Mike Shumate's (BS '67, with distinction) dedication and passion, as a leader and advocate, to ensure "equality for all" shine through in all parts of his life, especially in his endeavors at Indiana University. "I have loved IU ever since I was on campus," explained Shumate. "IU was key in forming my identity and moral compass." As an IU alumnus, Shumate worked tirelessly on the Class of '67 campaign to raise $1 million for the endowment of the Robert Shaffer Chair in the College of Arts and Sciences, which was announced at their 40th class reunion in 2007.
In addition to his accounting degree from IU's Kelley School of Business, Shumate received his JD in 1970 from the University of Virginia School of Law, and he became a certified public accountant in 1975. For most of his law career, Shumate was a partner in the international law firm Jones Day, practicing corporate tax in both its Los Angeles and New York offices until he retired in 1996.
Shumate has been particularly active in efforts to improve the quality of life for GLBT students, faculty, staff, and alumni at IU. As president of IU GLBTAA, Shumate launched the ground-breaking GLBTAA Student Scholarship Campaign in 2013--- the first of its kind in the nation. The scholarship program includes scholarships for academic achievement, but also provides emergency funds to IU students who are financially disowned by their parents when they "come out" to their families.
"This campaign will not only endow the GLBTAA scholarship program, but it shines a beacon of light on IU and our welcoming environment, where all of IU's students can learn and reach for their dreams on a level playing field," he explained. In addition, Shumate is a founding member, and former president of the Maurer School of Law GLBT Advisory Board, and most recently he was tapped to serve as co-chair of the new IU Advisory Council for Diversity. He has also served on the Kinsey Institute Board of Governors.
A steadfast supporter of Kelley, Shumate has been a member of the Accounting Advisory Council since 2001. He was named to the Kelley Dean's Council in 2010 and served on the Undergraduate Recruiting Committee and has chaired the committee's diversity task force. He also has been a strong supporter of Out at Kelley, a GLBT organization for Kelley students.
Shumate also serves on the IU Foundation Board of Directors, where he is currently Vice Chair of its Committee of Directors, and serves on the Ethics Committee. In addition, he is a founding member of the Women's Philanthropy Leadership Council (WPLC). He served on the steering committee that launched the first Indianapolis WPLC Conference in 2011. He currently serves as an honorary chair of the WPLC Campaign.
In recognition of his professional accomplishments and contributions to his various communities, Shumate was awarded the IU Distinguished Alumni Service Award in 2010. While in Indianapolis, he was awarded Sagamore of the Wabash by Governor Otis Bowen.
"Mike's life and career have been shaped by his 'how can I help?' attitude," said Provost and Executive Vice President Lauren Robel. "IU is extremely fortunate to be the beneficiary of Mike's tireless work and philanthropic leadership."
