The Valdosta State University Retirees Association welcomed Dr. Kelli Brown, interim president, to its Thursday, Aug. 18, meeting. Brown reflected on her career path into higher education and the mentors who encouraged and guided her along the way. She shared the story of how she and her husband made the decision to move south, which resulted in valuable professional experiences at the University of South Florida, the University of Florida, and Georgia College and State University, where she served as provost and vice president for academic affairs, and she explained how her original goal of college teaching gradually shifted toward administration, which she has found to be especially enjoyable and rewarding. She then discussed her commitment to improving student retention at VSU and celebrating the many innovative programs thriving on campus. The VSU Retirees Association strives to help faculty and staff maintain their connection to the university throughout retirement by providing opportunities for them to remain involved in campus life and to serve as a resource to current faculty, staff, and students, as well as alumni.