John Luther

Prior to joining the Stamps Student Life staff in 2002, John Luther was a psychotherapist in both the public and private sector with expertise in the treatment of personality disorders, anxiety and depression. In addition, he worked with the UM Career Center and gained valuable knowledge of many career paths and how to prepare for them.

As the Career Development Coordinator, Luther meets with students individually, in small groups and in large groups. He coordinates the annual Portfolio Expo, posts positions and resources to the Stamps Career Canvas site, assists students with resume writing, portfolio preparation, employer networking and alumni networking, and works to increase the number of potential employers for Stamps students. Luther’s commitment to student growth and development is also reflected in his work as an academic advisor for the Interarts program. Like his colleagues, he wears many hats and assists Stamps students in many ways, but always with an approach that blends the optimist with the pragmatist.

Luther’s background prior to college was as a professional dancer in New York. He toured Europe with Fiddler on the Roof and Jesus Christ Superstar, in addition to performing with ballet companies, summer stock, and dinner theatre. After graduating Summa Cum Laude/Phi Beta Kappa from Hunter College, Luther moved to Michigan where he not only graduated with an MSW but also began directing and choreographing musical theatre.

The core of Luther’s approach to Career Development is his abiding belief that we all should try for what we want in life. "Find what you love and the money will follow" is not just a sappy slogan to him, but forms the basis for career exploration and preparation. Having the opportunity to do something he genuinely enjoys each and every day, Luther is a living example of his own beliefs.