Ruth Henderson McQueen, President
UTIA Retirees Association
Dear Friends,
There is much excitement for the UTIA Retirees Association as we look forward to the next few months. The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture is celebrating its Golden Anniversary this year, and in 2019 the Retirees Association also will reach that Golden Anniversary milestone. There is a great deal to celebrate as we reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and anticipate the future.
It is an honor to be serving as president during this time. However, my job will be made easier because of the strong leadership that John Jared and the other recent officers have given to the organization. There is a strong team of state and regional officers in place and it is exciting to see all of the opportunities to continue involvement during retirement. Elsewhere in this newsletter, you will find information about fall gatherings across the state as well as Ag Day, which is scheduled for September 22.
Several months ago a Marketing and Communications staff member asked me about my history with the University of Tennessee. Without even thinking about it, the first words out of my mouth were, “I am the product of the land-grant university system.” My involvement started as a fifth grade 4-H member at Philadelphia Grammar School in Loudon County, and that led to UT Knoxville and then a career with UT Extension. In future issues I hope to share my observations on the benefits of the land-grant mission and some of the people who had a profound impact on my life. At this point, it will suffice to say that the goal for land-grant institutions to provide education to the average rural person was accomplished. It is also my observation that the need for teaching, research, and Extension have not diminished over the last 150-plus years since the inception of land-grant institutions—but has increased.
Each member of this organization has benefitted from being involved with UTIA, and there is no limit to continued involvement. Many strong relationships and friendships were forged during the years that we worked together and it is good to stay connected. I look forward to seeing and visiting with many of you during the year ahead and wish you well.
Ruth