Cheryl Caldwell, director of university communications at Missouri State University-West Plains, will officially retire from the university Aug. 1 after nearly 32 years of service.

Caldwell was hired as the campus’ admission counselor on Nov. 1, 1989, then was named coordinator of admissions and public relations on July 1, 1992.

Three years later, she was named director of university communications/coordinator of admissions.

In 2000, the offices of admissions and university communications were separated due to the growth of the campus, and on July 1 that year, her title was revised to director of university communications.

She received the university’s Staff Excellence in University Service Award in 2010.

Although her official retirement date is Aug. 1, with vacation time she will leave university service in mid-to-late May following the hiring of a new director of university communications and the completion of some final projects.

Caldwell will receive a certificate noting her years of service and a piano arch mantle clock.