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The best part of my job was you!
I wish for you nothing but the best

John Klaber

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Mia - Congratulations on your retirement from northern MN! I wish you all of the relaxation and happiness you deserve in your retirement. It’s been great to work with you over the years and wonderful to get to know you. I hope you have the opportunity to visit up north and perhaps I’ll bump into you buying some Potica! Take care and we’ll miss you,
Brian Yuretich

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Heartfelt thanks for the decades of support, your perfect crib notes and your friendship. MASE would not be what it is without your TLC. Wishing you the best in your retirement-enjoy !
Huge hugs, Barbara Troolin

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Congratulations! I am so happy for you and want to send my sincere thanks for your many years of support and service to leaders in education. Your work has been remarkable. I will miss your kindness, knowledge and skills you shared so fully! I wish you all the best as you take on this next journey. Cheryl Hall

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Thank you for your incredible service to supporting the leaders who work to support students, families and staff! Wishing you joy in your retirement!

Lori Parker

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Mia -

You are going to be missed, and you deserve the most relaxing and best retirement! Thank you for all of your support and hard work for MASE. You were the backbone of our PD committee!

Melanie Kray

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Thank you for all the amazing things you have done for MASE and for so many leaders you've cared for and supported over the years! Being one of those leaders, I cannot tell you how grateful I am for your warmth, for seeing my potential, and for your wonderful hugs! You will be missed and I'm so lucky to have known and worked with you! I hope to cross paths with you soon!! May your retirement be abundant with joy, relaxation, and adventurous fun!!!!

All the best,
Nicole Woodward

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Mia,
Thank you for all of your time, work and leadership. We are forever grateful for what you brought to special education and MASE.

Julie Fred
Director of Special Services
Shakopee Public Schools

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Mia, thank you for your work with the MASE organization! From the first time we met, you made me feel welcomed and and instantly a part of the group. Your kind manner and dedication to our growth as professionals is an inspiration. I will miss you and think of you at every MASE conference.
Take care and I hope I see you again at some point!
Deanna Gronseth

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You have always amazed me with your organization and commitment. Our organization has been bettered by your dedication. We will miss you! Much gratitude to you for your amazing and inspiring contributions. Best of luck in your retirement adventures! -Michelle Cuka

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Mia, thank you so much for being an amazing source of information for MASE. You were a wonderful source of learning and knowledge for Mel and ai as chairs of the PD committee... when we didn't know something, we could count on you to help us figure it out.  We will miss you! Enjoy retirement.

Holle Spessard

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Congrats and thank you Mia! You will be missed. Enjoy the next part of your journey!

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Congrats and thank you Mia! You will be missed. Enjoy the next part of your journey!

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Congratulations Mia!  You were here for all
My years! It’s not the same here without. You and congratulations!!!!!!

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Thank you for all your work at MASE! It has been great to be in your presence at MASE/MASA events over the past couple of years. You a bright light in the world of school administration! Enjoy retirement. You certainly deserve it!
Best,
Erin Hoffman, SWWC

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Thank you for always "being there" and supporting MASE in a number of ways.  I remember the first year I was asked to speak and how nervious I was...your script made the experience run smoothly.  The organizer behind every positive experience with MASE.  In addition, I have enjoyed hearing your "stories", you will be missed. Happy retirement.

Michelle Bethke-Kaliher

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Mia, you were the person that got me excited about MASE in the first place!  You were always so welcoming and friendly to me and I thought of you as the "Face of Mace."  I have loved working with you so much and wish you the best of luck in your next chapter!  Come to Duluth for some Potica and I'll come and join you!! Dena Hagen

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Mia, you were the person that got me excited about MASE in the first place!  You were always so welcoming and friendly to me and I thought of you as the "Face of Mace."  I have loved working with you so much and wish you the best of luck in your next chapter!  Come to Duluth for some Potica and I'll come and join you!! Dena Hagen

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It is not lost on me that as I look at my shelf of leadership materials, almost all of them are there because of YOUR WORK!  The impact you have had on me personally, and leaders across this state, is astounding.  Thank you for your commitment to us all and opportunities you have brought us.  You will be missed!  May your future be full of all things you love!
Wishing you the very best!
Erin Toninato

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Thank you for fostering a love of learning in educational leaders across the state of MN!  We owe so much of our professional growth to your hard work and dedication to MASA and MASE for the past several decades. I wish you joy and fulfillment in your retirement.  Don't be a stranger!

