First Year Experience

Tera is a returning FYE instructor who has been at CMU for 6 years. After graduating from Central with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Sport Administration, Tera is currently the Internship Coordinator in the Physical Education and Sport department. Originally from Sandusky, MI, Tera currently resides in Mt. Pleasant. She decided to teach FYE 101 because she enjoys working with first-year students and watching them progress through their years at CMU. Tera is involved with the Sports Management Association, the General Education Sub-Committee, Foundations of Excellence and Special Olympics.

Karen is a returning FYE instructor who has been at CMU for 11 years. She obtained her Bachelor of Science from Bowling Green State University and her master’s degree in Professional Counseling from CMU. Karen currently works as the Director of the Business Residential College and as the Associate Director of Business Student Services. Her hometown is Ashtabula, Ohio, but she currently resides in Coleman, MI with her husband and three children. Karen made the decision to teach FYE because she looks forward to getting to know students in a one-on-one setting and watch them get involved in all CMU has to offer. In addition to FYE, Karen is involved in academic orientation and the College of Business Administration Mentoring Program.

John is a returning instructor who has been at CMU for 2 years. He has a total of 4 degrees including two bachelor’s in Degree Curriculum and Instruction with Administration Focus and two master’s in Business Management and Marketing that he obtained after attending Baker College, Northwood University, Ferris State University, CMU and Walden University. John currently works as an adjunct Education instructor and lives in Davison with his wife and three children. He made the decision to become an FYE instructor because he feels that making sure students have the tools and resources needed to be successful is imperative and being able to assist CMU students is very gratifying.

A returning instructor, Laurie has been at CMU for 6 years. She is currently using her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology to serve as the Clinical Supervisor and instructor in the Communication Disorders department. Laurie grew up and still resides in Shepherd, MI with her husband and two sons. She decided to teach FYE 101 because she understands the nature of change – how difficult and exciting it can be at the same time. She wants to get to know her students, help them make the transition to college life, and give them an overall successful experience at CMU. Laurie is involved with the United Way Campaign each fall on campus, volunteers for activities on campus and in her community, facilitates a local support group for stroke patients and their families and serves as a state representative for the National Aphasia Association.

Jenell is a returning instructor and has been at CMU for 8 years. She has a master’s degree from Central and currently works as the Coordinator for K-12 Leadership Development. Her hometown is Pinckney, MI, but she presently resides in Mt. Pleasant with her fiancé. Jenell chose to become an instructor for FYE because she knows the first year is sometimes difficult, and she would love to be able to help first-year students have a positive experience during their first semester at CMU. Jenell is also a Beta Theta Pi Leadership Advisor, Zeta Theta Pi Advisor and volunteers at Central Michigan Community Hospital.

Nel has been at Central for 8 years and this is her first year as an instructor for FYE 101. She has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and is pursuing her Master in Administration. Working as a Budget Specialist, Nel currently resides in Mt. Pleasant with her husband and two children. Nel chose to work in the FYE program because she knows from personal experience that the transition to life at college can be difficult, and she hopes through this program that she can make the new adventure a little easier for her students. Nel serves on the Education & Human Services (EHS) Grade Grievance Committee, the EHS Technology Committee and is a facilitator for the EHS Student Advisory Committee.

Jackie has been at Central for 8 years, and this is her first year as an FYE instructor. She obtained both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from CMU and currently works as a Graduate Academic Advisor. She lives in Clare, MI with her two daughters. Jackie chose to work in FYE because she enjoys working with students and being a part of their success. She is excited to assist new students in getting acclimated to life at CMU. In addition to FYE, Jackie is involved with CMU Off-Campus Make a Difference Day.

Mary Jo is new instructor for FYE but has been with CMU for over 7 years. She has a Bachelor in Business Administration and is pursuing her master’s degree. Mary Jo currently works as an Executive Secretary in the Office of the Dean of the College of Education & Human Services and resides in Mt. Pleasant with her husband.  She chose to become an instructor for FYE because she enjoyed teaching in the past and remembers her experiences as a college freshman to be intimidating and lonely. She wants to help her students overcome those feelings and prepare them to succeed and excel.

Jerry is a returning instructor who has been with CMU for 6 years. He has a bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees, which he uses in his role as a Human Resources Consultant. Jerry’s hometown is Milan, Ohio but he currently lives in Mt. Pleasant with his wife and three children. He chose to be an instructor for FYE because he had a very tough first year and feels his experiences will help him relate to his students. Jerry also teaches for the Business Department.

