Dear ILR Membership,
After 15 incredibly fulfilling years serving as the ILR Program Manager, I want to share with you that I will be retiring on August 31, 2025.
It has been an honor and a joy to be part of this dynamic community—working alongside dedicated colleagues and volunteers, passionate instructors, and engaged learners. Together, we’ve shared many laughs, a few tears, and weathered our share of challenges—including budget cuts, the pandemic, and even the occasional tech hiccup. We've expanded ILR’s opportunities and programming across the county and country, and built something truly meaningful—something I’ll forever cherish with a great sense of pride. I’ve learned so much and will carry with me countless memories and deep gratitude for the gift of this experience.
While it’s bittersweet to anticipate saying goodbye to a program that’s been such a big part of my life, I’m excited for the next chapter—and confident that ILR will continue to thrive and inspire lifelong learners well into the future.
My final goal in this role will be to ensure a seamless transition for ILR’s next Program Manager, and I know you’ll show my successor the same support and warmth I’ve been so fortunate to receive.
And while it’s not quite farewell just yet, in case I miss the chance in the coming months, I want to thank you for your encouragement, inspiration, friendship, and collaboration over the years. I look forward to staying connected as I transition to joining you in the classroom—both as an active ILR volunteer and, perhaps, as that overly enthusiastic participant who always forgets to silence their phone during class.
Love and Honor,
Judy Macke
