Best wishes, Karen – thank you for 22 wonderful years
After 22 years with the Massey University Alumni Relations team, Karen Greer has retired. Throughout her time with us, she touched the lives of colleagues and alumni alike with her dedication, kindness and unwavering support.
Karen joined Massey in 2003 and has been part of the Alumni Relations team ever since. During that time, she witnessed our alumni community grow to more than 190,000 graduates across New Zealand and around the world. Along the way, she played an integral role in countless alumni reunions and events, graduation sales, day-to-day administration and behind-the-scenes activities that helped keep the team running smoothly.
Looking back on her time at Massey, Karen says the moments she’ll treasure most are the connections made through events.
“The decade reunions were always special. It was wonderful watching people reconnect after sometimes more than 50 years, seeing the Massey ties come out and hearing the ‘Do you remember...?’ stories. A lifetime of memories shared in just a few short hours.”
She also fondly remembers the Distinguished Alumni Awards, celebrating outstanding graduates, and says graduation days will always hold a special place in her heart.
“To some, we were just selling bears and clothing, but we were part of one of the most important days in our graduates’ lives. To witness the pride and joy of graduates and their families, and to represent Massey University, was a real privilege.”
Karen says she will especially miss connecting with alumni, both in New Zealand and around the world. One alumnus, in particular, has sent her greetings after every alumni newsletter – a thoughtful gesture Karen has always appreciated.
While Karen will miss the conversations, lunchtime walks, shared laughs and daily interactions with colleagues and alumni, she’s already embracing retirement with regular walks, time in the garden, and expanding her ever-growing LEGO collection.
Those who worked alongside Karen speak warmly of the difference she has made.
Alumni Relations Manager Danette Whitehouse says, “Karen was a highly valued member of the Alumni team, bringing professionalism, care and dedication to everything she did – from events and administration to shop sales and alumni engagement. She always went the extra mile for our team and our alumni community.”
Alumni Relations Systems and IT Manager Kerry Shippam describes Karen as “supportive, dependable and team orientated,” recognising her as the person behind many enquiries into the Alumni Relations team and someone who helped build lasting relationships with alumni over more than two decades.
“Thank you for the support and friendship over the past 22 years.”
Alumni Engagement Advisor Sophia Song remembers Karen as “one of the warmest, most organised and detail-oriented colleagues I’ve had the pleasure of working with.” She reflects on Karen’s generosity in sharing her knowledge, her calm approach to every event, and the reassurance of knowing Karen always had the answer, or knew exactly where to find it.
“She has been such a reliable, dependable teammate, and her knowledge has been invaluable to our team.”
Karen’s warmth, dedication and wealth of knowledge have left a lasting mark on the Alumni Relations team and on the many graduates whose journeys she has helped celebrate over the years.
Karen, thank you for everything you have given to Massey University and our alumni community. We wish you every happiness in your retirement and hope this next chapter is filled with many more walks, flourishing gardens, wonderful adventures and, of course, plenty of LEGO.