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Building on the Legacy of Donald W. Maine
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Alumni & Development Peg Luy Executive Vice President for Alumni & Development peggy.luy@davenport.edu FALL 2015 . VOLUME 8 . No. 3
On the shoulders of greatness The cover of this issue of DU Review features a man to whom this institution and its communities owe a great debt of gratitude, and for whom our College of Business and the new building that will be its home are appropriately named. When the new building is completed, it will be home for the Donald W. Maine College of Business and its Entrepreneurship Center. The creativity and growth that will occur in that new building will be an appropriate tribute to a man who tapped into a great amount of creativity to achieve tremendous growth during his 23 years as President and Chancellor of Davenport. Among the many accomplishments achieved under Don’s leadership was the introduction of bachelor’s and master’s degrees, the expansion of the Davenport systems across the state of Michigan, the expansion of programs appealing to non-traditional students, the unification of the University into one institution in 2000, and even the initial planning for what would become DU’s new W.A. Lettinga Campus. He also brought higher education into the internet age when Davenport launched its online degree programs in the 1990s. In the 15 or so years since Don’s retirement, Davenport has continued to grow and refine as a quality institution, but the impact of Don’s leadership cannot be underestimated. As I have said often, we stand on the shoulders of the great leaders that have come before us, and that includes Don Maine. We could not hope to accomplish our ambitious vision to be ranked among higher education leaders without the hard work that Don Maine first accomplished between 1977 and 2000. We are about to enter 2016, when we will celebrate Davenport University’s 150th Anniversary. Throughout the year we will be acknowledging the leadership of great men who led this institution throughout the ages, like Conrad Swensburg, Michael E. Davenport, Robert W. Sneden and Randolph Flechsig. We also will see an amazing, tangible tribute emerge on the southeast corner of the W.A. Lettinga Campus, paying homage to the tremendous leadership of Donald W. Maine. We hope you will join us a year or so from now when we dedicate the new facility in Don’s honor!
Michele Davis Executive Director of Grant Development michele.davis@davenport.edu Louise Kidd Executive Director of Leadership Gifts & Donor Services louise.kidd@davenport.edu Jason Madden, MBA ’08 Executive Director of Alumni & Development jason.madden@davenport.edu Nick Glaser Director of Major Gifts nick.glaser@davenport.edu Sarah Mitchell Director of Prospect Research and Scholarship Stewardship sarah.mitchell@davenport.edu Courtney Sorrell Assistant Director of Annual Giving courtney.sorrell@davenport.edu Sara Hop, ’09 Assistant Director of Alumni Communications and Development sara.hop@davenport.edu Erik Dane, MBA ’07 Assistant Director of Alumni Relations & Events erik.dane@davenport.edu Laura Macka Manager of Data Systems & Gift Processing laura.macka@davenport.edu Mary Nelsen Executive Administrative Assistant mary.nelsen@davenport.edu
Marketing & Communications Robin Luymes, MM ’15, APR Executive Director of Communications robin.luymes@davenport.edu Steve Landrum, EMBA ’13 Executive Director of Marketing steve.landrum@davenport.edu Richard Crispo Creative Director richard.crispo@davenport.edu Lyndsie Post, MBA ’11 Director of Communications lyndsie.post@davenport.edu Maggie Kennedy Communications Manager maggie.kennedy@davenport.edu Elizabeth Szubinski, MBA ’14 Marketing Project Manager elizabeth.szubinski@davenport.edu John Teichman Graphic Designer john.teichman@davenport.edu
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Sincerely, Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D. President
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(L to R): DU students Julia Mayer and Andrew Habasevich, Rockford Construction CEO Mike Van Gessel, Board Vice-Chair Ken Yerrick, Board Trustee Michelle Van Dyke, Board Trustee Bob Hetzler, Dr. Rick Pappas, Chancellor Emeritus Don Maine, Board Chair Frank Merlotti, Board Trustee Carol Van Andel, DU student Jordan Neuhaus and Dean Pamela Imperato line up for the ceremonial groundbreaking of the Donald W. Maine College of Business building.
