Earlier this summer College of Marin lost long-time professor and UPM union leader Paul Christensen. Paul retired in December 2012 after 40 years of teaching Sociology and Behavioral Sciences. Paul was highly regarded by his students and colleagues. I encourage you to read the July 2016 UPM Newsletter which is a memorial issue in honor and memory of Paul’s life work.
A memorial celebration of Paul’s life – A Viking Gathering – will take place on Sunday, August 28, from 3-6 p.m., at Paradise Cove Beach, 3450 Paradise Drive in Tiburon. Attendees are asked to bring a dish to share that they think Paul would have liked. Drinks will be provided.
While I did not know Paul well and only had limited interactions with him prior to his retirement, he of course, had a reputation for being a tough negotiator and a fierce advocate for the rights of faculty. The last time I recall seeing Paul on campus he was pushing a stroller with his granddaughter Asha. It was a heartwarming moment. As one who cherishes “family-life” over “work-life”, that’s how I choose to remember Paul.
Should you have additional questions about the celebration for Paul, please contact the UPM office at (415) 459-1524.
Our thoughts are with Paul’s family and friends during this time.