The Knox Conference Room

In honor of Pam, our main conference room has been renamed The Knox Room!

Pam @ The Knox Conference Room!

Pam, Lisa Pryor, Lance Pryor

About last night

Kaiser Associates started with Pam by Michael's side.

Pam ended her Kaiser Associates chapter with Michael by her side.

Michael Kaiser, Pam Knox

Pam & Jay Knox

Don't let Ricky drive you crazy!

Pam, 

You have engaged with every single employee at Kaiser Associates from the founding through 2018, and what a special experience you made it for all of us. I was lucky enough to have the "Pam Welcome" twice in my career, as a brand new college hire and again as a seasoned professional. Each was different, and special in its own way. Pam is a friendly face, a confidante, a strategic partner, and someone to laugh with. She is undoubtedly the hardest working person at Kaiser for 30+ years (how many are we up to now?). I expect it will take 4-5 people to do handle the breadth of work and have impact that just one Pam can do.  

My favorite memories are Pam's visits to the DC office when she would stay with us. I think my kids still believe she is part of the family. The best is when we returned the favor in 2015 and visited her in Marin. Pam always kept up with the Capitals and it was fun to share the excitement of the Stanley Cup Win with her virtually this year. 

Pam, I wish you all the best. Have a wonderful well deserved retirement! Let's visit soon. 

Lilith

LILITH CHRISTIANSEN

Thank you for everything!

Pam, 

I remember when you called me to give me my AC Offer in December of 2012. In that phone call, I was struck by how warm, enthusiastic, and helpful you were. Nothing changed when I came to Kaiser. You were always there for all of us. Thank you for all of your work at Kaiser and commitment to our experience. Congratulations on your retirement! I hope you get to spend more time with the people you love. 

Best, 

Sofia Navia

You've given us so much

Pam,

I can't tell you how much it has benefited our company, our culture and our spirit to have had you for as long as we have. What I feel makes us so special as a company is the friendliness and the camaraderie that our Kaiser-ites exude; and of this, no one represents these ideals better than our Employee #2. Of the nine years that I've known you, I can't remember a single time when you've been anything less than exuberant and happy, even on the days when the stress is high and everyone is clamoring for your attention. You've been a great role model to all of us in this way, and while you may no longer be in the office, thinking of you provides me with a gentle reminder to be kind and happy, even in the face of great stress.

Pam, thank you so much for offering so much of yourself to us! While it will be very strange indeed not seeing you in the hallways, I fear not that this is goodbye. I can't wait to hear about the good life that retirement holds for you, and I know that you know that you will always have a place of friendship in DC, London, KL, Denver, New York, Chicago, Singapore, and everywhere else a Kaiser alum lives. You can trust too that you'll receive plenty of visits in Marin County from those of us.

Enjoy the good years to come, and please do come back to tell us all about them!

All the best,

Jon Meyerholz

Thank you Pam!

Dear Pam,

Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement after 37 years! As has been the case for hundreds of other Kaiserites before me, you were one of the first people I met here and you have made me feel welcome since day one. Thank you for always being such a steadying force in our lives, no more than a phone call away. Even on your busiest days you always take the time to ask everyone how they’re doing, and it does not go unappreciated!

I hope that your retirement is full of relaxing joy and cheer, and that you still visit the DC office on occasion. You will be sorely missed.

Best wishes,

Liz

LIZ HAMILTON

Congratulations, Pam

Pam,

Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement from Kaiser and from the workforce! These days it's truly remarkable to know of someone who has served the same employer for 37 years, let alone get to work with one as a fellow employee! I remember how excited I was in February of 2014 when I opened up a FedEx envelope to find my Kaiser offer letter enclosed. It's hard to believe we're coming up on 5 years of me being at Kaiser, but nothing tops 37 years! 

I commend you for your utmost professionalism, positivity, and your attention to detail on everything you touched at Kaiser over your impressive tenure here. 

Best wishes for a wonderful, relaxing, and peaceful next phase for you.

Sincerely,

Roy Langley

Thanks for everything, Pam!

Dear Pam, thanks so much for all the help you have provided me since my very first day at Kaiser! No matter how busy you were, you've always made yourself available to support us and I knew you were always just a phone call away! You are such a great part of Kaiser's identity and while things won't be the same without you, I wish you the very best on your next step! Enjoy your retirement with lots of exciting adventures, discoveries and fun! If you ever happen to visit Paris, please let me know!

