Janice Hobbs
administrative specialist, Office of Human Resources, Aministration and Finance
Janice Hobbs said if there's one thing she is most proud of in her time at Wichita
State, it's the trust she and her former co-workers were able to instill in WSU employees.
Hobbs recently retired as benefits specialist in Human Resources, where she had worked
since February 1999. There, her duties included administering the state health plans,
retirement plans, life insurance and all other benefits associated with the state
of Kansas.
Her favorite part of the job was helping people get signed up for their benefits
and helping solve any of their problems.
"I believe we have an atmosphere in Human Resources, specifically the benefits department,
that instills trust with our employees -- they know they will get the help and understanding
they deserve," she said.
Prior to coming to WSU, Hobbs worked for three years in the benefits department of
a large corporate organization in Atlanta. It was a job she took to make ends meet.
But her first love is music.
For many years she was a private piano teacher, choral and instrumental accompanist,
church organist and choir director.
Needless to say, Hobbs has taken the time while at Wichita State to enjoy the many
concerts and plays that WSU offers.
"I can't tell you how how many countless hours of wonderful music I've heard, and
I loved every note," she said.
Although Hobbs is retired from the university, she is still working as an independent
piano teacher at Wichita Collegiate School and will continue with private lessons,
as well.
"I look forward to this new phase of my life," she said.
Hobbs, whose husband died five years ago, has two adult children, Randall and Tracy,
and one grandchild, Chelsea, who attends WSU.
Hobbs said she has great memories from Wichita State and will be forever grateful
to WSU for giving her a wonderful career opportunity.
"Of course, the best part of working at WSU are my priceless co-workers and all the
great employees who enriched my life," she said. "Thanks for the memories."