Alumni Questionnaire ← Back to Index

Mark Dewall:

What is your name?

Mark Dewall

To which institutions were you sent?

Missanabie, Canada

How old were you?

15, 16 years old

When were you enrolled in The Program?

Summer of 1980 & 1981

What was the highest level you attained?

I do not remember my highest level in 1980, however, in 1981 I was a SIT (student in training)

In which house(s) did you live?

I do not remember if our cabins had names. In 1980, I was in the cabin further west of dining hall. In 1981, I was in the cabin just east of the dining hall.

Please describe instances of abuse you experienced while in the program, if any:

No instances of abuse occurred to me. I watched enough of what happened to other kids when they refused to follow orders, and wanted no part of that.

Describe abuse of other students you witnessed, if any:

I cannot recall any specifics of the abuse others suffered. I just know it often got intense between staff and a student.

Do you have any good memories of The Program? If so, what are they?

I certainly have some good memories. Canoe trips, cliff diving, learning outdoor survival skills. Bud T. was a good person with encouraging words (if you were staying out of trouble), and some good friendships were formed.

What is your overall impression of The Program? Did it “help you”?

The program did not change my behavior as I returned to drugs & alcohol immediately after each summer. In fact, a few of us used drugs while in Canada. However, I did learn how to better “fly under the radar” afterwards in my daily life.

What do you think of the quality of education you received?

Not sure

How old are you today?

I am currently 47 years of age

Did you go to college after attending The Program? If so, what degrees do you have?

I have some college education, but I never achieved any degree

What is your profession?

I am an automotive technician / industrial maintenance worker

Do you consider yourself a Christian today?

Yes, I am a Christian today. This did not happen until about ten years ago.

What effect did “The Program” have on your faith?

The program had little impact on my faith.

If you would like to support our work, please consider sending us a tax-deductible charitable donation!