How can a department say goodbye to someone who has had such a broad impact, both in his career as a professor/researcher, and in building an authentic community?
Personally, of course!
The send-off party for Jim Bradeen had no scheduled program. Rather, in true Jim fashion, it was a casual mixer where, instead of putting one person on a pedestal, department members mixed and mingled, enjoying coffee and treats and getting the opportunity to personally find Jim and have a face-to-face conversation. A slideshow in the background shared students, staff, and faculty's favorite memories.
As is UMN Plant Pathology tradition, the event ended with the "Passing of the Gavel" from old to new Department Head. Jim passed the gavel with pomp and good humor to interim Head Ruth Dill-Macky.
Jim leaves to take on a new role in Colorado at CSU Spur. We wish him all the best!