Looking back on thirty years at PSU:

On March 14, the department of Residential Life celebrated the retirement of Deb LeBlanc. Deb has been a member of the Res Life team here at PSU for over 33 years! A short interview reflects upon her experience at Plymouth State and what she is looking forward to in her retirement. 

The Clock: So, you've been working here for over 33 years, that's a long time. What kept you around all these years?

Deb LeBlanc: Lots, I moved here with my husband and it's a great community. I'm also very outdoorsy and enjoy the people and community at PSU.

TC: What were some of your best memories while working here?

DL: One of my favorites was chaperoning during an ASB trip 7 years ago. The alternative spring break program allowed me to travel to Georgia and visit a Rehab Center with the other participants. It was an awesome experience and a lot of fun. 

TC: What are some of your favorite aspects of PSU?

DL: Probably working with the students. My two sons grew up here and we just love it.

TC: Are there any advantages of working in Res Life?

DL: Interaction, it's such a unique department. It allows us much student interaction. We get to watch students grow and mature. There's a lot of emotional connection especially when you help a student deal with conflict involving living, it's a big factor of a student's experience.

TC: How well do you feel you were able to get to know the students?

DL: Through work, being able to participate in the ASB program, gave me the opportunity to live with some students and find out what they're all about. It was really cool; I know such a diversity of kids. 

TC: So do you wish you had done anything differently? 

DL: Not too much, maybe working outdoors and traveling a little more.

TC: And what major lessons or morals did you gain from working with this group of people and department?

DL: It's all about living better. It's a very flexible department it allows us to sit back and watch the community grow and I don't think that's something that everyone can say. It's very nice and pleasant and I have to say it's very fun to attend graduation. 

TC: Are you sad, excited, nervous, about your retirement, seeing as you've been here for so long?

DL: It's a relief, I'm going to miss a great group of people but I'm looking forward to tending to our tree farm and enjoying Christmas for years to come. Juggling can get overwhelming I miss little crafts, it's been about 15 years since I've enjoyed some relaxation.

TC: What do you want to leave with Plymouth State upon your departure?

DL: It's all about transition. Everyone has to do it, even for me the housing process relates to my retirement. It is important to be realistic about your options, I tried to really work on fairness. It is difficult to tell a student the odds that they actually end up with what they want; it's easier done with truth and to always provide alternatives.

On behalf of Plymouth State University, The Clock would like to send many heartfelt thanks to Deb for all her years of hard, impressive work, dedication, and bettering the PSU community. Congratulations on a wonderful legacy of service to the university, and best of luck in all you do.