Jerry “Rooter” Root has been a volunteer associate chaplain since 2008, after retiring from teaching. He facilitates a variety of groups on campus, meets with individual students and assists Paul Boersma with a variety of men’s events.

EDUCATION

• M.Ed., Grand Valley, 1980
• B.A., Hope College, 1975

professional experience

• 33 year teaching career at the upper elementary and middle school levels
• Young Life leader
• Mentor for the 70x7 Recovery program
• Basketball coach
• Premarital counseling

Why do you love hope?

Jerry loves building relationships with students and encouraging them in the questions, doubts and challenges of their faith journey.

OUTSIDE OF HOPE

Jerry is married to Dana, and they have three adult children — Derek (’02), Craig (’07) and Breea (CMU ’12) — and four grandchildren who provide great joy and opportunities to attend activities. Jerry and Dana enjoy traveling, reading and spending time with family and friends. He also loves golf!