My Golden Memories: Jeri Meikle Nowakowski

Editor’s note: This story is one of a series of reflections — in their own words — from members of ASU’s Class of 1967, who will return to the university on May 8–9 for their Golden Reunion, a two-day event hosted by the ASU Alumni Association. Learn more about what’s happening at Golden Reunion here. Read more stories here.

I was busy when I was at Arizona State University as a student. I was a member of Delta Gamma sorority, the Spurs, Natani and the Little Sisters of Minerva. I worked as a secretary for the head of secondary education in the College of Education, in spite of the state of my shorthand!

I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English in 1967 and a master’s degree in English in 1973. My undergraduate education was a rich, exciting and fun experience. Graduate studies were challenging, rewarding, and gave me lifelong skills in inquiry and analysis, and nurtured my love of literature.

After I graduated in 1967, I taught high school English at McClintock High School in Tempe while I was pursuing my master’s. I went on to earn a doctorate (Ed.D.) in research and evaluation from Western Michigan University. After that, I have spent several decades working in and for higher education. I was a postdoctoral fellow and an associate professor at Northern Illinois University, executive director of the North Central Educational Lab; provost and president at the American College of Education; executive vice president of Voyager Expanded Learning; and I also worked as an educational consultant.

I’m looking forward to seeing old friends at Golden Reunion, hearing the address at Spring Commencement, as well as learning more about ASU’s pathway to becoming a Tier I research university with an international reach. I couldn’t be prouder of my alma mater’s growth or its mission.