As Ecclesiastes and The Byrds make clear, to every thing there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.  For me, it’s the season to retire from my post at the North Carolina Department of Commerce, a place I’ve been honored to serve for close to 20 years.

The chance to serve came unexpectedly and I was lucky to be offered the role, an opportunity that in turn has provided some of the richest experiences of my career. A time to work with a Nobel laureate to showcase North Carolina as the State of Minds.  A time to support the state’s economic developers to bring the state’s story to aerospace, solar and wind energy executives, and many others. A time to work with sharp student leaders to help shape the North Carolina state brand. A time to build websites and presentations, talk with media reporters, and write a few press releases.  A time to strengthen the state’s ties to Japan.

Through those times and others too numerous to mention here, I’ve been fortunate to work with dedicated and talented colleagues who made the times fun, fulfilling, and I hope worthwhile to the people we serve.  No amount of thanks can meet this moment, but to my colleagues and friends inside and outside Commerce – you will always have my sincere thanks, both today and in the seasons to come.

Seasons turn, and in the turning things are made new and unknown again.  Not ready to explore the undiscovered country quite yet, but I am looking forward to the journey ahead.  See you – out there.