University of Michigan - Flint

One of my life goals was to obtain an advanced degree.  It took a while to become a reality, and at 49 years old, I graduated from the University of Michigan-Flint with a Master Degree in Public Administration. In 1977, while attending Mott Community College and working as a civilian at the Flint Police Department, I was selected to attend the Flint Police Academy and began my career as police officer.  During the recession of the early 1980s, the City of Flint laid off numerous employees, including me, and I returned to Mott and completed my Associates Degree in Criminal Justice. 

In 1983 I started attending classes at the University of Michigan-Flint.  I was unable to complete his degree due to work and family obligations, but was finally able to return to the University and complete my baccalaureate in Political Science in 1994. I also attended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Academy in 1998 and retired as a captain of the Flint Police Department in 2001.  Since then I have worked for the State of Michigan at the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards.  In 2003, I began the Rackham School of Public Administration Masters program at the University of Michigan-Flint. 

I graduated with an MPA in December of 2006 along with my son, Alex Steele, who was awarded a BS in Computer Science from U of M-Flint.  Alex’s twin brother Andrew is expected to also graduate with a BS in Computer Science in May of 2006. I have truly enjoyed my experiences at the University and believe that UM-Flint is an excellent resource for anyone interested in life-long learning.  As Chancellor Juan Mestas said at commencement, the image of the “traditional” student is changing.  I hope that others will strive to continue their education and never give up until they reach their goals.  Our community can depend on the supportive faculty and staff at the University of Michigan-Flint will be there for all of us!