Occupation: Cleveland Consulting, Inc./TruWisdom, President

Graduated: 2000

Reason for joining the Board: To help the University, its students, and alumni come together for their highest good.

Member of the Alumni Board since: The inception

The events/activities you've enjoyed most and why: All of them; any time I can get together with other alums, I feel a sense of community and belonging.

How attending DU has changed your life: It has allowed me to improve my knowledge and skills, thereby gaining opportunities that I wouldn't have had if I had not attended.

Important people (support network) in your life: Husband, Brian; grown children, Matt and Stacy; cat, Cosmos; and many close friends and relatives.

A message you'd like to send to your fellow alums: No matter what campus you attended, take the time to come to one or more of the alumni events. You'll meet some very nice people who have had a similar educational experience and it will be fun! It's a great way to expand your network!

Occupation: Exel Human Resources, Human Resources Manager for the Midwest Region

Graduated: 1999

Reason for joining the Board: The reason I joined the Board was because I wanted to contribute back to my alma mater and being a member of the Board is a great way for me to use the skills and talents I have acquired from the great learning experience with Davenport. There is no way I could ever repay everyone for the wonderful learning experience and relationship building opportunities that I have encountered at the University.

On the Alumni Board since: 2002

The events/activities you've enjoyed most and why: The Chicago White Sox-Detroit Tigers baseball game at US Cellular Field. A great time was had by all. It was our first alumni event for the Northwest Indiana region. The experience was first-class from start to finish. And, to top the evening off, the White Sox won.

How attending DU has changed your life: Davenport has taken my education and career to the next level. In 2003, I graduated with my master's in human resources management and the skills that I have acquired have lead to two promotions from my former employer and three promotions with my current employer. I demonstrate the skill sets that are needed for me to be competitive in the industry and I ensure that my employer receives the best from me.

Important people (support network) in your life: Sandy Hahn and Gaye Anderson from the Merrillville campus have been my support network from Davenport. Sandy has always driven me to new heights. She has taught me to not settle for what is around me, but to get involved. Gaye brings out the best in me also. I recall from the courses I have taken with her, she inspired all to be their best. She opened doors of learning that I had never thought about and she dedicates so much time and effort to her students (current and past).

A message you'd like to send to your fellow alums: You can recall several great experiences while you were at Davenport and you can recall the individuals who inspired you. Now is our opportunity to give back. We are the alumni that set that bar as to how to contribute back to Davenport. Regardless if it is financial support or time, you have a lot to offer. Every day, share your past and current experiences from Davenport with everyone you encounter.

Affiliations:
Society of Human Resources Management- National
Society of Human Resources Management- Northwest Indiana
Alumni Volunteer Program

Occupation: Languages International Inc., Owner & CEO

Graduated: 1977

Reason for joining the Board: Davenport gave me a solid foundation in the business world. I had just left the farm and was anxious to begin exploring the world, starting first in the field of business. As I continue my journey, I want to take time to give back and acknowledge the institution that started me on my way.

On the Alumni Board since: 1998

The events/activities you've enjoyed the most: The All Class Reunions are the best. With the commonality of all having graduated from the University, it's great to watch groups catch up with one another, and new bonds form. It is also rewarding to recognize alumni for their achievements in their professions.

How attending DU has changed your life: It gave me a solid footing into the business world. As I started my career, it was a valuable asset to have on my resume "graduate of Davenport College, 1977." People recognized the name and knew the value that the degree held.

Important people in your life: Women business owners. They handle many demands on their life and do it well, despite the ongoing protest of not enough time to get it all done.

A message you'd like to send to your fellow alums: Come to an alumni event and join the fun. If there is an event you'd like to have that is not currently being offered, let us know!

Occupation: Languages International Inc., Owner & CEO

Graduated: 1993

Reason for joining the Board: My involvement with Davenport provided me with many opportunities and gave me more than just an education. I have a deep sense of gratitude for all that Davenport University has offered me and my participation on the Board allows me to give back to the University. I am directly involved in the support, continued success, and growth of the Alumni Association and am able to contribute to the continued growth of the school.

