Cornell President David Skorton opened his remarks at the 53rd Service Recognition Dinner in Bartels Hall by suggesting that all the men in the room remove their ties, considering the heat and humidity on the evening of June 9.

That set the relaxed tone for the dinner, which is held each year to recognize Cornell's staff members who have been at the university 25 years or more on the occasion of their five-year anniversaries, and those with more than 40 years of service. Approximately 325 awardees, guests and university leaders attended the event.

Following a reception, Vice President for Human Resources Mary Opperman welcomed the guests, who were treated to a dinner catered by Cornell Catering. Susan Murphy, vice president for student and academic services, recalled events from years past, and the Backtalk Band played period songs for each five-year mark.

"Congratulations to all the long-serving Cornell staff members here tonight," said Skorton. "Whether you have worked here for 25 years or as much as 55 years, you have contributed a great deal to Cornell. We appreciate the high level of skill and strong commitment to service that you bring to your work."

Skorton singled out two awardees with the longest service: Joe Buttino, a research aide in alumni affairs and development, celebrating 55 years, and Ann VanDeMark, an administrative manager for the Department of Asian Studies in the College of Arts and Sciences, celebrating 45 years. Unable to attend were 50-year awardee Charles Guyett and 45-year awardees Virginia Freeman and Linda Petro.

Looking ahead, Skorton wished all well: "For those of you who are retiring, please accept my best wishes, and I hope that you will remain engaged with the university as you begin the next stage of your lives. For those who are continuing at Cornell, I look forward to working with you to make this university not just the best educational institution in the world but also the most rewarding and enriching workplace for its employees."

Full coverage of the event will appear in the midsummer special edition of WorkLife at Cornell.