“I’ve been connected to Davenport for 44 years now. What we have achieved is because of the dedication and hard work of the board, staff and faculty. Thousands of students have been prepared to take their future places as industry leaders.” - Donald W. Maine
Building on the legacy of Donald W. Maine In December 2016, the new 60,000-square-foot Donald W. Maine College of Business building will open and continue the legacy of Donald W. Maine, who served as Chancellor and President of Davenport from 1977 to 2000. His vision and the strategic initiatives he implemented helped make Davenport one of the leading private, non-profit universities in the State of Michigan. Under Maine’s leadership, Davenport developed from a college offering only associate degree programs to a fully accredited university providing undergraduate and graduate degrees in business, technology and health professions. Online programs were introduced at Davenport during his time, making the University the first in Michigan and among the first in the nation to offer online bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Also, Maine oversaw the unification of three separate colleges across the state into one University and laid the groundwork for the construction of the W.A. Lettinga Campus. “We all stand on the shoulders of this man who served as President and Chancellor of Davenport for 23 years,” said Dr. Rick Pappas. “Don remains actively involved with the University, and we treasure his friendship and his love for Davenport.” Necessitated by the growing enrollment at the W.A. Lettinga Campus, the new threestory facility will allow for continued growth of academic programs in the Donald W. Maine College of Business. It will also free up space within the other academic facilities to accommodate the continued growth of technology, health and arts and science programs. A new Entrepreneurship Center will be developed and housed within the new facility to guide and advise entrepreneurs ready to build and expand their successful, high-value,
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Above and Left: Renderings of the 60,000-square-foot Donald W. Maine College of Business Left (L to R): Dr. Rick Pappas, Board Vice-Chair Ken Yerrick, Board Chair Frank Merlotti, Chancellor Emeritus Don Maine, Board Trustee Michelle Van Dyke, Board Trustee Carol Van Andel, Rockford Construction CEO Mike Van Gessel and Dean Pamela Imperato.
high-growth companies and create more jobs. There will be flexible space available to support up to three companies in the Entrepreneurship Center’s business accelerator program. The atmosphere, which will be modeled more as a corporate headquarters than an academic building, will engage business students in real-world settings to prepare them for their careers after graduation. “I’ve been connected to Davenport for 44 years now,” stated Maine. “What we have achieved is because of the dedication and hard work of the board, staff and faculty. Thousands of students have been prepared to take their future places as industry leaders.” On a beautiful day in November, Davenport President Dr. Rick Pappas joined with Board Chair Frank Merlotti, Chancellor Emeritus Don Maine, Dean of the Donald W. Maine College of Business and College of Technology Pamela Imperato, plus board trustees and others to break ground on the new building. “I am humbled and astonished my name is on this building,” remarked Maine. “It is an unbelievable honor, and I am deeply grateful.”
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Students participate in Panther Prowl team building activities.
Panther Prowl 2015 To kick off the academic year, the Center for Campus Life planned a four-day transitional program right after students moved in to help them ease into college. More than 400 students were led through daily activities by trained upperclassmen called Pack Leaders. Nationally recognized speakers presented on topics such as forming relationships, developing social habits, academic and financial success, maintaining proper health and wellness, leadership development and familiarizing themselves with the campus culture. Social activities were offered to break down barriers and build relationships. Events included a drive-in movie, capture the flag game, bonfire, dance party, team building trust course, scavenger hunt, mud run volunteer activity and night in the student center.
Pounce, staff and faculty welcome new students at Convocation.
Third annual Convocation kicks-off academic year Convocation is the official academic welcome of students to Davenport University, celebrated annually in academic regalia. The 2015 Convocation was held at the W. A. Lettinga Campus in the Student Activity Center for new, incoming students. This ceremony, featuring messages from Dr. Rick Pappas and Dr. Linda Rinker, Executive Vice President for Academics and Provost, introduced students to their academic team and prepared them for their rich and rewarding Davenport careers.
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Homecoming 2015 featured a plethora of fun-filled activities for alumni, faculty, staff and students. This year’s celebrations included a chili cook-off, a Zombie Run, the Alumni Awards, the dedication of the expanded Farmers Insurance Athletic Complex, a football game, the Panther Ambassador Campaign and more! With the second phase of the Farmers Insurance Athletic Complex complete, a dedication was held on Saturday, Oct. 3, before the homecoming tailgate festivities and game. The second phase, made possible by a gift of 45 acres from Farmers Insurance Group of Companies, added a new competition field for football, soccer and rugby, plus track and field facilities. The dedication included remarks from Dr. Rick Pappas; Frank Merlotti, Chair of Davenport’s Board of Trustees; Paul Lowden, DU’s Athletic Director; and Steve Boshoven, President of Foremost Brand, Farmers Insurance. Afterward, DU hosted a Homecoming tailgate and an inter-squad football game.
