Over the years, Sandy Pearman ’80 retired from Guilford College several times — at least in her imagination. This week, those musings became reality when Guilford’s Director of Enrollment Information said goodbye after 44 years of service.

“It’s been a good run, but it’s time,” says Sandy, whose last day was today. “Lots of good memories, lots of friendships — but it’s time.”

When Sandy arrived at Guilford in 1981 to work in admissions and financial aid, she figured she’d stay a few years.

“I didn’t know I’d be here this long, but I also didn’t look to move too much,” she says.

Aside from one year spent teaching elementary school, Sandy had no idea she’d spend her career at Guilford — or that it would span more than four decades.

That kind of dedication runs in the family. Her father worked into his 80s, and her two older brothers are still working.

“I guess that makes me the slacker,” she says with a laugh.

If you’re counting, Sandy worked under nine Guilford presidents, 13 admissions directors, and hundreds of coworkers and students. But it’s not just the people she’ll miss.

“I had a reason to get up every day — a sense of purpose,” she says.

She’s already exploring new purposes. More time with her grandchildren tops the list, along with trips to the mountains and ttrips to the Biltmore Estate, and beaches, where she enjoys climbing lighthouses. In July, she’s heading to Asheville on her first church mission trip.

“I’m sure I’ll miss Guilford, but I’m also excited about what’s next,” she says.

Sandy says she often thought of her work at the College “as a community service project in some ways.”

“I put my soul into it at times,” she says. “If you don’t, you won’t stay very long. I believe in the College and the community. Guilford was a purpose for me. It was also a gift.”