Member Profile
Mike Shumate
BS’67 in accounting
Retired partner with Jones, Day, Reavis & Pogue Law Firm
Practiced corporate tax law and served as the administrative partner of the firm’s Los Angeles and New York offices.
Why I chose IU
"I grew up in Crawfordsville, Ind. Once having decided to major in accounting in pre-law, IU was an easy decision. In maintaining IU's standard of academic excellence, the Kelley School of Business has consistently been one of the premiere international business schools.
"Additionally, during the turbulent days of the late 60s, and way before it was fashionable to do so, the IU administration, in particular Dr. Wells and Dean Shaffer, championed diversity and freedom of expression. Unlike other nearby institutions, IU encouraged student forums on a number of issues, ranging from the Vietnam War to the Civil Rights movement. We were taught to seek, not stifle opinions. Thanks IU for helping set me on the proper course at a critically important phase of my development! "
Favorite memories of IU
"Of course, my superb instruction at the Kelley School of Business formed the core of my exceptional experience at IU.
"Also, serving as the president of my class, participating in the Student Foundation, living all four years in a fraternity, tossing the Frisbee in Dunn Meadow, partying at Lake Lemon, swimming in the quarries, following IU basketball, hanging out at Nick's (the stroms haven't changed a bit in all these years!), dancing at the Star Dust, and forming lasting friendships that have even strengthened over the years have all contributed to special memories that I continue to cherish."
Advice for GLBT students
"I commend those of you who choose public service as a career! To all others, I encourage you to try to keep a passion to serve with your drive to prosper in equilibrium. Try "to give back" as much as you possibly can. By doing so, you not only enrich your own lives, but you will lift yourselves above your own interests, define yourselves other than in terms of your jobs and, most importantly, improve the aspect of society you touch.
"For example, in our own GLBT community, even though the recent California case allowing gay marriage is a milestone in our struggle for equality, we have a long, long way to go. Please help those who follow behind you.
"Dr. Wells had a profound effect on me as a student, just like he did with countless other students. I pass along his sage advice of years ago, which I have tried to follow: ‘Throughout life, you should cultivate unselfish loyalties to objectives and institutions outside yourself and your career, objectives and institutions worthy of the best that is in you.’ Of course, you know that I also urge each of you to be out and very, very proud of exactly who you are."
Why the GLBTAA is important to me
"I’m so proud to serve on the board of directors of the GLBTAA, especially since we represent a constituency that had little visibility when I was on campus. The GLBTAA serves a number of important purposes. I will discuss just a few here:
"Our mission is straightforward: to improve the quality of life for GLBT students, faculty, staff, and alumni of IU on all eight campuses. Since sexual orientation and gender identity are fundamental in defining our identities, the GLBTAA provides a valuable support system to IU students by serving as their mentor, advocate, and friend.
"Along with the GLBT Student Support Services, we provide fun opportunities by fostering social and networking opportunities, as well as providing educational opportunities by hosting seminars and conferences. And, very importantly, the GLBTAA is mindful of the need to advocate GLBT issues to the IU administration to help assure that each campus is inclusive and supportive of our community. For example, the GLBTAA advocacy helped in the adoption of domestic partnership benefits for same-sex couples in 2001. Presently, we are trying to include "gender identity" in IU’s non-discrimination policy. We remain mindful of the need for equality and a "level playing field" for the IU GLBT community.
"Lastly, as an alumnus, I’m grateful that the GLBTAA provides an opportunity to stay in touch with other IU GLBT alumni. We now have 900 plus members..and we’re growing! "