Troy University will host a retirement reception for Jean Laliberte from 2 until 4 p.m. Friday at the Daniel Plaza on the university campus. The public is invited.

Laliberte is vice chancellor for development and vice president of the Troy University Foundation Board. She joined the Troy University faculty in 1991 as a professor in the college of business.

Faith Ward, director of Troy University Alumni Affairs, said Laliberte has been a tremendous asset to the university and will continue to help advance Troy University in her retirement years.

“Jean and I have worked closely together for 16 years,” Ward said. “Our office and development work hand in hand. I know from a personal point of view what Jean means to Troy University. She does an awesome job raising money for the university and she is a member of so many committees. She doesn’t have to serve on all those committees but she chooses to do so. She is committed to our university.”

Ward said Laliberte often speaks at alumni events and is dedicated to raising money for Troy for Troops.

“She is committed to raising funds for scholarships. She always chairs the DROP. It’s just something she loves to do — help students with their educations. She helps raise money for all the entities at the university.

“Although Jean is not a Troy University graduate she has a true Warrior spirit.

“Jean is a strong supporter of everything Troy University,” Ward said. “She is a dedicated member of the Troy University Alumni Association. And, if there’s an athletic event going on, you are probably going to see her there and just as likely to see her at the theater. There’s no way to put a value on all that she brings to the Troy University table.”

Laliberte is solidly integrated into the Troy community as well, Ward said.

She is a member of the Alpha Delta Kappa teachers’ sorority, the Troy Arts Council, the Troy Rotary Club and the Daughters of the American Revolution and is active with The Female Factor. 

Laliberte has served as on the Troy City School Foundation and also as its president and on the board of Troy Regional Medical Center.

She is an active member of Park Memorial United Methodist Church.

Ward said Laliberte is a heart-part of the Troy University family and the entire Troy community.

“She is retiring but she’s not going anywhere,” Ward said. “Jean is a volunteer at heart and there are many ways that she can continue to be a part of Troy University in a volunteer role.

“We invite everyone to join us Friday as we recognize and honor Jean. She is a Trojan through and through and we’re not letting her get too far away.”