Ken Patronis: NMSU-Grants

Hello, my name is Ken Petronis, but I am known throughout the land as Mister P. I may have been destined for Adult Ed. I went straight from high school to the military, and there my journey as a non-traditional scholar began. I completed my BS in Industrial Engineering Technology during my 4-year stint in the Air Force. Later, I earned two graduate degrees attending school part-time. I can empathize with my many adult students who are also wage-earners, caregivers, and heads of households. I can empathize with the student who didn't excel in the traditional classroom. I can empathize with the student who lacks confidence and direction.

So, how did I wind up here after a career in engineering, management, and human resources? A mid-life divorce found me asking myself, "What is it that I aways wanted to do?" Answer: Teach 

So, I became a teacher. After a dozen years in the classroom, I retired to New Mexico. After an aimless year or two, I found Adult Ed; I place where I could make a difference. Our program is small, but its impact is powerful. I appreciate the support we receive from the state and local communities. I hope the future of Adult Education is fully funded, with any student who needs help having access to that help. We can only hope...