Liz Beck, director of the honors program, says her life didn’t start until she came to Iowa State.

Now, as she retires, she says her life seems full.

Beck’s first encounter with Iowa State was during summer school in 1961, while she was still in high school. In 1972, she returned to Iowa State after living in Michigan, Dallas and Chicago.

With her two children at her side, Beck pursued first her bachelor’s degree in history, and later her master’s degree in ancient history.In 1977, she became the coordinator of the ISU honors program and has since helped thousands of honors students.

“There has always been consistent interaction with bright, motivated, energetic students,” she said.

As director of the university honors program, she said the students are definitely her favorite part of the job, and whom she’ll miss most.

“They’re just remarkable,” she said.

But she will also miss her coworkers.

“I work with the same people I play with,” Beck said.

Ricki Shine, associate director of the honors program, said she’ll miss having Beck around.

“I’ve probably had more fun with her than anyone else,” Shine said. Shine attributes much of the growth of the honors program to Beck. “She’s been the one constant driving force,” she said.

Beck’s 27-year journey with Iowa State ends Thursday, but she won’t be retiring from academia completely. She will continue to serve as the executive secretary and treasurer of the National Collegiate Honors Council through April 2005.

Beck said she is looking forward to seeing her 16 grandchildren more often.

One thing she said she won’t miss at all is having to go out on cold, snowy winter days.

“I don’t even have to get up!” she said.

She said she is looking forward to being able to enjoy the university lecture series and watching Iowa State’s basketball teams advance in postseason play, since she’ll actually have time to watch.

As she leaves Iowa State, Beck said she wants to ensure students realize their potential.

“Iowa State is a really safe place to push yourself to see how good you really are,” Beck said.

Shine said she will miss Beck’s guidance, her understanding of the university and her great sense of humor.