Jamie Nord

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Thanks for all the support you have given us all through the years!  A well deserved rest is in order.
Woohoo!!
Alicia Jepsen

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I will always remember your welcoming and encouraging spirit!  I wish you all the best in your retirement.  You had a HUGE impact on countless leaders!

Judy Doran

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Thank you for EVERYTHING you have done in supporting MASE/MASA.  We will miss your personality, support, and wisdom as you move on with retirement.  I wish you only the best!

Take care,
Chad Williams

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Congrats on your well deserved retirement!  May your future be filled with wonderful adventures with those you love!  Thank you for being such a great leader, listener and mentor for so many of us.  You will be missed!

Mary Clarkson
Richfield

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Congratulations on your retirement! Thank you so much for all of the support you have provided to all of the members of the MASA organization and the positive effect you have had on the students in MN. You are amazing! I have loved getting to know you through the years - you will be missed. Wishing you wonderful adventures in your retirement years!

Carole Loehr

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Mia
What a legacy you have created, and your impact is significant. You dazzle, cause us to oooh and ahh
and amaze us with your skill, expertise, personality, and friendship. You saved me many times as MASE president, and I am in your debt eternally. You have left a significant mark in this world, and in my life.
Cheers,
Janine Dahms Walker
Former Ed District Director and Higher Ed Professor

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Thank you for your tremendous support and commitment to the MASA organization!  Schools across our great state are better because of you.  You impacted school success across many generations.  Live it up in retirement and enjoy the time with family and loved ones!
Craig Oftedahl
Luverne Superintendent

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Thank you for all of the support you have given to Minnesota educators over the years! You have been a difference maker! Your servant leadership will be missed. Best wishes on your retirement - may it be filled with doing all the things you love with the people you love the most!
Molly Schilling

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Mia,
I met you about 28 years ago when I joined and began coming to the conferences.  Folks like you don't come by often and the "constant" that you gave the organization was a big part in what it is today.  Thank you for your service to all the schools in MN.
Loy Woelber

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It's been an absolute honor and a joy to have had the opportunity to get to know you through your roles with MASE and MASA. I have always admired and appreciated your thoughtful guidance, your good humor, and your deep knowledge of the history of these organizations. Thank you for your many years  of dedicated service!  You have impacted so many leaders and students in MN through your role and your legacy will continue to inspire leaders for many years to come!  Congratulations on your retirement!  You will be missed!  Enjoy your new chapter!

Melissa Hanson

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Mia,
I hope you LOVE retirement.  I appreciate the guidance and friendship that you've extended over the last 10 years.  You've been an inspiration to all educators and administrators and those loosely connected to MASA like Infinitec.
Best to you!
Mary Bettlach, Infinitec

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Best wishes as you turn this corner in your life! I will miss our pre-conference dinners, but hope these can continue in another location post-retirement. Thank you for always being inclusive, responsive and helpful! Hope you have many wonderful adventures in the coming years!
Sheila

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Congratulations on your retirement! Thank you for all you have done for MASE, MASA and the field! I have greatly appreciate your guidance and warm spirit. You will be missed! Best wishes, Jenn Skalitzky, Infinitec

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Mia,
You have been amazing and made a huge positive impact on everyone you have come in contact with. I have always appreciated your positive attitude, kindness and caring! You have been a continual support! Enjoy your well deserved retirement!

