Larry Laverentz’s life journey is marked by two pivotal periods that profoundly shaped his outlook, as vividly portrayed in “The Not So Ordinary People on the Roads I’ve Traveled.” His upbringing on a Kansas farm and the experience of graduating from a high school class of just eight in a close-knit community instilled in him core values of honesty, responsibility, benevolence, and a strong sense of community.
Larry’s writing profiles a lifelong array of people and his own experiences, including elements of learning, disappointment, adventure, uncertainty, innovation, dedication, tragedy, and humor. His subjects are not-so-ordinary people from his home community, Southeast Asia, and post-Vietnam locations.
Larry’s proficiency in speaking Vietnamese played a crucial role in forging connections and gaining profound cultural insights. His deliberate approach to storytelling focuses on sharing captivating, at times ironic or humorous, anecdotes without boasting about himself or disparaging others.
Larry’s writing style is characterized by its simplicity and directness. He readily acknowledges his own shortcomings and the lessons he learned along the way. Detected in his writing are feelings of frustration with some of his jobs after returning from Vietnam and finishing graduate school. His narrative underscores the vital role of trust in effective advising and partnership. Additionally, he emphasizes the universal importance of respecting people and their unique cultures, a principle that resonates not only in foreign lands like Vietnam but also within our own country.
From an early age through retirement, Larry endeavored to recognize the innate goodness in people and emphasized the importance of making a difference in the world. The lives of the son and daughter of Larry and his wife reflect a similar mindset. The actions of their dad made them understand their lives were a priority. He coached their youth athletic teams, attended their school events, was a leader in their church and community, introduced them to different cultures, and encouraged them to be independent thinkers.
Larry Laverentz holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics from Kansas State University, complemented by a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Pittsburgh.
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