Mary Long, Willa Vaught, and Dr. Edwin Long

MCH hosted a retirement reception for Willa Vaught on Wednesday, June 25th. A large contingent of current and previous MCH employees joined Willa's friends and family in recognizing her for 41.6 years of service.

Guest speakers included Dr. Edwin Long, Mary Long, Peter Long, John Hood, Brenda Viets, Gail Horman, and Ken Hughson. The speakers highlighted how MCH’s business and operations have changed over the past 41 years and also shared stories about their work experiences with Willa. In his tribute to Willa, CEO Peter Long said, "Think about this—41 years of service in today's business environment is almost unheard of. Willa has always been there for the company and has done everything in her power to help the company succeed. She is the spirit of MCH and we wish her the very best in this next chapter of her life."

Mrs. Mary Long shared memories of asking Willa to attend industry trade shows with her. She commented that regardless of the location, MCH customers were always delighted to meet Willa so they could put a name with "the MCH voice" on the phone. She also told the group that Mr. Halter thought he made a "pretty good hire" when he asked Willa to join the MCH team in 1966.

Ken Hughson elicited a lot of laughs when he shared comments from Willa's first MCH performance review. The laughter continued as Peter Long and John Hood, attired in grass skirts and leis, presented Willa and her husband, Francis, with a trip to Hawaii.

Willa graciously thanked Brenda Viets, Gail Horman, and Eileen Winfrey for their work in preparing for the reception. She said, "I want to thank everyone for making today so special. Your well wishes, hugs and tears mean so much. MCH has been 'home' for so long, it seems odd not being there. I am, however, thoroughly enjoying my retirement. I wish each of you the best and thank you for your friendship and support through the years."