Spartan Profiles: Megan Raphael

THE COURAGE CODE

            Every day women perform acts of “courage” in ways different than the traditional, masculine meaning of the word.  In this unspoken feminine language, or code, women are changing the world for the better.  So argues Megan E. Raphael, ’73, former president of Raphael-Leritz Consulting, Portland, OR, co-author of The Courage Code (Utopia Press, 2006). 

            In the book, she and co-author Jennifer Byron profile 44 women, including several MSU graduates, like Sen. Debbie Stabenow.  “Most women don’t see themselves as courageous,” says Raphael, who now works out of Traverse City.  “But once they see themselves as courageous, they can really step into the world and become even more courageous, in the feminine sense of the word. It’s the everyday choices to live authentically, to live according to what’s of value to them.” 

            A native of Detroit, Megan also believes her feminine principle of courage—which emphasizes collaboration as opposed to force—is more valuable in helping solve societal problems. 

            “I had a great experience at MSU,” says Megan, who met her husband Peter on campus.  “I remember the fun of dorm life.  I was an R.A.  I loved my social work program.” 

            After serving as the health services director for the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, Megan currently does presentations and personal coaching.  She notes that her book has been well received in Northern Michigan and has garnered good reviews.  “We’re not yet a New York Times best-seller,” she says.  “That comes next!”