After more than 35 years of service, Ruth Aparicio, administrative support coordinator for the Department of Philosophy, has announced her retirement. Her last day on campus will be Tuesday, Dec. 23.

Ruth started work on campus in August 1990 as a temporary employee in the Graduate Studies division and was soon hired as full-time staff. She later moved to the Department of Linguistics for several years, and then to philosophy for the past 25 years.

Her favorite part of working on campus has been supporting the annual commencement ceremonies, where she gets the opportunity to celebrate students and welcome their families. She said she fondly recalls the past philosophy graduations the most, where each of the department’s several dozen graduates had an opportunity to speak, making the gathering feel more personal and intimate.

She has also enjoyed having her office next to “The Phil Zone” – the space also known as the philosophy conference room – where she could work with students as they come through, hear their conversations and be part of their community.

Dr. Veena Howard, chair of the Philosophy Department, said Ruth will be missed terribly.

“It is hard to imagine the department office without her,” Howard said. “We congratulate Ruth on her retirement and wish her many enjoyable and relaxing years to come.”

Philosophy student Jayson Gonzalez said, “Ruth makes us feel at home.”

“Ruth is a perpetually cheerful presence in the department, and the students will miss her,” said Arman Arora, another philosophy student.

In retirement, Ruth plans to spend more time with her husband and their cats. Join us in wishing her the best and sharing a slice of cake from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12 in the Music Building foyer.