Thanks again for everything!

Mariam

MARIAM DIARRA

To Pam, my colleague and close friend

I have had the great pleasure to know Pam as a colleague and friend for more than 35 years.  Pam, Kaiser’s first employee, has always been capable, hardworking, enthusiastic, supportive, and kind.

The firm started as a very small, tightly knit group of young people.  Pam was, by necessity, a jack-of-all-trades at the time.  She did our slide production (using a specialized typewriter called, if I recall correctly, a composer), she paid the bills, she answered the phones, she arranged our travel, she walked Michael’s dogs (!), and yes, I guess she was the den mother to the young consultants who surrounded her.

Being the model employee that she was, I have no stories about Pam and her highjinks, for there were none.  However, there are many situations I recall Pam being thrust into by those of us around her…

… for example, the time when the firm was still operating out of Michael’s townhouse, and we were in a client meeting in the dining room.  The dogs were upstairs, their presence not known by the client.  When the mailman showed up at the front door, one of the dogs started to bark.  Bob Fifer, who was upstairs working with the dogs at his side, jumped up to quiet them.  Alas, when doing so, he stepped on one of them, which caused a bloodcurdling yelp to be issued forth.  The look of client’s face was one of utter confusion!  A minute or two later, down the stairs ‘limped’ Pam, who apologized for having screamed when she had ‘twisted her ankle.’

… or the time that, on her 40th birthday, Pam walked into the conference room for the then-traditional sharing of a birthday cake, only to be greeted by all of the other Kaiser employees in tee shirts that read ‘I’m not over the hill’ on the front and ‘I’m not 40’ on the back.  Plus, of course, her present, which was a tee shirt that read ‘I hit the hill’ on the front and ‘I am 40’ on the back.

I certainly look back fondly on many other experiences I’ve shared with Pam and Jay.  Their beautiful wedding.  Watching their son Michael grow up.  Hearing stories of their fantastic trips to California, France, and Switzerland.  Many wonderful meals, bottles of wine, and conversation on innumerable topics.

I could go on and on about Pam, but I won’t.  Rather, I’ll close by mentioning perhaps Pam’s most defining characteristic: a positive outlook that causes Pam to think the best of everyone.  I don’t recall ever hearing Pam say something mean or demeaning about anyone.  She has always seen the best in people and granted them the benefit of the doubt.  That is a really rare quality, one that I’ve prized as her friend and one that has been invaluable to Kaiser Associates.  I know she will be missed by the firm but will remain a friend to so many with whom she has worked over these last 37+ years.

To Pam — congratulations, thank you, and best wishes for many, many happy years of retirement!

Lance Pryor

1983-1984 and 1987-1995

Congratulations on Your Retirement Pam!

Dear Pam,

A very warm congratulations on your retirement after providing so many years of fantastic support, positivity and leadership at Kaiser. It will not be the same without you here but you've most certainly passed on an enduring legacy and many years of fantastic memories for Kaiserites.

I wish you all the best for this next step and look forward to celebrating with you in the coming weeks and keeping in touch moving forward to hear how life is going.

Regards,

Charlie Wemyss-Dunn

Thank you, Pam!

Dear Pam,

Congratulations on your retirement!!! To say you will be missed is a complete understatement. In my time at Kaiser you have been the heart and soul of the firm. Your warmth and generosity have made many a Kaiserite (including myself!) feel truly valued. Your Herculean efforts to find everyone the right opportunities on the right projects are so incredible and have made Kaiser the wonderful place that it is. It's especially impressive that you have built such strong relationships with us all the way from San Francisco. We have been so lucky to have you. I will miss your birthday emails and the cheer you bring to the office with your frequent visits. Thank you for always taking the time to stop and say hello even when you have a million things to do during your DC visits. I hope your retirement years will be filled with many adventures! I have always loved comparing travel notes with you and I hope you will have even more time for exploring now!

Thank you very much for all your years of service to Kaiser, and warm wishes as you start this next chapter!

Best,

Amelia

AMELIA SALUTZ

Thank You and Cheers to Your Next Adventure!

Pam,

Congratulations on your retirement!!

Thank you so much for all of the tireless work that you have committed to make everyone's lives a bit brighter and easier. Ever since I first received my offer, I have always appreciated how friendly and accessible you have been; you've really had such a positive impact on my Kaiser experience. I will miss our surprise early morning run-ins in the office, and hearing about all of the west coast haps.

