Mary-Beth Meyer:
CLASS OF 1968
Lutheran North High SchoolClass of 1968
St. louis, MO
Valparaiso UniversityClass of 1972
Valparaiso, IN
Jefferson City High SchoolClass of 1968
Jefferson city, MO
Spokane Lutheran SchoolClass of 1964
Spokane, WA
Faith Lutheran SchoolClass of 1964
Kirksville, MO
Mary-Beth's Story
Life
After graduating from Valpo, I lived in Chicago for the better part of 18 years. Moved to California when I met my partner Laurie while playing tennis in the Gay Games in Vancouver in 1990. My career has been working with children in out-of-home placement, with a preference for emotionally disturbed kids in group care.In 2003 Laurie and I moved to Lafayette, across the Bay from San Francisco, where we were married at City Hall on February 16, 2004. Laurie and I defended the doubles gold medals we won in Amsterdam Gay Games in 1998 in Sydney in 2002, but only took silver in Chicago in 06. We parent Miles and Frida, our dogs. I volunteer for organizations involved in meeting the needs of gay/lesbian/bisexual and transgender youth. In my spare time I play lots of sports. I recetly auditioned for, and joined, Sweet Adelines International.
School
I guess my life adaptability was enhanced by the fact that my family moved during both my elementary school years and my high school years, leaving me with multiple alma maters. I cherish memories of all my schools. Great teachers, good friends, stimulating education and extra-curriculars. Role models that shaped my career choice.
College
I loved my years at Valpo, which helped form my liberal politics and social consciousness. Was I ever surprised when the school refused to formally acknowledge my current relationship status. I organized some alumni protest, but the Board of Directors was not moved....Expand for more
It remains their policy to publish (unrelated to Valpo) relationship data (including what spouses do for a living and the names and other details of all the children) about heterosexual alums, but to act as if a good percentage of the graduates of the school were not gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender.
I have been deeply offended by my alma mater and have withdrawn my financial support. I would encourage you to do likewise until the University begins to act more "educated."
Workplace
It's been a fairly direct path for me. Finding a job a Pritzker Children's Hospital (mainly due to a personal connection rather than an avowed goal) is what started the career I love. I only veered from group care of children to dabble in the related field of foster family care for five years before coming back.
This work has been stimulating, challenging, rewarding. It has introduced me to many respected colleagues and mentors who became friends.
Cannot imagine doing much else.
I wrote that a couple years ago. I have since become the "trailing spouse" in a geographical move, out of which necessity created new career paths for me. I am doing independent contract social work at two child welfare agencies and a couseling center as well as per diem medical social work at a community hospital. My learning curve is once again steep. This arrangement is providing control and flexibility in scheduling. And I find I am enjoying the hospital work. Who'd'a' figgered?
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Reunions
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