Name
Sean Newmiller
Company/Organization
Lake Michigan College
What Does Your Company/Organization Do?
I think the best descriptor for LMC is our Mission Statement: Together we empower people and communities to thrive through education, innovation, and experiences.
Age
35
Accomplishments
On-campus, I am English Faculty, Chair of the English Department, and Writing Lab Director. I have had leadership roles on various committees such as new student orientation, literacy and numeracy across the curriculum, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. I’m also currently the co-advisor for our student LGBTQ+ organization.
Outside of campus, I have had the honor to serve on the state legislative workgroup for Michigan Reconnect, to present at state (Michigan Student Success Summit) and national (Conference on Acceleration in Developmental Education) conferences, and to serve as a faculty peer mentor for the Michigan Center for Student Success.
What else do you hope to accomplish by the age of 40?
One thing I hope to accomplish by the time I’m 40 is to start a doctoral program. I will always be a lifelong learner and that is the next step in my educational journey.
Education
I attended River Valley and Lakeshore High Schools.
On the collegiate front, I earned an Associate’s degree in Music from Lake Michigan College; a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Theater Arts from Eastern Michigan University; and a Master’s degree in English Studies from Valparaiso University.
Residence
Benton Harbor, Michigan
Where were you born?
St. Joseph, Michigan
What was your first job?
My first job was at Culver’s of Stevensville when I was a freshman at LMC. I could probably still take apart, clean, and reassemble the frozen custard machine!
Best advice you ever got?
I’m not sure I can pinpoint a singular piece of advice, but rather folks who have inspired me and validated my desire to become an educator and the person that I am today. For that, I am incredibly thankful for Robert Hay (River Valley HS), Lori VonKoenig (Lakeshore HS), Christy Sloan (Lakeshore HS), Dr. Janice Zerfas (LMC), Dr. Anita Rich (EMU), and Dr. Betsy Burow-Flak (Valpo).
Who inspires you most?
My scholars! The experiences and energy they bring to the classroom is a continual inspiration.
That one thing about you we’d be most surprised to learn.
I help run a website for a competitive marching band in Michigan called Michigan Marching.
What do you love to do in your downtime?
My partner and I love to travel! I also enjoy an evening on the sofa with Netflix.
What book are you reading now?
I’m currently re-reading the texts for my Native American Literature course – “Moon of the Crusted Snow” by Waubgeshig Rice
Volunteer activity you love the most.
Recently, serving as a peer mentor for the Michigan Center for Student Success. Having the ability to help educate fellow educators on best practices in developmental education reform and knowing the impact it will have on students across the state is immeasurable.
What motivates you to give back to your community?
I feel compelled to give to the community that has supported and given so much to me. Southwest Michigan has always been my home and I owe so much to this area.
What Superpower would you most love to have?
The ability to gain time – to get work done and to also spend more time with the people and animals I love.
What has been the most eye-opening thing about the coronavirus pandemic for you, personally?
The creativity and adaptability of people. The way folks in all industries have been able to come up with creative solutions to keep things open and moving but to also help keep folks safe has been amazing.
What does the honor of being named to the 40 Under 40 most mean to you?
It’s nice to have the work you’re doing recognized outside of your organization. Some days are hard and all you really need is a little bit of validation to keep moving forward.
