Nilda Burgos
My fondest memory of Dr. Dave Longer was working with him in hosting the FFA Crops judging contest during the first few years of my career at CSES - late '90s to early 2000s. We had held this event at the Bud Walton Arena and at the Agri Park. Dave always exudes a joyful, determined, positive aura. People are naturally drawn to him, me included. At times I conjure a 'student-first' stamp on his forehead. He is such a wonderful mentor without even trying. I admire his versatility, his love for the outdoors, the drive to make a difference in people's lives. One thing I did not know, and just learned now, is his ability to defuse bombs. That is one of the most potentially perilous activities one could do; he was blessed to survive that unscathed. I missed him when he retired. Now that he has gone home to our Creator, I am thankful for the full life of faith, love, and service that he lived. The memory of him will live on in the hearts of those whom his life has touched. (Nilda Roma Burgos, CSES Faculty)