Yes, I've taken the great leap. I opted for early retirement, left NKU, and am basking in the new-found freedom to undertake whatever public relations and communication projects I choose.

It's very likely that if I had followed my heart and returned to full-time teaching in the fall of 2006 instead of allowing myself to be talked into coordinating NKU's SACS reaffirmation (re-accreditation) project, I would still be at NKU enjoying academic life. But, ...  I didn't, and I'm not. I officially retired on Halloween day 2007.

My years at NKU were quite a ride from the opening of the Highland Heights campus, through a ten-year separation when I worked in Iowa, followed by my joyous return as chair of the Communication Department, and ending with the frustration of trying to prepare NKU for re-accreditation. There were ups. There were downs. There were laughs, and there were tears. There were even a few shreiks caused by delight, excitement, and terror. But, most of all, there were students and the satisfaction of being able to make a positive difference in their lives. I've been indelibly marked by my NKU experiences and the students with whom I've worked. I will forever remember and be grateful for them.

As I move on, but not necessarily away, I have books to read and, perhaps, to write; images to capture; multi-media programs to produce; workshops to teach; banjos to play; and exciting new projects to tackle. I also expect to remain active locally and, perhaps, internationally in the International Association of Business Communicators.

"Retirement doesn't mean I'm not working; it means I can now do what I want when I want to do it."