Jim didn't want a traditional retirement party. "Too many greenhouse gas emissions, not to mention unwanted calories," he said. So instead we are having a Virtual Retirement Party - carbon neutral and heart healthy!

To celebrate, Jim wants all his colleagues and associates to post a good wish, photo or a memory to this blog. You can even ask Jim a question. Jim will reply to every post! (Jim will be the only person able to comment on messages after they are posted).

And while you're at it, Jim hopes you will consider a donation in his honor to his favorite charity, our own Talking Book and Braille Services.

Please submit your message before Jim retires on December 30, 2011. Include your name at the end of your message.

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

on Jim's retirement

Jim and Friends –

It is an honor and pleasure to share some thoughts about Jim Scheppke on his retirement. I don’t remember the details of my first meeting with Jim, but I do remember being immediately struck by his commitment, drive, and passion for our field and the role of libraries and librarians in society. Here was a kindred spirit—someone to partner with to champion libraries and librarians, to bring attention to the essential work we do, and to aim for excellence in every aspect. Jim continually challenged himself and by deed and argument he pushed us to break through limits, even in difficult times. Jim helped us to transform library education at the University of Washington, and I promised Jim that our iSchool was Oregon’s iSchool as well. Together, we greatly expanded the quality and reach of library education in the region, and we consider ourselves as part of the Oregon community. Today, approximately one-third of our online program is made up of Oregon students. Our iSchool is widely recognized as a national leader and Oregon and Jim Scheppke are central to that reputation.

There’s still more to do, of course. But Jim has shown the way and our future is secure as part of his legacy.

Thank you, Jim. It truly has been a privilege to know and work with you.

Best,

Mike Eisenberg
Dean Emeritus and Professor
The Information School (of the Northwest)

1 comment:

  1. Jim ScheppkeDecember 18, 2011 at 9:46 AM

    Thank you Mike. I'm so happy you came to my party and so appreciate your kind thoughts. The UW iSchool renaissance was one of the high points of my time in the NW and you're the man who made it happen. I am proud to have supported your efforts. I'd love to see you sometime when I'm in Seattle.

    Here's wishing you all the best!

    ReplyDelete

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)