Cynthia is new to the FYE program but has been at Central for 5 years. She has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in Humanities. Cynthia works as the Assistant Director of Marketing Communications for the Public Relations & Marketing Department. She is from White Lake, MI but presently lives in Mt. Pleasant with her husband. Cynthia chose to become an FYE instructor because she remembers her first year in college to be both exciting and challenging, and she wants to help her students make a successful transition.

Shannon is a returning instructor who has been at CMU for 10 years. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performance and a master’s in Communication from Central. Shannon currently works as an advisor for teacher education and lives in Mt. Pleasant. She made the decision to become an instructor for FYE because she wants to help students reach new goals and she loves teaching. In addition to her time with FYE, Shannon assists in many different areas around campus.

Michael is new to both the FYE program and CMU. He has bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as a Ph.D. from the University of Reading and the University of Nottingham. Michael is originally from the United Kingdom and currently lives in Mt. Pleasant with his wife and two children.  He chose to become an FYE instructor because he feels he can relate to students since he is also a newcomer to CMU.

Amy is a returning instructor with over 13 years at CMU as both a student and staff member. She graduated from Central with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master in Business Administration. Amy currently works as an Academic Advisor for Academic Advising & Assistance. She is a life-long resident of Mt. Pleasant, and she lives here with her husband and three children. Amy chose to teach FYE 101 to ensure that her students have a positive experience their first semester, something that she did not have. Amy is an avid CMU Chippewa sports fan.

Krystal is a new instructor who has been at Central for 4 years. She has a bachelor’s degree, is in the process of obtaining her master’s degree from CMU and works as the Student Employee Supervisor for CMU Police. A former resident of Harrison, Krystal now lives in Mt. Pleasant with her daughter. She chose to be an FYE instructor because of her passion for working with CMU students. She feels teaching this class will allow her to devote more of her time to that passion and feels the outcome will be invaluable for both her and her students.  In addition to her work with FYE, Krystal is also the Coordinator of College Life & Law and coordinates parking for special events on campus like football games and commencement ceremonies.

Jeanne is a returning instructor with 4 years of experience at CMU. She has a Bachelor of Science in Art Education from Olivet College and a Master of Art in Painting from Central. Jeanne is retired from CMU but teaches classes for the Art Department in addition to her FYE class. Originally from Brown City, MI, Jeanne now resides in Mt. Pleasant with her husband. She chose to become an FYE instructor because of her desire to help young people succeed. Jeanne is also actively involved with Max’s Camp, a fine arts camp for children with autism.

Tammie is returning as an instructor for FYE and has been at Central for 8 years. She has bachelor’s and master’s degrees and is currently working towards her Ph.D. Tammie works as adjunct faculty teaching online psychology courses and as temporary faculty teaching classes on campus. With a hometown of Lake City, MI, Tammie currently lives in Lake Isabella with her husband and three daughters. She chose to teach FYE for the opportunity to provide new students with the information that will assist them in being successful.

Chad is joining the FYE team this year but has been with CMU for 6 years. He has a bachelor’s degree from Ohio Wesleyan University and a master’s degree from Grand Valley State University. Originally from Greenville, Ohio, Chad currently works as the Residence Hall Director for Kesseler Hall. Chad feels that being an FYE instructor will provide a great opportunity to meet new students and to provide the assistance needed to have a successful first year. Chad is involved with summer conferences at CMU and is an advisor for Registered Student Organizations.

Luanne is a returning FYE instructor who has spent the last 17 years at CMU. She has a Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation from Grand Valley State University and a Master of Art in Recreation Administration from CMU. Luanne currently works and lives in Barnes Hall with her husband and six children where she serves as the Residence Hall Director. She made the decision to become an FYE instructor to positively impact students and guide them past the potential pitfalls of the first year. In addition to her work with FYE, Luanne advises Circle K, is the Director of the Public Service Residential Community and engages in public service in her community.

Scott is returning to the FYE program this year and has been at CMU for 10 years. He has a bachelor’s degree in Theory/Composition, a master’s and Ph.D. in Composition and currently works as an Assistant Professor for Music Theory/Composition in the School of Music. Scott is from the Auburn/Cass City area originally but now resides in St. Johns with his wife and daughter. He chose to teach FYE 101 because he wants to make a difference in the attitudes and outlook of incoming students, separate from the work he does in the Music Department.

