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FROM CLOSETED AT NMU TO BEING MAYOR OF THE "HOTTEST GAY DESTINATION" IN MICHIGAN
I arrived at NMU in late 1983 as a grad student and newly hired Hall Director. As I look back almost 40 years and reflect on Northern and Marquette and being a young professional struggling with her identity, I can honestly say that NMU at that time was not the safest place to be out. A lot has changed since 1987 and I have watched NMU change and grow and become a welcoming and safe place for LGBTQ+ individuals. It is so cool and makes me very proud to be an NMU Alum.
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There was no “out and proud” at NMU in 1983.
But I did find the safe places and accepting people everywhere on campus.
Most were my student staff with whom I am still close to this day. We have attended one another’s graduations and weddings, and have celebrated the birth of children and, now, grandchildren. Holy cow, I am old.
I earned an M.A. in Educational Administration while at NMU and went on to work in Residence Life and Student Services at several universities around the country. Besides becoming best friends with many individuals while at NMU, I also learned the very valuable skills of leadership and networking. Skills that have served me well all these years and have taken me to where I am now.
I returned to Michigan in 1999, retired from my field in 2009, went on to run for the state legislature several times and moved to Saugatuck in 2015. Who knew that there was such an LBGTQ+ friendly place in Michigan? My long-time partner and I legally married here in September 2015 and soon thereafter I ran for City Council. Last November I became the Mayor. How did all this happen? Leadership and networking. All of which I learned at NMU.
I could tell you to embrace all the many opportunities that come your way. I could tell you to be your true self. I could tell you to live every day as if it is your last. What you will figure out on your own is there is nothing better than the friends and opportunities that you have at NMU. Hopefully you will embrace them all.