On the Alumni Board since: The inception

The events/activities you've enjoyed most and why: Alumni All Class Reunion because it brings together a large number of alumni at one time.

How attending DU has changed your life: It has provided me with opportunities to work in the capacities and fields of interests that I desire. It offered me more than an education, which included direct participation in business organizations, communication skills, leadership abilities, and many other corporate qualities.

Important people (support network) in your life: My family and friends.

A message you'd like to send to your fellow alums: After graduation, it is beneficial to stay connected with Davenport. Becoming involved in the Alumni Association offers all graduates this opportunity. They can continue to have input on the direction of the alumni today and in the future. Further, it allows them the ability to have contact with a wider and more diverse network of people. It is a rewarding and satisfying experience.

Occupation: The Ayco Co. L.P., Account Manager

Graduation year (most recent) and location: 1984 Dearborn

Reason for joining the Board: Davenport University helped me provide a foundation for my career and I enjoy giving my time to give back to DU students and alumni.

On the Alumni Board since: The inception

The events/activities you've enjoyed most and why: The All Class Reunions have been an interesting forum to meet and mingle with people from various backgrounds that share the common connection of Davenport.

How attending DU has changed your life: Davenport provided convenient access to higher education, caring instructors and career-oriented friends that together gave me the background and inspiration leading to an interesting and rewarding professional career.

Important people (support network) in your life: Wife and friends

A message you'd like to send to your fellow alums: I would like to encourage all fellow alums (from all of the legacy colleges) to take a good look at the University today. If they do, I believe they will recognize the same founding focus and principles that drew them to attending the legacy colleges (DU is focused on its students and helping the students make a better life for themselves). I ask these alums to re-connect in some positive manner with the University so together we can help the students and alums build a brighter future for themselves and all of us.

Occupation: Dematic, Sr. Administration Specialist

Graduated: 1997

Reason for joining the Board: After graduating, I missed the camaraderie with the school. I felt that joining the Board would allow the possibility of rekindling friendships and making new acquaintances while also giving back to the school.

On the Alumni Board since: 2004

The events/activities you have enjoyed most and why: My first college activity was my involvement with the sorority, Alpha Iota. I joined and enjoyed the sorority because I was able to volunteer for events/charities that I would not have otherwise been able to participate in. I was also able to make life-long friends. In addition to the sorority, I have really enjoyed participating in the Alumni Golf Outing for the past two years. The outing is a great way to meet other alums!

How attending DU has changed your life: I came from a single-parent family and I had to challenge myself in high school to succeed so that I could hopefully earn scholarships that would allow me to go to my school of choice - Davenport - versus the local community college. DU was exactly what I envisioned - real-life, experienced staff, challenges of the real world, and a large variety of classes. I stepped into the working world while attending DU, but did so without any concerns or reservations for being inexperienced.

Important people (support network) in your life: My mother. I always try to do my best at whatever I undertake, but realize I always try harder to make her proud of me. My mother was a single parent raising me back when being a single parent was unheard of. As I've matured, I've realized what she went through in order to help me succeed. She may not have the schooling, but she has the life experiences to rely upon.

A message you'd like to send to your fellow alums: Always live life to the fullest and you and those you touch will become richer for it!

Occupation: Four Seasons Hardware Inc., Owner

Graduated: 2002

Reason for joining the Board: To assist Davenport in its growth as a learning institution as well as support the student and alumni activities.

On the Alumni Board since: 2004

The events/activities you have enjoyed most and why: I have enjoyed all the events and activities.

How attending DU has changed your life: The completion of my MBA at Davenport has provided me with increased knowledge and the courage to pursue my dream of owning a business.

Important people (support network) in your life: My wife, daughter and family are the top supporters in my life.

A message you'd like to send to your fellow alums: As alumni, we have many opportunities to give of our time and talent to the University. Therefore, consider what role you can play in the stewardship of Davenport University.