Dani is a returning instructor who has been at CMU for 10 years. She obtained her associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Northwestern Michigan College and Grand Valley State University and currently works as the Coordinator of Graphic Design for Residence Life and Auxiliary Services. Dani grew up in Wayland, MI but currently resides in Mt. Pleasant. She chose to be an instructor for FYE because she taught a similar course at GVSU and really wanted the opportunity to do it here at CMU. In addition to FYE, Dani is involved with Leadership Safari and On The Fly Productions.

Holly is returning to the FYE program this year and brings 16 years of experience with her. After obtaining bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Holly is currently working on her Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education. She works as faculty teaching Counseling and Special Education courses. A Midland, MI native, Holly currently lives in Mt. Pleasant with her husband and two children. Holly’s initial interest in becoming an FYE instructor was to connect with first-year students and help them navigate CMU, but she has become hooked on the program and loves that she continues to learn things from her students. Holly also serves on various academic committees.

As a new instructor, Jason has 5 years of experience working at CMU. Jason has a Bachelor of Science in Education from Bowling Green State University and a master’s degree from Indiana State University. He currently works as the Assistant Athletic Director. Originally from Kalamazoo, he now lives in Mt. Pleasant with his wife and two children. Jason made the choice to become an FYE instructor because he wanted to create a good experience for our student athletes and get them oriented to CMU. 

Thomas is a returning instructor who has been at CMU for 11 years. He has a Bachelor of Art in Public Administration and a Master in Student Affairs Administration, both from Michigan State University. Currently serving as the Assistant Director in the Office of Student Life, Thomas resides in Mt. Pleasant with his wife and two daughters. Part of Thomas’ job is to assist students in making the most of their college experience, and he felt there was no better way to do that than to get into the classroom and engage them during their first semester. He feels that seeing students embrace their new learning environment and finding their niche is what makes teaching FYE 101 so rewarding. Thomas is an advisor for Fraternity and Sorority Life, an Orientation Advisor, Conduct Proceedings Officer, and is an Honorary Member of Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity.

Virginia is a new instructor for FYE who has been with CMU for 4 years. She has three degrees from Western Michigan University, including a Master of Science in Librarianship and a Master of Art in Education. Virginia currently works as an Academic Advisor for the College of Education. A Kalamazoo, MI native, Virginia now lives in Mt. Pleasant with her husband. She chose to teach FYE 101 to help improve the transition from high school to college living.

Helen is a returning instructor to the FYE program who brings an amazing 37 years worth of experience at Central with her. She has a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree and a Ed.S. from the University of Toledo. Helen is currently retired from CMU and lives in Mt. Pleasant with her husband. She chose to become an FYE instructor to assist students in the transition to university experiences by supporting their academic, personal and social growth. In addition to her work with FYE, Helen also volunteers at the Student Activity Center.

Candace is a returning instructor who has been at CMU for 25 years. She graduated from Central with a master’s degree and is currently working as the Assistant Coordinator for HEV Graduate Programs. Candace grew up in Mt. Pleasant and currently resides here with her husband and children. She chose to become an instructor for FYE because supporting students during the college transition is a strong interest of hers and has recently been a focus of her research. She welcomes the opportunity to to work with FYE 101 students to positively influence their first year and ultimately their entire college experience. Candace is involved as a Sexual Harassment Liaison and as a United Way volunteer.

Deborah is a new instructor who has worked at CMU for 9 years. She attended Oberlin College as well as Central. Deborah lives in Mt. Pleasant with her husband and children and works as an Academic Advisor in the Athletics Department. Deborah decided to get involved with the FYE program because she previously worked as a teacher and loved helping them learn the skills necessary to succeed. Deborah is active on several committees on campus.

Amy is a returning instructor who has been at CMU for 10 years. Amy obtained her bachelor’s degree from Alma College, her master’s from Michigan State University, and is pursuing her Doctor of Education at CMU. She lives in Midland with her husband and two children. Amy works as the Director of Strategy & Organizational Development in Human Resources. Amy is involved with FYE because she loves working with students and thinks FYE really helps them in their first year. Besides FYE, she is an Advisor for the Society for Human Resource Management.

