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Alumni Spotlight - Roi Evans '05

When Milwaukee resident Roi Evans was a student at Lakeland, he aspired to be a successful children's author, and eventually a hermit; or so he says. It's not hard to imagine him being a successful author. But a successful hermit? Roi is man of many hats. Among other things, he is father to five-year-old son, Myles, and the director of the Milwaukee Bucks Wild NBA Drumline; a group in which he also performs. In fact, if you sign up for the alumni gathering at the Bucks/Celtics game on March 15, you will be treated not only to a nice brunch, a chat with coach Aaron Aanonsen, a view of the pre-game warm-ups, and an exciting basketball game, but also the opportunity to see Roi perform. Register online for the Bucks Game here

Roi started at Lakeland in 1992 but left before graduating to join the police force. He returned in 2004 to finish his degree as a writing major in 2005. Upon graduation, he returned to police work for one year, working as a Communications Specialist with the Milwaukee Police Department. Then he got a position teaching percussion at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music. He also wrote and taught music at Wauwatosa East High School. In between, he worked in private and hotel security, and also as a "Cable Guy." Could it possibly be said that Roi is a "jack of all trades?"

Currently, when Roi is not drumming, he's solving problems on the night shift at the Milwaukee Airport Wyndham Hotel and Convention Center. He also gives private drum lessons and is the percussion captain head for the Wauwatosa East Red Raider Marching Band. In describing his situation, he writes, "sleep is rare!"

Roi fondly recollects the entire writing faculty at Lakeland, whom he describes as very special, and whom he thanks for having "put up with" him. He is grateful for his experience as a member of Beta Sigma Omega fraternity, and misses the great Beta parties. He also appreciates his time spent on Choir Tour and in the Theatre Department. He especially enjoyed singing in the musical, Kiss Me Kate, and loved having a captive audience. He has happy memories of the togetherness of his fraternity, late nights at Verhulst, and the variety of cereal in Bossard Hall.

While at Lakeland, Roi wrote for the Mirror, which he credits in this way: "…The Mirror gave me a voice, and even a few critics! (I was happy to know people were actually reading!)"

Roi feels that Lakeland taught him how to prioritize and push himself beyond assumed capabilities. He states: "Anything is possible, you just have to try!" And as far as giving advice to new graduates, Roi writes: "The world is larger than you think! Do away with your comfort zone and write your own ending!"

Roi would welcome email from old friends at roievans@yahoo.com

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