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Twenty-three years ago, Mary Margaret Williams "retired."It lasted all of three months."The Board of Trustees wanted me to come back and start this senior citizens program," Williams said. "Ididn't know anything about organizing a continuing education program. But I decided it would be fun,something new."So, at the age of 63, instead of thinking about retirement, Williams was hard at work developing a successfulenrichment program for senior citizens. Today, Cowley's Institute of Lifetime Learning is recognizedas one of the finest programs in the region, due largely to Williams' leadership and vision.Time has a way of catching up with people, including Williams, an age-less wonder who has been a fixtureat Cowley for 42 years. This spring, at age 86, is her last as an employee of the college."You certainly are a model for us at the college toemulate," Conrad Jimison, associate dean of instruction,told Williams at an end-of-the-year picnic May 8."You've done an incredible job for the college andwe're going to miss you.""I will not go to the rocking chair," Williamsresponded. "I don't even own one."Williams received a mantel clock from the college asa retirement gift. Dr. Pat McAtee, college president,spoke about Williams."If I get to be your age I hope I can just get out ofbed in the morning," he said with a laugh. "Seriously,I can't say enough about this lady. For someone todevote more than 60 years to education, that's incredible.You have been a true delight to work with."Marietta Brammer, Williams' assistant at theInstitute in Ireland Hall, and Dr. Lynn Stalnaker, deanof instruction, also honored Williams with words ofkindness.Williams moved to Wichita in July to be closer torelatives. She said her emphasis in retirement will be towork at her church. Sitting around won't be part of herday.There is little doubt that whatever she does, she willmake a difference. All you have to do is look at thegrowth of the Institute of Lifetime Learning to seewhat impact she has had.From one class of five students in1974 to more than a dozen classes and 150 students, the Institute hastaken on a transformation the past two decades. And Williams, although she hesitates to admit it, has beenthe catalyst for that change.While the number of classes has increased, the minimum age to enroll has decreased. In 1974 persons 65or older could enroll. Now the program is open to individuals 55 and over.Williams was born in Fort Scott, Kan. and spent her youth growing up in Chanute, Bonner Springs andBaldwin City, communities where her father served as principal, superintendent and professor of educationat Baker University. Williams earned a bachelor's degree in math and English from Baker, then went on tothe University of Kansas and earned a master's degree in guidance and psychology. That was in 1961.A great deal has happened since then, and now, Williams is taking a second shot at retirement."My philosophy is that you can live longer and be healthier if you keep your mind active," Williams said."That's what I based the Institute on."