NASA GSFC Internal Memo: Frank Cepollina Retirement

National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Goddard Space Flight Center
Greenbelt, MD 20771
November 1, 2016
Reply to Attn of: 408

TO: My SSCO Family

FROM:  

SUBJECT: Retirement Rumors

This is truly one of the most difficult memos I have ever written to you. We have worked long and hard to develop capabilities for this Agency and for the federal government. These capabilities are truly needed. Some of our efforts started as early as 1970, but few are here today to talk about it – except for me, and that is what this memorandum is all about. I have come to the conclusion that after almost 57 years with the government it is time to retire. It has not been an easy decision. I have been thinking and rethinking my decision, and changing my mind for quite some time now. In the end, I decided to submit my papers and will retire on January 3, 2017.

The project is in great hands. Ben has truly become a great leader and advocate for both NASA and the nation. The Restore-L SRR went extremely well and I feel NEO, RRM3 and ARRM are all moving along at a very good clip.

In order to maintain continuity of operations for these activities, I have applied to return as a re-employed annuitant and hope to return to NASA shortly after my retirement date. The intent of management is that I assist Ben in existing goals as well as the cultivation of new efforts. Although final approval for this has yet to be granted, I have confidence it will happen soon.

In the meantime, I want you to know what is happening and assure you that I will be around to harass you all afterward one way or another. Keep the faith.

Cepi