Returning the Favor
Keaton Kreikemeier remembers the support and encouragement he received from faculty and staff while he was a student at Midland University. As Assistant Director of Arts, Keaton wants to share that same dedication with current students.
Keaton has been a part of Midland’s staff for the past four years, spending three years with Residence Life before moving to his new role earlier this year. Through his eight years at Midland as a student and employee, he has always admired the role campus leaders have played in the lives of students.
“Something that inspired me to work in higher education is the impact that faculty and staff can have on a student’s time in college. I had multiple people in my support system during my time at Midland, and it’s amazing to have the opportunity to be a part of that support system for current students. It’s part of what I love so much about working at Midland. Our faculty and staff are full of professionals that want to see their students succeed, and will go out of their way to make a difference in their lives.”
One person who played a major role in Keaton’s decision to pursue a career in higher education was Kris Dvorak, Director for Student and Resident Services at Midland. “Kris was my supervisor when I was a Resident Advisor as a student and in my time as Residence Life Coordinator. Her willingness and desire to help anyone who journeys through Midland is contagious. I wouldn’t be the professional that I am today without her guidance and mentorship.”
Keaton hopes he can also provide that leadership to students, whatever the situation. “My favorite part of working with students is being there to celebrate their victories, as well as supporting them when things don’t go as planned. I love seeing the personal and professional growth of our students during their time at Midland.”
He enjoys seeing students thrive at Midland, but Keaton also wants to make sure students take the time to enjoy the journey. “Don’t equate busyness with success. Take time to rest, self-reflect, and grow! It can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, but challenge yourself to take a break and enjoy the moment.”
Keaton enjoys his moments outside of work with various activities, including playing video games, whittling, and hanging out with his wife and their dog. He and his wife enjoy going to concerts, finding new places to eat, and catching up on the latest TV series.
Getting to know Keaton Kreikemeier:
Something people might not know about you: Growing up, I would spend most of my summers taking care of turtles with my father and brother. We would catch the turtles and keep them in an oversized kiddie pool. At the end of the summer, we would enter them in the Madison County Fair turtle races. Once the races were over, we would release all of the turtles back to their natural habitat.
Snack that you can’t resist: Kettle chips. Salt & vinegar is my go-to flavor!
When flipping channels, I’ll always stop to watch this: I have seen The Office about 12 times through. If I ever need a break from The Office, I’ll switch to Parks and Recreation.
What artist dominates your playlist? I don’t really listen to a specific artist, but usually horror story podcasts, singer-songwriters, alternative, and musical theatre take up most of my playlist. My Spotify Wrapped is always interesting, to say the least!
What is your ideal vacation? To travel with my wife to New Zealand so she could explore where the Lord of The Rings was filmed!
What is your most used emoji? The cry/laugh emoji 🤣. A close second would have to be the blushing smiley face 😚.
