Apirl Phillips, administrative coordinator, has officially retired. Phillips has worked at UT Knoxville for 34 years, with different titles such as office supervisor and administrative supervisor. EPC celebrated at her retirement party on September 15, 2017. We asked her some questions about her retirement. Read her responses below.
“During my time at UT, I have worked with so many wonderful staff, faculty and students. I won’t miss IRIS much at all, but I sure will miss not seeing my great co-workers on a regular basis after I retire. They are truly treasures.”
How long have you been with EPC??
I’ve been with the department for a total of 26 years as it has gone through four transformations over the years: the Educational and Counseling Psychology Department, the Psychoeducational Studies Unit, the Educational Psychology Department, and finally the Educational Psychology and Counseling Department.
What are some of the substantial changes you witnessed during your time here?
The impact of technology has been the biggest change, by far. My first position at UT in 1983 was an entry-level secretary, and I used a typewriter and carbon paper to type letters, forms and reports. I thought I’d died and gone to heaven when I got a personal computer! Also, nearly every form and transaction at UT has changed from using a paper-based process to using an electronic process.
Do you have any memorable moments you would like to share?
I have many memorable moments that I look back upon fondly, some with a tear and some with a chuckle. However, the majority of my most memorable moments aren’t suitable for printing! They are THAT good.
What are you retirement plans?
My mother who is 89, lives in Ocala, Florida. I plan to spend a lot more time with her than I’ve been able to in the past. And, my husband and I are looking forward to spending more time together, traveling and doing home renovations, landscaping and gardening…and drinking Margaritas and eating Mexican food much more often than we now do!