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3 1. The 2015 Panther Ambassadors, Trisha Madura and Courtenay Tafel. 2. DU Spirit Rock gets painted for Homecoming 2015. 3. The new football team participates in an intersquad scrimmage in preparation for the fall 2016 season.
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Davenport welcomes new Athletic Communications staff Ryan Thompson and Ryan Hornack are the newest additions to the Davenport University Athletic Department. Thompson serves as the Assistant Athletic Director for Communications while Hornack is the Athletic Communications Coordinator. The duo previously worked together for the last two years at Adrian College, serving in similar roles. Thompson and Hornack are in charge of all aspects of athletic communications, which includes the maintenance of the athletic website (dupanthers.com), computer statistics for all home athletic events, press releases, video streaming live events for the Davenport Athletics Network and numerous other duties. Thompson is no stranger to West Michigan. As a 1999 graduate of Grand Valley State University, he worked as a student assistant for four years before serving as Assistant Sports Information Director upon graduation. He then accepted a position as Sports Information Director at Northwood University (2001–2004), Saginaw Valley State University (2004–2007) and Adrian College (2007–2015). “I am very excited to be working for a bustling athletic department at Davenport University,” said Thompson. “I really
LEFT: New Assistant Athletic Director for Communications Ryan Thompson. RIGHT: New Athletic Communications Coordinator Ryan Hornack.
enjoy the area and look forward to many great memories as a Panther. I’ve seen the commitment to excellence at DU and hope to contribute toward future successes.” Hornack broke into the field of athletic communications after an internship at Adrian College in the summer of 2013. He helped Thompson with the publicity of 36 varsity and non-varsity sports, which included production of information guides for 12 sports. Hornack graduated from Pennsylvania State University in 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Management. He will also pursue his MBA while at Davenport University.
Davenport receives accreditation for sport management program Davenport University recently received accreditation from the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation (COSMA) for its Bachelor of Business Administration in Sport Management. The COSMA Board of Commissioners reviewed Davenport’s program based on the eight COSMA accreditation principles, which require an academic unit/sport management program to show that its program displays excellence in undergraduate sport management education and continuous improvement through COSMA’s developmental approach. Davenport University joins 24 other universities across the country with this accreditation, with only one other being in Michigan.
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Men’s Golf finishes second in the WHAC The men’s golf team competed in five one-day Wolverine Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC) jamborees, consisting of 18 holes per round, during the fall season. The Panthers finished second in the overall standings, just four strokes behind Siena Heights University, with a five-round total of 1,470 strokes. Northwestern Ohio finished third (1,481), and Indiana Tech came in fourth (1,490). The WHAC also announced league awards after the final round on October 14. Seniors Mitchell Wandell and Jorge Benitez had a remarkable fall and were named First Team All-WHAC, tied with the second-lowest stroke total (362). Wandell also received the team’s Champion of Character award for sportsmanship on the course and was named Academic All-WHAC along with teammate Jamie Cattran.
Senior Jorge Benitez (Zaragoza, Spain) excels in the WHAC jamboree. Over the course of the fall season, Benitez and fellow senior Mitchell Wandell both earned First Team WHAC honors and tied for second lowest stroke total (362).
DU Softball recognized for academic success by National Fastpitch Coaches Association The National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) announced its Top 10 NAIA Academic Team rankings for the 2014–15 school year, and the Panthers ranked fourth with a cumulative team GPA of 3.555. The NFCA also announced that 5,493 softball players across seven membership divisions earned NFCA All-America Scholar-Athlete honors for the 2014–15 academic year. The NAIA amassed 410 recipients, and DU was represented by 14 players: Ashleigh Blovsky, Cayley Duddles, Cayman Gatt, Lauren Groendyk, Alyssa Koziol, Kyleigh Linebaugh, Emily Maves, Britt McLain, Sam Merren, Haley Obetts, Carli SanMillan, Sarah Schneidenbach, Lindsay Tasma and Sarah Wallick. Senior Alyssa Koziol (Willow Springs, Ill.) was recognized for academic success.
