Since 1978, Gertrude served as the Career Development Consultant at the Michigan Department of Education, Office of Career and Technical Education. She held leadership positions in many organizations including: President, National Association of State Career Development and Guidance Supervisors; Chairperson, Minority Action Committee, American Vocational Association. She was a member of the AVA Guidance Division Policy Board, the U.S. Department of Education Military Affairs Committee, and the NOICC Advisory Board for the Career Development Training Institute. She was also President of the Michigan Association of Counselor Educators and Supervisors & Coordinator of the Michigan Department of Education Award Program. She was a member of the Michigan Association of School Placement Personnel, the Michigan Apprentice Steering Council, and the Michigan American Broadcasting Company School-To-Work PLUS team.

Above all, Gertrude served MCDA as an advisor consultant, program developer, champion of career development and friend.

Gertrude Bonaparte died, unexpectedly on January 9, 1995 at age 56, after suffering a stroke. Since 1978 Gertrude had served as the Career Development Consultant at the Michigan Department of Education, Office of Career and Technical Education. As such, she continuously championed the cause of career guidance for children, youth, and adults. She believed that individuals deserved the best possible opportunities in education and work.

As her obituary was read after the funeral and all her contributions were listed, it was amazing what one woman could have accomplished. She served in numerous leadership positions and on many boards on the state and national level, MCDA included. she also made significant contributions to her community.

Judy Hoppin remembers Gertrude as a person who networked others together. She believed in the power of collective effort toward a common goal. She had an acute sense of what was diplomatically and politically effective and worked tirelessly and enthusiastically on her mission- the growth of career development and career guidance in the State of Michigan.

Judy Hoppin states; "Over the long time I have known and worked with Gertrude, I have admit that I sometimes hesitated before I returned her phone calls. Not because I didn't enjoy talking to her. I did! But because I knew she probably had a wonderful idea she was looking for someone to implement and this time it was my turn. However, I was always sure that what she wanted me to do was important to moving forward the career development agenda that I, and many of you, also believe in."

In many ways, Gertrude was larger than life. Gertrude has left us a legacy and a challenge to continue what she so ably began and nurtured. She will be greatly missed. Therefore, we the MCDA continues Gerturde Bonaparte's legacy by dedicating a scholarship in her name.

This information was written by
Judith Hoppin
NCDA Treasurer (2005-2007)
Oakland University