May 22, 2026

Watched the last edition of Stephen Colbert last night. Farewell. 

Off in slow rain to Campus to the annual lunch meeting of the RFFA, Retired Faculty and Administration. I’ve dodged many such events, and now that I know what goes on, I’ll dodge the rest. Good seeing a few people I haven’t seen in a while; otherwise, three hours of life I won’t get back. Not bad, just remote from my interests. Lunch was excellent. I haven’t figured out exactly what the organization is for. Perhaps if I wanted continued influence over my old university I would understand better. Some want that very keenly indeed. Turns out that next year is UNCA’s Centennial, year. That is, apparently, a prime opportunity for fundraising. Mr M, “Director of Engagement,” handed me an envelope which contained testimonials from former students calling me their outstanding faculty memory. I didn’t remember any of them, which makes it sweeter, I suppose, that they remember me.