Dean Diedrich's Farewell Reception

Carol Diedrichs’ farewell reception was held in the Great Hall of the King Library Building. The large room was filled to capacity with well-wishers, including many of Carol’s co-workers at the library as well as colleagues from other parts of the university and library supporters from around the state. The food and drink was bountiful and delicious, including roast beef sandwiches, cake, and hot cider. A string duo provided musical entertainment for the crowd.

Terry Birdwhistell, who served as Master of Ceremonies, was the first to speak. He listed many of Carol’s accomplishments – from toughening the promotion and tenure standards to overseeing the opening of the Hub. He kidded her about going to “The Ohio State” from “The University of Kentucky.”

Provost Kumble R. Subbaswamy spoke next. He joked to Carol that she was taking a “demotion” by going to Ohio State. He went on to praise Carol’s leadership, saying the search committee would have a difficult time finding someone as good as her.

It was then University President Lee Todd’s turn to speak. He praised Carol for expertly managing the Library in tough economic times. He recalled fondly the time they spent together at the beginning of both of their careers here at UK, riding together on a tour bus throughout the state of Kentucky.

Next, Judy Sackett presented Carol with a going-away present – a book filled with pictures of the UK Libraries buildings and staff. After thanking Judy, Carol spoke, calling the moment “bittersweet,” saying she was sad to leave Kentucky and all her friends, but she was going to her “dream job.” She thanked Lee Todd and Mike Nietzel for “giving her a chance” at her first Dean’s job. She also thanked the Executive Committee, saying it was a pleasure to work with them.

(Above Photo: L to R, Dean Carol Diedrichs with President Lee T. Todd. Photo taken by Lewis Warden)