While we are all very sad to see you go, I wish you the very best in this next chapter. May you find many new adventures (and keep us in the loop)!

Best,
Kacey

KACEY JONES

Congrats to the woman who made it all happen!

Congratulations Pam on your retirement!!! From the time I joined Kaiser as an intern in 2007 to my departure in 2012, Pam was the driving force for the consultants and partners that seamlessly made things happen. When needs or issues arose, Pam seamlessly handled everything with a calm, collected attitude and a sense of humor! I loved when she used to tell stories from the 80s of Kaiser's beginning with her and Michael Kaiser. It's amazing how far Kaiser has come and it wouldn't have been possible without Pam. She is the heart and soul of Kaiser and she will certainly be missed!

Sarah Carlson

Pam @ Kaiser's 20th Anniversary

Nina Trinca (US), Pam (TA), Nicola O'Shea (UK)
Single celebration with Everyone US + Everyone UK
Pam is the glue!
December 2001

Cheers from a 1595 Spring Hill Alum!!

Pam,

What is there to say about your impact and legacy at Kaiser – you were the first person so many of us met as we walked in the door, in my case, that door was on Spring Hill Road in Tysons. There were about half a dozen research associates that day I started. You took care of all of us and so many operational aspects of running the firm. I am in awe and so grateful for your calm, pragmatic and kind leadership.

Peace and love and all the best in your retirement!

Abigail

ABIGAIL GORMAN

On to the next adventure!

I remember my first day at Michael M. Kaiser Associates on Kent Street in Arlington.  It was Fall  1985 -- this was my first real job and I was nervous.  But then this wonderful smiling person, Pam Knox, welcomed me and immediately put me at ease.  I have never forgotten your reassuring, upbeat presence and have tried to follow your example during my career when new people join my team.  We also had a lot of fun (unfortunately, I cannot find any photos).  I owe you and Jay thanks for introducing me to Robert M Parker and the Wine Advocate – knowledge that has been invaluable over the last 17 years that I have lived and worked in France!  Now that you are retired, I hope that you plan to travel and would be delighted to see you if you ever head this direction.

Congratulations and thank you,

Becky Gaghen

(MMKA 1985-87)

Heartfelt Thanks and Best Wishes

Pam,

We first met in person all the way back in August, 1994 on my first day at Kaiser.   You may not realize this but you were a key reason I decided to join the firm.  Trying to decide between post- business school job offers, I was attracted to Kaiser but unsure.  Your phone calls to me and the professionalism of the letters (yes, letters, this was pre-email days) you sent me made me comfortable that Kaiser was the right choice.  My guess is you have had the exact same positive impact on literally hundreds of other Kaiser hires over the last 37 years.  Just one of the many, many ways that you may not realize you have positively affected lives and Kaiser.

The outpouring of love and appreciation on this blog vividly illustrates your greatest quality: how much you genuinely care for everyone (and in return how much we all care for you).  This quality stands out among a long list of admirable qualities: amazingly competent at every role you played at Kaiser, always positive and upbeat, and incredibly reliable and dependable. 

Personally, no matter what was happening on any given work day (good or bad), ringing you up would be a highlight of my day.  I knew we would do a quick catch up on our personal lives (how was the paddleboard trip, how is Michael doing, etc.).  Then you would always offer up a solution to whatever problem I was calling about.  Let’s do this.  From now on, let’s keep our occasional calls going but just skip any work stuff.

I feel blessed to have worked with you for the past 24 years.  Your contributions to Kaiser are too many to count and much appreciated.  You will be sorely missed.

Kevin

KEVIN SLAYDEN

The Steady Lighthouse There Throughout

Pam was literally the first person I spoke with at Kaiser and the last (well, at my exit interview as an employee... later I became a client).  Pam welcomed me in, and she wished me well as I went off.  And through all my time at the firm, one of my most enduring memories is of Pam being a constant source of calmness and cheer.  Any time I would call: "Pam Knox - Maaaaaaassssoooonn, how are you?"

Regardless of the day I was having or why I was calling, Pam was friendly, steady and always had a sense of, "I've seen it all - trust me - this is going to be fine.  We'll figure it out."  Since she had a different perspective on the project work, she could see which problems were real and differentiate from those that were not.  She was able to help clarify that and provide a sense of comfort - "don't worry, you'll get your staffing, the work will get done and everything will be fine."

