Caitlin Van Ermen
Caleb remembers the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities 20 years ago. Not as an employee of team RCPD, but as an MSU student.
Caleb is now an RCPD specialist. While on one of his first visits to campus in July before attending MSU in the Fall of 1995, Caleb recalls being inspired by our current Director, Michael Hudson. During what is now considered a Needs Assessment, Caleb sat down with Michael to discuss his future opportunities at Michigan State. Caleb learned that he and Michael share similar visual impairment disabilities. Caleb was impressed with how adapted and engaged Michael was, just like his mom taught him to be. Caleb recognizes, “He inspired me from that point, when I was just 18 years old.”
While Caleb earned his undergraduate degree in Psychology, he cultivated his love for music by singing in many of the University’s choirs and ensembles, including the famed Men’s Glee Club. He was also an integral part of growing what is now a thriving MSU a cappella community, as he performed and served as an AccaFella for many years. He also established a connection with the RCPD from the outset. His first college job was with the RCPD (then OPHS) as a work study student. His diligence with data entry and making copies of books and tapes supported key functions of the Tower Guard Organization.
After walking across MSU’s graduation stage in his Spartan cap and gown, he ventured off to Thomas M Cooley Law School. There, he earned a Juris Doctor Degree, completed a Litigation Concentration, and served his student and local community in many elected roles, including Chair of Cooley’s Diversity Committee. Under his leadership for nearly two years, this group worked to improve the relationships among faculty and students, including those with disabilities. After graduating and serving as an Attorney at Law for seven years, he and his former specialist, Michael Hudson, reconnected. Caleb then decided that the next step in his career path would be returning to the familiar community at Bessey Hall. Caleb enthusiastically joined Team RCPD as the Chronic Health Specialist.
Law school strengthened Caleb’s leadership, analytical reasoning, and critical thinking skills. Now, Caleb applies these skills and his extensive legal experience every day to support Spartans in the RCPD office. When he meets with students now, he is reminded of the feeling of sitting on the other side of the desk; the chance to reach for opportunity that will impact the future. Ever since Caleb joined team RCPD in December of 2015, he has encountered some great Spartans who will achieve pivotal success through Michigan State.
Caleb recognizes, “I feel professionally fulfilled at this job. I get to pair my heart with my brain. Walking away from the old job was tough but worth it. This new position has proved to be a life changing reset for me. I could not be happier.” With regard to his new colleagues, Caleb states, “I wouldn’t feel as comfortable in my position if it hadn’t been for the help of other specialists. I feel part of a really great team.”
To carry out his mission of supporting Spartans, Caleb’s family serves as his biggest motivation.
Before and after work, Caleb spends time with his wife, Leanne, as they enjoy every minute in their new roles of mother and father to their beautiful baby girl, Charlotte.
Caleb’s story shares a message to Spartans registered with the RCPD. You have a great opportunity to move beyond expectations after graduation. And later, your career path may lead you back to Michigan State.