MUNCIE, Ind. -- Ball State University bid good-bye May 1 to 42 retiring faculty and professional personnel.

Those closing out their careers were honored at the annual "Omega" reception and dinner in Cardinal Hall. The retirees are known as omegas for the last letter in the Greek alphabet.

"The dinner is one last opportunity to express our appreciation and gratitude for many years of service to students, colleagues, and the university," said Provost C. Warren Vander Hill.

The omegas this year are: Donald E. Ahlersmeyer, Special Education; Alice S. Bennett and Jon R. Hendrix, Biology; Richard A. Bogg, Sociology; James F. Comes, Donald L. Siefker and Nancy K. Turner, University Libraries; Earl L. Conn, College of Communication, Information, and Media; David L. Costill and William J. Fink, Human Performance Laboratory; Kenneth M. Dimick and Roger L. Hutchinson, Counseling Psychology and Guidance Services; J. Lee Dye and Cynthia S. Ma, Business Education and Office Administration; Michael D. Engber and Larry E. Sweeney, Finance, Phillip S. Ewart, Music; Donald C. Foss, Burris School; Helga B. Foss, Accounting; and Shirley L. Foster, Patricia J. McCallister and Anna M. Miller, Nursing.

Also, Timothy W. Franks, Health Center; Marvin R. Gray, Jack A. Kovell and Donald S. Shondell, Physical Education; Robert W. Heintzelman, Journalism; G. Dona Hoilman, Academic Research and Sponsored Programs; C. Wade Jennings and Thomas R. Thornburg, English; Norman K. Lee and Alice I. Robold, Mathematical Sciences; Jack S. McFarland, Purchasing; Lavada L. Ruddick, K. Terry Schurr and Casey A. Tucker, Computing Services; Max H. Shideler, Office of Controller; Gerald R. Showalter, Geography; David L. Smith, Telecommunications; John E. Weakland, History; George S. Wood, Educational Leadership; and Earl C. Yestingsmeier, Intercollegiate Athletics.