Jon Labahn `57 and Sue Hicks Labahn `57—A True Wayland Couple

Sue Hicks and Jon Labahn first noticed each other as students at Wayland—specifically while enjoying meals in the brand-new Pickard Dining Hall. When he finally asked her to a dance in the spring of their junior year, neither realized they’d be side by side for nearly 70 years.

The two dated throughout college, Jon graduating from Kalamazoo College (where his future father-in-law Dr. Weimer K. Hicks became president after Wayland) and Sue from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. She would visit him and stay with her parents on the weekends. The couple married on the Kalamazoo College campus, and in 1961, they returned to Wayland as faculty members. 

Jon taught Spanish and history at the Academy for five years. He also served as the alumni director and editor of Greetings magazine. Sue taught physical education for two years. They also started their own faculty family while teaching at Wayland, welcoming three daughters and a son.

As they rounded out their teaching years at Wayland, the Labahns prepared for a new adventure—moving around the Midwest (and eventually the country), as Jon’s career as a fundraiser for universities and hospitals unfolded.

They retired 26 years ago to Naples, Florida, though they continued working for several years—Sue until 2012 and Jon until 2022. Today, they live in Michigan with their daughter, Lorajo, and their involvement with Wayland continues.

“Wayland molded and shaped our lives in so many ways, and through planned giving, we look forward to being a part of Wayland’s future.” 
 –Sue Hicks Labahn `57

Sue and I have history at Wayland. Sue’s father, Weimer K. Hicks, worked tirelessly to help redefine what Wayland was during his tenure. My parents trusted Wayland would provide not just an education, but a community for me during my time at Wayland. And most importantly, I met my wife 67 years ago at Wayland.” 
–Jon Labahn `57