Senior and Work Program general manager Nate Kinnison ’17 exemplifies Blackburn College’s dedication to work-learning. During his four years at Blackburn, Nate, a biology major from Perryville, MO, has held a number of work positions which have allowed him to take advantage of the many opportunities presented by the Work Program. These opportunities have provided him with important professional and management skills, fully preparing him for life after Blackburn.

During his freshman year, Nate helped coordinate intramurals sports and worked as an athletics assistant recruiter. As a sophomore he became a biology tutor, and during his junior year he was named the Academics Department assistant manager. His senior year, Nate was selected as one of two general managers of the College’s student-managed Work Program.

He first heard about Blackburn College when he visited the campus to learn more about the soccer team, and was accepted immediately by his future teammates. Nate decided Blackburn was the college for him after meeting biology professor Dr. David Reid and remembers being attracted to the institution because of the down to earth atmosphere. “That’s when I officially wanted to be a Beaver,” he said.

“Blackburn makes you a well-rounded person. Not only are the professors pushing you, but the Work Program teaches you time management and leadership,” Nate said of his Blackburn experience. He also added that attending a liberal arts college allows students to try many different interests and discover the ones that best suit them.

Not only is his work history impressive, but Nate also prides himself in his involvement in numerous clubs, organizations, and athletics at Blackburn. He is not only a member of the soccer team, but is also involved with the Give Something Back Foundation, providing scholarship opportunities, the Alpha Chi academic honor society, and the Student Advisory Committee.

Due to his outstanding performance in work, leadership, and academics, Nate was given the highest honor bestowed on a Blackburn student when he was named the 2016-2017 Student Marshal.

Now in his senior year, Nate feels overjoyed with receiving this honor. “It’s crazy,” he said. “I was speechless.” He explained that being named the Student Marshal “put the cherry on top” of his last year at Blackburn. “Seeing my hard work being recognized is over-the-top and wonderful.” he stated.

Nate plans on handling the rigors of Student Marshal by being himself, noting, “I got this honor for being myself so I can’t imagine handling anything differently.” He also included a bit of advice for incoming students. “Don’t get too stressed. Don’t worry too much. Always remember you have support and help from others… and never feel alone.”

After graduating, Nate plans to enter a Master’s program to further his education.