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volume 5 issue 1 Summer 2011WESTERN GOVERNORS UNIVERSITYAlumni Newsletterspecial commencement editionWestern Governors UniversitySummer Commencement ClassInside this issue• graduate spotlightsfrom WGU’s 2011 summercommencement classwestern governors university

graduate spotlightsPhyllis Gail Boonhumble, texasFor 20 years, Phyllis Gail Boone has carried a dream—a dream, she says, that has become a reality throughWestern Governors University. She recently became ateacher, earning her Bachelor of Arts in InterdisciplinaryStudies in Education (EC-8) degree in April 2011.She is also the first and only one of her siblings to graduatewith a bachelor’s degree. Back in 1981 after highschool, Phyllis earnedan associate’s degreein physical therapy,and worked with aspecial educationpopulation for 12 yearsas a physical therapistassistant. “I adaptedgross motor activitiesto accommodate childrenwith disabilitiesduring motor labs andphysical educationclasses,” Phyllis explains,“and instructedDavid Dartchatham, new jerseyDavid Dart was born in London, England, and attendeda poor inner-city school until the age of 16 when hebegan a full-time job to support his family. He wasaccepted as a telecommunications apprentice withBritish Telecom. Following his work in the telecommunicationsindustry, David rose through the technologyranks of international banking. He specializes in businessand technology strategies for worldwide bankingand trading, and re-engineering through technologyand cost containment. In the past 15 years, he was CIOof several multi-national banks in the United States.Married with two grown children, David says he wasdriven by personal desire and also wanted to show hiskids even their dad could get through college. He researchedfor an online college that was fully accreditedand dovetailed with his career, and his employer’s HRdepartment recommended Western Governors University.“Being highly competitive,” David says, “I lovedthe WGU model of being able to get through as muchof the program as I could,” and the logistics worked.He earned a degree in business and IT managementin 11 months, graduating in April 2007. Three yearslater, he completed WGU’s MBA-Information Technologyprogram in ten and a half months, graduating inApril 2011. Study, testing, and essays consumed histeachers on the uses and positioning of students inadaptive equipment for classroom instruction.” Whileshe found her work rewarding, she also volunteered inpublic schools with children of all ages. “I enjoy sewing,decorating, making props for plays, and costumes,” shesays. “It was while working in the public school systemI became interested in becoming a teacher.” Travelingwith her husband while he was on active duty in themilitary for 21 years kept Phyllis busy, and she and herhusband had two children of their own. Phyllis saysshe learned a valuable lesson from attending WGU, andit was “not to give up on my dream.” She continues, “Iwas able to log-in to the WGU website at odd hours ofthe morning and work on my papers before I went towork. As I continued to progress through this program,I realized this was really working for me.” Phyllis saysshe has become more computer-savvy and confident inresearching online for her patients. Teaching, she says,will allow her “to continue to use the experiences of mycurrent profession in the classroom.” •spare time, but never feltlike a chore, he says. Hismentors provided guidancewhen the going gottough. David believes hehas become more confidentand well-rounded,enjoying the arts now aswell as business. “Theactual program content,”David says, “I found tobe very relevant, as I wasable to translate whatwas being taught in the various courses to the realworld.” Completing his MBA at age 49, he jokes, is livingproof you can teach an old dog new tricks. He mayembark on a second career outside of high finance. •“The actual program content I found to be veryrelevant, as I was able to translate what was beingtaught in the various courses tothe real world.”-WGU Alum, David Dart2 | WGU Alumni Newsletter - summer 2011

graduate snapshots spotlightsRosemarie Buzzettalas vegas, nevadaGrowing up in the 1970s RosemarieBuzzetta recalls she wanted to go tolaw school. She attended a privatewomen’s college to become a legalsecretary, and planned to study lawat night. She discovered that shedisliked law and began working forpublic utilities at age 19. Over thepast three decades, Rosemarie hasworked for three large companies,and says all three have great educational-assistanceprograms. Twiceshe began college, but quit due tothe demands of her job and raisingfour children. During an evaluationof her career path three years ago,however, Rosemarie recognizedthat the position she currently heldusually required a bachelor’s degree.She already had obtained aGeographic Information SystemsSpecialist certification, but she couldsupplement her years of work experienceand performance by earninga degree. A coworker suggested