Brandon & Alicia Beck

A 1998 graduate of Western High School in Parma, Michigan, I have always expressed a wide array of interests. As an athlete, I was a competitive short/long swimmer and a state medalist on the Western Panther’s track team.  Since I had already developed a love/passion for water, I decided to join a local BOY SCOUT troop to pursue my PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) certification and began my venture into international scuba diving.  The favorite destination thus far: Grand Cayman Island.

Beyond the love for individualized sports, I was a 4-year debate/forensics competitor, where I was bestowed the honor of Team Captain/MVP my senior year. I also served as a member of the Western QuizBusters team and mathematics team. (YES… I was officially a dork!)

However, my main passion was always SINGING. I began professional vocal training with Monte Long (a renowned coach in Michigan) at the age of 10, and started formalized choral/solo competition in eighth grade.  In 1994-1998, I was selected as a member of the Regional and State Honors Choir, and received perfect ratings each year at the Michigan Solo and Ensemble competition(s).  

Despite the numerous extracurricular activities, I decided to begin my college career in 1992 (at the age of 12).  During the first year of attendance, I enrolled in an Accounting program at the Jackson Business Institute, while pursuing a secondary degree as a Microcomputer Applications Specialist at Jackson Community College.  I continued to attend evening and weekend courses throughout my high school career, eventually obtaining degrees in Business Data Processing, Microcomputer Applications, and Business Leadership and Administration (BBL) at Baker College of Jackson. (I did mention that I was a dork, right?)

With multiple degrees, I am now an Accounting Analyst (and member of the special projects team) at Consumers Energy in Jackson, Michigan. In 2005, I built my first home in Sheridan Township, Michigan - approximately 25 minutes from my employer's primary location. It is at Consumers Energy that I met a "pain in the butt" consultant named... Brandon.

Currently I am a decorated member of the District 62 Toastmasters Team, where I have recently served as Vice President and Sergeant of Arms. (YUP, I’m STILL a dork.)  Furthermore, I am actively involved in the CMS (Community Minded Service) Club, providing financial and member support to help meet the growing needs of the Jackson area. 

The next year will be extremely busy. Between planning the wedding and finishing a special project at work, my primary goal is simply to keep my sanity in tact.  However, thus far, it is a losing battle…

Within the next few years, I am hoping to complete either my MA in Education or MBA in Accounting/CIS (perhaps both).  Unfortunately, I have acquired graduate credits in both programs and am having difficulty determining which program to pursue. However, I know that finishing my Masters will give Brandon and I greater employment opportunities/flexibility in the future.

Please note: Brandon and I have been discussing the concept of FAMILY: aka children... and we have agreed to wait at least one year after the wedding before trying to start our new family.  Then... all bets are off.