Farewell to Our Retirees
We’re happy to celebrate the faculty and staff in our Michigan Ross community who are retiring after many years of service and impactful work. Congratulations to the following individuals:
- Patti Lamparter, administrative coordinator, Administrative Core Team (effective Jan. 2, 2026)
- Lisa Bradley-Kern, director, employer relations, Career Development Office (effective Jan. 6, 2026)
- Cathy Webb, program manager, Office of Executive Education (effective Jan. 9, 2026)
Patti Lamparter
As I head into retirement, I’m excited to start the new year with a fresh schedule and no alarm clock. I’m planning trips to Walt Disney World for both Halloween and Christmas (yes, I fully intend to act like a kid), as well as a visit to Fort Myers in May to catch up with a friend. After years of helping things run smoothly at Ross, I’m ready to trade in meeting reminders for sunshine, travel, and a little well-deserved fun.
Looking back on my time at Ross, I’ve seen so much change that the only thing that remains untouched is the parking structure, which, at this point, feels like an old friend. I’ve worked under a number of deans: Gilbert Whitaker, B. Joseph White, Robert J. Dolan, Alison Davis-Blake, Scott DeRue, and finally, Sharon Matusik. Naturally, my time here was marked by several unforgettable events: Y2K, 9/11, the 2003 blackout (which left me commuting home for three hours), and the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s been quite a ride, and I was lucky to be a part of the Ross community through it all.
Lisa Bradley-Kern
As I prepare to retire, I find myself reflecting on my 37-year journey at the University of Michigan, most of which I was privileged to spend at Michigan Ross. When I joined the staff in the fall of 1996, Ross was known as the University of Michigan Business School. Over the years, I’ve watched the school evolve and have had the opportunity to make wonderful memories alongside dedicated colleagues and inspiring students.
During my time at Ross, I was fortunate to work in the Admissions Office, where I met incredible prospective students — many of whom went on to become some of the brightest members of the Ross community — and later, in the Career Development Office. I enjoyed mentoring and coaching students as they navigated their career search, helping them find fulfilling opportunities after graduation.
Looking back, I am deeply grateful for the experiences I’ve had and the relationships I’ve built at U-M and Ross. Thank you for your friendship, support, and for making Ross such a special place to work and grow.
As I step into retirement, I’m excited about the adventures ahead. In the immediate future, I look forward to celebrating my son’s wedding in Cancun this May and welcoming a new daughter-in-law into our family, as well as traveling the world with loved ones.
