Janice Riordan
professor, School of Nursing, College of Health Professions
Janice Riordan has wasted no time enjoying her retirement.
Retired since May, she has already traveled to France and Maine, and earlier this year she went with a friend down the Amazon in Brazil.
“I’ve got lots going on here,” she said.
Riordan came to Wichita State 23 years ago as an instructor in the School of Nursing. She gradually moved up the ranks to associate professor and full professor. She is now a professor emeritus.
During her career, Riordan focused on breastfeeding research, a topic she took an interest in after having her own children but not having much information at the time.
“I had to find out for myself by experience, and since then I’ve tried to help others,” said Riordan, whose work has been honored with the Janice M. Riordan Distinguished Professorship in Maternal Child Health at Wichita State.
She has written several books, is writing another one and taught an online course on breastfeeding.
Riordan said she always enjoyed working with her students, especially those in the graduate school whom she felt like she could really help.
“I liked seeing them discover new knowledge,” she said.
Many of her former students remain in touch with her, still asking for help and advice.
“It is fun to hear from everybody and be useful,” Riordan said.
Looking ahead, Riordan plans to continue traveling. She has 12 grandchildren who are spread out in places such as Tokyo and Paris. And while at home, she’s staying busy with her newest little ones: two Jack Russell terriers.
“They bounce around like mad, but they’re a lot of fun.”