Since leaving Kaiser, I have not had anyone like Pam I could call.  Not only will she be missed from those at Kaiser now, but she also has been (and will continue to be) missed by those who have left before her.

As always, thank you, Pam!

Mason Dye

CONGRATULATIONS

Pam--

CONGRATULATIONS on your retirement!! 

Thank you for your guidance, your generosity, and for showing me the art of multi-tasking with patience and kindness. 

Wishing you and Jay many adventures in the near future, and please give my love to Ricky :)

Amanda Young

Congratulations, Pam!

It was such a pleasure getting to work with you during my time at Kaiser.  Whether seeing you work your magic and figure out all sorts of creative staffing fixes or hearing funny stories of your time living in the Bavarian village in Washington state, you always found a way to brighten our days.  I always was so impressed that you always made such a point to really get to know everyone, and took time for little things like sending birthday wishes.

Wishing you the very best on your retirement (and I’m crossing my fingers that retirement means you’ll have more trips up to Portland!)

Best, 

Ashley

ASHLEY REES

Thanks, Pam

Dear Pam,

It’s hard to believe that it’s been 30+ years! MMKA was my first “real job” after college, and I was so fortunate to have you as an officemate for the initial period, modeling  professionalism and dedication. I’m honored to have shared a part of your tenure at MMKA, and wish you many happy adventures in your well-earned retirement!

Linda Stumpf Ferri

Congrats Pam!

Pam, I know we have only worked together for a short time but your patience, work ethic, constant positive attitude and gentle nature have amazed me! 37 years with one company is an incredible achievement and one that I struggle to even comprehend. It says so much about your level of dedication and how much you care about those around you. Enjoy retirement - it is clearly well deserved!

Phil Debaugh

Happy Retirement, Pam!

What's not to love about Pam Knox! I look back at my days at Kaiser (2003-2007) fondly for many reasons, not least of which is the incredible Pam Knox. Always a friendly voice on the other end of the phone, Pam worked her magic with staffing and HR from across the country, but always made you feel like she was right next door. I loved when Pam would come to visit and we'd have lunch at Cosi and talk about life. 

I wish Pam a retirement full of joy and well-deserved leisure! 

Cheers,
Mariah McKechnie

Pamela Ann Swenson Knox (Ka-nox)...where do I begin?

Way back in late 1983 (I think that’s the right year), you hired me and I felt lucky. It was a pleasure to have worked with you at Kaiser Associates for those many years (again, I think it was until 1990) and to call you a friend. Kaiser was young back then and Pam, you were the everything girl...preparing presentations, keeping track of busy schedules, making sure the firm ran smoothly AND doing the books...all with a smile and with the patience of Job. 

I remember helping you type up the presentations and hand drawing boxes for the charts. Everything needed to be just right. Getting our IBM Selectric typewriters to make boxes so we didn’t have to draw everything by hand really was an accomplishment and a time saver. There were moves to new office spaces, changes in telephone system technologies, the introduction of evolutionary computers (talk about being on the edge!), the ever changing flow of consultants and analysts and all the while you stayed in control remaining calm and steady. Your work ethic was, is, incredible, a great example for any employee to witness. If there was a deadline we stayed until the project was finished. I’m sure you haven’t changed after all these years. Even after I left Kaiser, many times I returned to help with presentation production and as always was so happy to be able to catch up with you. As busy as you may have been, you always took time to stop, listen, help and advise those that entered your office. 

I have wonderful memories of working with you and am not surprised that you stayed the most devoted employee and was a big, if not the biggest, contributor to the success of Kaiser. I am blessed to know you and that we still keep in touch annually. I cannot be happier for you as you embark on your upcoming retirement. 

All the best, Pam and Jay. Have fun, stay healthy and continue living life to its fullest!

Clorinda Haug

Congratulations!

Pam,

Congratulations on your much deserved retirement! You are such a ray of sunshine, and I feel so fortunate to have gotten to know you during my time at Kaiser. Thank you for your endless positivity, limitless contributions to the firm, and of course, your amazing Portugal recommendations when I was traveling last spring. You have truly been the backbone of this firm, and Kaiser is so lucky to have had you for 37 wonderful years. 

Wishing you all the best on your adventures to come, and I hope to keep in touch!

