Wayne State University Athletics

Fortner, a native of Marshall, North Carolina, lettered two years on the Wayne State men's track and field team after transferring from Michigan State University. During his two years as a Tartar, Fortner garnered All-American honors twice and was named the President's Athletic Conference (PAC) champion in three different events. Fortner earned varsity letters in men's track and field in 1962 and 1963 while breaking numerous records. In 1962 and 1963, he also earned First Team NCAA All-American honors due to his efforts. He was also named to the PAC All-Conference First Team in 1962 and 1963. In 1962, Fortner broke the Wayne State Tartar Field record in the pole vault with a 14'-6" mark. However, 1963 was Fortner's best year as he won the President's Athletic Conference championship in the pole vault with a 14'-6" mark. He also won the high jump with a 6'-5" mark, while also running in the anchor leg of Wayne State's championship mile relay team. Fortner then competed in the prestigious Penn Relays, also in 1963, where he placed second in the pole vault by bettering his previous mark to 14'-10". In addition, Fortner broke the AAU indoor championship record in the pole vault with a 14'-11" mark- also in 1963. After graduating from Wayne State in 1963 with a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Biology and a minor in Physical Education, Fortner continued his education at WSU. He received his master's degree in one year from WSU in Physical Education in 1964, and also completed the requirements to receive and Education Specialist Degree from Eastern Michigan University. During this time, Fortner served as an assistant track coach at Wayne State University under then head coach Frank McBride. He also served a teaching fellowship under Dr. William N. Wasson in the Psychology Program in 1964. He was a member of the Sigma Delta Psi, Phi Beta Kappa and the National Honor Society for Student-Athletes. Fortner's interest in education didn't cease after graduation as he served as a teacher at Redford Union High School for six years before moving on to teach biology at Farmington Harrison High School from 1972-76. At Farmington, Fortner also served as the head coach for the track and field, cross country and wrestling programs where he coached several All-State Championship athletes. He was also named "Coach of the Year" in wrestling in 1972. He then accepted the position of Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Paw Paw High School for two years before becoming the Principal for St. Agatha High School for seven years. Now, Fortner is the President and Owner of M.S.R. Industries, Inc. in West Bloomfield, Mich. M.S.R. has been in operations for the past two years. Fortner and his wife, Suzanne, have two children (Michael and Robbie) and reside in West Bloomfield, Mich.