The End of an Era

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Three stalwarts of The University of Tampa, retired today.
Judi, Jim and Mary Anne served the university for a combined 86 years. Jim gave 43 years of his life to teach students, impact lives, and grow an institution from a sapling to an institution of stature. That kind of loyalty in today’s jet set world is refreshing.

These friends, and members of our academic family, have shaped our culture and impacted the lives of thousands of students. Their wisdom will resonate for years after they leave these hallowed halls. We will reminisce and tell their stories to a future generation of students.

As I looked around the crowded room, charged with emotional energy, I realized I had quietly become one of the ‘old guys’. Twenty six years at The University of Tampa, and still counting. I will miss these good people. It is now my job to keep the flame of our culture, alive. Time to get to work.

About Hemant Rustogi

An award-winning teacher at The University of Tampa, an entrepreneur, a CEO and founding principal of Advantage Pointe Internationale, and blogger on 5oclockreflections.com.