I needed to find a way to take more college courses. I was the first person in my family to EVER attempt to attend and complete college. It was 1987, and I was 22 years old.
I had heard that IUPUI had a “Fee Courtesy” program, which basically provided a course discount to IUPUI staff. I applied for a secretarial job at the Law School, and I GOT THE JOB! $6.00 an hour ... a substantial pay cut for me at the time, but I took the gamble.
I am glad I did! I found my work home as a faculty assistant. I had ZERO experience in the field of law. I had to learn the standards for typing cites, articles, and documents. I must mention we had IBM Selectric typewriters with correction fluid and typed on onion-skin paper with carbon copies!
The group of professors I supported took me under their wing and taught me to be diligent and professional. Jerry Bepko (one of my favorite people!) had just transitioned from dean of the Law School to IUPUI chancellor but was still a presence in our school. I noticed how he took time to greet me and actually await my response to his “How are you today?” query. (Jerry still teaches here!)
Daily I learn from my experience here at this campus and from the people I meet. I am thankful for the people who have supported and believed in me at this school.
Cheri Bauder, McKinney School of Law Staff, Class of 1993
I was proud to say I worked at the Law School. Our Associate Dean of Academics G. Kent Frandsen, was another one of my favorite people here at the Law School. Shortly before his death, I was promoted to secretary in our brand new Office of Development. The school launched a memorial campaign honoring Dean Frandsen, and Vice President Dan and Mrs. Mariyln Quayle agreed to serve as co-chairs of the campaign steering committee. It was a proud moment for me to participate in that campaign.
During that time, I served as the Law School’s representative on the IUPUI Staff Council. By this time, Dean Norman Lefstein was facilitating new programs and growing the staff. The school now had a larger Office of Career Services and Office of Student Services. We grew and grew. I saw the employment of the first female assistant dean ... and then the next ... and then the next ... and so on.
As life does, things changed. In 1995, I was involved in a motorcycle accident which took the life of my husband and caused me much injury. At my husband’s funeral nearly ALL of the administrators and so many, many colleagues attended to support me. When it was clear I was not healthy enough to continue in my position, Norm compassionately led me to the decision to take a leave from the university.
I eventually worked in the Department of Family Medicine for several years. It was not my IUPUI home. I pined for the Law School. I eventually applied for a Law School position in 2008 and was accepted! Who gets a second chance over the age of 40? I did!
I now work in the school’s Office of the Dean with wonderful people! I, again, share office space with my officemate from years ago. My dream of being back in the Law School is now my real life story. The students I meet become the alumni we honor. Daily I learn from my experience here at this campus and from the people I meet. I am thankful for the people who have supported and believed in me at this school. When our current dean, Andy Klein, asked me to represent the Law School as a liaison on the IUPUI 50th Anniversary Committee, I was honored — because I am still just a secretary ... but it’s what I do, and I LOVE IT!
Story courtesy of:
Cheri Bauder
McKinney School of Law Staff, Class of 1993