More Lessons Learned

 

Another Second Chance: Richard Deters, S.J.

I graduated in 1966 and like Luis Sastre [who wrote an essay for the Lesson Learned article Spring 2004], I too am one of Fr. Deters’ reclamation projects. He allowed me to transfer into Xavier from University of Kentucky-Extension, Covington 60 credits and the now longtime defunct Chase College of Commerce about 15 credits. Additionally, my life was really a mess by the time I was a teenager, and the only good thing I had done was join the Army when I was 18. I really needed a chance, and Fr. Deters cut me a fantastic break.

At the dinner for evening college graduates, Fr. Deters handed my an envelope and told me to read it the next day. The short letter began with the words, “We are happy to tell you that you have been accepted into the MBA program…" and so forth. Please note I had never applied because it was beyond my budget. Moreover, I had never discussed graduate school with anyone. Attached were my completed application for the graduate school and eligibility and application for VA benefits. I was completely unaware, I had recently become eligible for VA benefits. On top was a hand written note from Fr. Deters, “Sign all this stuff and get it back to me ASAP.” I did and received my M.B.A. several years later. While in graduate school, I also became a C.P.A. and am now retired after seven years in public accounting and 30 years with Internal Revenue Service.

If it had not been for Fr. Deters’ kindness and faith in me, I certainly would not have done as well as I have both in my professional life and personal life. I am happily married for 41 years and I am a father and grandfather.
Clyde Denney Foster ’66BBA/’73MBA