Beloved Staff Member and 'Mercer Mom' Retires

Diane Lang, administrative assistant to the Vice President and Dean of Students Dean Pearson, announced earlier last month that she would be retiring from her full-time position in the Student Affairs Office.

Lang came to the university in 2004 and has served as a behind the scenes player in major university events like Pilgrimage to Penfield, Founder’s Day, and Baccalaureate. Lang also sent Bear Blurbs and Weekends at Mercer (WAM) newsletters via e-mail to keep students informed about campus events.

Below are quotes from students and members of the administration that have come to know and love the woman.

“I am honored to be chosen as Diane's successor and look forward to learning how to do everything that she does.  However, after the first official day of training, I do not know if I will ever know how to do everything that she does!  Diane has always been someone that I could confide in and count on to give advice on everything from writing to saving money.  I consider Diane to be a great friend as well as an awesome co-worker.” – Michele T. Josey, Diane Lang’s replacement.

“I knew coming in as the Vice President, that I wanted to put students first and foremost in our minds as a division.  Hiring Diane was one of the most critical decisions I made that helped to accomplish that goal.  She has touched so many students in so many ways, that one can’t understate the impact she has had on this institution.  I will miss having her as part of my immediate team, and hold out that I may someday entice her to come back to Mercer. I will [also] miss learning about all the new and upcoming artist once she has gone, as many Fridays she would crank up the speakers and treat us all to the newest tunes or talent going around."  -  Vice President and Dean of Students Douglas Pearson

“Diane is an amazing person, and I have enjoyed getting to know her this year. She is my favorite kind of boss - in control and fun at the same time. She makes me feel confident in my work and my contribution to the school, and I'm so thankful to her for that." – Rebekah Fulton, SGA Senator (Sophomore)

“[Diane] is such a wonderful woman and friend to look up to. She is so willing to help out anyone in need. She is such a likable and enjoyable person to have around--the fact that she is leaving brings such a sadness to those in the Mercer family, especially for those who had the pleasure of getting to know her. She will always be the Mercer Mom.” – Amelia Neiger, SGA Senator (Senior)

“She is the quintessential Mercer Mom who knows the answer to every question you may have. I can't  tell you how many times I would just go ask for her advice and talk with her about life in her office. She loves getting to know  people on a more personal level and has  always been there to help with whatever you need. Ms. Diane is not one who loves credit, but she deserves it and so much more. I'm a better person simply for knowing her. She's  selfless, caring, witty, and most importantly...genuine.” – Victoria Conley, SGA Vice-President