Occupation: Wolverine World Wide (Bates Division)/Key Account Representative

Graduated: 2006

Reason for joining the Board: To give back to the university that has given me so much.

On the Alumni Board since: 2005

The events/activities you have enjoyed most and why: Davenport Alumni Day - a nice way to reconnect and have some fun.

How attending DU has changed your life: Prepared me for today's business world.

Important people (support network) in your life: My wife, Sara, and my kids (Samantha & Cole)

A message you'd like to send to your fellow alums: Give what you can, be it financial, of yourself (time), or just being a representative for what Davenport can do for you.

Occupation: Karmanos Cancer Center and Wayne County Community College District: Grants & Contracts Specialist I/Adjunct Faculty Business Discipline-Information Technology

Graduated: 2003

Reason for joining the Board: To remain active and participate in activities in which students are inclusive. Further to serve in a capacity of connection to students and peers.

On the Alumni Board since: 2005

The events/activities you have enjoyed most and why: I have enjoyed the hockey games the most, as the team is absolutely dominating in the sport. The annual award banquet also provides a great opportunity to network with alumni.

How attending DU has changed your life: Davenport has been key to my success professionally and interpersonally. I have gained educational enhancement and social skills beyond my imagination. Without the DU experience, my accomplishments would have been null.

Important people (support network) in your life: Pastor Ocie Tabb at New Beginning. My three siblings: Dionne, Delvata and Savallace. My aunt Juanita. My Mentor Dr. Debraya Watson.

A message you'd like to send to your fellow alums: Always stay connected, as Davenport is fundamental in all aspects of your existence as alumni. Take in a game, or visit the campus so that future alumni can connect with your spirit and drive as a living and continuing spirit. Volunteer and become engaged!

Occupation: State Representative, 72nd District, State of Michigan

Graduation year (most recent) and location: 2005, Main Campus

Reason for joining the Board: Not only do I care about the future of Davenport University and the impact it has on our community; I want to create opportunities for future students like those given to me.

On the Alumni Board since: 2005

The events/activities you have enjoyed most and why: I enjoy visiting the various Davenport locations and seeing what a positive role the University has in the lives of so many. Another activity I take pleasure in is the coordination of alumni activities.

How attending DU has changed your life: Attending Davenport has given me a sense of self-worth in that I have learned about business to the point that I can take that knowledge and apply it in practical ways.

Occupation: Frenz Coffee House, Owner

Graduated: 1998

Reason for joining the Board: Being a Board member allows me the unique opportunity to represent the alumni by building a stronger foundation for tomorrow's leaders.

On the Alumni Board since: 2004

The events/activities you have enjoyed most and why: As a graduate of the Adult Accelerated program (AACE), what I enjoyed the most was the knowledge and "real world" experience of the professors. What I was taught was applicable to my job and enhanced my career.

How attending DU has changed your life: The personal satisfaction of earning a college degree after 20 years out of high school gave me a renewed sense of confidence in the business field.

Important people (support network) in your life: I would have never been able to work full-time and attend school in the evenings without the support of my family. Family is, and will always be, the motivating factor for me to reach beyond the limits.

A message you'd like to send to your fellow alums: Graduating from Davenport is only the beginning of your association with the school. Continue the tradition of sharing your college experiences with others and building relationships that will last a lifetime.

Occupation: State of Michigan- Departmental Analyst
Real Estate One – Realtor

Graduation year (most recent) and location: 2000, Dearborn

Reason for joining and/or remaining on the DU Alumni Board: To encourage alumni and students to participate in programs, events and services that stimulate interest, build loyalty and increase support for Davenport University.

On the Alumni Board since: September 2005

The event(s)/activities you have enjoyed most and why: All of the events hosted by the Alumni Association were very enjoyable. Each presented the opportunity to meet people whose lives have been positively influenced by Davenport University.

How attending DU has changed your life: Attending Davenport University as a graduate student offered me life experiences I wasn’t able to obtain as an undergrad student at another university. As a result of attending Davenport and serving as a board member, I’ve grown both personally and professionally.

