When I was admitted to the PhD program in Linguistics at UBC, it was my first time traveling outside of East Africa. I remember reaching out to the department, asking how I would know where to go after I landed at YVR. Doug responded with kind words: "I will come pick you up from the airport." And sure enough, he did.
One thing that surprised him was that I was wearing a heavy jacket in August and still complaining that it was cold. "You’re cold?" he chuckled as he told me to sit in the front seat. Since that moment, Doug has been more than just my academic professor. He has taught me many lessons, and I have learned so much from him. One thing I’ve never figured out is whether Doug ever gets mad—he always smiles and laughs.
When navigating difficult academic situations, Doug was always there with encouragement. “It’s a temporary setback and will only make you stronger,” he would say. He taught me not to give up, and I won’t. I am deeply grateful for Doug's constant support, as well as the ideas he has floated, such as his advocacy for establishing an African/Black Studies department at UBC.
I also want to express my appreciation for Doug's immense contributions to the field of linguistics, and the impact and prestige he has brought to UBC and Canada. I’ll never forget the time we gave a joint talk at UC Berkeley. A woman came to me before the talk and said, "I’m not here to listen to your talk, but I just wanted to see Professor Pulleyblank because I’ve read so many of his works."
Doug, I wish you a very happy and healthy retirement. When you enrolled in my Swahili class back in 2015, I gave you the Swahili name "Msafiri," which means "traveller." You've certainly travelled the world, but may this next chapter in your retirement bring you and your family endless adventures and the complete fulfillment of the curiosity and enthusiasm you’ve shared with all of us over the years.
Love and blessings from Joash and Family!