Born and raised in Detroit, Ruth attended undergraduate school at Central Michigan University before transferring to Wayne State University. There she received her bachelor’s degree in Physical Education, with a minor in Social Science. She later returned to Wayne State and earned her master’s degree in Educational Leadership.

In her 20 years spent working in community education, 18 of which have been at
Southgate Adult & Community Education, Ruth has drawn inspiration from those who surround her daily.

“I am most inspired by the students I work with, from the 16-year-old alternative high school student to the 75-years-young adult education student. They are awesome!” Ruth said. “I am also in awe of the many professionals working in adult and community education; not only is the faculty at Southgate Adult & Community Ed a very caring and dedicated staff, but I have found this to be true of community educators across the state.”

Throughout her years in community education, Ruth has been recognized numerous times for her outstanding effort and program success. In March, she will accept the National Association of Sports and Physical Education Unsung Hero Award. This is the first time the award is being given. Ruth was also named Southgate Community Schools District’s Employee of the Year in 2007. In addition, her golf and fitness program at Asher School, an alternative education school in Southgate, was awarded the “Best of the Best” Education Excellence Award by the Michigan Association of School Boards.

As a member of the board this year, Ruth would like to focus on advocacy, in support of the MACAE mission statement, at the local, state and federal levels for all areas of community education.

“The mission of MACAE is to strengthen and educate the whole family and community by promoting the highest quality of professional development, research, resources, and local, state and federal advocacy for lifelong learning,” Ruth said. “My goal for the board is to continue to keep this mission at the forefront of all we do.”