealing with 200 boys!

What is your fondest memory or experience that you’ve had while working at Middlebury?
The college sponsored an amazing financial planning class which was held over the course of a few evenings. It would be great to offer something like that again!

Many people change jobs/careers multiple times in their working life. Something must have kept you here for 25 years. Is it anything that you can put into words?
I work with an amazing group of nurses, health care providers, and administrative staff.

 

The 25 Year Club of 2016

25 Year Club, For Faculty, For Staff, HR, middpoints

Congratulations to the 25 Year Club inductees!

Sandra Carletti, Italian Department

Kyoko Davis, Japanese Studies

Ronald Dragon, Dining Services

Mark Evancho, Theatre Department

Anne Klinck Randlett, Parton Center for Health and Wellness

Ricky Rheaume, Facilities Services

Monique Skowronek, Controller’s Office

Allison Stanger, Political Science Department

Julie Tumminia-Tomsuden, Information Technology Services

Stay tuned for future articles recognizing these individuals for 25 years of service to Middlebury.

25 Years @ Midd with Susan Perkins

25 Year Club, For Faculty, For Staff, middpoints

mountain s perkinsIn this post we recognize Susan Perkins, the Academic Dept. Coordinator for the Psychology Department, for her 25 years of service to Middlebury. Susan shares with us her favorite hobbies, the love she has for her family, and some of her fondest Middlebury memories. Read on to learn more about Midd from Susan’s point of view

What did you do prior to work at Middlebury College and where were you located?
My husband (Gary) and I were co-managers at Lazarus Department Store from 1984-1990. We worked alongside my mother, Helen Haerle, who purchased the store and the brick building (now the National Bank) from Stan Lazarus. We have lived in Weybridge, since 1980.

What job titles have you held while working at Middlebury?
During the last 25 years: Biology Department Administrative Associate (1990-1996); Assistant to the Director of Academic Facilities Planning (1996-1998); Assistant in Academic Administration (1998-2004); Assistant to the VPAA/Provost (2004-2009); Department Coordinator for Psychology & Geography (2009-2014); Department Coordinator for Psychology (2014-present).

I also worked at the college a bit, prior to 1984: Assistant Department Secretary for Political Science and Sociology-Anthropology (1982, temporary P/T); Department Secretary for Religion, Philosophy, and Teacher Education (1982-83, temporary P/T); and Department Secretary for Political Science and Sociology-Anthropology (1983-84, permanent P/T).

Take us back to your first year as an employee at the College. What were the most significant things happening in your life outside of work then?
In 1990, the most significant things happening in my life revolved around our family. Our son, Bryon, was in 7th grade in Middlebury; and our daughter, Mandy was in 6th grade in Weybridge. My husband and I were both starting new careers (within 2 weeks of each other!) after deciding the clothing retail world was not going to be the best fit for us–no pun intended. J

What are the most significant things happening in your life outside of work now (that you’d like to share)?
The most significant things happening in my life right now are still with our family! We have 3 grandsons (Tyler-8, Dylan-7, and Rowan—born on 6/2/15…just about the time we were leaving the 25-year Club Induction Reception!) Gary and I also took a “once-in-a-lifetime” trip to the south island of New Zealand (March 2015) where we backpacked, bicycled, white-water rafted, and kayaked.

Have your interests/hobbies/athletic endeavors changed over the past 25 years? Have any of these been influenced by your work at the College or due to your association with others who work here?
I first learned to love yoga, when I took classes offered by a current student at the time, Zubin Mistri. I also have participated in the American Cancer Society “Relay for Life” event, from the beginning when student, Ross Lieb-Lappen, organized the first very successful event at Middlebury College.

What is your fondest memory or experience that you’ve had while working at Middlebury?
Some of my fondest memories are from the old Science Center. When Joyce McAllister retired as the Chemistry Dept Coordinator, the staff in the building had a going away lunch for her. We decided at that lunch that we should try to get together more often…not just when someone leaves the college. So, from that point on (~1992), the Science Center staff started having monthly lunches–we called ourselves the “McAllister Group” in honor of Joyce. Our beloved friend/colleague, Ann Broughton (Physics & Geography Coordinator), kept the lunches going with regularity through about 2006. There are very few members of the original group still around, but the MBH version of the McAllister Group still tries to get together once or twice a year.

Many people change jobs/careers multiple times in their working life. Something must have kept you here for 25 years. Is it anything that you can put into words?
I’ve always enjoyed the positions that I’ve had, the people that I’ve worked with, the students I’ve gotten to know, and the friendships I’ve formed. I’ve always been treated with respect and felt like the people around me appreciated my work.

