From Corporate America to Academia: Professor Michael Kroth's Journey of Discovery and Inspiration

Michael Kroth’s path to the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences was not a linear one. He journeyed from the corporate world to consultancy, and eventually found his calling in academia, bringing a unique perspective to his role as a professor in the leadership and counseling department.

Kroth’s journey began over four decades ago with careers in organizational development, public affairs and management consulting. However, it wasn’t until he found himself immersed in the academic environment of the University of Idaho that Kroth truly felt at home. Rooted in a family legacy of educators, Kroth was influenced by generations before him.

“I come from a family of educators,” Kroth shares, reflecting on the generational influence that shaped his path. “Teaching is in my genes and has been around all my life.”

A defining moment in Kroth’s educational journey was his sabbatical experience teaching abroad in Torino, Italy. During this time, Kroth explored a wide range of topics including spirituality, education and the interconnectedness of knowledge.

“Italy was a life-changing experience,” Kroth reflects. “I wanted to learn about, to investigate, and to share with others what it means and what it takes to live more deeply in the world.” This newfound sense of purpose led him to collaborate with colleagues on research projects exploring profound learning and living.

During his sabbatical, Kroth delved into spirituality, aging and learning, while engaging in scholarly literature and with experts in the field. From the Abbey of Gethsemani to the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage with his son, Kroth immersed himself in experiences that enriched both his personal understanding and scholarly pursuits. 

“As I moved further into my own third of life, I was curious about spirituality in later life from a scholarly perspective, since I was experiencing it each day,” Kroth explains. “That became my sabbatical topic, a journey of exploration into the depths of the human spirit and its enduring quest for meaning.”

Though Kroth’s journey in becoming a professor at the University of Idaho took many twists and turns, his story reflects his commitment to lifelong learning and the power of education. As he continues to inspire colleagues and students, Kroth’s journey serves to guide others toward a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Story by Rachel Alsager and Kassidy Wigen