Today is Jeanne’s birthday. It’s an important one as she begins a new decade. Last year she threw herself a huge party to celebrate “69 on 6/9,” then declared that she wanted no more birthday celebrations in the future. I am ignoring that edict, of course, and have something special planned for later in the day. I’ll tell you about it later this week.
This birthday coincides with the beginning of a new phase in Jeanne’s life as she retired from decades as a college admissions professional on the last working day of May, stepping down from her position recruiting and interviewing students for admission to veterinary school. I have posted annually about my love and admiration for my spouse and best friend–this year I’ll let others speak to her excellence as both a professional and a human being by copying and pasting just a few of the dozens of comments she received after announcing her retirement on her Facebook page.
Thank you Jeanne for believing in me and giving me a chance to follow my dreams! Forever grateful I had you as my interviewer. I’ll never forget your phone call to tell me I was accepted – you were just as excited as I was! Best of luck in your next adventure.
You’re the real MVP! I cannot thank you enough for your invaluable guidance and the waves of pure kindness you have shown me. I’m fortunate to have had you as my advocate, confidant, advisor and friend. Your worth is endless and I hope you take some time to truly enjoy your wonderful retirement.
You are the true champion! You forever left your mark on me. That interview into Ross changed my life. It was you who saw me when I would’ve counted myself out. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Well deserved retirement may it be filled with your dreams come reality!!!
Thank you for listening to the dreams of so many of us. We accept the charge to do better and be better. Thank you for having faith in us and helping us find our way in our journey. Enjoy your retirement and know impact of your special dedication and work has impacted the world!
You probably don’t remember, but you introduced me to Louise Penny. Gamache realized that one thing for which people are remembered is how they make you feel. You have a gift of seeing potential, and making people feel valued and worthwhile. What a wonderful legacy. Congratulations Jeanne!
An incredible journey of support and care for all you came in contact with. All who were fortunate enough to work with you are truly blessed from the connection. All the best for your ongoing journey and sending love and respect for all you have done and continue to achieve.
Congratulations on a wonderful career in which you selflessly dedicated yourself to helping others realize their hopes and dreams! May your next chapter bring you the same joy and fulfillment that you have made possible for so many of us!
Congratulations on your retirement and the beginning of a new chapter! What a remarkable legacy you leave behind — not just at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, but in the hearts of thousands whose lives you’ve touched. You are a true superstar. The guidance, compassion, and belief you’ve shown to countless aspiring veterinarians have made a profound impact. You’ve been more than an advisor — you’ve been a champion of dreams, a listener of hopes, and a voice of encouragement at pivotal moments. Thank you for your unwavering dedication to this noble profession and for inspiring so many to walk a path of service and compassion. Your legacy will live on through every animal healed, every life improved, and everyone who carries your kindness forward. Wishing you joy, peace, and endless adventure as you forge your new path.
And that’s just a small sample. With her stepping away from this position, Jeanne will now become a full-time seminary student at Luther Seminary seeking ordination in the Lutheran church. She’s off to a great start, earning an A+ in her first course while she was working full time. Look out Lutherans . . . a force of nature is coming your way!
In response to this picture that I posted from a family wedding we attended on Long Island last weekend, a friend from Colorado commented “You are soooooo lucky!” to which I responded “I know–she’s way out of my league!” I am indeed truly lucky–unlike Charlie Brown, I got the red-haired little girl! Happy birthday, my dear!
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