29

A young, impressionable professor made his debut at The University of Tampa (UT) in the Fall of 1990. He was brash, a tad self absorbed, and driven to excel in the classroom that was his stage.

The young struggle with any element of success when failure has been the historical protocol.

That was 28 years ago. The self absorbed arrogance has given way to a seasoned professional. Today, he is more driven by the success of his students than any personal accolades. This teacher is yours truly.

Tomorrow, I start my 29th year at UT. As I look back in the rear view mirror, I am humbled by the multitude of messages I have received from former students. They claim that I touched their lives. They have no idea how they have changed mine.

I love UT. They gave me a home. They helped me raise and educate my children. They gave me a shoulder when I lost loved ones. We laughed and cried together on more than one occasion. The Spartan spirit flows in my veins. I am fiercely protective of this special place. It is home. And these are my people.

I spent most of the day today, lost in my own head, reflecting on my journey. Thinking about the impact of life long friendships with incredibly talented and brilliant educators. Expressing gratitude to my beautiful wife, and my children, who have been my rock. Not sure I would be where I am without all these good people. It’s been an emotional day, to say the least.

28 years seems so long ago, but it went by so fast. Maybe that is one indicator that it has been one hell of a ride. I know in my heart, I am just getting started. With God’s good grace, the best is yet to come. Cheers to what lies ahead.