MORTUARY SCIENCE

Graduated in 2002

Q: Why did you choose Wayne State? 

A: WSU has the best Mortuary Science program in the nation! To be able to graduate and be fully prepared to direct, embalm, and handle anything the industry may present to you is indicative of a great program.

Q: What inspired you to pursue this career?

A: The desire to help those in a time of need has always been the driving force behind me wanting to be a funeral director.

Q: Who was your most memorable instructor?

A: Dr. E. David Ladd. Dr. Ladd held the bar high for us. I asked him about it one day and he said to me, “I have to hold the bar high. If I set the bar low or even midrange, many will just settle to meet that level of achievement. If I set the bar high, you will work harder to achieve greatness. I want to see you be great!” That always stuck with me and gave me a newfound respect for him.

Q: What was your most challenging class?

A: Anatomy, because Dr. Ladd set that bar high!

Q: Tell us about your time on campus.

A: It was very enjoyable. My professors were always nice yet serious and the students were always pleasant.

Q: In your opinion, what is one of the biggest changes that has occurred in your profession since graduating?

A: The growing popularity of cremation services vs. burials.

Q: Share a career highlight.

A: Working side by side my father. Also being able to have my son work with both of us — knowing my dad was able to see his grandson work in the business he helped build.

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Since 1939, the Wayne State University Mortuary Science Program has been dedicated to educating and developing funeral service professionals who serve their communities with care and distinction.

Through traditional, online and hybrid programs, students benefit from high quality instruction and practical experiences that lay the foundation for their funeral service careers. Learn more about the application process and make plans to attend a college information meeting, held for prospective students at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month.

An anchor in urban health care

The Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is built on more than 100 years of tradition and innovation in the heart of Detroit. We have grown deep roots in our city, harnessing its powerhouse hospital systems and community service organizations as vibrant, real-world training grounds for students, with an ongoing focus on social justice in health care. And our research at all levels – from undergraduates to veteran faculty members – translates into creative solutions for healthier communities.

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering approximately 350 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 24,000 students.