After leaving Georgia, Brenda and I spent yesterday afternoon in Pensacola, Florida, where I was invited by Barnes & Noble to do a signing event. What I love about these smaller signing events is the opportunity to engage in lengthy conversations with people who are possibly interested in my book. Imagine my surprise when one of my former graduate students from 2001 walked in—Dr. Lisa Carter. She is now a tenured full professor at Florida Southern College in Lakeland and is highly respected in the field of criminology. Lisa drove with her husband, Karl, for eight hours to see me.
The greatest satisfaction a professor can experience is witnessing a former student, with whom they have worked closely on several memorable occasions, excel in their chosen field. It’s even more rewarding when that student makes an effort to give back and help others. I am incredibly proud of Lisa for achieving so much at such an early stage in her career. After the signing, Lisa, Karl, Brenda, and I spent some time at a wine bar catching up and reminiscing about old times. Meeting up with Lisa was the highlight of my day!
James B. Wells 