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Talented senior from Marion ready
to take on a world of possibilities
Marion native Jeremiah Sanders visited Manchester five times before deciding to enroll. With each visit, his connection to this welcoming community deepened. “Now I feel almost inseparable with Manchester,” says the senior who looks to graduate in May with a vocal performance major and communication studies minor.
Jeremiah’s rich baritone voice has delighted audiences of MU’s A Cappella Choir, Chamber Singers and the spring musical production 1776. He performed the National Anthem to an even wider audience before the community fireworks last July 4. Sometimes, you might randomly here him singing as he walks across campus. For Jeremiah, it’s more than a talent. “Singing is a way of being for me.”
Dance isn’t far behind. Jeremiah choreographed Manchester High School’s production of Fiddler on the Roof in November and he’ll do the same show at Marion (Ind.) High School later this year. In fact, he’s the assistant choral director there, helping Marion faculty plan the year during the summer, working there one day a week during the school year, and going back to Marion every day when they’re preparing for a big show.
But if you think Jeremiah is all about music, think again. He was a resident assistant in Schwalm Hall for two years and enjoyed helping first-year students solve problems and make good decisions. Making a difference in their lives was so rewarding he’s considering student development work after graduation.
That’s a far cry from music performance. But then what’s a liberal arts student to do? “You’re exposed to so many ideas here — it’s both a blessing and a curse,” says Jeremiah. “Manchester has opened my eyes to so many possibilities.”
Whatever he chooses, Jeremiah will carry in his heart the values instilled in him by his mom, his grandma and Manchester University. “Giving back and taking care of people is important to me,” he says. He’s grateful to Manchester for the scholarships he needed to attend college, the personal relationships and “open-mindedness” that nurture him, and the willingness of people to give their time to one another.
“There’s no need to be afraid to try new things here,” says Jeremiah. “Manchester is a place where you can find yourself.”
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