Today's Featured Biography

Kathleen Simmons Furman

Hi, '73 classmates! Kathy Simmons Furman here. During high school I was extremely nerdy, but I loved drama, art and music class and history too. My favorite teachers at Northwestern were Ms. Busti (drama), Mr. Stickles (Biology), Mr. Ronca (band) and believe it or not, Mrs. Roe (history--she was a tough one!)

I've lived in the Houston, Texas area since December 1978.
I'm married and have two children,one of whom graduated from high school in 2009 and is now living in New Mexico after a stint in the Air Force. The other will be entering her second year of high school this fall (2013).

In 2008 I decided to go back to school and get my Bachelor's Degree. My major is Humanities with a minor in Art History, although I might change that minor to history or sociology--I'm not sure yet.
I'm currently a half-time student at University of Maryland University College online. It's very challenging to work full time and go to school but I love it.
My goal is to eventually obtain a Master's degree in Library Science or History, with the aim of becoming an archivist or curator.

Other education over the years includes:

Prince Georges Community College (English and Psychology courses).

Art Institute of Houston (Diploma- Evening Program, Layout and Production Art/Computer-Aided Graphic Design)


Other interests: travel, music, art, gardening,movies and martial arts. I obtained Red Belt rank in karate in 2009 and am currently taking a break from training but I still do my katas and warmups and stretching. I've been a professional vocalist for about 30 years and still play music about once a month. I'm also learning how to play bass guitar.

I've had lots of work and life experience, including the following jobs:

Graphic Designer (Print, Illustration)for more than 10 years.... Professional Singer/Musician for more than 28 years in rock and R&B bands (performing, recording, songwriting, promoting).... Secretary.... Buyer/Planner.... Sales Correspondent.... Photography studio office Manager.... Photographer's Assistant.... Waiter.... Bartender....

a Jack of All Trades!

Other Stuff:

I'm a Navy Brat, I don't like lima beans, I love old movies (Bogart, Bette Davis, etc.), I'm very eclectic in my musical tastes. I love learning and if I could afford to be a full time student, I'd be in heaven.

Last but certainly not least, I'm constantly homesick for Maryland and DC and Ocean City. The Hawk and Dove (Which just reopened under new ownership)! Varsity Grill! Baltimore Delicatessen! Post Pub! The Metro! The Bay Bridge! The Boardwalk, Ocean City! The Flamingo Motel! Dupont Circle! The Dubliner! And dare I say it....Little Tavern (Even though I don't eat beef anymore)!

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