shelook into Western Governors Universitybecause it was fully accredited.Rosemarie asked the personnel departmentto research WGU and see ifit met criteria to allow her to participatein the company’s tuition aidreimbursement program, and theanswer was yes. Rosemarie enrolledimmediately. She says that she couldschedule school around heavy workprojects and she “particularly likedall my options for learning.” Rosemariegraduated in May 2011 with aBachelor of Science in InformationTechnology-Management. She notes,“I love that the program allowed meto work at my own pace…I highlyrecommend this program for anyworking professional. It just works!”In earning her degree, Rosemariesays that she has learned an importantlife lesson. “It’s not just aboutknowledge or people skills—thingsI’ve always excelled in. It’s aboutbeing willing to commit to something,make personal sacrifices, andsee it through to the end. Not onlydoes my boss know that about menow, but I know it as well. And itfeels great!” •Katie Messickpueblo, coloradoKatie Messick grew up as a homeschooled student. Shedreamed of becoming a teacher and decided to attendcollege. In college, she struggled with math because ofthe way it was being taught. “I tried to push throughand to study, but was getting nowhere,” she recalls. Acourse teacher told her she wouldn’t be able to do themath, essentially sending her the message, ‘stop workingon your degree.’ Standing firm, Katie’s supportsystem—her parents and husband—were not going tohear that, Katie says. So she searched online and foundWestern Governors University, but before enrolling, sheasked a lot of questions, she recalls. “WGU has madesure that I know how to use technology but also theimportance of learning,” Katie affirms. She enthusiasticallysays that she had a mentor at WGU who helpedher with her math, and she gained such confidence andencouragement. “The mentors truly care about youlearning,” and she continues, “I have learned that I cando anything I set my mind to even when others say Ican’t.” She was able to continue working while going toschool. In addition, her host teacher and field supervisorboth told her that they would take another WGUstudent if they wereall like Katie. “WhichI believe they are likeme,” Katie says, “becauseWGU teaches tomastery.” Katie graduatedin May 2011 witha Bachelor of Arts,Elementary Educationdegree. She alreadyhas signed a teachingcontract for this fall,and feels that she wasoffered the contractbecause WGU taughther what she needed to know. Katie adds, “Earning mydegree has made a huge difference in my life. I will nowbe able to be a teacher and teach students, which is mypassion, thanks to WGU.” •WGU Alumni Newsletter - Summer 2011 | 3

graduate spotlightsQuinn KuzmichLongmont, coloradoAs a young boy, Quinn Kuzmich was fascinated byEgyptian mythology, which he jokingly says wouldonly be useful in the future while watching Stargateon television. After graduating from high school,Quinn attended community college to study microprocessorprogramming, networking, and electrical engineering,eventually earning his associate’s degree.In 2003 Quinn married and two years later they hada son. However, he says that the “rug was pulled outfrom under him” when his wife was killed in a car accidentin December 2007. Then, almost 13 months later,he was laid off. “I was pretty well shocked,” Quinnrecalls, “Single dad, widower, and now unemployed.”He was amazed, he says, at how many employers toldhim not to apply without a four-year degree, eventhough he had relevant certifications. His aunt, who isa mentor at Western Governors University, called himto discuss WGU’s programs. Quinn recalls that he especiallyliked how he could do schoolwork from homeat his own pace. He was able to pursue his educationat WGU through a scholarship. He graduated in April2011 with a Bachelor of Science Information Technologywith an Emphasis in Networks Managementand Design. “Thanks to the completion of my degree,I have gotten the job titlethat I have been chasing foryears,” Quinn says. He nowhas a new job, a new house,and is remarried with anotherson on the way. Quinn saysthat he is glad that his firstbornson has seen him studyhard. “Your children will dowhat they see you doing,”says Quinn. He adds, “Lifethrows us all curveballs—but, speaking from personalexperience, I can say thatyou haven’t failed until you’ve given up. Take stock ofwhere you are, and move forward.” •“Thanks to the completion of my degree, I havegotten the job title that I have beenchasing for years.”