Darcy Josephson

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I am inspired by your commitment and impact into the world of Education.

MN is lucky to have you. I am grateful for your warm welcome to this community. Excited for you to get back to the farm, rest, relax and gear up for the next chapter!
and..have fun!!!
Jennifer Huber, FranklinCovey Education

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Congratulations and enjoy your retirement!  You have been so significant in our education process.  We have gained great opportunities! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Much appreciated!
Love,
Diane Rauschenfels
Proctor and UMD

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The time I have worked as a Superintendent were most enjoyable working with you on committees and the MASA Board.  I have missed those moments in my retirement but hold dear the memories.  Good luck in retirement!

David Krenz

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Mia,
I wish you the very best in retirement. Based on experience, I think you will love it. You have contributed so much to the education community. Lean back, enjoy your time and remember your accomplishments! Sandy Lewandowski

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Mia, I have been touched by your enthusiasm and warmth shared with all MASA members.  The history of the organization will now be separated between the era of Mia and post-Mia:). I couldn't be more happy for you to enjoy your next adventures.
Jeff Pesta

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Congratulations Mia.  Wishing you all the best in your retirement.  You have always been such an asset to MASA.  We will miss you!
Rachel Udstuen - Spring Grove

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Thank you for all you have done for so many of us over the years. You're impact is beyond words. Best of luck in retirement.

Jim Johnson
Former Superintendent
College Professor

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Dear Mia,

Thank you for your immeasurable contributions to Minnesota's school leaders. From the first moment I joined the organization, you welcomed me and made me feel like I belonged. I know you did this for thousands of others during your time at MASA. That connection made all of the difference.

You are an amazing human being who has made a big difference for so many people. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement!

Matt Hillmann

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Mia oh Mia
Keen mind and heart resplendent
Respected and loved

Don Lifto

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Mia, You taught me so much and were so very patient the entire time.  I can't thank you enought for all you did for me and for educators across this state.  We are all better  because of you!
Much love and respect,
Diane McCarron

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Thank you for your support, incredible problem solving skills, sense of humor, ability to juggle 652 things at the same time (all with a smile....sometimes a smirk....on your face), and willingness to answer any questions that came your way. You are a treasure.  You will be missed!  I wish you wonderful adventures in the next chapters of the Mia Urick story.

Be well, be happy and have some rip roaring fun!

Sharon Krueger
Lakeville Area Schools

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Mia,
Congratulations on an amazing career at MASA and best wishes on the next chapter of your life in retirement! Thank you for the insight, encouragement and constant support you have shown me and others over the years. I appreciate all you have done and all you have given!

Be well,
Teri Staloch

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Hi Mia! Congratulations on your retirement! It has been great working with you throughout the years. I will miss corresponding with you. Wishing you a wonderful retirement!!

Lisa Larson
Kennedy & Graven

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Happy Retirement Mia!! You should take great pride in the positive impact you have had on MASA, it’s members, and ultimately the students in Minnesota!! Hoping you have many awesome retirement years!! Jerry Jensen

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Thank you for all that you have done for MASA.  It has always been a pleasure to work with you.  You were always so helpful and responsive.  We are going to miss you! I wish you the best in retirement.  Enjoy!  You've earned it.

Steve Sallee
Former Supt. and Executive Director of the Southeast Service Cooperative

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Mia,

You have always made me smile whenever I have seen you. You always make people feel welcome and you hold a wealth of knowledge. Thank you for all that you have done! Enjoy your retirement.

Kim Hiel

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Congratulations Mia - you have certainly earned your journey to the good life!  Have fun, travel, and enjoy the six Saturdays and one Sunday of the week!  Well done!

DOUG FROKE

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Congratulations on your retirement, Mia! We will have a big hole in our organizations with some big shoes to fill. I appreciate you being a constant presence and acting as a mentor during my current time with both organizations! Enjoy your retirement, and I hope you get a ton of face time with the little ones!

