Following the Genome Center’s first-ever research retreat on April 15, attendees and others gathered to celebrate Richard Michelmore and his 20-year tenure as the founding director of the center. The atmosphere was filled with gratitude and admiration as colleagues and friends gathered to reminisce about Richard’s transformative leadership and the profound impact he had on their careers and lives. Stories flowed freely, with many recalling the moment when Richard first recruited them, also extending kindness to their families.