ELHS Alumni Congratulate the Class of 2018: Tanya Kantner May

Above: Tonya Kantner May with prom date Daniel Matheny, circa 1986

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 Alumna

Tonya Kantner May

Class of 1986

What is your occupation?

7th grade English teacher

Above: Tonya Kantner May with her older daughter

Why did you make East Lansing home?

My family (including extended family, which has always been very close) is all here, or close by. I love to travel, but EL is home. We have great schools, and a diverse, welcoming community. East Lansing is just the right size, as well. I’ve learned from traveling that living in a place with major traffic would drive me insane!

Where did you grow up in East Lansing?

I grew up on Linden Street, near Marble and MacDonald.

Where do you live now?

We currently live in Tamarisk.

Do you have family members in East Lansing schools?

I have three children; one graduated from EL in 2016, one in 2017, and "Thing 3" is currently in 7th grade, here in EL.

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

Whenever I hear 80s music I am immediately taken back to high school. When Prince died it almost felt like losing an old friend. I remember seeing Purple Rain (a million times) at the old M-78 drive-in theater with my friends. Keeping it “G.” Enough said! :)

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

One of my favorite places in EL back then was campus, because it’s so beautiful. We spent a lot of time there walking, biking, selling our parents’ MSU football tickets to go spend the money at Pinball Pete’s, or roller skating (ha!) across the Red Cedar “by the ducks” where it’s shallow. We have a gorgeous campus.

What path did you initially take when you graduated?

I went to college right after high school.

What do you think is different about high school today?

One of the biggest differences between high school then versus now is the Internet. Obviously, it has impacted the whole world, but it has had a major impact on students in both good and some very frightening ways.

What do you think is the same?

In some ways high school today is the “Same as it ever was. . .” Two words: “Breakfast Club.”

What advice do you have for graduating seniors?

Always be kind, and also true to yourself. Do with your life what is in your heart. Cliché but true (also very challenging): Where do you want to be in 5 years, 10, 20?

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.