NASA GRC Internal Memo: Center Director’s Planned Retirement Update

NASA Glenn Research Center
Cleveland, Ohio

September 19, 2005

TO: Glenn Civil Service and Contractor Employees

FROM: A/Director

SUBJECT: Center Director’s Planned Retirement

Many of you may know that on last Friday, September 16, 2005, the Board of Trustees at Alabama A&M University in Huntsville, AL, selected me as the President of A&M. Although I am highly complimented by that selection, there are issues to be addressed before I make a final decision to accept or decline their offer. I am humbled by the tremendous number of congratulatory e-mails and phone messages I have received concerning the selection.

Perhaps the most gracious and complimentary phone call I received was from NASA Administrator, Mike Griffin. Mike completely understands the factors I must consider and offered his support. During our conversation, I decided to inform Mike of a decision I have made that I now share with you. On September 7, 2005, I celebrated 40 years of service with the Federal Government…all but a few months with NASA. No matter what decision I reach concerning A&M, I will retire from NASA at the end of this calendar year.

I have promised many of you that when I made a decision to leave NASA I would inform you well in advance. After over 40 years working with colleagues I admire and respect, I owe you that courtesy. In addition, I believed that Mike should know so he can plan the transition to the next GRC director. As my retirement date nears, I will issue a more definitive and appropriate statement to you, my colleagues and friends.

Thanks to all for your continued support and dedication to GRC. You are valuable contributors to NASA.

/s/

Julian M. Earls