Feldmann Announces Retirement

Feldmann Announces Retirement

Led Purchasing Function at D’Youville for Decades

Buffalo, New York – August 23, 2012 – Ruth E. Feldmann has announced she will retire from her position as Purchasing Agent at D’Youville College effective August 31.

One of Western New York’s most highly respected purchasing professionals, Feldmann has led the Purchasing Department at the private college for approximately four decades, supervising multi-million dollar transactions ranging from pencils to expensive laboratory equipment.

She has seen the college grow from a few hundred students to more than 3000 today and a budget that increased from $500,000 to $15 million currently.

Feldmann was involved in myriad purchase decisions during the vast building expansion at D’Youville during the last ten years. New facilities required rooms of furniture, computers, telephones and other needed equipment with negotiations, price and delivery dates being conducted by the demure but tough Purchasing Agent.

“Ruth has been an invaluable member of the administrative team at D’Youville for many years,” said Sister Denise A. Roche GNSH, D’Youville president. “Her strong sense of professionalism, her dedication to D’Youville, her steadfast loyalty and remarkable spirit have become attributes from which we have all benefited. Ruth will be missed not only because of what she did for the college, but for what she was for all of us – a friend, a colleague and an example of D’Youville’s spirit. We wish her much happiness and contentment as she retires!”

Ruth has been known for her sharp eye, checking orders for errors and in many cases double billing by suppliers. It’s estimated she saved the college many millions by doing this during her tenure.

“Ruth started in the purchasing department at D’Youville the same year The Notable Corporation became a reality”, said Notable Corporation president and founder, and friend, Del Derschug.

“At that time, the Notable office was a bedroom in my house. Ruth gave me the opportunity, and that was about 35 years ago. Most sales/customer relationships do not last half that time. Ruth was a very fair purchasing agent,” he said.

“In sales, there are sales calls we make because we have to, and there are those we make that we look forward too. Calling on Ruth was always the highlight of my day and I wish her all the best in future. I will miss her constantly.”

The National Purchasing Agent Association has recognized Ruth for her professionalism and long time leadership in the profession.

A reception for Ruth will be held at the college on her last day.