-WGU Alum, Quinn KuzmichDiane Edwardssandy, utahFrom the perspective she’s gained working as a preschooland elementary school teacher, Diane Edwards is fairlycertain what effect a supportive environment for highereducation would have had on her back in the 1960s and’70s, and the likely outcome if she had received guidance inobtaining a scholarship. Yet Diane created that supportiveenvironment for herself while working to pay her tuition,and graduated from the University of Utah in 1983. Shewas a preschool teacher for many years for Granite, a largelocal school district in Salt Lake City, Utah. “I have alwaysloved teaching and learning, especially Early ChildhoodEducation,” she says. “I am the mother of five children, thelast two being twins.” When her children were older, shecompleted an alternative route to licensing and obtainedher first teaching certificate. The rapidly growing JordanSchool District at the south end of the valley started her inkindergarten classes, but Diane has taught second-gradersfor the past four years. She earned endorsements for readingand ESL, and says she considered a master’s degree,but time and money were limiting factors. Then Dianesecured a scholarship from Kennecott Land, which she wasexcited about as it helped with financial hurdles. Dianesays Western Governors University provided the flexibilityin scheduling for her to do advanced coursework whileworking full-time. Shenotes that her onlinecourses also let hergive time and supportto her four-generationhousehold and contributeto her community.Diane says, “I lovescience and teach sciencein-service classesfor Jordan District. Astime permits, I teachart and science in myfriend’s classrooms.”She also speaks Spanish,plays the violin,draws and paints, “butnot all at the sametime,” she jokes. Diane graduated with a Master of Sciencein Instructional Design, Education, in January 2011. •4 | WGU Alumni Newsletter - summer 2011

Laverne LampkinsCastle Hayne, north carolinaLaverne Lampkins praises her Master of Arts, EducationalStudies program at Western Governors University, fromwhich she graduated in February 2011. She says, “It hasequipped me with strategies to use with the diverse studentsof today...” Laverne is currently an active professorat a community collegein Jacksonville, NorthCarolina. Laverne teachesa course on introductorycomputers and academicsuccess, as well as tutorsonline and substitutes forthe public school system.Thus, she says, obtainingthis degree from WGU willhave an “everlasting positiveimpact” on her andher students. She enteredWGU “because you need toincrease your knowledgein order to adapt in today’sever-changing society,” andbecause she wants all those who come into contact withher, including her three children, to see her striving to besuccessful and hopes they will find it motivational. LaverneElspeth “Emie” Goatesescondido, californiaEmie Goates grew up next to Disneyland in Anaheim.Her legal name of Elspeth came from a movie but shegoes by her nickname, Emie (“pronounced as in Emmyawards,” she says). She recently fulfilled a dream ofbecoming a teacher in May 2011, graduating with aBachelor of Arts in Education, Special Education degreefrom Western Governors University. Married and livingwith her husband and two dogs in Escondido, Emie saysshe worked for four years as a nanny to a family withtwo boys while earning an Associate of Arts in HumanDevelopment degree. Her first degree, earned after highschool, was an associate’s in fashion merchandising,but she didn’t find the fashion world very fulfilling, sheconfides. With her “newfound love of school” and experienceas a nanny, Emie wanted to earn a bachelor’sdegree and teaching credential. She says, “I was discouragedto learn that I would have to leave my job tomake my teaching credential dreams come true.” Emieretells the moment she saw a WGU online ad with ‘clickhere’ to earn a teaching credential online. She says,“Then life changed…in the margin of the website I wasviewing, there it was—my future at Western GovernorsUniversity.” Emie did further research and entered herprogram within a week. Every time she passed a task orgraduate spotlights“There are just not enough words to describehow obtaining a degree at WGU is priceless.”-WGU Alum, Laverne Lampkinssays that she not only learned new teaching strategies forher classroom, but recently received a raise. She affirmsthat, at WGU, “All of the programs are designed to enhanceyour abilities to perform in today’s society.” Earning hermaster’s degree allowed her to move toward a doctoralprogram in Instructional Leadership, which she began inMarch of this year, as well as pursue a ministry certificationonline to aid in carrying out leadership duties at herchurch. Laverne says her mentor served as a great strengthto her when she endured multiple deaths in her circle offamily and friends, as well as personal illness. At times,Laverne felt she was standing still in her progress, but hermentor was there with lively emails and words of progressand encouragement over the phone. Laverne says, “Therejust are not enough words to describe how obtaining adegree at WGU is priceless.” •completed a class,Emie says, “I wasrecharged with purpose.I was goingto do what I set outto do.” Her mentorwas critical to hersuccess, she says.Emie also creditssupportive familyand friends, especiallyher parents“for always believingin me and forletting me cry andcelebrate with them” and her husband who has lived“with a wife glued to her laptop.” Paraphrasing a favoritequote (by Carl Bard), Emie says, “Though no one cango back and make a brand new start, anyone can startfrom now and make a brand new ending.” Emie willstart as a special education teacher in the EscondidoUnion School Districtthis fall. •WGU Alumni Newsletter - summer 2011 | 5

