[wisconsin] Announcing my job change

[Ray Campbell]

Hello all, family and friends reading this:

I apologize in advance for sending this via e-mail; I wish I could share news of this kind personally with you.  However, sending this message is the quickest way to get this announcement to those I want to know.

I'm writing to announce that I am changing jobs.  I am leaving the Chicago Lighthouse for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired to pursue some independent contract work opportunities.  My last day at the Lighthouse will be September 29, 2011.

Why am I making this big change at this time?  Working as an independent contractor will give me the flexibility I need to finish school.  I'm in my mid 40's and am ashamed to admit I never finished my Bachelor's Degree.  I've been close to doing it at DePaul University for some time, and feel that I need to make this job change to help me get it done.

Two reasons that I feel as I do.  First, I only need a few classes to finish.  Some of what I need only meet during the daytime hours and do not meet on-line, so it's impossible to take them while working.  The bigger reason, though, is that I have an advanced project to do that I will need time for.  I'll be able to set my own hours for work which means I'll be able to devote whatever time I need to finishing that project, of course, getting my work done first.

I will definitely be contracting with one company, possibly a couple of others.  For those who have asked, I do not yet know what the Lighthouse's plans are to fill my position; I know temporarily they will have an intern working in the position and would hope they will fill it on a full time basis and have encouraged them to do so.  The best way to keep up on this is to contact my current Supervisor, Tom Perski, either at 312-997-3657 or tom.perski at chicagolighthouse.org.  You can also check out the Careers link at the Chicago Lighthouse's website, www.chicagolighthouse.org for information.  Some have asked if the Lighthouse would consider hiring someone to fill my position remotely.  That has not to this point been considered, but it would be worth asking that question of Tom.

I thank everyone in advance for your good wishes, support and even concern.  Karyn and I have given this a lot of thought and we are both comfortable with my decision.

Ray Campbell
ray1530 at wowway.com