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Professors at The University of Olivet bring more than just their teaching skills to the classroom. Many of them possess a creative side that their students may not even be aware of, including involvement in bands.
Doug Borton, assistant professor of graphic design, is a member of two bands: The Redtones, where he performs original compositions, and Lucid Vibe, primarily covering cover songs.
"For me, I was always a creative, so for most of my life I was a songwriter. Then eventually you realize you need other people to actually play music to go with your song," Borton said, reflecting on his musical journey that started at a young age.
Unlike some professors, Borton doesn't think his students would be particularly surprised to learn about his band endeavors. "I’m kind of the same in my class," Borton said. "I might actually invite them to go," he added about the possibility of students attending his live performances.
In addition to Borton, many other professors at The University of Olivet explore band life outside of the classroom, covering a range of genres from rock to Celtic music.
Michael Reed, visiting assistant professor of digital design and media studies, is the singer, songwriter, and guitarist for his band 84 Tigers.
Michael Fredricks, associate professor of math and computer science, performs with his band, Global Village.
Maria Davis, professor of biology, serves as the guitarist for the Celtic band Fresh Pict, extending her contributions beyond the realm of biology.
"Music is a lot like art, which is what I pursued in college. I think just the soul feeding that the music brings to me is why I do it," Davis remarked, reflecting on her lifelong journey with music.
Davis recently played her first show with Fresh Pict after several months of practice with the group. "Students get surprised even when they run into you in the grocery store or something like you have another life. Yes, I do, and I have these creative things I like to do," Davis said.
Encouraging students to explore their creative outlets beyond the classroom, Davis remarked, "Pursue your passions, whatever makes you happy. You don't have to be the best player to have fun at it, and that's what I'm doing. I'm having a whole lot of fun playing music, so if you're into music now, keep going at it; it'll bring you a lot of joy later as well."
By Ella Gaffke, Stuart Donlan and Taylor Wilsey