Congratulations to Wake Forest’s 2024-25 retirees

The end of the semester brings many reasons to celebrate, including the annual Retiree Luncheon, a cherished tradition to honor faculty and staff members retiring from the University.

This year, the event was held on May 14 in partnership with Human Resources, the Office of the Provost, and the Retiree Association Steering Committee. Wake Forest University’s 14th President, Dr. Susan Wente, gave a warm opening to welcome friends and colleagues to the celebration.

“Today is a day to honor your remarkable contributions and express our profound gratitude,” President Wente said. “Every member of our university community plays a vital role in our success. Our people are the heart of Wake Forest — your efforts have shaped the experiences of countless students and enabled this university to become the exceptional institution it is today.”

Faculty and staff members were recognized for their years of commitment, and to honor them, the Rev. K. Monet Rice brought a parlor palm plant on stage, watering it and reassuring retirees that their colleagues will continue to nurture their contributions to the University.

“You have worked and soon you will rest,” Rice said. “We, those who love you and have worked with you, will water your work. The Forest still grows; we are evidence that you were here.”

To recognize the individual honorees in attendance, Provost Michele Gillespie and EVP and CFO Jacqueline Travisano, Ed.D., read short remarks. In all, the retiree community welcomed nearly 50 new members, whose service at WFU adds up to more than 1,160 collective years. 

Jack Rejeski is the group’s longest-serving faculty honoree with 46 years of dedication to Wake Forest. Rejeski acted as a Research Professor with the Department of Health and Exercise Science. The two longest-serving staff members tied with 36 years of service. Both Pattie McGill and Robert Fisher were a steadfast presence at the University; Fisher served as Corporal of the University Police and McGill acted as an Administrative Assistant in the Chaplain’s Office.

The ceremonial palm plant has been relocated to the Office of the Chaplain; Wake Foresters are invited to stop by and water the plant to honor their colleagues and remember their ongoing legacy.

Read the full list of the 2024-25 retirees and view the event gallery in Human Resources’ recent photo story.