Bob Wright’s Retiring. Will Sett Recreation Ever be the Same?
Robert Wright’s career has been filled with friendship, memories and hard work. From scuba diving in Lake Mendota and volunteering in Belize to managing Sett Recreation, Bob’s commitment to the Wisconsin Union has left an incredible impact on the community. Now, some 40 years later, Wright has plans to return to South America, following his retirement in winter 2024.
Sett Recreation in Union South is home to bowling lanes, pool tables and games. Sett, meaning a badger’s den, mimics the feeling of an animal’s habitat by being located underneath Union South. The space defines relaxation, fun and comfort through the activities there.
Bob’s office, tucked behind the bright designs, encapsulates his story. As we talked, he pointed out Christmas cards from past employees, a front-page newspaper story of the previous Union South’s closure and a bowling pin decorated with past employee’s signatures.
“A couple times I’ll have old employees stop by and say hi,” Bob said. “They always try to find their name on the bowling pin.”
His attention to detail has created a community that extends past a student job or a recreation center. When asked about a specific memory, Bob recalls the time a past employee climbed the now-closed rock wall, conquering her fear of heights. What took her three months to overcome has stayed with Bob and reminds him of his impact on those around him.
“Anything like that, that makes you realize what you’re doing actually has a positive impact on the people that come down here,” he said. “Then, I’m thrilled, I’m happy.”
Bob’s relationships at the Wisconsin Union are, to him, what made his job special. No matter what he does next, Bob will keep those memories forever. He joked about his boss asking him not to leave and his dogs adjusting to more walks, but, overall, he spoke about missing the people.
“I’ve known so many people over the years, from student employees to coworkers,” Bob recalled. “It’s going to be strange not seeing all these people every day. That is just gonna be kinda weird.”
The transition of retirement closes past doors but also initiates new, exciting opportunities. In his case, retirement brings flexibility to return to South America, 45 years later.
Prior to grad school, he was in the Peace Corps in Belize, where he lived and volunteered in an underdeveloped community, using his knowledge and resources to channel change.
“One thing I learned from the Peace Corps is that there are so many ways you can have a positive impact through volunteering,” he said. “My main job in the Peace Corps was as a teacher trainer, but I also got involved in construction. I got a grant to help a village build the first actual brick block house.”
Bob’s experience in Belize has inspired his retirement plans. He is planning to move south to Ecuador, where he hopes to work with local communities, volunteer, and connect with new people. That being said, Bob is also looking forward to the warm weather and does not anticipate missing the cold, windy Wisconsin winters.
Bob has left his mark on the Wisconsin Union through his humor, compassion and care for the community.
“Appreciate the people you’re working with and the fact that we are really working for a very, very interesting organization that is such a huge part of campus and student life,” Bob said. “Just be happy, be grateful you have that.”
The Wisconsin Union wished Bob Wright the best in his retirement and will miss him dearly.