graduate spotlightsScott BameBurley, idahoIn May 2011, Scott Bame graduated from Western GovernorsUniversity with a Bachelor of Science in Financedegree. Shortly after completing his program, Scottreceived a promotion from his position as a personalbanker to branch manager. He says, “The experiencesgained through my education at Western GovernorsUniversity enabled me to demonstrate that I was ableto progress within the financial industry. WGU’s useof technology and learning resources are practical forreal-world scenarios in our day and age and prepareits students for success.” Scott has been married forthree and a half years, and their son was born duringhis last term at WGU. “Western Governors Universitynot only allowed me to pursue my educational goals,”he says, but “allowed me to advance in my career andspend time with my family at the same time.” Scottalso volunteers with several organizations that includethe Lions Club, Boy Scouts of America, United Way,and Relay for Life, and says that service projects have“added value to my life experiences and supplementedmy formal education with WGU.” Scott reflects that “aneducation is not received—it is achieved….The uniqueeducational structure of WGU requires that studentstake the initiative to advance and achieve their education.”His degree represents years of hard work andperseverance, and Scott says, “My current employernoted that my education at WGU, coupled with mywork experience, had provided a solid foundation thatDee Wagnerchapel hill, north carolinaThis spring, Dee Wagner accomplished her dream ofearning a degree to become a teacher of exceptionalchildren in special education by graduating from WesternGovernors University in May 2011 with a Bachelorof Arts, Special Education degree. It was her fourthattempt at attending college—this time with success.What made this college experience different, Dee explains,is that, unlike traditional universities, she couldincorporate her family of two active young boys anda hard-working husband, preschool and kindergartenactivities, and full life without repercussions to hereducation. Her journey to her degree has taken herfour and a half years. “My success story is not abouthow quickly I completed my degree at Western GovernorsUniversity,” says Dee, “but how I was able toearn my degree while continuing to care for my family.”While she has worked many jobs from office clerk tocomputer operator to teaching assistant, Dee says shebecame interested in teaching when she was hired asa sign language facilitator and teacher assistant for anelementary school in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, workingwith students with multiple disabilities in theirallowed me to growand advance in my industry.”He concludes,“We [graduates] leavehaving achieved aneducation—an educationthat will serveas our ’sounding line’and ‘compass’ thatwill guide our lives towhere we would liketo be.” With collegebehind him, Scott nowplans to devote moretime to his family,friends, and communitythat supported him throughout his education. •“The experiences gained through my educationat Western Governors University enabled me todemonstrate that I was able to progress withinthe financial industry.”-WGU Alum, Scott Bamedaily school activities.“After taking time offfrom the workforce tohave my first son,” Deerecalls, “the realizationhit that I neededa degree in order todo something I liked—teaching.” She statesthat she chose WGUfor her new careerof education becauseof its “flexibility andaffordability.” By working her school schedule aroundher family, including the arrival of her second son, shedid not have to arrange for child care. She grew up inOhio, yet work relocations have taken the couple fromFlorida, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Now Deesays she looks forward to re-entering the workforce,“doing something I enjoy and making a difference inthe lives of children, including my own.” •6 | WGU Alumni Newsletter - summer 2011

