Dean of college of arts and sciences Badiollah Asrabadi, will be retiring at the end of June after 31 years at the University.

    Asrabadi, who has Bachelors and Masters of Science degrees from the University of Tehran and a Ph.D. from Kansas State University, served as a professor of mathematics, probability and statistics for both undergraduate and graduate students until the fall of 2009. 

    The decision to retire, Asrabadi said, was based on his desire to do more with family and friends. He said it was time for him to devote more time to those people and enjoy life.

    Since beginning his career at the University, Asrabadi said he has seen Nicholls go through many changes. Many buildings have been renovated as well as the addition of Gouaux Hall, which was not in existence when he first started.

    “The face of the University has changed quite a bit over time,” Asrabadi said.

    Recalling his time at the University, Asrabadi said the highlight has been teaching.

    “The best time of my day is being in the classroom and teaching the students.”

    He has also enjoyed working with his colleges as a dean. He spoke of the many faculty members who “were so dedicated and willing to go the extra mile to help students.”

    Asrabadi said the one thing he would like people to remember about his time at the University is that he tried his best in every position he has held. He said he is pleased with his work at the University and has never had any conflict with his colleagues.

    “I could not have asked for better colleagues and department heads,” he said. “They have been great. It’s been a memorable time being dean to work with so many good people.”

    With his free time, Asrabadi said he may continue his involvement in various grants, research and consulting, as well as traveling, writing books and spending time with loved ones.

    He explained that one colleague told him that you are only really retired when you don’t follow a schedule and you do whatever you like each day. Though he said this will be an adjustment, he is looking forward to it.

    “It’s a new chapter in life that everyone goes through and we’ll see how things work out.”