Best,

Erica Choo

Happy Retirement Pam!

Pam, you have been the best colleague, friend, confidante - just about everything really - and even though in all the years we only met in person very few times,  through our regular weekly calls I have got to know you and admire all those qualities that make you so special - your warmth, consideration, respect and (sometimes wicked) sense of humour - I will miss all those things

All the very best for your retirement, you and Jay will have many adventures and I look forward to catching up with you both somewhere in the world in the not too distant future (dinner in Marrakesh??) 

Love and best wishes
Annie

ANNIE SENDALL

p.s. here's some reminders of your time with the London team (a few years ago!)

You'll be missed

Pam - you have been a fixture and an institution within an institution for longer than my lifetime, and I'm not considered a young man anymore!  All jokes aside, I have been truly blessed and honored to work with you and am so excited for your next chapter.  Your genuine, vibrant energy shone through from the very first time I interacted with you - when you presented me a job offer - all the way through my exit interview and in several dealings since I left Kaiser.  You've touched so many lives and we are all forever grateful.

-Zachary Rudick

One of the Best – Congratulations, Pam

Pam:

Congratulations on your retirement.  So well deserved!  Thinking of you and writing this note put a smile on my face.  I can identify few people I’ve interacted with personally or professionally who were so consistently kind.  Regardless of the situation, you always had such a calm and friendly presence.  I can’t recall the number of times I called with needs and you were always quick to respond and pleased to help.  I also always appreciated your interest in building relationships, getting to know people, beyond work.  It was rare to have a conversation without you asking about my wife, kids, plans, etc.  There aren’t enough people like you, Pam.  Thank you for setting such a fabulous example.  I hope retirement brings you an abundance of happiness and health. 

All the best,

Matt Laughlin  

Pam's 40th Birthday @ Kaiser

When Pam turned 40, a gorilla appeared at Kaiser Associates to shower Pam with balloons.

Everyone wore shirts saying "I'm Not Over The Hill."

Pam was presented with her own special shirt!

Congrats Pam

Pam:

Congrats on a very well-earned retirement! I always appreciated how dedicated you were to making sure Kaiser ran as smoothly as possible. For many, that would have meant force-fitting names on a spreadsheet. For you, it meant understanding the goals and aspirations of each consultant at every level to reach an optimal solution for all--even when doing so made your job harder. That degree of care and professionalism is rare and Kaiser has been lucky to have it!

Thank you for everything and best wishes,

Zach Swiss

Congratulations on a Well Earned Retirement

Pam,

Congratulations on your retirement and thank you for the indelible impact you have had on Kaiser over the course of 37 years!

As we are sure you know, the consultants often said that you were the “heart of soul of Kaiser!” While Kaiser will continue to plug along, we have no doubt there will be an operational and emotional void to fill on “Day 1 of the Post-Pam Era.”

We also want to thank you for the impact you had on us early in our careers. As we reflect, we have fond memories of the days you called each one of us to energetically offer us the job:

“Yes, and yes!!! We are SO EXCITED you’ve accepted our offer!!!...Very good news!!!”

[the above is an actual quote from Emily’s offer e-mail]

In the years that followed, you were always there to provide a steady and responsive guiding hand. Whether it was problem solving a staffing crunch, hiring a contractor across the globe or simply navigating the complexities of benefits packages, it was always reassuring to know you were there to support us.

It’s rare in today’s world to have such a passionate human capital leader stay at one firm for the better part of 4 decades. Kaiser will miss you!

Congrats again! Hope you have amazing adventures ahead with your family in your much-deserved retirement.

All the best,
Robby, Emily, & Alyssa
(Your Kellogg MBA Class of 2019!)

ROBBY CARPENTER-ISRAEL
EMILY McKELVEY
ALYSSA FORMAN

Best of luck on your next adventure!

Pam, you're so loved and appreciated by this organization, and it's not hard to see why. You've been a great mentor and partner to me over my tenure at Kaiser. You have always gone out of your way to answer any of my questions, offer suggestions and advice, recognize exciting achievements of our changing team, and lend a friendly ear and support on the inevitable "bad" days. I always looked forward to our conference calls where your bird joined in, and will never be able to eat a crab cake in DC again without thinking of you! You've been a bright presence in the lives of everyone you've touched at Kaiser and you deserve every happiness as you embark on your next adventure. Best of luck, and know that you'll be sincerely missed!!!