Kelly GreenePleasant valley, new yorkKelly Greene is a rock singersongwriter-musicianwith her ownmusic corporation who has releasedtwo albums. That’s not all.She is an associate marketing managerfor Pepsi Beverages Companywho currently works on the alliedH. Wayne Johnsonbrand, ROCKSTAR Energy Drink.Kelly describes herself as a resultdelivering,strategy-minded, brandchampion with 14 years of broadexperience emphasizing branddevelopment and product launches,and has consistently delivereddouble-digit brand growth. Kellyalso holds certifications as a personaltrainer and sports nutritionistand is a wildly dedicated athlete.During her time at Pepsi, Kelly relates,she worked her way up froma temp position, receiving severalpromotions and awards, includingthe PBC President’s Circle of Excellenceaward for Marketing and thePepsiCo Strategic Impact FinanceAward—all without a degree. WesternGovernors University came in tothe mix, Kelly says, because she wascautioned that the current businessclimate in combination with anymanagement changes could slowher career progression regardless ofperformance. Kelly did not take thatdenver, coloradoDuring his 15 years in businessmanagement, Wayne Johnson attainedincreasingly responsiblepositions in Fortune 500 companies,and was a dual-recipient ofBoeing’s prestigious employeeof the month award. Wayne alsoserved his community as pastmentor for the Colorado Youth AtRisk and as an Eagle scout in BoyScouts of America. In spite of hisleadership record and experience,Wayne says that his progress waslimited by not having an advanceddegree. When his employer scaledback during a downturn in 2008,Wayne lost his job and used thetime of unemployment to apply hisestablished real-life experiencesand competencies toward earninga Bachelor of Science in BusinessManagement degree from WesternGovernors University. Wayne explains,“At WGU, I can learn whenit’s comfortable and most effectivefor me, not for the teachers orother students of the university.”Throughout his program, he saysthat he found motivation and inspirationfrom his parents, who taughthim about values that go beyondwhat one sees on the outside, butrather what one can become fromthe inside. A little over a year ago,Wayne became a new father to ababy daughter. He says, “By earningmy degree, WGU has advancedmy life and consolidated over 15years of business experience andprior education. My education willnow help me create a new life formy family and the future of my littlegirl.” After graduating in April 2011,Wayne took his capstone project offits thesis page and into reality byfounding a new innovative outdooradvertising company in the Denverarea called StarzEP Media totap into the billion-dollar marketof out-of-home media consumers.graduate spotlightslightly, she recalls, finding WGU’sflexibility a perfect fit since findingtime to go to school would be nodifferent than what she already doesto keep things working. She beganher program a year ago and graduatedin June 2011 with a Bachelor ofScience in Business Management degree.Her manager told Kelly her decisionto attend school signaled thatshe was serious about a long-termcareer path; shortly thereafter, shereceived another promotion. Duringher time at WGU, Kelly faced personalchallenges that included surgeryand the death of a loved one.She says, “I’ve learned a numberof things about myself throughoutmy WGU experience. I love learningeven more than I thought I did, thatI can accomplish more than I thinkI can…and that it is not impossibleto get a solid education and earnyour degree without setting foot in aphysical classroom.” •“Sometimes we’re all kicked on theway up,” but that isn’t necessarilybad, says Wayne. “It’s the challengeor the obstacle that in many waysinspires us to make a change.” •WGU Alumni Newsletter - summer 2011 | 7

graduate spotlightsTamara AndrewsSomerville, OHioFor as far back as she can recall,Tamara Andrews says she wanted tofurther her education, but it just neverseemed to be the right time—her marriage,family, and job commitmentswere important too, and took priority.She already had a rewarding careeras a special education teacher. Thenher dad was diagnosed with leukemiaand she found the news “bittersweet,”for it prompted her to stop putting off“This has been one of thegreatest educationalexperiences of my life.”-WGU Alum, Tamara Andrewsher education to another day. She haswatched her father persevere withevery challenge put before him. “Iknew if my dad could meet the challengesof living with cancer, I couldmeet the challenge of returning toschool,” she recalls. She says she choseWestern Governors University becauseof its competency-based programs andflexibility—so she could take care ofher family and continue her career. Shealso liked being able to learn at herown pace, especially since she challengedherself to double the usual paceby completing the requirements of athree-year program in only a year anda half. She credits her WGU mentor forall the positive and patient guidance,support, and encouragement, whichhelped keep her going. Tamara graduatedin May 2011. “This has been oneof the greatest educational experiencesof my life,” she says enthusiastically.