Another great batch of Bronco updates and comments in the newest MyWMU Digest post. Read about Dr. Thomas A. Burkman, Carissa Marks, Thomas McKee, Jan Scales, and Darren Timmeney. Do you have a story or memory you'd like to share with your fellow alumni? Click here to submit it to us, and don't forget to share a photo as well!
In his 25 years, Timmeney has held a range of leadership positions. Active in the community, Timmeney spends his time outside of work volunteering on community boards including the Kalamazoo Symphony, WMU Soccer Club, Kalamazoo in Schools, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and as a soccer coach. He played Varsity Soccer for four years while a student at WMU.
Dr. Thomas A. Burkman (BA '73, Secondary Education; Ed.D. '94, Education) taught science for 11 years at Jenison Junior High in Jenison, Michigan. During that time, he also coached high school wrestling and football (eight years). "It was also during that time that I earned a Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Michigan State (Class of 1978). I became a Jr.-Sr. High Principal in 1987 at Tri-unity Christian Schools and in 1994 graduated with a Doctor of Education from WMU. In 2002, I came to North Central University in Minneapolis, MN as the Vice President of Academic Affairs and have been in this position for over 10 years. I credit my success in education administration with a great education I received from WMU in my undergraduate degree and in my Ed.D program."
Carissa Marks (BA '08, English) was a member of PSP, PTK, Alpha Kappa Mu, Sigma Tau Delta, and the Military Student Veterans association—and was a non traditional student. After graduating from WMU, Marks attended graduate school in Florida. In 2012, she graduated with an MFA in Creative Writing and her fourth book is due out shortly—she expects four more to be released in the coming year, " I'll be really busy doing what I love."
Thomas McKee (BBA '73) was a 25 year old military veteran when he was accepted to WMU. He made the football team as a walk-on and with much patience from Coach Doolittle, earned his degree in 1973. After graduation, McKee returned to the military—the Air Force—and retired after 30 years of service as a captain.
Jan Scales (BA '92, Education; MA '09, Educational Leadership) began Western Michigan as a single parent of 4 kids. "After over 20 years in public schools and completing a master's degree from Western I am so thankful for the part Western has played in my life."
Do you have a story or memory you would like to share with the MyWMU Community? Click here.