Tribal Chairman speaks to inspire retirees at Union Elementary School
(June 2010) The Lumbee Tribal Chairman delivered words of inspiration for the Retirement and Appreciation Luncheon at Union Elementary School on Monday, June 14, 2010.
The Retirement and Appreciation Luncheon is an annual event held at the end of each school year to honor staff members retiring. “I want to welcome everyone to Union Elementary School,” said Union Elementary Principal Darlene Cummings, “I want everyone to feel at home.” The purpose of the event is to also show gratitude for the volunteers and the service they have rendered throughout the year.
The theme for this year’s retirement luncheon was the beach, telling the retirees that it is theirs now, to go anytime they want. “My challenge to you is please don’t let it stop here with your retirement, our community still needs you,“ stated the Lumbee Tribal Chairman Purnell Swett, “you two are still very valuable and I invite you to become involved in our Volunteer Program.”
The two retirees were Mrs. Eldis Ransom and Mrs. Verdice Locklear. “They took me under their wing and I looked at them as mothers, they are definitely dedicated educators,” continued Cummings. Mrs. Eldis was a Teacher’s Assistant for 28 years at Union Elementary School. Some future goals that were stated on behalf of Mrs. Eldis’ were to sleep late, pamper her grandchildren, visit the school and shop, shop, shop. Mrs. Verdice has worked in Robeson County for 30 years with 27 of those years being served at Union Elementary School. She was quoted by Cummings as having committed to returning in the 2011 school year to help tutor the students.
The audience was given a chance to honor the retirees with special commentary. Thereafter, a PowerPoint presentation was given on their behalf as well. The luncheon has been in operation for about 10 years according to Cummings. “I am honored that Chairman Swett could join us today as a former educator himself,” remarked Cummings, “he welcomed me in when he gave me my first job here in Robeson County and I am proud to have him representing us today as a tribe.”
