Farewell

Best Wishes to Dr. Vic Wilson on His Retirement

Dr. Vic Wilson, former CLAS Executive Director from 2017-2025

Greetings and salutations,

I hope this missive finds you well and enjoying your return to school. Some of us, including me, will be retired by the time you read this. I can’t believe it has been eight years since I wrote my first article for the CLAS School Leader. Time flies, and I have loved every minute as the CLAS executive director.

In July of 2017, I started work at CLAS, and not long thereafter I wrote my first article for the magazine. In the eight years since, I have had the pleasure of working with and for the best leaders in Alabama. I have also been fortunate to work with great people in the CLAS office. I cannot overstate how important the CLAS staff is to every CLAS member. We would not be the CLAS we are without Demica Sanders, Debbie Lee, Alyssa Godfrey, Tammy Coker, DeAnna Swindle, Anita Reid, Leslie Dennis, Katrina Akers, Linda Campanotta, Starr Wilson, and Whitney MillerNichols. Join me in thanking this great group for the wonderful work they do every day.

I have also been fortunate to work with a great board and executive committee. This year has been difficult on the executive committee due to the hiring of a new executive director. We were fortunate to have Dr. Michelle Washington as our CLAS President during this process. Her background in HR was very instrumental, and she did a wonderful job navigating the process. Thank you, Michelle. Likewise, Tony Sanders, Dr. Regina Thompson, Waller Martin, and Chris McCullar did a fabulous job leading during this process. Thank you, Chris, Regina, Waller, and Tony.

By now, you are probably aware that Farrell Seymore was chosen to be my successor. Dr. Farrell Seymore will be an amazing executive director for CLAS. His leadership, attention to detail, character, and work ethic will take CLAS to new heights. At every stop during his career, Farrell has been an excellent leader, and those under his care have thrived. I see more of the same for CLAS and CLAS members. Congrats, Farrell! You will do a great job with a great organization.

To the CLAS members, I say thank you. We would not be the organization we are without you. You have grown CLAS to record numbers because of your hard work, networking, collaboration, and desire for excellent professional learning. Many of you have chosen to become leaders in your affiliates, and I thank you for that too.

I have not really retired; I have re-careered. I will be teaching some classes, delivering some leadership professional learning, and doing chores for Felecia. I will also be helping Mother at her house. I will also try to find some time to play golf and guitar, and to goof off. Just sayin’… Nonetheless, I am here for you if I can help in any way. You can find me at BR549. Ask for Junior.

Thank you for all you do for those under your care. You are rock stars in my book!

Sincerely,

Vic