Best,
Danielle

DANIELLE ANTES

Miss you and congratulations on your retirement!

Pam is one of the kindest and warmest people I have worked with. She always asked everyone how we were doing and as HR Director listened and took care of all Kaiserites. She was a great presence in the office and brought everyone together which is exactly what an HR should do. Whenever I went home to Bulgaria for the holidays, Pam always asked me how it was and how my family was doing. I really appreciated that as I was far away from home, she made Kaiser more of a family. When I moved to London, Pam asked after me. 

Pam, miss you and enjoy your retirement! I know you mentioned you wanted to take a trip to Bulgaria and Turkey at some point! You are always welcome to come visit and I would love to take you around!

Vassi

VASSI IVANOVA

Congratulations Pam

We talked about this day coming. You were always one of my favorite things about Kaiser. I find it incredible that you have kept your sunny disposition all these years. Decades of corporate life can turn some people into a jaded cynic. Ask me how I know. You accomplished this despite having the worst commute of anyone I have ever known. I wish you all the best and hope you can adjust to finally living on west coast time. 

Darrel Ricketts

HAPPY RETIREMENT, PAM!!!

Pam, how can you retire?! You are the “face of Kaiser” and the “voice of Kaiser”! Ext. 2041 will never be the same again…

I have nothing but fond memories of you Pam, from your excited call to offer me an AC role – when to this day I remember thinking “she sounds just as thrilled as I am!” – to all of your many thoughtful and diplomatic staffing communications over the years. Your careful balancing of the demands of multiple clients, officers and consultants was often nothing short of miraculous.  

I’ll also remember the regular flow of “HAPPY BIRTHDAYS!!!”, promotion announcements and other cheery notes. And it was always great to catch up with you when you were in the office – you lit the place up.

I’ll remember you as the ultimate HR director and a wonderful colleague to everyone at the firm. You were particularly helpful to me during my transition to DC and through several tedious visa/immigration processes. But generally you were somebody I could always count on, very calm in a crisis and ALWAYS upbeat. 

Pam, I wish you all the best for your retirement – you deserve it!!

Thanks for everything,

Steve Elliott

Kaiser 2003-2011

Congratulations

Pam,

I am so happy for you, impressed with you, and more than a touch nostalgic about your retirement from Kaiser. I was fortunate enough to work with you over 10 years. Like so many, you were the person to introduce me to all of the important things related to working at Kaiser (staffing, 401k, insurance, and generally actually having a job). I luckily got to work with you in-person for a few years, but whether in-person or remotely, you were always a key part of the backbone at Kaiser.  

Working with you as Manager in the San Francisco office are some of my most fond memories. Our small-knit group was transformative for my development. As the matriarch of the office, I remember a lot of meaningful life conversations with you. Of course, I remember the fun stuff- lunch down in the Embarcadero, beers at the Marin Brewery, social events at your home, and the list goes on. Turns out the development and fun often happened at the same time.

When I became one of the leaders of the DC office, I realized just how incredibly valuable and talented you are from an operations perspective. Whether it was operational management, personnel reviews, or staffing, you always had great insight and ideas. As a business owner, I have wondered aloud- how do we find a "Pam Knox" for our business- someone who has the capability required, the flexibility necessary, the loyalty as an "organization builder," and the kind heart that actually has the most impact on people and culture. While Kaiser will continue to be the great firm it is today, it will certainly miss you. More than your capabilities, it will be your attitude, your personal touch, and your genuine character. You are an amazing person and deserve all of the love you are feeling. Jenny and I want to congratulate you on your retirement and amazing career. Wishing you continued happiness in your next chapter and a catch-up in 2019!

Kevin J. Dell'Oro

Pam, we will miss you so much!

Pam,

As you certainly have been told countless times, I could not have imagined having such a rich, memorable and positive experience at Kaiser without you. I'll never forget your energy -- and how you always brought such an immediately palpable warmth to the office when you suddenly appeared and took over a room or desk. I Indeed, some of my most favorite memories are certainly our many phone calls and discussions--even if they were only about staffing--as you always had a way of making any conversation as down-to-earth and enjoyable as possible. Thank you so much for your authenticity, humor and NECESSARY EMPHASIS in how you COMMUNICATED with us :). 

Joking aside, I wish you truly all the best in the next chapter of your life and hope to have the opportunity to toast to this milestone with you very soon!

