Front Range Seed Analysts
1996 Seed Forum Volume 10 Number 1
CONNIE RAMIREZ RETIRES:
A career appreciation by Dr. Arnold Larsen
Connie Ramirez, head purity analyst for the Colorado Seed Laboratory, retired on January 31, 1996. Connie had worked for Colorado State University for about 28 years. She began employment for CSU as a housekeeper and caterer for Dr. Morgan, president of CSU. She then worked a few years in the Physical Education Department. Finally, on April 1, 1972, she came to the Colorado Seed Laboratory and provided dedicated service there for nearly 24 years.
Under the expert supervision of Carrie Barber, Connie developed her seed purity analysis ability. When Carrie retired, Connie became the supervisor of the seed purity section for the Colorado Seed Laboratory. Her ability to perform purity analysis certainly ranks among the best of those who do this kind of work. Where purity analysis of range grasses are involved, she simply is the best. Her seed analyses and identifications are always done accurately and according to the accepted rules; this is well known to all for whom she tests seed. Connie assisted in research projects conducted in the Colorado Seed Laboratory for the adoption of better seed testing procedures, especially for the western range grasses. She has also supervised and instructed many novice seed analysts in the science and art of testing seeds for purity. FRSA estimates she has helped at least 28 analysts who have since become established in laboratories in about 13 states.
Connie has always taken great pride in her work with seeds. Most likely she will always be a seed analyst in her heart. At the January 11 FRSA meeting, area analysts expressed pride and gratitude for her service and dedication. She responded affectionately and with characteristic humility that "Every day of work is a new challenge and a chance to learn new things." Jim Stanelle "retired" Connie's tweezers on a plaque commemorating her service. The look of horror on her face was replaced with relief when he assured her that they weren't really her beloved working tweezers. She will still need them at least a little while. After her official retirement, she will continue to work part time in the laboratory as needed. In any event, she will be missed by all who have been associated with her. Best of luck, Connie, in your retirement.