Important people (support network) in your life: Family and friends.

A message you’d like to send to your fellow alums: I encourage all alumni to stay connected to Davenport University. The “Davenport Experience” continues to be rewarding beyond graduation.

Occupation: Best Buy, Inc., District 49, Project Team Specialist

Graduation year (most recent) and campus: Lettinga Campus, 2006

Reason for joining and or/ remaining on the DU Alumni Board: After graduation from Davenport in 2006, and seeing the knowledge and skills which I'd acquired, I personally felt the need to carry on and continue to help the Davenport "community" grow.

On the Alumni Board since: Fall 2006

The event(s) activities you have enjoyed most and why: Attending Davenport Alumni Day was great. It allowed me to see our hockey team compete against MSU, interact with fellow alumni as well current students, and hear stories from others about how Davenport has affected their life. This influenced me to stay involved with the University for its visions, values, goals and the successful future to come.

How attending DU has changed your life: I tell people all the time, "University's teach you how a business was run; but Davenport University teaches you how to run the business." With DU having instructors that teach the field they are experienced in, they were able to teach me more of what the world of TODAY is in need of. Gaining the style of knowledge Davenport presents, has prepared me more for the future.

Important people in your life: My parents have been a big part of my life; teaching me many ways to look through a problem, or as a saying once said, "Look beyond the problem, to find the solution." I believe my grandfather had a big affect as well... 17 years old enlisted to fight in WWII, aiming to not let any obstacles get in his way.

A message you'd like to send to your fellow alums: My biggest goal in life is to make a difference. Aiming for the top of the challenge list is always a tough thing to do... well, not the aiming but the accomplishing. With a vision, a goal, and the ambition you can succeed and do what ever you dream; so follow your hopes and dreams. today leads to the success of tomorrow.

Occupation: Affranc Group USA/Owner/Director

Graduation year (most recent) and location: 1999 – Fulton St., Grand Rapids

Reason for joining and/or remaining on the DU Alumni Board: To give back to the University that gave me so much.

On the Alumni Board since: 2006

The event(s)/activities you have enjoyed most and why: Davenport Alumni Day because it gave me a chance to meet old friends and schoolmates.

How attending DU has changed your life: DU gave me a wealth of knowledge; most of which is useful in my day-to-day business operations.

Important people (support network) in your life: The most important people in my life are members of my family who encourage me everyday to reach for greater heights.

A message you’d like to send to your fellow alums: Get involved in Alumni activities…it will enrich your life, as it has enriched mine!

Graduation year (most recent) and campus: W. A. Lettinga campus, Spring 2006

Reason for joining and/or remaining on the DU Alumni Board: I have been very impressed by the continual growth at Davenport and I want to help continue its growth with both the community and alumni.

On the Alumni Board since: Spring 2006

The event(s)/activities you have enjoyed most and why: Each DU event grows in attendance and I always meet new people each time. The most rewarding part of the DU alumni board comes from our quarterly meetings where we sharing ideas with fellow alums and stay up to date on what’s new.

How attending DU has changed your life: DU has helped expose me to a number of business situations which I otherwise would not have known about. It has allowed me to advance further and farther in my career. DU created an environment that offered the perfect mix of business, marketing and hands-on-experience that sets me apart from others in my field.

Important people (support network) in your life: Faith, family and friends….what more can I say.

A message you’d like to send to your fellow alums: Think big thoughts, but relish small pleasures.

Graduation year (most recent) and location: 1999, Fulton St., Grand Rapids

Reason for joining and/or remaining on the DU Alumni Board: To make a contribution

On the Alumni Board since: 2005

The event(s)/activities you have enjoyed most and why: DU at DZoo~ it was a great day spent with family and new DU friends

How attending DU has changed your life: Built confidence and gave me the credentials I needed and was looking for

Important people (support network) in your life: Family/friends/DU friends/co-workers/neighbors

A message you’d like to send to your fellow alums: Stay connected!