Cheers!
-Dave Christians

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Thank you for always being so kind and supportive to everyone.  I have enjoyed getting to know you over the years.  I hope you have wonderful adventures in your retirement!

Lori Volz
Baker Tilly

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Thank you Mia for everything you have done for me (and the other Jensen brothers....Al & Jerry) over the years.  You certainly have been a significant part of the MASA organization and will be dearly missed.  Best of luck to you in your retirement and may it be a long, healthy and happy chapter of your life!!

Bruce Jensen
Former Supt. and Executive Director of the Northwest Service Cooperative

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Mia, you have been an instrumental part of my leadership development and for that I will be forever grateful. You are second to none and my life is better because of your influence. I wish you great joy and adventure as you begin this next chapter.
My best, Kay Nelson

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Thanks for all you have done for me personally and professionally. You have been an amazing friend and colleague! We will miss you sooo much, but hope that you have a wonderful retirement! Do some traveling and get a puppy!!

Steph

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Wishing you the very best in all that comes next for you, Mia! I hope it is filled with fun, adventure and lots of memories. Thanks for all you have done to support kids by serving the adults who support them - what a wonderful way to spend a career!

Lori

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Dearest Mia,

Thank you for being such a great mentor, leader, and visionary for all these years. It will definitely feel different not seeing you at conferences or MASA events. Thank you for being willing to listen to me and for helping me think through the decision to go from a sped director to a supt. I wish you all the best for the upcoming chapters in your life. You have left a great legacy of lifelong learning.

Enjoy the adventures to come!

Reggie

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Thanks so much for all you have done for MASE and MASA and the difference you have made for Minnesota students. You have made the organizations fun in a way many will never understand. We will all miss your knowledge and history...but then you know there will be a phone call or two - or meet for a good glass of wine occassionally.

THANKS so much,
Sarah Mittelstadt

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Thank you for your tremendous service to MASA!  I have so appreciated working with you on so many items.  You are truly an inspiration for leadership and so much more.  Best of luck in your upcoming retirement!!

Ray Queener
TeamWorks and former Superintendent

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You have been a great teacher, leader and friend to so many MASA members over the years and deserve the best retirement ever!  We will work hard to preserve your legacy and are grateful you don't plan to change your phone number! Enjoy doing whatever makes you happy. You will be forever in our hearts.

With the deepest of gratitude,

Deb Henton

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Your face was the first one I saw at my first MASA conference. You immediately made me feel welcome, and each time I saw you, you continued to do that.  You have been such a big part of MASA, and will leave a lasting impact on all of us. Enjoy the next chapter in your life and if you are ever in Duluth, give me a call and we can do lunch!

Cindy Lee Olson

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Mia, Thanks for the listening ear, thought partnership, and supportive actions over many years.  Public education is better because of you, but you’ve supported leaders and me as well.  I hope your next adventure is wonderful and that you will stay connected.  With appreciation!

Josh Swanson

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Thank you for the incredible amount of support you have given to educating our kids throughout your 32 years with MASA.  You will be missed.  Best to you in your retirement.
Gregg Parks-Nevis

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Thank you for your service to our organization.  Your leadership has helped make MASA a leader in education in Minnesota.  Your unwavering support and dedication has been remarkable in the years that I have been with the organization.  I wish you the best in retirement and the association is indebted to you for your contributions.  Best wishes!

Kevin Grover - International Falls

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Wishing you all the best in your next adventures in life. Thanks for your tireless service to me and other MASA members. I will remember your professionalism in your interactions and your beautiful warm smile.
Theresa Battle
One91 Superintendent

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Mia,

You've been with me 32 out my 35 years as a member of MASA.  Thank you for all the help and sage advice you've given me and all MASA members.  Good luck and best of health in retirement.

Larry Guggisberg
Interim Supt. - Greenbush Middle River