“The knowledge I gained through theMaster of Science in Educational LeadershipProgram has been phenomenal!....I now look at every aspect of mylife in a different light. The programempowered me, and provided me withthe skills necessary to be an effectiveschool leader.” Tamara has discoveredthat the skills she learned for herteaching career have carried over intoher personal life, and thanks her dadfor teaching her never to give up. Thatis one of the lessons she plans to sharewith future students. •Krista Gibsonsurprise, arizonaWhen she turned 18, Krista Gibson says she decided toexplore outside her California home town and threw adart at a map of the United States literally, and endedup in Bellingham, Washington. Since then, her adventureshave taken her on journeys that crisscrossed thecountry—from California to Alaska to Florida and toArizona—many due to her husband’s job relocationsover 17 years. The couple was even overseas in Praguefor a short time, wedged in a tiny apartment with theirthree young daughters, and Krista wondering how toprepare bird hearts for dinner. They now make theirhome in Surprise, Arizona, where Krista describes theiradventures as low key. Krista started out her WGUjourney in nursing, but elected to switch her studies toelementary education to better accommodate her threedaughters, who were all in gifted programs. Krista isnow involved with two associations for gifted children,started an alternative summer learning program, andruns a Girl Scout camp for 150 girls and their troopleaders. Krista says, “The best thing to do is laugh atthe challenge in front of you, put your head down andpush on through.” She graduated in July 2011 with aBachelor in Elementary Education degree. She thanksher mentor for the right supportive words that helpedher focus on finishing. Somewhere between Prague andArizona, Krista realized that she has come to love hernew career, stating,“I knew I wasgoing to be good atsomething besidesmotherhood. I knewmy challenges weredeveloping a journeyfor me that beganwith the realizationthat a career ineducation is whereI belonged.” Kristais even planning oncontinuing her educationby pursuing amaster’s degree. •8 | WGU Alumni Newsletter - summer 2011

graduate spotlightsMichelle Cookcanon city, coloradoMichelle Cook and her family now live in the smalltown in Colorado where she grew up. Her mother isthe owner/director of a Montessori preschool; her dadwas a butcher at a local grocery. Michelle graduatedfrom high school as class salutatorian, attending collegefor over a year before earning a certificate in traveland tourism. She later went on to work in banking andthen married and started a family (now with threechildren), and owned and operated a pet store with herhusband. For one year, she became a substitute teacherwithout a degree under special license due to a teachershortage in a local district and was then hired as a“Thank you, WGU, for providing a perfect-fit,higher education program for me!”-WGU Alum, Michelle CookWendi PetersonTucson, ArizonaWendi Peterson moved from the windy city of Chicago,where she was born, to Tucson, Arizona, in 1992. Shepursued her teaching degree since graduating from highschool, taking courses off and on for over 26 years—from a community college, a state college, and finallyWestern Governors University. She has lived a busy life,raising a family and home-schooling her six children,teaching adults in a trade school, and tutoring elementary-agestudents. “Traditional full-time college wastaking too much time away from what was most importantto me,” she says. Afew years ago, a friendtold her about WGU,and Wendi says she wasexcited that she couldcontinue her educationat her own pace, andprioritize her family yetstill complete a degree.Wendi says she hit theground running in May2009 with an acceleratedplan of study. “I was determinedto finally reachspecial education paraprofessional for younger children.Michelle says the light bulb finally came on whenshe realized she wanted to take over as the preschoolteacher/director when her mom began planning retirement.Michelle earnedan associate’s degree inearly childhood educationand a director’scertification at a communitycollege. Thena chance conversationwith a neighbor aboutWestern GovernorsUniversity led Michelleto research WGU. Shediscovered that WGUwas launching a new bachelor’s degree in early childhoodeducation. She began her first term in July 2009in the ECE program and graduated in May 2011. “Whatan honor and privilege it has been to be a part of thefirst graduates of the ECE program… I am excited to sayafter having graduated from high school 24 years ago,I have finally earned my bachelor’s degree!” Michellesays she plans to continue a family tradition of instillinga love for learning in all of the children she teaches.“Thank you, WGU, for providing a perfect-fit, highereducation program for me!” •my goal of becoming a teacher,” she recalls. Along withher supportive family, Wendi credits the encouragementand support of her WGU mentor. Wendi says she knew“My experience with WGU has given me the confidenceto go forward and know that I can tackleanything life has waiting for me ... “-WGU Alum, Wendi Petersonshe would face challenges along the way—and she did,from sick kids to her husband changing jobs. Wendigraduated in April 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts, InterdisciplinaryStudies (K-8) degree. Twenty-six years afterbeginning this journey, Wendy says, “this little piece ofpaper that is more valuable to me than words can say,or student loans can quantify.” She adds, “My experiencewith WGU has given me the confidence to go forwardand know that I can tackle anything life has waiting forme, one task at a time.” •WGU Alumni Newsletter - summer 2011 | 9

