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Equipment Manager Recognized for Helping Student |
| By
Deanna Lytle |
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Jan 27, 2003 |
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| Mike Renard, right, and Kevin Stechschulte |
"Mike doesn’t want any recognition, but UT needs to know what he’s doing."
Those are the words of Sue Brewster, Option IV job training coordinator with Toledo Public Schools. She has seen a side of Mike Renard, head equipment manager for the UT athletic department, that few people know about. For the past two years, Renard has worked with Kevin Stechschulte, a Rogers High School student whose goal was to gain experience in an athletic department.
Renard worked with Stechschulte as part of the Option IV Job Training Program through Toledo Public Schools. Option IV is a program that helps special-needs students get jobs or job experiences in the community, according to Brewster. Renard’s sister teaches special education in Toledo Public Schools and was aware of his prior work with another special-needs student who served as a ball boy for the UT men’s basketball team. She referred Renard to Brewster, and he agreed to work with Stechschulte.
Normally, Option IV students come to UT for a few days to work in groups at food service locations on campus. But Stechschulte was able to work with Renard on a one-on-one basis for an extended period.
Stechschulte helped Renard in his daily duties by folding athletic clothing and setting up uniforms for players. "He’s a good learner," Renard said. "Whenever I needed something done, he got it done."
Stechschulte also helped Renard prepare for football games by getting players’ uniforms and cubicles ready. After the work was done, he joined Rockets fans, rooting for the team from the sidelines.
Although the two stopped working together after Stechschulte graduated last year, Renard was recognized recently for his work with the Crystal Apple award from the Northwest Ohio Placement Association.
"The award is a way for us to recognize those who support our programs for special-needs individuals," Brewster said.
"I was just surprised I got the award," Renard said. "Two years working with Kevin didn’t even seem like that much time."
Renard was able to bring one guest to the award ceremony at the Medical College of Ohio, and he chose to bring Stechschulte to share in the evening of honors.
"It was a natural decision to take Kevin," Renard said.
Even though they no longer work together, Stechschulte keeps in touch with Renard, proof that a bond was formed on the job.
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