Senior Admin. Assistant retires 22 years strong
IN HONOR OF CONNIE MCCLAIN (JOSEPH ESPIRITU/LARIAT STAFF)
Senior Administrative Assistant, Connie McClain, retired after 22 years of work at Saddleback College. She spent 7.5 years in Business Science, the instruction side of the college and, 14 years in Student Development, the student services side of the college.
“In both settings I loved the opportunity to be around the students,” McClain said.
McClain decided she wants to spend extra time with her granddaughters leading to her decision to retire.
“I have two granddaughters: A four and a two-year old. They live in the Bay area and I want to be able to spend extra time with them before they start school,” McClain said.
McClain feels that the privilege of being in the position to watch students come through the Student Development office whether in clubs, organizations, or Associated Student Government, take on leadership roles and grow in their skills, are priceless.
“There are always new, young students progressing with their educational goals and older students advancing or changing their careers or perhaps taking enrichment classes,” she said.
“It is the best feeling when students come back after completing their bachelor’s or grad work, or to share family information of weddings and babies, or work successes,” McClain said.
Many students has stayed in contact with her via email and Facebook said McClain
Delainey Taylor, 19, elementary education, has worked with Connie for two months in her office and two years in student government.
“I’m going to miss Connie so much I really enjoyed working with her in the office because she is so up beat, kind, and positive,” Taylor said.
McClain was thrown a retirement party on Wednesday, Nov. 18 where there were many cheerful faces all around the room.
Over 50 people showed up to this event and everyone was served food and beverages including a cake with Connie’s name on it.
“Connie is the ASG mom figure, she is always caring and you can feel the love, and care from her,” said Marissa Greer, 18, linguistics.
At the party there was a slide show of pictures featuring Connie and retro music playing which added to the blissful atmosphere.
“Connie was always attentive to students, always helped us in anyway she possibly could,” Adam Williams, 21, ASG senator of fine arts.
At the party everyone around was sad she was leaving and stated she would truly be missed.
“It has been a difficult decision, but there are good people in the Student Development Office that will continue to serve the students well. I’ll have freedom of time and tons of good memories,” McClain said.
McClain is sure she will get involved with the Saddleback Retirees’ Group. She is also planning on taking more classes at the college.