Wyoming education employee celebrated after 50 years

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CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — The Wyoming Department of Education has named a conference room after the longest-serving department employee to commemorate decades of her work.

Wyoming Tribune Eagle reports that Superintendent Jillian Balow honored Rita Watson Monday with a plaque and surprise dedication for her 50-year work anniversary.

Department officials say Watson, her husband and Balow ate with Republican state Gov. Mark Gordon and his wife Friday to celebrate the milestone.

Officials say they plan to place a plaque outside the room as a tribute to her career.

Balow says Watson has worked for every superintendent of public instruction since 1974.

Watson says one of her favorite parts of the job was enabling others to do their best and she hopes to be remembered by her work ethic and love for the job.

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Information from: Wyoming Tribune Eagle, http://www.wyomingnews.com