Jeanne Nelson Kruse
Current location: Federal Way, Washington
Current status: Widowed and Retired
General info: After graduating from MSU with a BS in Natural Resource Development, I spent two years in the Philippines as a Peace Corps Volunteer. In 1979 I married Michael Kruse and moved with him to Madrid, Spain. Michael was the Assistant Representative for Bankers Trust Company in Spain until 1981. Our first son, Carl-Erich, was born in Madrid. We returned to the US in 1981 for 18 months and then moved to Caracas, Venezuela, where Michael was the Representative for Bankers Trust Company from 1983 -1987. Our daughter, Alexandra, and our youngest son, Nicolas, were born in Caracas. I was active in the International Association of University Women (VAAUW), an organization that provides scholarships and tutoring for students. We returned to the US in December 1987, and settled in Fairfield CT. Michael continued in banking, working with a variety of banking institutions.
I began working in HR, first with TGL, a high-end leather goods company, and later with GE Corporate Headquarters.
We lost Michael to suicide in 1998. My new primary role as the sole surviving parent was to set the example as optimistic, flexible, and realistic in how to recognize, face and move forward when we encounter challenges. I am driven by the fact of the awareness that my children continue to look to me for my example.
I returned to school for an MBA in HR from Fairfield University, graduating in 2006.
In 2014 I transferred to GE Aviation and moved to a role as HR Leader in a new GE Aviation joint venture in Butte, MT. Butte is certainly different from Fairfield County and Metropolitan NY! However, it was a great challenging experience, nice people, incredible scenery and wildlife, and easy access to Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Tetons National Parks - and only a 10 hour drive to Seattle to see my kids!
I retired in 2019 and moved to Washington to be near two of my children who work in Seattle. My youngest son remains in NYC. I am lucky to have my three children and their families, now including my 4 grandchildren.
In retirement I’m still wondering what I want to be when I grow up! And I wonder where this new adventure and journey will ultimately lead me. For now, I’m content spending time with my family and friends, doing volunteer work, challenging myself to remain a constant learner, following my special interests, and exploring this new region. My Labrador Retriever, Pete, reminds me constantly of the importance of staying active and healthy!
Favorite memory(ies) from St. Thomas years: I remember the night when the senior women tp’d the convent…that was scary! Something I will always carry with me is how my classmates welcomed and accepted me. I arrived at St. Thomas in our sophomore year, joining a tightly knit group of kids who had been together for many years, many since kindergarten. I was made to feel that I was a part of the class. Thank you.