Alumni Appreciation Correspondence

From: Pete Nennert
Sent: Wednesday, September 19, 2007 11:46 AM
To: dan1944@frontiernet.net
Subject: Hello from an MU alum

Dear Dr. Guillory,

I’m sure this is a note out of left field. My name is Pete Nennert and am a former student of yours from the late ‘80’s and early ‘90’s (I graduated from Millikin in 1991). For years I have wanted to send you a note to let you know what a tremendous impact you had on my years at Millikin and beyond. I regret not sending it sooner.

As a nervous freshmen, your English 101 course was the very first college class I attended. Scared, unsure if I had the discipline needed to succeed, I walked into your classroom full of trepidation. I remember it like it was yesterday even though it was 20 years ago. I also clearly remember walking out that day and feeling inspired and more sure that I could succeed in a university environment. Your enthusiasm, warmth and unmistakable commitment to your students gave me a rush of confidence that made me feel like I was in the right place.

Over the course of four years, I took every class I could that you taught (although you were in Africa my junior year). I appreciated your unabashed passion for the subjects you taught. I loved even more the humanity you showed to your students. Your red-penned comments on my papers were always numerous, constructive and appreciated—even when my “editor” wasn’t switched “on.” I also remember waiting on endless occasions outside your office to talk to you. Many times it was about a project or paper; however, just as many times it was about life. You were extraordinarily generous with your time—which I am sure was scarce. I only regret that I didn’t have the maturity or discipline to excel like I could and should have; I wasted some tremendous opportunities.

In short, you inspired me and made me want to do well in your eyes. When I think of why Millikin is a special place, I think of you and have told many about how a certain professor from Cajun Country taught me to observe and write from the heart and appreciate the beauty, magic and even the mystery of words put on paper in a thoughtful and provocative manner. And I will always appreciate the unvarnished beauty of the land of the “360 degree horizon” (Central Illinois) that you made us see.

Just to catch up, as I approach 39, I have a two wonderful children, Olivia (3.5) and Benjamin (10 mos.) and a truly giving partner in my wife, Cheryl. We live in St. Louis where I work in advertising. I regret not writing for pleasure more (perhaps this e-mail is the first step in sharpening the saw), but that is something I plan to remedy.

I hope all is well and your current life is fulfilling. I was sorry for the MU students that you retired, but happy for you.

Thanks again for everything you did all those years ago.

Pete Nennert