graduate spotlightsAndrew Edtlholladay, utahAndrew Edtl has been around entrepreneurial businessesfrom a young age. His mother opened a businessteaching parenting skills that grew to severaloffices in two states. He opened a snack business atone of his mother’s company offices and sold it whenhe was 12 years old because of a family move. Twoyears later at age 14, he started an online messageboard hosting company that grew to over 9,000 companyusers in three months. When he was 17, he enlistedin the United States Air Force Reserve and wastwice deployed to conduct on-base law enforcementand base defensive operations. He also cross-trainedinto the personnel career area with the Utah Air NationalGuard. Between deployments, he began to attendcollege in Hawaii, working as a resident advisor at adormitory with a large number of students from overseas.He volunteered as a member of the orientationteam for international students and was a member of acultural club. “I love business, economics, politics, andlearning,” says Andrew. “I love projects that allow me tocome up with creative solutions, and I love adapting tonew technologies and standards.” Later on, he decidedto pursue his degree to advance in his ideal career, andAndrew chose Western Governors University. “I reallyliked the competency-based model and the option toaccelerate my degree. I decided that it would be theKelleree Conradstrongsville, ohioAs an award-winning salesdirector and mother oftwo residing in Ohio withher husband and youngestson, Kelleree Conrad reflectson how her life cametogether. In high school,Kelleree’s prioritieschanged when she becamea mother, and she deferredcollege to work and raiseher son, along with herparents’ guidance. Shethen began working fora family-owned companythat is now one of the largestrecruiters of collegegraduates nationwide. Herentry-level sales positionturned into several advancements and an out-of-statepromotion nine years ago. When Kelleree’s 12-year-oldson asked for a go-kart, like any good businesswoman,she asked him to write a proposal. He did, and his lastperfect challenge forme,” he says. In May2011, Andrew earnedhis degree in BusinessManagement.He credits his mentorwith helping to realizehis potential, andsays that his mentor’sguidance and encouragementwere invaluable.He notes that hegained motivation andprioritization skillswhile completing hisWGU course work and Andrew says, “The same motivationalskills I learned from doing coursework apply tomy everyday life at home and at work.” •“I really liked the competency-based model andthe option to accelerate my degree. I decided that(WGU) would be the perfect challenge for me.”-WGU Alum, Andrew Edtlline was a “closer”—more mother-son time. “You canbet he got a go-kart,” she affirms. She met her husbandas go-kart season began. Fast forward to 2010, her oldestson proposed to Kelleree to attend college onlineat Western Governors University. Kelleree looked athis research, privately thinking, “Accelerated…I ama race fan. Affordable…that was a must for me. Accredited…sweet!” She could fulfill a lifelong dream ofa college education and surprise her son at the sametime. Kelleree also “wanted to give my employer thethanks they deserve—a college-educated director ofsales.” She applied 16 years of business experience toher program, earning her Bachelor of Science in BusinessManagement degree in March 2011 in under sixmonths. She also is a Certified Corporate Travel Executive(CCTE), serving as board chair of the Ohio ValleyBusiness Travel Association. She quotes an adage, saying,“‘In school, you’re taught a lesson and then given atest; in life, you’re given a test that teaches you a lesson.’I am grateful to WGU for teaching me to make timefor myself, and give thanks to those who made theselessons possible.” •10 | WGU Alumni Newsletter - Summer 2011

graduate spotlightsJoy McIrvincolville, washingtonJoy McIrvin recalls that she knew from a young ageshe wanted to be a teacher, yet she married after highschool and chose to stay at home with her two daughtersborn within the next three years. Joy volunteeredat their schools, adding that she earned an associate’sdegree from a community college in Washington andworked as a paraprofessional for the past ten years,preschool through grade 12. Given the opportunity towork in a special education classroom following a familyrelocation, Joy says she was a bit nervous, but afterthe first week, she knew she wanted to be in specialeducation. She had “a burning desire to become a teacherand no way to become certified without abandoningmy entire life,” Joy explains, since the nearest traditionalcollege was a 100-mile commute. “That’s when Ilearned about WGU,” Joy says. By accelerating her pace,Joy graduated with her Bachelor of Arts in Special Educationdegree in July 2011, becoming certified in specialeducation 18 months after enrollment. Tuition and“WGU’s unconventional approach toward tailorfittingan education to meet individual needs andintended degrees has been a perfect fit for me.”