East Michigan News

For decades, Keith Voeks has been a familiar presence at Central Michigan University (CMU) events. This week marks the end of his 34-year tenure as the assistant director of university events, as he prepares to retire.

Voeks, who graduated from CMU in 1984 with a degree in theater scenery and lighting design, began his career at Virginia Tech before returning to CMU in 1990. Reflecting on his career, Voeks said, “I guess you could say that my CMU degree has really served me well.”

Initially hired as the technical director for Plachta Auditorium, Voeks' role evolved into assistant director of university events by 1994. He played a key role in organizing numerous events, including commencement ceremonies and concerts. His responsibilities also included overseeing ribbon-cutting and groundbreaking ceremonies for every new CMU building since 1991.

Throughout his career, Voeks coordinated over two hundred CMU commencements and more than fifty high school commencements held at the university. He also produced hundreds of concerts and speeches. During these events, he met notable figures such as Maya Angelou, Jane Goodall, and General Colin Powell. An encounter with Angelou left a lasting impression on him when she invited him for a conversation after her speech in October 1999.

Voeks also maintained the tradition of the Warriner Hall chimes on campus. In 2010, he helped update the electronic system with new speakers and recordings performed by School of Music students.

His passion for event planning started early when he assisted his third-grade teacher with arranging desks for a cakewalk at a Spring Carnival.

During the final May 2024 commencement ceremony, President Davies acknowledged Voeks’ contributions: “Keith is as much a part of the fabric of CMU as the chiming of the bells on Warriner Hall.”

Though retiring from his position, Voeks plans to remain in Mt. Pleasant with his wife. He expressed willingness to assist CMU occasionally while spending more time camping with their grandchildren.