The best word I can use to describe Lindsay: Amazing. She is easily one of the most interesting people I’ve ever known. I first met her 15 years ago when she became the graduate advisor at CSE. I was the graduate advising assistant then; at the time, I had no idea how influential she would be in my life. I have learned a tremendous amount from her professionally, of course, but also in just how to be human.
Lindsay has an outstanding work ethic. She is conscientious, detail-oriented, and thorough. Most importantly, though, she is always 100% interested and engaged with her students. She possesses the rare quality of being a genuine Listener. When you sit down to talk with her, she is completely there, listening intently and asking thoughtful questions to gain better understanding. Many of you probably know that Lindsay is a true lifelong learner in a bunch of different topics (film, jazz, art, opera, gardening, literature, history, etc.). In her presence, she makes you feel like YOU are the fascinating topic she is learning about. I always think the CSE graduate students are incredibly lucky to have such a great advisor. She’s one of a kind, as I learned from my own (non-CSE) graduate school experience when I ended up running to her countless times for advice.
In my world, Lindsay isn’t just a mentor, she is a close friend, a great dinner companion, a fun travel buddy (two trips to Paris!), and an excellent wedding guest (plus official wedding photographer with her partner Jim). I deeply admire her intelligence and the way she makes learning central to her life. She grabs opportunities to expand her knowledge, and it’s fun to get to share in that with her. She is always a caring and loyal friend who has consistently given me tremendous support in my personal, professional, and educational pursuits. For lack of better words, I know she’s always got my back. I’m so happy that she is part of my life, and I hope to one day be a fraction of the person that she is.
My dear friend, it is an incredible honor to be present for the beginning of this new chapter in your life. I wish you a very happy retirement. Kudos to you on a wonderful career, and here’s to everything that comes next!