David Bere, Western Michigan University

David is a Political Science major at WMU and a recipient of the Kalamazoo Promise, a program which offers free college tuition to students who attend Kalamazoo Public Schools. Dave is also a student employee at the Office for Sustainability working as a Studio Coordinator, bike mechanic, and non-motorized transportation advocate. David has been instrumental in developing programs that enable students to learn important skills such as bike maintenance, basic woodworking, and providing a space for exploring design projects. In addition to his roles at the University, David has volunteered his time and expertise to many organizations in the community participating in charitable bike rides and leading student building projects. His dedication to public service is inspired by his commitment to help others learn to help themselves. David is one of the most humble and passionate individuals you will ever meet and leads and helps others with enthusiasm and generosity.
-John Dunn, President

I consider higher education to be a privilege enabling me to see the world from an informed point of view. I have been fortunate enough to receive a liberal arts experience to grow as an individual for no cost through the Kalamazoo Promise and as a result of my circumstances, I feel eager to embrace my responsibility to help others find opportunity in their community. I care most passionately about the link between social and sustainability issues and have found a home with the Office for Sustainability where I feel inspired and challenged to create a better quality of life for all. My role as a Studio Coordinator, bike mechanic, and non-motorized transportation advocate, have enabled me to teach people how to help themselves. When I am not consumed by university projects, I help people fix their bikes and use my building skills to create tables, benches, things like cider presses, and earthen ovens that bring people together to share healthy food and important ideas with each other.
-David Bere