John Waldo

My first job after graduating from Winona State in computer science was coding video games (in assembler) for Coleco. When the company foundered in 1984, I joined Mayo as a progammer-analyst in financial applications.

I completed an MBA at UW-Madison in 1991 after moving to Madison and then spent 16 years as a stay-at-home parent for two sons. During that time I recorded four CDs and did a fair amount of touring as a classical guitarist (johnwaldo.com). One of my favorite music perks has been attending the Grammy Awards in L.A. as a member of the Recording Academy.

I am now single and have lived in Springfield, Missouri since 1995.

I had a great time lighting the touchdown rockets for the state champion football team - got to light lots of fireworks. It was a thrill escorting Paige Kennedy across the field for Homecoming senior year.

I was always amazed by our student leaders. They fostered such great school spirit.

I would enjoy the relationships that were available, instead of bemoaning those that weren't.

My first job was at Mr. Donut by Shakee's Pizza when I was 15. I have never gorged on so many donuts in my life.

American Government teacher Lyle Allen was a great encourager for me. He kept in contact with me for several years, and was very helpful as a mentor.