What are your plans for the next 25 years?
mountain 2 s perkinsI plan to retire sometime within the next 10 years, so I have more time to spend with my husband, our children, and our grandchildren. Some of my pipe-dreams are to further explore the US and Canada with my husband— I’d like to travel cross-country once on our motorcycles, once on our bicycles, and at least once with our grandchildren (in a car)! We’d also like to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail, and maybe the John Muir Trail…and who knows what else!

Do you have a favorite place on campus?
One of my favorite places is to sit in the Adirondack chairs on the lawn surrounding Hadley Barn—it’s a beautiful, quiet, relaxing spot. I also love looking out my office window or the Great Hall to the Adirondack Mountains.

Is there any person on campus (or retiree, former employer) that mentored you, or you feel helped you grow into your job, grow to enjoy your work and your time at the College?
I have been lucky to have a number of mentors here: Randy Landgren, Jim Larrabee, Michael Geisler, Alison Byerly, Tim Spears, and each of the department chairs that I’ve had over the years. They each have helped me grow, and given me the confidence to achieve higher goals.

25 Years @ Midd with John Quesnel

25 Year Club, For Faculty, For Staff, middpoints

john qIn this post we recognize John Quesnel, Receiver for Retail Food Operations, for his 25 years of service to Middlebury. John shares with us the source of his fondest Middlebury memories, some advice on success at Middlebury, and the person that influenced him the most here. Read on to learn more about Midd from John’s point of view.

What did you do prior to work at Middlebury College and where were you located?
Before Middlebury College I worked for 20 years in Aviation. I worked for my father Alphonse Quesnel at Middlebury airport. There I got all my pilot certificates: Commercial Pilot, single and multi-engine land, single Engine Sea, and instrument airplane as well as flight instructor in all categories. I also obtained my FAA mechanics ratings Airframe and power plant. I did flight instruction, Charter pilot and crop dusting duties. I also did some aviation mechanics. Later I took over the duties of State Airport Manager of the Middlebury and Rutland airports. I filled this role until late 80’s when we sold all of our aviation assets in Vermont.

What job titles have you held while working at Middlebury?
At Middlebury I have held catering truck driver, prep cook, receiver, receiver/inventory control clerk.

Take us back to your first year as an employee at the College. What were the most significant things happening in your life outside of work then?
When I first started at Middlebury I had been involved in general aviation all my adult life. I had been successful in aviation and wanted to see if I could look for a career that wasn’t as dependent on my medical health. At that time I wasn’t sure if this was a good fit or not, but would be a good career to fall back on as Aviation is dependent on passing a FAA Medical exam.

What are the most significant things happening in your life outside of work now (that you’d like to share)?
Today most of our activities revolve around friends and family. My immediate family and a good share of our relatives live within walking distance of our home. Many weekends there are many family members and friends at the house.

Have your interests/hobbies/athletic endeavors changed over the past 25 years? Have any of these been influenced by your work at the College or due to your association with others who work here?
Most of my interests have remained the same over the years. Middlebury hasn’t affected or changed my hobbies. Boating, Fishing, Hunting, and generally all outdoor activities still take up most of my spare time.

What is your fondest memory or experience that you’ve had while working at Middlebury?
My fondest memories connect to time I spent at Broadleaf campus. The rustic setting and gorgeous mountain aesthetics made my time there enjoyable.

Many people change jobs/careers multiple times in their working life. Something must have kept you here for 25 years. Is it anything that you can put into words?
The People that I came in contact with and the ever changing atmosphere has kept my interest over the years. Every day has been a new adventure.

What are your plans for the next 25 years?
I plan to stay at Middlebury as long as I can still be productive in my position. I am not a person that can easily relax into a full retirement role.

Do you have a favorite place on campus?
If I had to pick one place it would have to be Breadloaf Campus. The Rustic setting and Mountain views made my time there most enjoyable.

Is there any person on campus (or retiree, former employer) that mentored you, or you feel helped you grow into your job, grow to enjoy your work and your time at the College?
The person that has influenced me the most would have to be Rodney Degray. Rodney decided to give me a chance at a position at the Snow Bowl that I literally had no background in at all, having spent my whole adult life in the field of aviation. And no food service experience of any kind. This was a complete change in direction. The first few weeks were quite the trip. My supervisor after about two weeks was taken ill and Rodney informed that I was now in charge. Rodney was able to come up with all tips and information to get us through this period.

