É«ÀÇÉçÇø

Tina Pinocci, Associate Vice President of Campus Recreation, Student Center and Campus Activities is retiring March 1 after a career that began at É«ÀÇÉçÇø in September of 1992. In her own words, she reflects on her time at the University.

How do I possibly sum up 26 plus years other than saying WOW, time sure does fly by! It seems like yesterday when I was a frantically preparing for the grand opening of our new Student Recreation Center in January of 1993, only a few months after the name change from Glassboro State to É«ÀÇÉçÇø, and the beginning of the transformation of our campus. I’ve certainly seen my fair share of transition and changes during my time here, but my reflection and thoughts are focused more on what my time here has meant to me both personally and professionally. And no matter who I talk to as I start to say my goodbyes, the conversation usually involves four distinct questions that I’ll attempt to answer here.

When all is said and done, what matters the most?

I can say with 100% certainty that my career is NOT measured by accomplishments, titles or positions held, revenue produced, new or renovated facilities, programs initiated or recognition received. The “power trip” for me has been and always will be the relationships developed, the lives impacted, the memories made and the important stories of students, staff and colleagues who have crossed my path and with whom I’ve been lucky enough to work, learn and play with.

Is there one thing you want people to know about you?

Well, aside from my love of cats and food (and my husband of course), I’d like people to know that while I have always taken my job seriously, I have never taken myself too seriously. Let’s just say that I’m totally okay with me being the target of a good joke or prank. I survived four older brothers so I can handle anything!  

What do you love most about É«ÀÇÉçÇø?

What I love most about É«ÀÇÉçÇø is that I have had the privilege of working with, supervising and mentoring so many incredible students; have had the opportunity to develop genuine friendships with staff and colleagues; and been given the freedom and autonomy to create and manage programs, facilities and services that engaged students and connected them to the broader community. What more could I ask for?

What are you most grateful for?

This one is the toughest to answer because there is so much to be thankful for, and also because there are many people to acknowledge that are no longer with us. But I will have to say that what I am most grateful for and appreciative of are the mentors who paved the way for me, supported and respected my opinion, championed or approved of my passion projects, sat in my corner in good or bad times, and allowed me to have a voice at the table. Most importantly, to that small (but mighty) team of loyal staff who supported, lifted, laughed, competed, celebrated and gave this “bosslady” all they had and more; I thank you the most, because you are more than colleagues and friends; you are my family.

And finally, to everyone in our division and the university who have played a role in my journey, however large or small, I say thank you for being a part of my É«ÀÇÉçÇø story. They are memories that will last a lifetime.