MaryBeth, a returning instructor, has worked at CMU for 25 years. She has a bachelor’s in Music Education and a master’s in Music. She currently works as a Professor and Assistant Director of the School of Music and lives in Mt. Pleasant. MaryBeth became involved with FYE because she wanted to help the entering class of music students become more comfortable in their first year.

Bill, a returning instructor, has worked at CMU for 6 years. He has a Master of Art in Educational Leadership from Central. Originally from Imlay City, he currently works as the Troutman Residence Hall Director and lives in Mt. Pleasant. Bill chose to be an FYE instructor because he wanted to reach out and make a difference to new students. He believes that helping students connect and feel that choosing CMU was a good decision for them is an important goal. Other than FYE, Bill is an Alpha Chi Rho Fraternity Advisor and Conduct Proceedings Officer in the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities.

A returning FYE instructor, Sara has been at CMU for 3 years. She obtained her bachelor’s in Communication from Saginaw Valley State University and is pursuing her master’s in Educational Leadership. Sara lives with her husband in Mt. Pleasant and is the Residence Hall Director for Wheeler Hall. Sara chose to work with FYE because she enjoys working with first-year students. She believes they have great energy and are all so positive toward CMU. She loves that she has the opportunity to impact the students in a positive way. Beside FYE, Sara is the advisor for East Coast Walkers, Organization of Women Leaders, and Wheeler Hall Council. She is also a Diversity Champion.

Cheryl is a returning instructor who has worked at CMU for 11 years. Cheryl obtained her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from CMU and her doctorate from Nova Souteastern University. She lives in Shepherd with her husband and two children. Cheryl is an Assistant Professor in Human Environmental Studies and the Faculty Director for the Human Growth and Development Laboratory. Cheryl joined the FYE program because as a daughter of a former CMU professor and a CMU alumnus, she grew up loving CMU and wants to share that with others. She believes in the mission of the FYE program and the support that it provides for first-year students as they acclimate themselves to the expectations and opportunities that are inherent to university life. Since all of Cheryl’s regular teaching load involves upper level students, FYE 101 gives her a chance to experience and grow from the energy of new CMU students. Cheryl is also a faculty advisor for a social sorority.

Renae is a new instructor that has been at CMU for 12 years. She received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from CMU. She currently lives in Mt. Pleasant with her husband and two children. Renae got involved with FYE because she wanted the chance to share her knowledge and experiences at CMU with students. Renae is also part of the National Academic Advising Association.

Steve, a returning FYE instructor, has worked at CMU for 10 years. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a master’s in Counseling. Steve is working as a Graduate Advisor in ProfEd. Although Steve grew up in Gladwin, he currently resides in Lake Isabella with his wife and two children. He wants to place his figurative arm around students and help them acclimate to college, so he decided to become an FYE instructor. Besides FYE, Steve is involved with Off-Campus Programs’ Make a Difference Day.

Amber is new to the FYE program but has been working at Central for 3 years. Amber obtained her bachelor’s degree in Education and is pursuing her master’s degree in Educational Leadership at CMU. Originally, Amber is from St. Johns but now resides in Alma. Currently, she works as a Study Abroad Advisor in the Office of International Education. Amber looks forward to welcoming students to campus and helping them to explore the many opportunities available at CMU.

Cal, a returning instructor, has been working at CMU for 18 years. He is currently an Assistant Director of Residence Life. He received his Bachelor of Science from Western Michigan University and his master’s from CMU. Although Cal is originally from Cadillac, he now resides in Mt. Pleasant with his wife and three children. Cal works with FYE because he is a product of an FYE program and knows the impact it had on his success. He strives to affect his students in the same way. Besides FYE, Cal is involved in a faculty/staff golf league, Delta Sigma Phi, and various other committees and projects.

Kaye is a returning FYE instructor who has been at CMU for 10 years. She received a Bachelor of Applied Arts, a master’s in Business Administration, and Master of Arts from CMU. Kaye works as an Academic Advisor in the North Campus Success Center. Originally from Ithaca, Kaye now resides in Mt. Pleasant with her husband and four children. Kaye enjoys helping first-year students transition to college life. In addition to FYE, Kaye teaches academic recovery courses and helps with academic orientation.

New to the FYE program, Kayla has worked at CMU for 4 years. Kayla started working in management after receiving her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and her master’s in Business Administration. She grew up in Wayne but currently lives in Flushing. Kayla chose to become an FYE instructor because when she first started her undergraduate degree at CMU, she was completely unaware of the opportunities available. She strives to become a principal part of the success of incoming students.

