Local man finds his ‘Greater Yes’, earns MBA while working 2 jobs and raising family of 5
Posted by GSDispatch Editor in by Phil Kloster, Community, GSD Online
It’s not every day that a local resident earns their MBA. Sure, there are plenty of people in the area who have MBAs or impressive educational backgrounds. But how many of them accomplished so much with 5 children in their brood all the while holding down two jobs? Such is the story of Rusty Brotherton who will be graduating from the University of Phoenix this weekend and has been asked to be their commencement speaker.
The 36-year-old jokingly shared that he doesn’t know what to do with his newfound free time because he spent the last 5.5 years earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees while working two jobs and raising five children (ages 2-14) with his wife Shannon. By going through the programs in succession, his longest break from classes was only about one month. He explains that it was important for him to be a role model for his children. Rusty also realized it would be better to earn the degrees consecutively while the family was used to his busy schedule. Previously, Rusty entered the U.S. Navy after high school and discovered his passion for computer technology. He currently works as the Director of Information Technology for Lee’s Summit Community Church and Director of Business Administration for People Matter Ministries. His long-term goals include management and teaching.
People Matter Ministries is a local organization headed by Dr. Dan Erickson and his wife, Cathy. Their goal is “Changing lives through writing, speaking and coaching.”
We asked Rusty to tell us about his accomplishment and considering the timing of Mother’s Day in relation to his graduation, also tell us how his wife played into his success.
“I am very excited as this weekend approaches.
“Finding your Greater Yes!” by Dr. Dan Erickson is a partial reason behind my motivation to continue my education. As it mentions in the book, God has given each of us a “Greater Yes!” in life. Many of us settle for the “lesser yesses” instead of gathering the skills and knowledge to launch us to the “Greater Yes!” that God has wired in each of us.
I have two topics that I cover in my commencement address — they are perseverance and potential. There were many times in the five and a half years this took that I wanted to stop, that I didn’t feel like I could continue, or that I just wanted to give up. But through perseverance and the knowledge that this education will help me reach the goals that God has for me, I continued towards the goal. Now as I reach this mile stone I am ready to move forward towards the next step in my journey. I now sit with potential. I sit on the sturdy foundational branch of my Master’s Degree in Business Administration ready to launch into the air and fly with wings like eagles. I am ready to make my mark and succeed at the Greater Yes!” that God has given me.
As I think back through my time in college there have been many changes: A different house, the addition of two kids during my college life that brought our kid total to five, and numerous life situations that have happened. I know that I could not have accomplished my goal without the help and support of my wife. She spent many of my night school classes raising our children and being a strong pillar for them. She had no hesitation after I finished my Bachelor’s Degree in October of 2008 to have me start my Master’s Degree studies just 28 days later. She said that our schedule was used to my evening of class and that we were able to continue in the current schedule we had. She is an amazing mother and I am lucky that God chose her to be my wife.
I am not sure what my next “Yes!” is in life. I know that I enjoy teaching others. This goes for technology training and life skill training. I am contemplating instruction for the University of Phoenix. I believe in their methods and format. I know the amount of knowledge that I have gained through this education process and I would be excited to help others reach there full potential. Imagine my possibilities!!
Thank you for the opportunity to share my story and experience.”
No, thank you Rusty. You’ve set a fine example to your family and community. We need more Rusty Brotherton’s in our communities.
