Retirement Spotlights
Lee Ann Nightingale '04/M'12
When you think back on your time at Frostburg State, what memories immediately come to mind?
There are so many great memories it is hard to pick one; my favorite events were volunteering at all the graduation ceremonies. Graduation is always a great time of celebration for students and their families.
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Was there a student, colleague or moment on campus that really left a lasting impression on you?
The one that has left the most lasting impression on me was when I interviewed for and was offered the position of Benefits Manager by Kathy Snyder '75/M'85. This new opportunity allowed me to help so many employees during my professional career in Human Resources. Using the Tuition Remission benefit allowed me to reach a personal goal to complete the UG and MBA programs and qualify for the position in HR. In turn I was able to use my education and personal skills to give back to so many employees throughout my career as the Benefits Manager.
FSU has changed a lot over the years. What's one change that stands out most to you?
I moved to Frostburg in 1977 from the Philadelphia area - it is amazing to look back to see how the campus has grown over the years. FSU is such an important part of the community and offers so many great ways for people to connect with FSU. Over the years the new buildings and athletic fields have added to the beauty of the campus.
What's something you'll miss most about being part of the Frostburg community?
I will miss the daily interaction with all my co-workers and other campus employees. I was truly honored to be part of the lives of so many employees and retirees as I helped them in the realm of benefits.
Now that retirement has arrived, what are you most excited about next?
I now have more time to spend with my husband, my daughter and her family and also work on many sewing and quilting projects. I am secretary of the Schoolhouse Quilters’ Guild in Cumberland, Md., and I will have more time to work on activities and projects with the local guild. I will also have time to volunteer with the Union Rescue Mission as opportunities open up to serve others.
Mark Williams
When you think back on your time at Frostburg State, what memories immediately come to mind?
Most of my memories are about the work we did on campus. Dean Bolden and I remodeled most of Hitchins and worked on several residence halls, along with countless other projects over the years. Those projects and the people I worked with are what stand out most.
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Was there a student, colleague or moment on campus that really left a lasting impression on you?
I've always had a great relationship with Dr. Tom Bowling, and I still see him often. I also enjoyed working in the Stangle Building and with the student helpers in the grounds department. I used to joke with them that I “used and abused them!” It was all in good fun. They were hardworking students. It was a pleasure working alongside so many people across campus.
FSU has changed a lot over the years. What's one change that stands out most to you?
The transition to Division II athletics was a good change for the University. I was fortunate to work with a lot of great people over the years, and we completed a lot of improvements across campus. The growth of turf athletic fields, the Nursing program and the Education building are a few of the developments that stand out to me.
What's something you'll miss most about being part of the Frostburg community?
Without a doubt, the people. I enjoy being on campus, talking with coworkers and friends. I've built some good friendships throughout many campus departments, and they made coming to work enjoyable. I'll especially miss traditions like the annual retirees' Thanksgiving lunch and reconnecting with former coworkers I haven’t seen in years.
Now that retirement has arrived, what are you most excited about next?
My wife recently retired as well, so we're looking forward to spending more time together. We have plans for boating, camping and plenty of travel in the years ahead, and we're excited to see where the road takes us.
Jacqueline Brown
Jackie Brown with Roper Gallery director April Pauza (left) and recent BFA graduates.
When you think back on your time at Frostburg State, what memories immediately come to mind?
FSU has been a part of my life for 37 years. I have been able to create a ceramics program with great facilities in that time. I have worked with our own FSU students and also an amazing group of our Frostburg community members to create a space of learning, laughter and fun!
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Was there a student, colleague or moment on campus that really left a lasting impression on you?
I have formed relationships with many students and faculty over the years. Each one of these people has left a lasting impression on me. I am fortunate to have crossed paths with these students and faculty; my life is so much richer because of these contacts.
FSU has changed a lot over the years. What's one change that stands out most to you?
Our campus has grown in terms of buildings and programs. The one thing that remains constant is our beautiful landscaping and grounds. We are fortunate to work in these stunning surroundings daily.
What's something you'll miss most about being part of the Frostburg community?
Daily contact with colleagues and art students in the Fine Arts Building. Office hours filled with discussions and problem solving. I will not miss the endless meetings!
Now that retirement has arrived, what are you most excited about next?
That's a hard one to answer. Continuing to produce artwork is one thing I will continue to do. I will hopefully teach a couple of classes part time for awhile. So, I will not be completely gone!
I do want to give a shout out to all the students, faculty and staff I have met in my 37-year journey at FSU, especially those lovely people who reached out during the recent loss of my husband, Damon Newcomb. That support is what makes FSU so special and unique. FSU has been my family for a long time. I hope to remain in contact with those who have made those years so special and impactful.