What is your NMU connection?
I graduated from NMU in 1984. From 1978 to 1982, I was stationed at K.I. Sawyer AFB, MI, where I completed two years of college while serving in the U.S. Air Force. After separating from the Air Force in August 1982, I was awarded a two-year scholarship by NMU ROTC and completed my studies in 1984. I then entered the U.S. Army, where I served for 28 years.
Your favorite NMU memory or story
I came to NMU from the inner city of Cleveland, Ohio, and was amazed by the kindness and friendliness of my roommates and fellow students. They introduced me to new experiences like fishing, snowshoeing, bear hunting, snowmobiling, and smelting. I even had the unforgettable experience of driving a truck onto a frozen lake to go ice fishing.
Who is the most influential person you met during your time at NMU and why were they so influential?
The most influential people I met were perhaps LTC Taylor, the PMS for the Wildcat Army ROTC department, and his son, Kip Taylor—may he rest in peace. Also, my best friend in the UP, Efrom Chaney, had a lasting impact on my life. May he, too, RIP.
Tell us about the significance of any teams, clubs, or organizations you were part of during your time at NMU
I was part of NMU’s 'Wildcat Battalion ROTC under LTC Taylor. My best friend, Efrom Chaney—may he rest in peace—was also a fellow Air Force member. He was the one who encouraged me to start taking classes on base to see how we liked it. We began with a basic English class, then moved on to basic math, and ended up doing well, thanks to the motivation and support of our teacher, the base commander’s wife." I was also pledged Omega Psi Phi, Pi Theta Chapter, with my line brothers. I remember crossing the night before walking the stage for graduation. It was a tough time staying awake...:):):)
What is/was your favorite thing to do in Marquette?
I loved playing in the snow, eating local food, and anything wintertime like skiing, hunting, fishing, or just a large bonfire. I also enjoyed going to local clubs like the Alibi or Cabaret.
Talk about any significant/memorable sporting events, weather occurrences or other on-campus activities
I recalled lots of snow and snow storms and still walking to class. Nothing was canceled or delayed, as I recall; classes continued.
Share any dorm/roommate stories you may have
I lived in Spooner Hall, room 110, and have since visited the dorm once since graduating. I had the best dorm mates, some I remember, Gordon S, Lori K., and a local UP girl dating a British student. I used to enjoy going into the recreation room, across from the residence assistant, and playing ping pong, watching tv, studying, or just socializing with fellow students
What is your current or former profession?
I retired in 2011 after 32 years of military service—four years in the U.S. Air Force and 28 years in the U.S. Army—culminating in my retirement as a Colonel (O-6). I earned a Master’s in Computer Information Systems from Webster University (1993) and a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College (2007). After retiring, I served as Director of Information Technology at ECPI University, where I was offered a fully funded Ph.D. in Cybersecurity. I completed my Ph.D. in 2017 at Capella University. These days, my wife and I are enjoying life, traveling throughout Hawaii, Maui, Hilo, Aruba, and across the U.S.
How did NMU help you get to where you are today?
I learned how to adapt to an unfamiliar environment and met some of the best people in the world. I came to realize that, at our core, we all share similar likes and dislikes. My time at UP and at NMU played a significant role in shaping who I became and contributed to whatever success I have achieved.