Jeremy Williams

Pam and Jay post-drenching

Kings Dominion - 1985
Michael Kaiser's Going Away Party

Pam - The Early Years

Pam, I first met you 35 years ago, when I joined MMKA as somewhere around the 11^th employee of the firm (not counting Alex and Nicole, who at the time were the most productive consultants on the books, canine or otherwise). Even though you weren’t much older than me, you always seemed like the only adult in the place – Michael and Bob certainly didn’t qualify then. I often sought you out for just a little slice of sanity, and reassurance that I wasn’t utterly failing at my job. I actually think I was, but you could always spin it in a way that made me feel it was Michael’s fault for giving me poor direction. (I’m pretty sure you didn’t mean that, you just allowed me to think it, a kindness I shall never forget…)

When I think of you, I picture you in three places: at your wedding to Jay in Michael’s house (and I can still hear Michael belting out one of opera’s finest arias), on the softball diamond with your High Beta t-shirt on (didn’t we also have a team called Less Filling?), and sitting at your desk in the production room, working your magic on one of those old TRS computers and weaving those intricate cut-and-paste jobs that pulled together all those slides that I was always late in getting to you. It was truly one of the great artforms of the business world, long since lost to the PowerPoint monster.

The Kaiser I remember was a small group of smart, young, hard-working people (albeit oddly obsessed with where we were getting lunch on any given day). You always made sure we had fun too. So one last time, thank you for making my two years at Kaiser among the most enjoyable of my professional career. And congratulations on finally hanging up your spurs.

Now come visit us in Sonoma!

Paul Favaro

Consultant 2^nd Class

MMKA 1983-85

One Of A Kind

Dear Pam,

You are a valued colleague and friend to everyone at the firm – always thinking of others and giving so much of yourself to others.

You were spirited and fun then, and you are spirited and fun now!  You still run around like the Energizer bunny -- with a warm and welcoming smile, and a twinkle in your eye. 

You have grown, assumed new responsibilities, and overcome new challenges during each chapter of your Kaiser experience – most of which you were entirely unprepared for!  First, as Michael’s right hand as the two of you started up the firm.  Then, as the person who kept Kaiser running so the growing team of consultants and officers could go out and partner with clients.  Next as our Accounting “department” with all your thick handwritten ledgers.  To Staffing leader extraordinaire, and finally HR Director touching all of our employees worldwide.  With each new challenge you just jumped right in, gave it your all, and before we knew it, became known for it. 

Throughout all these chapters, you have been the steady, beating heart of the firm.  You have known every single person who has ever worked at Kaiser, and you have played a key role in shaping each person’s Kaiser experience.  You have cared for each person individually, and treated each person as more than an employee, as a member of a growing family.  Indeed, you connect the newest Kaiserites to the oldest Kaiserites, you connect the way we work today with the way we worked “back in the day.”  You provide that steady rhythm of kindness, diligence, encouragement, silliness, persistence, dedication, and loyalty. 

Pam, you are one of a kind, and Kaiser Associates will never be the same without you.

Thank you for ALL of the many things you have done for me, large and small.  It has been a pleasure and an honor to partner with you all these many years.  Your positivity and can-do spirit have energized me during difficult times, more than you will ever know.  Fun times have been even more fun with you there sparking joy.

Happy, happy retirement to you, our beloved Pam!  We will miss you so very much.

I hope you will stop and read this blog whenever you need reminding about how much you mean to me and to so many others. 

With a huge hug and my best,

Lisa

LISA PRYOR

Forty Years of Memories

It is difficult to select one anecdote about my work and friendship with Pam.  We have shared forty years together from the time Pam came to work as my assistant at Strategic Planning Associates. 

We have lived through starting (Michael M.) Kaiser Associates, stealing office supplies from SPA, Alex (my dog) eating our celebratory lunch when we finished our first book before we had a chance to, celebrating her mother’s 70th birthday in Tim’s car, fancy meals and great wines (which prompted another diner in the ladies’ room to say to Pam: You must be doctors!), Lance rooting around my refrigerator which motivated me to find our first office, video dating (!), trips to NYC and Montreal, her wedding, my departure from Kaiser, her son Michael’s arrival (Michael: I would like this for Christmas. Pam: Should we tell Santa? Michael: No tell Kaiser, he will get it for me.), Bob changing the name of the firm, her move to California, my wedding and on and on. 

