ELHS Alumni Congratulate the Class of 2018: George Brookover

Above: George Brookover’s Senior Picture, 1968

ELHS Alumni congratulate the Class of 2018 . . . now through June

On June 10, about 300 high school seniors will march onward to join the ranks of Trojan Alumni who have graduated from East Lansing Public Schools over the last century.

East Lansing Info asked Trojan Alumni who live, work and retain ties in East Lansing to congratulate the Class of 2018. From now through early June, we'll feature their reflections and informal advice to the graduating class.

Thank you ELHS Alumni and congratulations to the Class of 2018.

Featured Alumni

George Brookover

Class of 1968

What is your occupation?

Attorney

Why did you make East Lansing home?

My family is here. My professional life is here, too. Since finishing college, I have lived here for 43 years.

Where did you grow up in East Lansing?

I grew up in the Central School neighborhood on Huntington Road.

Where do you live now?

I live in Glencairn, within walking distance of my office.

Do you have family members in East Lansing schools?

Both of my kids attended East Lansing schools in the 1990s.

George Brookover today, seated in his East Lansing law office

What are some funny or fond memories you have about high school?

My freshman year, I had phys ed with Leo Smedley. He was also the wrestling coach and assistant football coach. Smedley had what he called "The Soap Club." That meant if you swore during phys ed, you had to eat soap. I had to eat soap twice. I had biology class right after that. It was never fun to have to go to class with the taste of soap in your mouth.

What was your favorite place in East Lansing when you attended high school?

My favorite place was a tree at Patriarche Park. The tree was in an open area of the southeast portion of the park, and isn't there now.

What path did you initially take when you graduated?

I went to Cornell University for my undergraduate degree, then to the University of Michigan for law. I came back to East Lansing shortly after that. My wife, Patty, and I have owned four houses in East Lansing since we moved back.

What do you think is different about high school today?

There is more diversity in East Lansing now—which is a great thing.

What do you think is the same?

East Lansing has been able to maintain the same quality of education that was there when I attended.

What advice do you have for graduating seniors?

To paraphrase Samuel Adams, if you want to make a revolution, read with the high and drink with the low.

Want to join Trojan Alumni in congratulating the Class of 2018? Our only asks are that you're an ELHS graduate, live or work in East Lansing, and are willing to share a current picture and one from your high school years. Interested? Contact Ann Kammerer at halmkammerer76@gmail.com.