A Farewell to Remember

4 generations of O-Team

Today was my official farewell party at Trinity...a midweek sendoff in anticipation of my final day on Friday. It was a truly special occasion marked by a few unique moments to make it memorable.

Dean Tuttle kicked things off by sharing some of the comments he made during my reference check. Simply put, he told my new boss that I was man with all the qualities of a good woman. I still can't tell if I should be offended...and if so, for myself or for the entire female population. All I can say is my interview must have been amazing to overcome such "thoughtful" remarks.

Then, the Campus & Community Involvement staff that I had supervised at one time or another usurped my brilliant (and also stolen) habit of writing a memo to a departing staff member's new boss...except they chose to direct their comments to my new staff. While their prose seemed to highlight my multitude of supervisory quirks, deep down (I mean, way deep down) I could tell their words hid a deep sense of loss and personal misery as they imagine life without me. No really.

After that came the sincere remarks, you know the stuff I paid people to say. A couple of weeks ago, I asked Kara Shervanick to weep openly at the reception, and she, being so method, has been tearing up ever since. In all seriousness, some of the kindest, most moving things were said across the next few minutes, and I am humbled and honored that they were directed my way. I will treasure those words forever.

And to close things out, the Trinitones and AcaBellas graced everyone present with a few songs. It's no secret that I am a big fan of both these groups, and it was a lot of fun to hear them sing one last time. The AcaBellas performed an especially moving rendition of Rascal Flatts' "My Wish." The Trinitones sang songs that each referenced...hmmm, how shall I put this...engaging in intimate relations with the opposite sex. I'm just...gonna leave that alone.

Of course, I was offered the chance to say a few words, and y'all know, I've never turned that opportunity down. Unfortunately, I can't remember half of what I said, but I am sure I spoke about the specialness of this place, my friendships with the faculty and staff, and the incredible privilege it is to work with our students.

No matter what I said, I am sure my words failed to convey the level of gratitude I feel towards all who have crossed my path during my time at Trinity. I am fortunate to have this great new opportunity at Birmingham-Southern, but I am fully aware of the blessing these past six years have been. I am the professional and person I am today because of the positive impact Trinity and its community has had on my life.

I am a lucky man, my friends.