Michael G Sullivan

Profile Updated: November 18, 2021
Michael G Sullivan
Michael G Sullivan

Then

Michael G Sullivan

Now

Michael G Sullivan

Yearbook

Yes! Attending Reunion
Residing In: Wichita, KS USA
Spouse/Partner: Linda J Weippert
Occupations: Copy Aide at The Washington Post Book World 1971-75. Manager and then owner of Washington, DCs Reprint Book Shop 1976-2006. Manager of the Friends University Bookstore 2008-2019.
Children and grandchildren: None
Comments:

We owned and operated a bookstore in Washington DC until 2006 when our lease was bought out by a concern which eventually remodeled the whole site to include the new International Spy Museum. Managed the bookstore at Friends University in Wichita from 2008 until June of this year (2021). My spouse, Linda (class of 1972) has been involved in higher education since forever and is currently a special VP at Southwestern College in Winfield, KS.

School Story:

I did not grow up un Wichita and kind of dropped in after being a child of a Navy father who traveled the world. Even though he met and married my mother while living not more than two blocks from where I live now, I did not get to know this city until the mid-60’s, by which time I’d developed into the typical rebellious youth. It would be this attitude which colored and provided background for the West High days. Firmly occupying the “hippie” tier of HS society led to its own adventures and opportunities, and I don’t know that I’d have had it any other way. Being arrested and jailed for marijuana possession was a kind of badge of honor, but it also led to a strong desire to leave town. Happily, a new environment led to some better “life choices”, as they say. Never pursued anything illicit after to 70’s unless you count books. I probably owe this particular love to many, many of the fine teachers at WHS, particularly Alice Turley. I don’t believe I could have had a better education.

What elementary school did you attend?

Other Willard

What Junior High did you attend?

Hadley

Where have you lived since leaving high school?

Washington DC, student and news aid, San Francisco, CA, adventuring, back to Washington DC managed then owned a long established bookstore. Also resided in Takoma Park, MD (right outside of DC) while commuting to the store, then off to Peck, KS upon sale of the bookstore lease to take over my in-law's home, finally moving “into town” (Wichita) to be closer to the job at Friends University.

Who were your favorite teachers?

I’m afraid I’d leave someone out and/or misremember their names. There were many kind and patient souls along the way. Gladys Cooprider at Willard Elementary was a guiding influence in my earliest memories. Alice Turley cemented my love of books and writing. The rest all contributed in some way to a happy life.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

We still travel quite a bit. We just completed a four week Utah camping journey and soaked up its breathtaking beauty. We may soon return to Ireland and perhaps a Danube cruise, or perhaps Alaska. My favorite city probably is Barcelona with all its art, culture, cathedrals and food, but there are so many other horizons to explore. The book biz is still very much a part of what we do and frequently influences where we go. We are always interested in places where historical events occurred or settings which inspired others.

What did you want to do or think you were going to do when you finished high school?

I thought I might be a politician or a government official. I’m glad I did not. I guess I'd also have to admit I had visions of writing something publishable, but I do now believe the cause was better served by promoting those who are and were significantly more talented.

What did you do right after high school?

I packed up my car and drove to Washington, DC with plans of never looking back. Nevertheless, I returned again and again to visit with a few old friends and to mind my family. Still, the wanderlust never really settled down.

Famous or interesting people you've met?

Running the bookstore in DC offered enormous and wonderful opportunities to meet the famous and near-famous. Many politicians (JimmyCarter, Tip O’Neal & etc.), journalists (Bob Woodward, George Will), sports figures (Cal Ripken, George Foreman), entertainers (George Takai, David Cassidy) and so on. Mostly, though, I am happy to be associated with the famous natives of Washington DC, many of whom are not really famous here in Kansas.

What did you always want to do that you haven't done yet?

Hike across one of the Hawaiian Islands.

Biggest thing you would do differently if you went back to your time at WHSW?

I guess if I'd tried to be a little less headstrong and independent life could have been a good deal less complicated. Sometimes I fell in with what might be called "the wrong crowd", but really only because those people really fascinated me. Possibly I was thinking of building a character list for some novel, or possibly I was just trying to step into one. Not that I ever engaged in any serious criminal activity, I just wanted to hear their stories. Still, it is probably those very characteristics which took me to where I am now. I feel grateful and blessed for every day of this journey.

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22
Apr 22, 2024 at 3:33 AM
Apr 22, 2023 at 3:33 AM
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Mar 21, 2023 at 12:43 PM
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Apr 26, 2022 at 3:38 PM

Posted on: Apr 22, 2022 at 3:33 AM

Apr 09, 2022 at 6:19 PM

What a great story, Mike! Though I have often thought I’d might have had the courage to pursue a career in the theater, the world is perhaps better off with me in the audience than on the stage. Theater remains my one special pleasure. Since returning to Wichita I believe we’ve seen nearly every MTW offering and am so happy you have had the opportunity to work in it! Also, I may have actually seen “Elves”, and if not, I don’t know why not. My first “movie star” friend was an extra in The Night of the Living Dead, so you know which way I swing.wishing you continued best, so break a leg!

Apr 01, 2022 at 11:50 AM

Hey, John, ya salty ol' sailor! What a lovely story your profile is. For whatever reason, I'd just read some profile pieces of that great environmentalist and humanitarian (and frequently taught at Friends University). Wendell Berry, when along comes your visage and your tale. Fits you well, you and Wendell and I mean that in the best possible way. I know we spoke frequently at WHS, and I hope it was about something we both cared about... I just cannot reliably remember what. Nonetheless, pleased for you. Do you know Dr. Russell Fox at Friends U.? I became quite fond of him during my recent tenure there as their bookstore manager. Living not far from the campus myself. Perhaps one day...

Marcia Ohmie Ashton posted a message on Michael G Sullivan's Profile. New comment added.
Apr 12, 2022 at 7:20 PM

Posted on: Feb 23, 2022 at 10:06 PM

Michael, thank you for a great story of your life! You do have a gift of writing! Wonderful travels and great opportunity! Is your wife related to Niki Wieppert?

Nov 18, 2021 at 1:41 PM
Sep 29, 2021 at 7:02 PM

Contemplating things much larger than myself.

Michael G Sullivan added a comment on his Profile.
Sep 23, 2021 at 4:36 PM
Sep 05, 2021 at 2:49 PM

Love it! Seize the day. Glad you did.

Michael G Sullivan added a comment on his Profile.
Aug 27, 2021 at 10:55 AM
Aug 25, 2021 at 5:43 PM

We've all been there. Time to sort through the heirlooms at your parents house when they can no longer do so. I found the photo on the left from my 18th birthday. The right side is current. The wallpaper is exactly as it was.

Aug 13, 2021 at 10:13 AM

You are always an inspiration, Nancy, but Beth's involvement with Aardman Animations shows that your foresight and good taste extends to yet another generation. Love it. And yes, we'd join you in Brazil should you go.

Jun 27, 2021 at 1:58 PM

Hello Diana. We’ve had some interesting parallels, I’d guess you’d say. I was the bookseller at Friends Univ. And worked with Jerry Smart frequently. She was surely unique and still much loved. Also, we live in Riverside. Well, actually North Riverside, but close enough to have that same sensibility. And one more thing; I thought I’d never return to Wichita… until I did. I do love your assessment of what life has thrown at you. A stable ship can sail heavy seas. Will not be able to attend reunion due to some fun travel of our own, but wish you well. Peace and blessings. -M

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