Two Longtime Professors Retire from UA Wayne College

At the end of spring semester, UA Wayne College bid a fond farewell to two longtime professors: Dr. Janet Minc and Monica Harrison Smith. With a combined total of 65 years of teaching experience at Wayne College, the professors each leave a legacy of professionalism and student-centered teaching that will be warmly remembered by students and colleagues alike.

Minc, retiring after 35 years, served in many different capacities at the College over the years, most recently as professor of English, area coordinator of English, coordinator of the UA Wayne Honors College and director of the Distinguished Student Program.

“I’ve been very fortunate to have one of the best jobs in the world,” Minc said. “The satisfaction I’ve received from knowing that I’ve been able to impact the lives of others in a positive way is priceless. There’s no bigger thrill than to see my students walk across the stage at graduation and know that I’ve had a part in preparing them for what lies ahead.”

Remembering her year of hire in 1978, Minc said, “The College had about 750 students and we offered a total of 6 sections of English Composition I and II each semester with only 2 faculty members teaching all of the English classes. I’ve watched an amazing transformation over the past 35 years!”

In retirement, Minc hopes to do more writing, reading and traveling, but most of all, she said, “I want to continue to learn and grow.”

Monica Smith, associate professor of mathematics, began at Wayne College in 1983. Smith explained that it’s hard to imagine how her life would have turned out without Wayne College.

“Wayne College was the place where I met my husband,” she said, “as well as so many wonderful students and colleagues. It is hard to imagine how my life would have turned out without Wayne College.”

Smith’s plans for retirement include spending more time with family- especially spending more time with her mother who is facing many challenges- and enhancing her volunteer and leisure activities, including a trip to Disney. She said she also plans to continue her study of mathematics and may eventually do some tutoring.

Interim Dean Neil Sapienza said, “Wayne College was fortunate to have these two excellent professors at the College for so many years. We wish them well in all their endeavors, and extend a sincere thank you for their many years of good work at the College.”