Tyler Junior College recently honored 15 retiring employees, who collectively totaled 395 years of service at TJC.
“We talk a lot about our beautiful campus and buildings, but what really makes this place special is the people who work here,” said TJC Chancellor and CEO Dr. Mike Metke, who will also retire at the end of June, after 12 years at TJC.
He added, “We congratulate these fine individuals for a job very well done, and we sincerely thank them for their years of service to our College.”
Retirees are:
• Jan Adams, 24 years, curriculum and compliance assessment specialist
• Gloria Brooks, 43 years, English professor
• Cheryl Dodson, 13 years, biology laboratory specialist
• Diane Garrett, 42 years, administrative assistant for information technology
• Tamara Haynes, 14 years, visual communications professor
• Herbert Hayter, 5 years, campus police lieutenant
• Daisy LaRue, 18 years, international student admissions coordinator and admissions recruiter
• Dr. Kenneth Murphy, 16 years, dean of the School of Engineering, Mathematics and Sciences
• Rhey Nolan, 42 years, economics/government professor
• Frank Rucker, 48 years, economics professor
• Mary Scarborough, 22 years, business professor
• Carl Shotts, 25 years, director of information security
• Fran Starnes, 33 years, executive administrative assistant for the vice president for financial and administrative affairs and CFO
• Katherine Willingham, 17 years, computer information systems professor
• Sue Willis, 33 years, testing center manager
About TJC
Established in 1926, TJC serves more than 12,000 students per semester, and throughout its 93-year history, has embodied the true sense of the term “community.” The College has as a cornerstone the promises of a quality education, a vibrant student life and service to its communities.
TJC offers more than 130 degree and certificate options, extensive customized training and adult and continuing education, and opportunities for students to transfer to senior universities or to gain the skills needed to go directly into the workforce. The College has received legislative designation, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board approval, and accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools/Commission on Colleges, as an institution eligible to award baccalaureate degrees.
TJC features a 145-acre main campus and multiple branch locations, rigorous academics, 61 national athletic championships, stellar fine and performing arts programs, modern residential facilities, and organizations and clubs that promote student engagement and diversity. The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program has named TJC as one of the top 150 community colleges in the nation.