Thanks to everyone who stopped by my retirement celebration. I appreciated the baked good, cupcakes and fellowship! It was very therapeutic to hit the COVID piñata as well! Thanks also for those who sent texts and emails. I grew up at Virginia Western, both personally and professionally. I started here as the Student Activities Coordinator at the age of 26. Many things have changed since then and I am glad to be a part of it all. I am very appreciative of the personal connections that I made with the people that work here. This is a place that truly supports people. While I will not miss the work of the Dean of Student Affairs, I will miss the first day of classes, helping a student get their “perfect” schedule, trips with students to the Barter Theatre, Spring Fling and most importantly celebrating commencement. I truly hated that my last two commencements were virtual due to the coronavirus. Commencement was always my favorite work day of the year.

Keep up the good work Virginia Western. You make an impact on this community and on individuals. It was an honor to work here.

Lori Baker