Dr. Amy Washburn, professor and chair of the Department of Leadership and Educational Studies, will retire at the end of this calendar year. For nearly 20 years, she has taught courses in instructional technology, school leadership, library science, higher education, curriculum and instruction, and communications. She also served as the college’s director of digital teaching and learning.
During her time at App State, Washburn witnessed significant changes across the university. Among the most notable was the relocation of the Reich College of Education from Edwin Duncan Hall to its current building.
“Other changes include growing enrollment, becoming a football dynasty, and evolving into a massive organization able to pivot quickly during a pandemic,” she noted. “We are a university with a nationwide reputation for quality while still staying thoroughly grounded in our heritage.”
Reflecting on her career, Washburn shared what she will miss most: “The decades-long friendships — and the new ones — as well as the camaraderie of conference travel, complete with the tradition of giving nicknames.”
Her advice for faculty beginning their careers: “Learn to say no. So much of the pressure toward career goals is self-imposed, and the people who advise you not to go in too many directions at once are telling the truth.”
In retirement, Washburn looks forward to a clear calendar that will allow time for consulting, community involvement, and travel.
Before she leaves, Washburn jokingly adds that she has a commemorative Coke bottle celebrating App State’s historic victory over Michigan — “Available to the highest bidder!”