Last weekend, Ligia and I spent time with Bob and Patti Forman at their home in Punta Gorda, FL. Bob has been a friend, mentor, and inspiration to me since I met him in the summer of 1978 at a CASE (Council for the Advancement and Support of Education) and alumni institute…..alumni boot camp for rookies. I was freshly appointed alumni director at my alma mater, Bradley University. Meeting Bob and other senior (well, not old, but experienced) alumni professionals I felt as if I arrived at home after a long trip. Here were people who cared as much as I did about education, loved their alma mater, and found a job that would pay me to dedicate myself to both….what were they thinking!? After having spent 4-5 years in admissions work, this solidified for me that I would never make much money, but I would be happy and fulfilled being a part of the academy….and for the next 13 years, that would be the case.
Bob and Patti will depart soon for Switzerland to celebrate his 80th birthday with their family. As we shared good wine and willingly suffered Bob’s non sequitur’s throughout the weekend, I was reminded that I was one of a long line of alumni professionals that were provided perspective, insight, and wisdom from Bob over the years. I recalled the many instances when upon return from a CASE or CAAE (Council of Alumni Association Executives) conference I was invigorated with ideas, confidence, and renewed energy for my work. Then it struck me that similar situations were occurring all over the country at various colleges and universities….all gaining from Bob’s thoughts and observations about the role of alumni within Higher Education in America. So….a toast to Bob for his birthday and legacy. We owe him much.
psuper 