Opal Lesse

Attending Eastern Michigan University is a tradition for some families, and can be one that goes on for many generations. Opal Lesse, a Nurse Practitioner at EMU’s Telehealth Clinic and adjunct professor in the School of Nursing, has a rich history with the University that is continuing to unfold.

Opal herself has been with Eastern Michigan since 2002 as a faculty member. Beyond her accomplishments at EMU, Opal is also the President of the Michigan Council of Nurse Practitioners - Washtenaw County Chapter. 

Her long legacy at EMU continues with her son Julien, daughter Amber, step-daughter Sera, and grandchildren Matthew and Corey. All are graduates of Eastern Michigan’s undergraduate and graduate programs, with the exception of Corey, who is currently studying recreational therapy at EMU.

“It’s nice to be able to share the story of a successful multi-generational family at EMU,” shared Sherry Bumpus, an Assistant Professor in Nursing at EMU.

Opal’s grandson Mathew Sexton is also a recent graduate of EMU’s College of Business, and is leaving a legacy of his own. Mathew has played all four years on EMU’s football team, and on March 30, 2021, was drafted to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Beyond her family legacy, Opal has impacted hundreds of student nurses over the course of her rich career, and continues to do so every day.

By giving during National Nurses week, you are helping faculty members to devote more resources into serving their students. There is no better way to honor a nurse than by considering a gift of any size in their name to the School of Nursing, or their COVID-19 Student Relief Fund!