Retirement Reception Honors Three Esteemed Scholars

The Department of Statistics recently thanked and bid farewell to three esteemed faculty members who, together, have served the department for over 100 years: Dr. Jacqueline Hughes-Oliver, Dr. Thomas Reiland, and Dr. Marcia Gumpertz. The retirement reception, held on April 17, 2024, served as a poignant testament to the profound impact these individuals have had on both their field and the countless lives they’ve touched throughout their remarkable careers.

Dr. Jacqueline Hughes-Oliver, a cherished member of the department for 33 years, was hailed for her profound contributions to statistical research and mentorship. Dr. Thomas Reiland, whose tenure spanned an extraordinary 46 years, stood as a beacon of knowledge, leaving an indelible mark on generations of students and colleagues alike. Meanwhile, Dr. Marcia Gumpertz, whose tenure surpassed 20 years, was celebrated for her invaluable insights and dedication to statistics and her work to improve the climate for diverse faculty across campus and to increase the representation of women and minority faculty in fields where these groups have been traditionally underrepresented.

The retirement reception brought together a remarkable number of current and former faculty, staff, and students, all eager to pay homage to these renowned scholars. Department Head Kimberly Sellers served as emcee, welcoming everyone to the occasion and leading the festivities. She opened the occasion sharing touching reflections on the retirees’ legacies, underscoring their invaluable contributions to the department’s growth and success. 

Other distinguished speakers included Dean Lewis Owen of the College of Sciences, who lauded the exceptional contributions of the retirees to the academic community. Longtime colleague, Dr. Dennis Boos, outlined the accomplishments of each of our honorees in their expansive careers. Former colleague, Dr. Bill Swallow, who served as a PhD advisor to Dr. Hughes-Oliver as a graduate student, delivered heartfelt remarks, reflecting on their shared journey and the profound impact of her work. Dr. Len Stefanski, former department head and long-standing professor, took the podium to engage the audience with captivating stories, and amusingly seized the opportunity to return a tape dispenser left by Thom in a previous desk, decades ago. Dr. Jean Ristaino, a consultant who collaborated closely with Dr. Gumpertz, offered touching anecdotes and heartfelt gratitude for their partnership. Remarks from former Department Heads, Dr. Sastry Pantula and Dr. Montse Fuentes (both read by Dr. Sellers), complemented the in-person remarks, reaffirming the deep bonds shared among the department faculty and providing a beautiful reminder of the enduring impact of the leadership and vision from our honorees.

As the evening drew to a close, amidst laughter and fond memories, there was a palpable sense of gratitude for the immeasurable impact of these remarkable individuals. While their professional accomplishments are undeniably impressive, it is their unwavering dedication, mentorship, and genuine warmth that will be most dearly missed.

In bidding farewell to Dr. Jacqueline Hughes-Oliver, Dr. Thomas Reiland, and Dr. Marcia Gumpertz, the Department of Statistics not only honors their remarkable careers but also celebrates the profound legacy they leave behind—one of scholarship, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to the pursuit of knowledge. Please click here to see a gallery of the photos from the festivities.