What is your NMU connection?
Graduated with my BSW in 1980 and worked for the After Hours Program implementing alcohol prevention activities.
Your favorite NMU memory or story
Conducting summer orientation activities with prospective students including games and tours at Presque Isle, dorm
tours,
Etc.
Attending football games and hockey games with friends and meeting the love of my life at the Alibi on the first day of
class. (Jan. 6, 1980) which was canceled because of snow!)
Who is the most influential person you met during your time at NMU and why were they so influential?
Gary Schaefer, program director for the After Hours Program, and Karen Reese (VP?). Gary hired me as a program
coordinator and believed in my capability to engage with others and helped build my personal and professional
confidence to help others. Karen was always supportive of me. Also, Ken Kelley was a role model and helped me get
admitted to an MSW program.
Tell us about the significance of any teams, clubs or organizations you were part of during your time at NMU
I was part of the Native American Student Association. We were instrumental in connecting students to cultural activities in the community like powwows but also organized monthly visits to the prison to visit Native American inmates....talk about life-changing on both sides of the desk!
What is/was your favorite thing to do in Marquette?
My family (my husband is also a 1980 graduate) including our sons, make a yearly trip to Presque Isle and Sugar Loaf topped off with dinner at Vangos!
Talk about any significant/memorable sporting events, weather occurrences or other on-campus activities
Of course, the football games were epic, given the past championship but also the 1979- 1980 hockey games were
awesome!
Share any dorm/roommate stories you may have
I lived in Majors hall my first year and I remember participating in a talent show with my roommate-very fun! Loved Friday's grilled cheese and tomato soup lunch, and the whole experience with fellow residents.
What is your current or former profession?
I recently (1 year ago) retired after 40 years as Associate Dean of Research at the School of Social Work, Wayne State
University.
How did NMU help you get to where you are today?
NMU was a perfect fit for someone from the UP who struggled initially with classes but found good support, advisors, and resources to launch my career as an organizer, educator, and researcher.