UNCP Honors Retirees for Decades of Service, Lasting Impact

When retiring theatre professor Holden Hansen reflects on his 29 years at UNC Pembroke, one thought rises above all others.

“UNCP gave me my career,” Hansen said emotionally. “Twenty-nine years is a lifetime. I will never forget it.”

Hansen was among 14 retirees honored during UNCP's recent Retiree Celebration, representing a combined 289 years of service to the university.

Throughout nearly three decades, Hansen directed 38 productions and mentored students who later pursued professional acting careers.

“Directing was the most impactful for the students and for me,” Hansen said.

Retiring chemistry professor Dr. Paul Flowers also reflected on the fulfillment of helping students succeed during his 37 years at UNCP.

“I really treasure the moments when I see students who I've had some small part in their academic success get their degree and move on to fulfill their aspirations,” Flowers said.

Flowers helped modernize the department's laboratory instruction and scientific instrumentation during his tenure.

“When I started in 1989, we had three major instruments — now we have more than a dozen,” Flowers said.

Penny Oxendine's career began at the Chavis Center, where she managed a small snack and drink booth, before she eventually rose to the position of assistant director.

“I started at the bottom,” Oxendine said. “I never dreamed of getting a degree.”

While working full time at the university, Oxendine earned her college degree in 2007 — an accomplishment she described as one of her proudest moments.

Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings praised retirees for the legacy they leave behind.

“This year, we celebrate 14 retirees who together represent an extraordinary 289 years of service to UNC Pembroke,” Cummings said. “That is not just time — that is legacy.

“Legacy is not what you do — it's what the people you impact do.”

Also recognized during the celebration were:

• Rick Crandall, Thomas College of Business and Economics, 23 years;
• David Dran, Social Work, 20 years;
• Mary “Gwen” Faircloth, Financial Aid & Scholarships, 10 years;
• Rita Hagevik, Biology, 15 years;
• Leonard Holmes, Chemistry & Physics, 35 years;
• Debbie Locklear, McKenzie-Elliott School of Nursing, 12 years;
• Michael Parnell, Campus Recreation, 10 years;
• Leszek Piatkiewicz, Math & Computer Science, 31 years;
• Terry Smith, Facilities, 11 years;
• Winifred Sweat, Center for Student Success, 21 years; and
• Cynthia Woodrup, McKenzie-Elliott School of Nursing, 10 years.