‘The Answer Man’ bids Tulane adieu

Louis Collura’s 27-year career with Tulane University came to an end last Friday (Jan. 29), but before he left he had one last surprise for his five staff members in materials management at the downtown health sciences campus. He gave each of them a watch.

“I thought it was best because I have a perfect crew,” Collura said. The staff members were surprised, saying they should be giving presents to the supervisor they call "The Answer Man," not vice versa. “I told them, ‘Y’all deserve it; I’m really appreciative.’”

Collura is one of the longtime Tulane University employees who are exiting the university payroll to pursue new lives and take on new challenges through a Voluntary Separation Program. Friday was the final day for some of those employees, like Collura, while others will delay their departure over the next 12 months. All will earn benefits such as Tulane tuition waivers and a financial package.

“I intend to relax and enjoy life, first of all.”

Louis Collura

In this article, part of a series on these valued employees, Collura looks back on his career and what’s ahead.

Q. What is your current job at Tulane and how long have you worked here?
A. My current job with Tulane is assistant director of materials management for Tulane University health sciences. I would have had 28 years here by April 18, 2016.

Q. What will you miss most about working at Tulane?
A. I like working with my employees and others downtown as you get used to getting to know them on a personal basis.

Q. What are your favorite memories of your career here?
A. First, getting the job at Tulane. I applied back in 1988 as I was out of work from my old job of 23 years of service when that business closed.

Q. After you retire, what are your plans?
A. I intend to relax and enjoy life, first of all. After that, I plan to do some volunteer work with the Knights of Columbus and visit with my grandchildren on occasion. I enjoy going out to our favorite restaurants [Collura and his wife have been married for 47 years]. After I retire, I guess I will just have to start a new routine in my life, as this will be strange to me.

Q. Is there anything you want to say to your colleagues at Tulane?
A. I am glad for my employment with Tulane for the years I have served.