James is a returning instructor who has been at CMU for 3 years. James has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology/Criminal Justice and a Master of Divinity in Sociology of Religion. Originally from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, James now lives in Mt. Pleasant working as a Residence Hall Director. James became interested in FYE through his interest in Academic Affairs and thought it was a unique way to use his student affairs skills. In addition to FYE, James in an RSO advisor, department committee chair, and Diversity Champion.

Vicki, a returning FYE instructor, has been at CMU for 20 years. She received both her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Master of Arts at Central. Vicki grew up and still resides in Beal City with her husband and daughter. She works in the Registrar’s Office as the Coordinator of Registrar Services. Vicki enjoys helping students and wants their first year to be successful. She thinks FYE makes a difference in students’ lives and feels very rewarded for being a part of it. Other than FYE, Vicki is involved in Network for Women, United Way, Michigan Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admission Officers, and Foundations of Excellence.

Nathan is a returning instructor who has been at CMU for 4 years. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training and master’s in Sport Administration. Originally, Nathan is from Wabash, Indiana but now lives with his partner and son in Mt. Pleasant where he works as a Residence Hall Director. Nathan joined the FYE program because he enjoys working with students, and FYE allows the students, instructor, and peer mentors to learn from each other and share experiences that will help everyone. Nathan also really enjoys team teaching with undergraduate students. Other than FYE, Nathan is the Assistant Conference Manager with CMU Summer Conferences, the National Residence Hall Honorary Advisor and an Advisor to the Kendo Club and Fabiano/Emmons/Woldt Hall Council.

A returning instructor, Jana has been with CMU for 4 years working as a Residence Hall Director. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Science in Education Counseling. Although Jana now lives in Mt. Pleasant with her husband, she is originally from Cambridge, Minnesota. Jana is part of the FYE program because she really enjoys working with first-year students. She thinks it is rewarding to help students find their place at CMU and watch the learning and growth take place. Jana also advises the Trout Hall Council.

Nikki is a returning instructor who has worked at CMU for 11 years. She acquired both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Central. Originally from Rogers City, Nikki now resides in Beal City with her husband and two children. She works in the Human Resources Department as a SAP HR Systems Analyst. Nikki chose to be part of the FYE program because of her transition to college. Being a freshman was an eye-opening experience, and her years at CMU were very memorable. Nikki wants to be able to help make the transition for other first-year students less worrisome, more smooth, and much more memorable.

Annie, a returning instructor, has worked at CMU for 9 years. Annie has a Bachelor of Science in General Business and a master’s in Human Resources. Currently, Annie works as an Academic Advisor in the College of Business and lives in Mt. Pleasant with her husband and children. She enjoys working with FYE because it creates an opportunity for her to have meaningful relationships with CMU’s incoming students. In addition to FYE, Annie helps with new student/transfer orientation and advises for off campus programs.

Kim, a new instructor to the program, works as an Assistant Director of Residence Life. She graduated from Bowling Green State University with both a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and earned her Master of Art in Educational Administration from CMU. She currently lives with her husband and children in Mt. Pleasant but is originally from Versailles, OH. Kim got involved with the FYE program because she really enjoys working with students and knows how important it is to support them in their transition to CMU. Other things Kim is involved in include Leadership Camp, Hall Council Leadership Development, RA/MA training, and Campus Climate Committee, among other initiatives.

Shawn, a returning instructor, has worked at CMU for 2 years. He obtained degrees from Central and Saginaw Valley State University. Although he is from Bay City, he now lives in Midland with his wife and daughter. Shawn currently works as the Assistant Director of Minority Student Services. He chose to work with the FYE program because he enjoys working with students, especially first-year students. He enjoys being a point of contact for the students and passing on the CMU traditions and stories that he has learned. At the present time, Shawn is pursuing his doctoral degree in Educational Leadership.

Suzanne is a returning instructor that has worked at CMU for 23 years. Suzanne has attended both Central Michigan University and Michigan State University. She is currently employed as an Associate Professor in the Communication Disorders Department. Originally from Free Soil, she now lives in Vestaburg with her husband and daughter. Suzanne believes that a successful transition into college is the gateway to the rest of a student’s life, and it is important to support first-year students during this time so that they can make the most of their learning while at CMU. Suzanne is also an advisor for the Association for Future Speech-Language Pathologists.