-WGU Alum, Joy McIrvinElaine Robichauxharrison, arkansasElaine Robichaux describes growing up in a militaryfamily as a “pretty ordinary” life, but by ‘ordinary’ sheimplies that most families commonly face significantchallenges and how they cope tends to separate ordinaryfrom extraordinary. She won many awards inschool in spite of hurdles, was in the National HonorSociety, and finished inthe top 10% in her classof 200. Straight out ofhigh school, Elaine wasaccepted to the prestigiousUniversity ofCalifornia at Berkeley.However, due to unforeseencircumstances,Elaine had to halt college.Subsequently, she marrieda man who loved her,bought a house and a dog,had children, worked acareer in computer programming,moved, andrelated expenses wereso affordable, Joy says,that she has no education-relateddebt. Shethanks her “terrificmentor” and particularlyher family, whohas given “unwaveringlove and support…without it, I don’tknow that I would bestanding here today.”She jokes that she haspromised them homemademeals with nomore Top Ramen. Joyaffirms, “WGU’s unconventionalapproach toward tailor-fitting an educationto meet individual needs and intended degrees hasbeen a perfect fit for me.” She feels fully prepared tobegin teaching in her own classroom this coming schoolyear. In fact, she’s replacing the teacher she workedalongside for five years who is retiring. Joy also plans toreturn to WGU for her master’s degree. “Without WGU,”says Joy, “I would still be simply dreaming!”•bought another house, buried the dog, and sent herchildren to public school. Elaine says she had an “aha”moment when she realized she wanted a job wheresharing knowledge was an art form. As such, she wantedto become a teacher. She wanted to pay back thoseearly teachers who saw academic excellence in her, andto help students in secondary school know someoneunderstands what they’re going through and discoverthe exciting world of science. That began her WesternGovernors University adventure. What strategicallyworked for her was to flip work to part-time and focusfull time on school. Due to her experience and background,she was able to accelerate her program. Elainesays, “I will be the first in my family to get a collegedegree.” She graduated in June 2011 with a Bachelor ofScience in Secondary Education in Chemistry degree,and she thanks WGU, “an extraordinary school helpingordinary people.” In spite of life happening all around,she affirms, “you still have the power to obtain yourcollege degree.” •WGU Alumni Newsletter - summer 2011 | 11

Academic RegaliaAcademic Robes and Regaliathe origins of academic dressThe origins of academic dress dateback to the 12th and 13th centurieswith the garb of the medieval scholar.The ordinary dress of the scholar—whether student or teacher—was thedress of a cleric. Long gowns wereworn, perhaps being necessary forwarmth in unheated buildings. Typically,medieval scholars took minoroaths, made certain vows, and oftenwere tonsured (shaved hair on thecrown of the head as part of a ritual).Hoods served to cover the tonsuredhead, and were reserved for teacherswho, at that time, held the equivalentof master’s or doctoral degrees.The assignment of colors to signifycertain faculties was a muchlater development, having only beenstandardized in the United States inthe late 19th century. White, takenfrom the white fur trimming of theOxford and Cambridge Bachelor ofArts hoods, was assigned to Arts andLetters. Red, one of the traditionalcolors of the church, went to theology.Green, the color of medieval herbs,was adopted for medicine, and olive—because it was so close to green—wasgiven to pharmacy. Golden yellow,standing for the wealth which scientificresearch has produced, wasassigned to the sciences.While European institutions havegreat diversity in their academic regalia,American colleges and universitiessettled on a definitive system for allto follow. A commission made up ofrepresentatives from leading institutionsmet at Columbia University in1895 to adopt a code of academicdress that regulated the cut, style, andmaterials of academic gowns, as wellas prescribed the colors which wereto represent the various fieldsof learning.In 1932, the American Council ofEducation authorized a committee toapprove a code for academic regaliathat has been in effect since thattime. As a result, the following are thecategories of the degrees awarded byWestern Governors University, withtheir associated hood colors formaster’s degrees:Businesss - Drab (Beige)Education - Light BlueNursing - ApricotPublic Health - Salmon PinkScience and IT - Golden YellowThis history of academic robes and regalia can be attributed to: E. Sullivan (1997). AmericanCouncil on Education, American Universities and Colleges, 15th edit., Walter de Gruyter, Inc.12 | WGU Alumni Newsletter - Summer 2011