This fall (2007) I am starting my 31’ year of being a faculty member at Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan. I came here as an instructor of French in the Department of Modem Foreign Languages in 1971 after being in Austin for five years during which time I finished my MA and PhD at UT-Austin. Actually I was ABU when I first came to Michigan and finished my doctoral thesis during the first two years that I was here. During these many ensuing years, I have been through all the ranks of fill-time faculty, served over 20 years as department chair, and more recently have attempted to rid myself of most committee work and to concentrate on the teaching role which has always been my preference.

I anticipate that I will likely retire in spring 2009 in order to enjoy “the fruits of my labor” and to have more time to travel during the less-than-wonderful winter months in the Great Lakes State. Because I am an avid gardener (of blooming annuals and perennials, not vegetables) and have a large yard and garden surrounding my house, I generally stay at home during the growing season (May through October in this part of the country) in order to pursue that passion. Having more free time during other seasons will be a pleasure.

Please give my best regards to our fellow classmates after all these years. I am sorry not to be able to participate in the festivities.