Retiree Honorees 2025
Suzanne Brown
Suzanne Brown (25 years)
What are you looking forward to most in retirement?
I have enjoyed the more relaxed feeling of daily life as opposed to the constant rush when I was working. Spending more quality time with my family. I was also able to devote 6 weeks of care to my Daddy before he passed away. I am blessed that I was given this special time with him. I hope to continue helping my family, my church family and others when needed. This is what I worked hard for during my time at Northwest.
What is one of your fondest memories of your time at Northwest?
During my tenure at Northwest, I had the privilege of working for and with some of the greatest people! Financial Aid was a family! We participated several years in the Homecoming decoration contests, and won several times. Our office also decorated for Halloween, and we invited the children from the Child Enrichment Center to come by for treats. It was so much fun to see them in their costumes. We all helped to decorate the office and tree for Christmas. One year we had an old fashion gumdrop tree as a part of our Christmas decor. I also enjoyed the Employee Appreciation Days and getting to see everyone and watching my co-workers participate in the various events. The karaoke event was my favorite. I have many pictures to help preserve these Northwest Precious Memories.
What is your favorite Northwest event to attend?
My family always attended the Northwest Rodeo events and Bull-O-Rama. My grandson, Grayson, especially enjoyed the bull riding event. It was a family affair for us to attend together each year and visit with our Rodeo friends.
Bert Foster
Bert Foster (31 years)
What are you looking forward to most in retirement?
I am looking forward to going to many, and I mean many, NWCC sporting events. I especially look forward to golf, tennis, hunting and fishing.
What is one of your fondest memories of your time at Northwest?
The students first thing every morning and getting to know them. Another favorite is Matthew Domas, Mike Dottorey, and me refereeing an intramural basketball game!
What is your favorite Northwest event to attend?
My favorite event to attend is Northwest football games, especially Homecoming.
Derick Turner
Derick Turner (19 years)
What are you looking forward to most in retirement?
I’m mostly looking forward to traveling, spending time with loved ones, relaxing, and learning new skills.
What is one of your fondest memories of your time at Northwest?
I have enjoyed working with all of my co-workers and enjoyed meeting new people along the way.
What is your favorite Northwest event to attend?
My favorite event is attending the football games.
Mark Alan Vinson
Mark Alan Vinson (15 years)
What are you looking forward to most in retirement?
I am looking forward to doing some traveling and spending time with my hobby, American Brilliant Cut Glass, by writing articles and teaching people about this art form.
What is one of your fondest memories of your time at Northwest?
As the Coordinator of Humanities at the DeSoto Campus, I have enjoyed working with the faculty as they have progressed in their fields and with the students as they have begun their journey to success.
What is your favorite Northwest event to attend?
I have always enjoyed working with PTK and participating in the ceremony for new inductees.