Yesterday, LLCC honored Dr. John Roberts, who retired May 31 after 48 years teaching history at LLCC, with a newly planted tree and bench built by highway construction careers program students. Dr. Charlotte Warren, president, said the tree represented continued growth for the college and thanked Dr. Roberts for all he has done for students and colleagues at LLCC. Special guest was Dr. Robert Poorman, first president of LLCC, who read a “Doc Letter,” a tradition he established to honor the retirees he first hired during his tenure as president. Dr. Roberts commented that LLCC has been his second family. He said that many outstanding students have passed through his classes over the years, and the ones who gave him the greatest satisfaction were students who overcame challenges, with LLCC’s help, to succeed. He said his favorite day was always graduation. “It’s been a real privilege, and I will miss all of you. We’re entering a new age, and there are outstanding people here who will tackle those challenges. It’s been a wonderful ride!”