The Ceramic Mug vs Paper Cup
By Rick Aman onI’m now in my first month of retirement after eight extraordinary years serving as President of the College of Eastern Idaho. It’s a time for reflection, and one YouTube that has been resonating with me comes from Simon Sinek, who speaks about the difference between a ceramic mug and a paper cup at retirement.
For those unfamiliar with the analogy, Sinek explains that titles and positions often afford us privileges—a ceramic mug, so to speak. But when retirement comes, the title is gone, we’re left with a paper cup, which represents the essence of who we are without the trappings of status. The ceramic mug symbolizes the perks and respect given to the role, not necessarily to the individual. It’s a reminder that the true measure of our impact isn’t in the title we hold but in the connections we build, the lives we touch, and the legacy we leave behind.
Simon Sinek - Styrofoam Coffee Cup | a Lesson in Humility - YouTube
As I step away from my role as President of CEI, this analogy has deeply resonated with me. The position granted me a certain level of respect, access, and influence—my own ceramic mug. But now, as I transition out of this role, what remains isn’t the title, but the relationships, the achievements we’ve accomplished together, and the memories we’ve created.
Over the last eight years, we’ve achieved so much together—transforming CEI from a technical college to Idaho’s fourth comprehensive community college, expanding our programs, enhancing our facilities, and breaking ground on a new Future Tech building. We’ve navigated challenges, celebrated successes, and, most importantly, impacted the lives of countless students, helping them to build better futures for themselves and their families through employable skills.
In an unexpected twist, our soon-to-be President, Lori Barber, presented me with a parting gift that, following Sinek's analogy, should have been a paper cup. Instead, she chose a beautiful ceramic mug. This wasn't just any mug; it was thoughtfully crafted with care and attention to detail—much like the work we've accomplished together at CEI.
This mug sits on my shelf, and it serves as a reminder of the community we’ve built, a community grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and a collective commitment to advancing education. It symbolizes the enduring relationships and shared experiences that will continue even as I move into this next chapter of my life.
To all my colleagues, students, and friends at CEI and beyond—thank you. Thank you for your trust, your collaboration, and your unwavering commitment to our shared mission. As I move forward, I carry with me not just a ceramic mug, but memories of gratitude, and a deep sense of fulfillment.
Here’s to the future—may it be filled with new opportunities, continued growth, and the lasting impact of the work we’ve done together. And may we all remember that while titles may fade, the difference we make in the lives of others is what truly lasts.