Hello good people,
Today, I began the second week of my retirement, and just as I did when I began my role at NASPA as executive director, I wrote out goals for myself. The goals are for one year, and I’ve been working hard as if I’m racing against a clock to get them done because someone told me that people have all of these plans for when they retire, and they never get around to doing what they said they would do.
So far I have been disciplined about the way I’m using my time. I’m working with NASPA on some parts of the strategic plan particularly around international interests, and I’m continuing NASPA’s work with AAC&U on civic learning and democratic engagement among other ongoing partnerships. I’m looking forward to having more time for writing and speaking. One thing I’m determined to do is continue my commitment to promoting the contributions of student affairs to the academic aims of higher education and the personal development needs of students of all ages. Because of this, I will continue to communicate my thoughts and welcome feedback in order to keep learning and growing. To me retirement is not stopping; it’s getting a second wind.
Gwen Dungy 