Kristen sent a message to Virginia M. Rometty Chairman, President, and CEO, IBM – email address that said:
Dear Ginni,
My mother, not only an employer of IBM for over 20 years , but a hard working, giving, most kind hearted woman I know who has put her heart and soul into this company. I think not many people today get to really do what they love, she has a passion for this business like I have never experienced and not only I, but many of her peers and employers look up to her to solve problems and seek growth opportunities as a lead director . Today, June 30,2016 will be her last day at IBM as she retires and sets off onto her next chapter. I'm am so proud of her and all that she is, I can remember many nights growing up that she had to work late to solve work problems or travel frequently. She has always lived to work and she loved it. My mother has lived her life striving to achieve great success at IBM which she has throughout the years. I know it will be a tough day for her to walk away and say goodbye to a part of her that was in bedded in her soul, IBM was apart of her. However, I am greatly sadden by her management to not acknowledge everything that she has given to the company as she departs, not even a retirement dinner. This is supposed to be a joyous time for her to start the next chapter, to close a door with a peaceful mindset, not a time of feeling unappreciated. I hope IBM, as a corporation reflects on this and makes sure to remember how thankful they are for their employers who have dedicated their lives to the success of IBM.
Sincerely,
Her daughter, Kristen