I declined my UW offer. I don't think they have a waitlist, but if they do, I hope this helps someone. The climate/advising in my field wasn't to my liking.
Rude to ask about retirement as you are implying s/e is old. Better to phrase it as "do you plan on staying in the department?" "Do you see yourself chairing committees over the next 5 years?" etc.
everyone wants to genuinely grow, but their ability to do so should be questioned.
There could be unexpected budget cuts, the dean doesn't approve, committee cannot agree on a candidate, etc. Nothing is guaranteed in academia.
I have severe reservations about this department. Why can't they place their students?
I looked at cv's but it only seems like a 2nd year is doing ok. Is it possible that the students who attend UW lack motivation?