Celebration upcoming to celebrate Esther Harris' retirement

A celebration to celebrate the retirement of Esther Harris will take place at 5 p.m. Friday, May 21, at the Squalicum Boathouse in Bellingham.

Harris, who is currently working half-time at the College of Humanities and Social Sciences to help in the transition, was given the Presidential Exceptional Effort Award at the annual recognition ceremony May 4. Here's what was said about her during the presentation:

Many would agree, there are few individuals who have supported the academic mission of Western with such unflagging energy, keen intelligence, and professional acumen as Esther Harris.

As Assistant to the Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Esther supports 15 academic departments working tirelessly with each in providing leadership, support, and direction in significant contribution of the University and College mission. Her prowess has made possible the smooth and strong transition of the new college in its formation, and her outstanding leadership during the recent economic downturn in supporting a diverse array of needs from faculty, staff, and students has made the challenges that face the college, the seeds of her success.

Esther demonstrates and models the absolute highest of performance standards, a reason why much of her work has become the process that is adopted across the entire campus. With nearly half of all graduating students and the largest cadre of faculty across numerous disciplines, the demands on the Dean’s office could not be higher. To Esther, this is just another day at the office.