Karly Recker, Sweet Spot Manager at CIM Muskegon
In recognition of National Transgender Day (March 31st), Baker College shines a spotlight on a member of our hive, Karly Recker. Recently, Karly triumphed in a significant milestone in her journey by securing a court order affirming her legal name change. After years of navigating the complexities and the emotional weight of waiting, her victory is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of authenticity.
For Karly, navigating her identity wasn’t easy. “These conversations were starting to become mainstream when I reached high school but still were not the most accessible, so for me and many of my friends, we had to figure it all out on our own. I think the biggest benefit to days (National Transgender Day) like this is that it sparks conversation,” she says. “To be more specific, it puts the conversation into a wider space so that those who may need to hear it, can, and then begin their own journey.”
Baker’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice initiatives fosters an environment where Karly feels grateful for the support she receives. “I am proud to be in a place where I am not only safe to be myself, but also encourage others to do so, too.” As the manager of the Sweet Spot at CIM Muskegon, she plays a vital role in creating a welcoming atmosphere for students. “I get to help the students unwind and unload between classes, show the public what we make, train the students how to make drinks, and also give impromptu coffee history lessons when asked.”
Growing up in a contractor household presented its own challenges. “I was a contractor kid, painting walls and fixing plumbing in houses since I was 9,” she shares. “In that environment, you see how women in the construction world are treated, and you hear how these older men talk about the LGBTQIA+ community, and it terrifies you. Luckily, many things have changed, and now we have more support and resources than ever before. I am incredibly lucky and thankful that I have finally gotten my name legally changed. Now the only name attached to me is the one I found myself: Karly.”
With unwavering support from mentors Dave Spicher and Chef Amanda Miller, Karly continues to thrive, inspiring others to embrace their true selves. “If I can say one thing to my coworkers it’s thank you for making this place such a wonderful place to work. If I can say one thing to the students, it’s that we at Baker have your back, just be yourself.”
Karly’s journey exemplifies the resilience and authenticity that Baker College celebrates, inspiring us all to embrace our true selves and support one another in our pursuit of personal growth and fulfillment.
Baker College is an independent, private, non-profit institution that grants associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees on campuses across Michigan and online. Founded in 1911, the institution’s mission is to provide an inclusive, innovative, and transformative educational experience, driven by a student-first philosophy. Learn more at baker.edu and follow on X, Meta, and Instagram. The Culinary Institute of Michigan (CIM), a division of Baker College, is one of four US institutions to earn the “Recognition of Quality Culinary Education” designation from the World Association of Chefs’ Societies. The Baking and Pastry, Food and Beverage, and Culinary Arts programs in Port Huron and Muskegon are accredited by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission (ACFEFAC).