Debbie Schuster

Hello, my name is Debbie Schuster and I love being a Langevin Course Leader. I live in the Detroit area with my husband Donald and my cat Squirrelly. I have two grown sons who are married and a grown daughter. In April 2008 we welcomed Liam, our first grandchild, into our family. He is amazing!

I have a degree in Training and Development which I earned while I was conducting training at various banks in the 1990s. I found that going to school while working in a training division helped me understand various ideas and concepts that were introduced at school. My Langevin Training and Development Diploma aided me in implementing specific practices back on my job. After attending Instructional Design for New Designers in 1995, I created several job aids that loan officers used at our bank for over eight years.

My training philosophy is based on helping you maximize our time together. It is important to understand that each of you may have different goals for attending our classes. My role is to help you meet those goals in a safe, comfortable environment. As a course leader, I try to be as flexible as possible to modify each class to meet your needs.

Interests and Hobbies

I love my family, traveling, music, and reading. I travel for Langevin approximately two to three weeks each month. Even when I have time off I travel, and take up to two cruises a year. I know you are feeling sorry for me, sitting on a deck chair, reading a book, a cool beverage in my hand…but someone has to support the cruise industry!! You will know me because I will be the one listening to a very eclectic selection of music, and reading the newest best seller that I picked up at a low, low discount price!

Life’s Biggest Lessons and Influences – So far!

I have been honored to have had a 30-year relationship with the Muscular Dystrophy Association. This relationship has enriched my life more than I can ever describe. I met the father of my children at a Muscular Dystrophy camp and one of my sons met his wife at this camp as well. I have personally witnessed courage and commitment from individuals who have taught me compassion, acceptance, and appreciation.

My Favorite Langevin Moment

I love the diversity of our learners. For example, one week I was brought in to teach Instructional Techniques for New Instructors to a group of federal agents. Picture this – agents with weapons, talking about life and death issues that their students need to know to save both their own lives and the lives of those they are working with. The following week off I go to teach the same course, but to the trainers of a cosmetics company—trainers armed with make-up brushes and loads of product. One of their biggest challenges…applying blush without leaving a line—no less important within their industry but a stark contrast from the group I taught the previous week! Each week I meet a different group, and I never know where the group will take me next; I just pack up and get ready for the adventure. I look forward to meeting you and learning what training means to you and your organization.