If you could give one piece of advice to a new employee at Middlebury, what would it be? Middlebury is a great place to work at. But patience here is a virtue. Things don’t always move at the pace you would like. If you do your best things will work out.

Is there anything else that you would like to share about your time at Middlebury?
Over the past 25 years I have made many friends here at Middlebury. The experience and friendship will last long after my time here at Middlebury.

25 Years @ Midd with Erin Quinn

25 Year Club, For Faculty, For Staff, middpoints

In this post we recognizequinn Erin Quinn, Director of Athletics, for his 25 years of service to Middlebury. Erin shares with us the variety of roles that he has held over the years, his fondest Middlebury memories, and some advice to new employees. Read on to learn more about Midd from Erin’s point of view.

What did you do prior to work at Middlebury College and where were you located?

I was the head men’s lacrosse coach and football defensive coordinator at Lake Forest College in Illinois.

What job titles have you held while working at Middlebury?

Assistant Football Coach, Assistant Men’s Lacrosse Coach, Head Men’s Lacrosse Coach, Director of Athletics

Take us back to your first year as an employee at the College. What were the most significant things happening in your life outside of work then?

Pam and I were married in my first summer back at Middlebury!

What are the most significant things happening in your life outside of work now (that you’d like to share)?

My kids attending Middlebury College. Hannah is a junior at Middlebury College, and Connor is a senior at MUHS who will attend Middlebury in the fall of 2016 after a gap year.

Have your interests/hobbies/athletic endeavors changed over the past 25 years? Have any of these been influenced by your work at the College or due to your association with others who work here?

When I first arrived here I did not participate in many outdoor activities. Over my 25 years I have done downhill and cross country skiing, snow shoeing, hiking, kayaking, etc. Lots of friends and colleagues participating in these activities encouraged me to do so. I also started doing Tai Chi with Professor Dana Yeaton and local alumnus Tom O’Connor over 20 years ago and have enjoyed getting back into this the past few year after some years off.

What is your fondest memory or experience that you’ve had while working at Middlebury?

Professionally I had an amazing coaching career, working with great colleagues and amazing students, and it was gratifying and humbling to be named Director of Athletics 9 years ago. Personally my fondest memory is my kids growing up in and around Middlebury.

Many people change jobs/careers multiple times in their working life. Something must have kept you here for 25 years. Is it anything that you can put into words?

Great colleagues in Athletics and in many other departments on campus, as well as working with amazing students, and we live in a great community.

What are your plans for the next 25 years?

Well, certainly for the foreseeable future I hope to be the Director of Athletics, hopefully improving as I go.

Do you have a favorite place on campus?

I am privileged to work in Athletics, so I work in a pretty spectacular place on campus, but I would always prefer to be outside when possible, so I am going to go with any number of tee boxes on the golf course on a sunny day.

Is there any person on campus (or retiree, former employer) that mentored you, or you feel helped you grow into your job, grow to enjoy your work and your time at the College?

My Middlebury College football coach, Mickey Heinecken, whom I also worked with in my coaching career was and continues to be a tremendous mentor.

If you could give one piece of advice to a new employee at Middlebury, what would it be?

It may not be for everyone, but our family has benefitted from a full immersion in Middlebury College and the community. Work and family have blurred lines over my career. Along with Pam, I have tried to be involved in the local community. This choice can be fairly consuming and there is no escape from Middlebury, but it has worked for us!

Is there anything else that you would like to share about your time at Middlebury?

It has been a blessing to be here for the past 25 years, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be able to do the work I do, and particularly to have worked with so many great people in Athletics and all over campus.

 

The 25 Year Club Inductees of 2015

25 Year Club, For Faculty, For Staff, middpoints

Congratulations to the 25 Year Club inductees!

Carole Cavanaugh, Japanese Studies

Norman Cushman, Facilities Services

Edward DeMatties, Facilities Services

Emmie Donadio, Museum of Art

Julie Hoyenski, Events Management

Christopher Klyza, Political Science

Jodi Litchfield, Student Accessibility

Susan Perkins, Psychology

John Quesnel, Retail Food Operations

Erin Quinn, Athletics

Sunder Ramaswamy, Office of the President

Allison Rimmer, Theatre

Timothy Spears, Academic Affairs

Michael Wakefield, Facilities Services

Stay tuned for future articles recognizing these individuals for 25 years of service to Middlebury.