Letters from China

Dean Winkels retired from IBM in 1997 after 32 years. While there, he held various positions as a technical writer/editor, and manager in Information Development and Marketing. He cultivated an appetite for working with other countries when stationed with the U.S. Army in Landstuhl, Germany, from 1962 to 1964. During his tour of duty, he experienced the diversity of several European countries. While with IBM, he had the pleasure of working with many countries around the world. After six years of retirement, during which he traveled through much of the United States, he wanted to experience another country in more depth. China has piqued Winkel's curiosity ever since they began to open their doors to the West around 1976. Learning about their history and culture, he was fascinated and determined to get involved in a way in which he could also make a difference. Through the Teaching English in China (TEC) program, Winkels has taught English as a Second Language as a volunteer for Zhidan High School; and as a faculty member of Shiyou University in Xian. Winkels plans to make teaching in China a way of life and encourages others to experience the joys and benefits of mentoring students, while experiencing Chinese culture and heritage.