QCC Sends Off 2023 Retirees

In the simple words of former QCC employee Dr. James Brown, "Quinsigamond Community College is a great institution. I should know I spent 50 years here."

Brown stopped by QCC on May 18 to attend the annual Retirement Recognition Reception where retiring employees are recognized for their hard work and commitment over the years. 

"This year we are excited to honor 15 remarkable members of the QCC community who have collectively worked approximately 277 years at QCC. This is an exciting opportunity to recognize and celebrate our recently retiring colleagues. You're part of the heart of this institution," said QCC President Dr. Luis Pedraja. "I admire your commitment and dedication to our shared goals of providing affordable and accessible education to our students, and most importantly to student success. We'll miss you and your contributions."

President Pedraja also noted that employees can choose a donation in lieu of a retirement gift and this year's retirees collectively donated over $1,400 to the QCC Foundation scholarship fund. 

When reflecting on Portal Manager Dan McAuliffe, Director of Information Systems Derek Thomas emphasized the importance of family to Dan's life. 

"That's why he's become an important part of QCC because he treats everybody like family. He will be missed here," said Thomas.

Learning Manager of the Math Center Martha Upton praised former Director of TRIO Joseph Adams for this dedication to students, remembering an internship at Woods Hole that he secured for a student who was interested in science, as well as how he would personally walk students up to the Tutoring Center. 

 "It was my pleasure to know and worth with Joseph. So much of his work was done quietly without fanfare and those of you who know him know he worked very hard for his students," Upton said.

Staff Assistant to the VP of Administrative Services Liz Hanlan was lauded by Vice President of Administrative Services Steve Marini as the person everyone went to for support.

"She's had my back for so many years and prevented so many crises by being calm and confident. She is truly, universally loved by everyone," said Marini.

Associate Vice President of Finance Deb LaFlash fondly recalled her time working with Hanlan in student services and then later in the business office.

LaFlash commented, "She always had a smile on her face and she made you laugh. I couldn't do my job without her."

Dean of the School of Business, Engineering and Technology Betty Lauer sang the praise of CSET Lab Manager Ray Johnson, telling the crowd that many people didn't know Ray has an aerospace engineering degree from a top school in the United States and how he was so humble and made everyone feel comfortable.

"Anything that has been attributed to me should also be attributed to Ray. I'd have some idea and he'd be there to listen. He's so kind and wants to help everyone. At the end of May he's going to retire from QCC, but never going to retire from my list of who makes QCC work," Lauer said.

The full list of this year's retirees:

• Joseph Adams
• Mike Cline
• Margaret Gniadek
• Liz Hanlan
• Ray Johnson
• Susan Johnson
• Suzanne Kiniry
• Colleen Kirley
• Dan McAuliffe
• Paula McDonald
• Peg McGrath
• Dean Polnerow
• Marci Skillings
• Peggy Tata
• Laurie Teece