Photos by Christi Mathis (and provided)
October 31, 2012
Ten Questions With ... Jon Shaffer
Job on campus and department you work in: Director, University Housing
How long at SIU Carbondale: Since September
Hometown: I arrived in Carbondale this fall. I've moved around a bit in my career, but I consider Edenville, Mich., my "home" town.
When you were a youngster, what did you want to be when you grew up? A mailman.
If you could choose another profession, what would it be and why? I would work for the Forestry Service in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I've never been anywhere in the world I thought was so beautiful and unspoiled. I would love being out in the remoteness and helping to preserve its natural beauty.
What is one random fact about you? After spending time with my family, my favorite pastime is playing ice hockey.
What three things are at the top of your bucket list? 1. Seeing both of my sons graduate from college and set off on fulfilling their dreams. 2. Visit the Caribbean for an extended vacation. 3. Visit Rome on an extended vacation.
If you could take a photograph of your life, what would the picture be? It would represent continuous learning but also include my family with a backdrop of Lake Superior.
What is the best advice you ever received? Life your life according to the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi, especially "For it is in giving that we receive."
What is one word to describe you? Strategery ( from the Saturday Night Life spoof of George W. Bush).
What was your first car? Would you like to have it again?& Why or why not? A 1977 Toyota Corolla. I would love to have a car like that again. It had 150,000 miles with only two oil changes and one change of tires. My brother and I used to drive it through the woods on motorcycle trails. It was indestructible.
If you could meet an historical person, who would it be and what would you talk about? Jesus. I have a lot of questions about His life and why things happen as they do.
What would you like your gravestone to say about you? That I've lived a very full life and am now at peace.