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Ruth Symons, long-time choir accompanist, to retire

Accompanying a choir can be a thankless job, but members of the Augustana Choir did their best to show how much they appreciate the choir's accompanist of 16 years, Ruth Symons. Symons, who is set to retire at the end of this school year, was surprised by the choir and members of the Handel Oratorio Society and Quad City Choral Arts after a rehearsal on May 14. Known for her gracious smile and confidence-building winks, Symons has been an integral part of the music department, and she will be missed.

Symons' husband, Dr. Van Symons, is also retiring as professor of history at the end of the school year.

(Augustana Photo Bureau/Sam Schlouch)

Jessica Aldis '12, choir president, greets Symons with a hug after the choir surprised her on May 14, 2012.
Dr. Jon Hurty assists Symons with opening her gift from the choir and community members
Symons shares a few meaningful words with the Augustana Choir and members of the Handel Oratorio Society
Symons greets Colleen Bartimoccia '13 at a surprise party for Symons' retirement
Members of the choir enjoy cake and punch at Symons' retirement party
Tyrrell Jeffries '13 and Symons
Many members of the Augustana Choir and Handel Oratorio Society lined up to offer well wishes to Symons
Augustana Choir President Jessica Aldis '12 greets Symons as she enters Larson Hall
Symons receives a standing ovation
Dr. Jon Hurty and Symons admiring Symons' retirement gift from the choir