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Jerry Ray Byers

Biography

Profile: Life’s a delicate balance for new Scholar Jerry Byers.  If there was just another hour or two in the day Jerry would be golden. Between a full time and taxing position with the County Family Court in Kansas City, to family obligations, to being a non-traditional student, there’s not much time to follow the Royals or Chiefs (he’s a diehard fan of both Kansas City professional teams) or have the occasional game of billiards.  Or to do probably what he loves most . . . read.  A student of language, Jerry knows what power exists in the spoken and written word.  “It is my belief that language is one of the most influential characteristics in an individual's success within any culture, but more importantly it can be the catalyst for cultural separation and divisiveness,” he warned.  His fascination with language came to him gradually after reading works by George Bernard Shaw, Margaret Mead, Albert Camus and Mark Twain and he became further interested in studying anthropology, languages and dialects. “I spoke to several professors regarding my thoughts to help me identify a discipline of study that suited my interests. I eventually decided on Linguistic Anthropology.”

Inspiration:  Bridget Gold, a math learning specialist at Metropolitan Community College, had a key influence on Jerry when he finally returned to school in his late 30s.  “In addition to teaching one of my algebra classes she later served as an informal advisor to me on my activities.  She helped me to explore many topics from different perspectives, encouraged my success, and provided constant and truthful feedback on my endeavors.”

Aspiration:  Once Jerry obtains his undergraduate and graduate degrees, his desire is to work in economic and social support and training in developing countries.

Making a Difference: Jerry’s a dedicated volunteer and logs hundreds of hours in youth athletics, American Cancer Society, Harvesters Food Bank, and Christian Youth Theater.Personally he’s proud of having his Phi Theta Kappa Officer Team recognized as a Distinguished Officer Team at the International Convention in Seattle, Washington in 2011.  “Helping to build our team into a cohesive unit that accomplished so many goals and provided such an impact on our campus was truly remarkable.  It easily eclipses my individual achievements."

Accolades:  Jerry was named Outstanding Student Leader for the 2010 - 2011 academic year at Longview Community College and earned 1^st Team All Missouri Academic Team recognition.  He was also part of the Distinguished Officer Team (member of) 2011 Phi Theta Kappa International.

Interesting Fact:  We mentioned above that Jerry is a fan of the Kansas City Chiefs.  Just how much of a fan is he?  “I originally moved to Kansas City from San Diego because I was a Chiefs fan and I didn't know a single person in Kansas City.”

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