On Friday, October 3rd, 2014, we celebrated the official retirement of ASU Vascular Plant Herbarium Curator Dr. Les Landrum. The event took place at the just inaugurated Alameda Building. Attendance of colleagues and students, and spirits, were high – a true and fitting celebration of Les’ broad impact on the Herbarium, Southwestern United States floristics, mentoring and collaboration, and plant systematics (Myrtaceae) and biodiversity informatics (SEINet) more generally.
Liz Makings led the excellent organization of the event and, by giving an entertaining and insightful overview of the honoree’s personality and career (up to now), expressed a depth of appreciation for Les and his work that was felt by all.
Needless to say, “retirement” is a relative term for Les, and we will be fortunate to rely on his presence and dedication to the Herbarium and collections group for years to come.
Some photos of the party and its diverse and inspired food offerings are posted here.
Dr. Les Landrum surrounded by friends, colleagues, and students. October 3rd, 2014.