In my long career, Pam was the best hire I ever made.

She was never an employee - she was always family.

- (Michael M.) Kaiser

Congratulations! - With great Pam and Circumstance

For those that know me they would likely expect this post to be a string of quips, dad jokes and word games. Pam has had to endure enough of those during her years at Kaiser, so I will spare her..... for now. 

Over the last 37 years Pam has been in the unique and challenging position where she's been blessed hear all of our requests, opinions and gripes. She of course has not been able to make all of our wishes come true, but she's definitely tried her darnedest in at times challenging circumstances. I remember distinctively that even as she was struggling with her own curveballs in California, she still made time for myself and a number of other Kaiserites and I'll be forever grateful to her for being a sounding board and accommodating my personal needs. 

Thanks Pam for being so genuine and caring during these past 37 years, I personally was pretty sure you could have done it for 74. 

Happy trails!

Ian Warthin (& Owen, one of the ~50 kids whose birth was covered by insurance Pam set up)

Thank you!

Pam,

Congratulations on your well-earned retirement! Your energy, patience, positivity, and passion for Kaiser/Kaiserites has made our culture so great for so many years. You were one of the first interactions almost all of us had with Kaiser, and set the pace for a great experience for all of us.

Thank you for your support and friendship over the many years. You seemed to be online and available 24 hours/day to help in any way - that hard work has enabled the success of so many current and past Kaiser consultants.

We will certainly miss you, but wish you rest, enjoyment, and fun travels in the coming years!
,
Ali Cumber

Congratulations and thank you!

Pam - You are literally my very first memory of Kaiser. I remember walking in the doors of 1747 Pennsylvania Ave on my first day as an Associate Consultant, and you were the first person to greet me. When I introduced myself, you exclaimed that now you had to retire - imagine my shock / fear that I had already messed up before even turning on my computer! As I remember it, you joked that once someone who was 'younger' than Kaiser joined, you would retire.

Well, I'm so glad you didn't retire then, and that I was able to have the pleasure of your professional and personal friendship over the last 15 years (gulp!). You have been an invaluable resource for Kaiser, serving as the 'go to' person for so many things. But what I admire most is your positive spirit - you genuinely see the best in everyone and everything and just 'go with the flow'. I will miss partnering with you on a day to day basis and seeing you in DC.

Promise that if you're ever out on the east coast visiting friends / family in New York, you will reach out. Equally, I still have your wine tour map, so will look forward to a rendezvous in wine country.

Wishing you all the best for an active and FUN retirement.

With thanks for everything,
Alison Banks

All the Best!

Pam,

Congratulations on your retirement - I hope it brings you every bit of excitement and relaxation! Given your contagious positivity and great spirit, I’m sure you already have some very exciting things planned!

While at Kaiser, I always looked forward to your visits to DC. I believe I can speak for every Kaiserate, both past and present, when I say you took a genuine interest in both my personal and professional development. I greatly value your opinion and am thankful for the advice and support you provided along the way.

I hope the next time I am in Marin visiting family we have the chance to connect so I can hear all about this exciting next chapter!

Best,

Danny Donovan

The High Betas

1984 marked the beginning of Kaiser’s softball teams.  

The co-ed team was called "The High Betas” (see Beating the Competition: A Practical Guide to Competitive Analysis)

The High Betas
1984

Thank you and Congratulations!!

Pam,

Thank you for always bringing so much joy, kindness, and energy into the four walls of Kaiser! The firm would not be what it is today without your years of dedication and hard work. Having you in the office for a few days every once in a while was certainly a highlight! You always took the time to catch up and ask how I was doing, despite being so busy. You were such an integral part of my experience at Kaiser, and I know you will be greatly missed!

Thank you for being so wonderful! 

Wishing you all the best in this next chapter.

Ximena Velez

SHE'S THE BEST!

I called ext. 2041 approximately 1,000 times in my 12 years at Kaiser, and EVERY time Pam was helpful, positive, incredibly patient, and a delight to speak with. Pam has been the firm’s steadying force. She is remarkably even-keeled and seemingly unfazed whenever Kaiser gets crazy with staffing shortages or people drama. 

Thank you for making my time at Kaiser more enjoyable.  I’m excited for you and wish you all the best in retirement. We will all miss you!!!

-Dan O'Neill