Students and staff gathered on Monday afternoon to bid Interim Chancellor Christopher Markwood and his wife, Bridget Markwood farewell at a reception held in the Yellowjacket Union.

About 100 people attended the event on Feb. 28, which included food as well as a performance from the “Cold Steel” percussion ensemble and a memory book that was available to sign. Many also spoke of their memories and feelings.

“It’s kind of sad to see them [the Markwoods] leave, and I wish the best for them,” said Tom Tu of the PLC staff. The Markwoods will be moving to Corpus Christi, Texas where Markwood has taken the position of provost and vice president of academic affairs.

“Definitely the people; we’ve had such an amazing time getting to know the faculty, staff, and students,” Markwood said of what he would miss the most about leaving Superior.

Bridget Markwood echoed the same sentiments.

“I’m going to miss so many people [here],” she said. However, both Markwoods are also looking forward to being closer to other family and friends who live in Texas.

As a gift, the Markwoods were presented with a wooden chair that had Chancellor Markwood’s name and dates of service to the University of Wisconsin-Superior inscribed on it as well as other writings from well-wishers.

“This was a very personal journey for us,” Markwood said as he spoke to the crowd about his time here at UW-Superior. “We wish you the absolute best, and thank you for all you’ve done.”

Chancellor Markwood takes office officially at Texas A&M Corpus Christi on March 14.