Michael D. Schermer ’73, M.S. ’78, served as vice president of the student body in 1973. He began working at Illinois State in Student Affairs in 1974, building a 30-year career, which he held multiple positions.
He was assistant to the vice president of Student Affairs. While serving in that role, he also served as director of the Office and Student Life, associate director of the Bone Student Center/Braden Auditorium, director of the Student Counseling Center, and director of the Office of Multicultural Programs and Services. He retired as director of Career Services.
Schermer served on numerous university boards and committees while becoming heavily involved in local and national issues. He serves on several different community boards and has held many leadership positions.
Schermer created the Michael D. Schermer Student Leader Excellence Endowment to help further the University’s goal of preparing students to be engaging leaders and citizens who positively contribute to society.
The endowment funds the Illinois State Outstanding Student Leader of the Year award and a scholarship that recognizes an incoming freshman who was involved in student government and community service in high school.
Rachel Frakes ’21 received the Michael D. Schermer Student Leader Excellence award during her senior year. The molecular and cellular biology graduate plans to work as a scribe for two years before applying to medical school.
Frakes enrolled in her junior year as a transfer student and got involved on campus right away. She joined several registered student organizations, became a member of a research lab, and volunteered in Bloomington-Normal.
“I am grateful for your generosity and selflessness, and will continue to serve the people of my community,” Frakes said to Schermer. “Thank you for helping me pursue my dreams.”
