Ed Simons thanks his teacher and mentor, Mr. K (Steven Kalaher-Wheeler). Photo by Grace Wood

Steven Kalaher-Wheeler has proven to be more than simply a teacher to me.  He has brought out a part of me that I never knew existed until the day when we first met.  He has helped me to find the natural artist who resided within me, untapped for the majority of my lifetime.

Having made a change in careers due to health reasons late in life, I began taking college courses at Fort Peck Community College at the age of 45.  With Mr. K’s inspiration and guidance I have taken an avenue in life I would have thought before impossible.  I have set goals for my education and my life, often following his advice along the way:  “If you are going to do something, do it well.”

In addition to teaching me many of the important skills in art, Mr. K. has taught me, above all else, to believe in myself.  I now feel that from having known him, I have become a better person overall.  He has taught me some of life’s invaluable lessons.

Besides being able to call Steven Kalaher-Wheeler my teacher and mentor, I can also call him my friend.  Friends last a lifetime.

Thank you Mr. K. – for believing in me.  In doing so, you have taught me to believe in myself as well.