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(L to R): Darwin Mitchell, James Gustafson, Chrystal Badour, Kirin Krafthefer. Four of the O. J. DeJonge Middle School 2014–15 officers drafting plans for an upcoming activity they’re planning for the student body.
Davenport to host first annual Michigan BPA Middle Level Conference Davenport University is proud to host the first annual Michigan Business Professionals of America Middle Level Conference on Feb. 27, 2016. Middle Level provides middle school students the opportunity to apply acquired skills while participating in business-related competitive events. BPA competitions place emphasis on computer skills, teamwork, research and presentation. Students may compete at both the state and national levels. “We are very excited to be hosting the first annual Michigan BPA Middle Level Leadership Conference,” said Ron Draayer, Davenport University faculty member and BPA advisor. “BPA
is the leading career technical student organization for students pursuing careers in business management, accounting, information technology and other related career fields. It is a great opportunity to be able to expose younger students to BPA and spark their interest in these fields.” Davenport University has a long history with BPA having earned first-place awards at 84 national BPA events over the past seven years. Students from Davenport University will have the opportunity to participate as volunteers at the Middle Level conference. For more information visit davenport.edu/mlbpa.
Davenport launches new 12-month MBA platform The Donald W. Maine College of Business offers a 30-credit Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree in three different platforms through its global online campus and locations throughout Michigan. Along with the Competency-based MBA and the traditional MBA, students are now being offered the 12-month MBA platform. With this platform, students in a cohort format are given a predetermined schedule that leads to completion in 12 months. “We see the 12-month MBA as a way for companies to attract and maintain their high-potential employees,” said Dr. Pamela Imperato, Dean of the Donald W. Maine College of Business and College of Technology. “Cohort-based learning has long been shown to help students move through a program and maximize the opportunities for things like peer-to-peer learning and team building that are so necessary in an MBA program.”
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Alpha League members with Patrick Miles, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan
Alpha League brings new leadership opportunities to DU students This past fall, Davenport University launched the Alpha League Global Leadership program, bringing brotherhood and leadership to men of diverse ethnic, racial and socioeconomic backgrounds through philanthropy, scholarship, leadership and social/emotional workshops. Alpha League emphasizes the learning and application of African American philosophies and their interrelationship to college education and the global workforce. As a special interest leadership program, Alpha League is an organization for all men who have an interest in the history, philosophy and culture of African American males and who are seeking to learn personal leadership skills and form lifelong relationships. “I created the Alpha League Global Leadership program to give hope and tools to the African American male population in Grand Rapids,” said Terry Rostic, Senior Community College Admissions Representative and founder of the Alpha League. “There have been several nationally published articles that mention Grand Rapids, Michigan, as one of the top five worst cities in the entire country for African Americans. I never want to see my city at the top of any list that involves the worst place to live for any race. I believe the only way to make positive, lasting change in our society is through education and opportunity.” With 27 members this fall, the Alpha League has developed a wait list until more funds are available to support additional members. The group holds bi-weekly meetings called Global Leader Summits, where they have professional and personal workshops, guest speakers and brotherhood fellowship. The topics covered during the workshops this semester are commitment, personal vision, positive self-identity, life skills, social and emotional skills, moral character and work ethic. “I joined Alpha League because I knew it could provide the support I will need to be successful in my years at Davenport,” said Alpha League member and Davenport freshman Tommy Brown. “I want to be successful. I want to defy the statistics. With the Alpha League, I have a lifelong brotherhood that will never be broken. All of us will be successful.”
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Davenport earns fourth consecutive diversity honor Davenport University has received the 2015 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the oldest and largest diversity-focused publication in higher education. This marks the fourth consecutive year Davenport has been honored with the HEED Award, which recognizes U.S. colleges and universities that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion. Davenport University will be featured along with 91 other recipients in INSIGHT Into Diversity’s November 2015 issue. “We are honored to be recognized with this award for the fourth consecutive year. Davenport University prides itself on the exemplary diversity and inclusion initiatives and its ability to embrace a broad definition of diversity at all of its campuses across Michigan, including gender, race, ethnicity, veterans, people with disabilities, members of the LGBT community and others,” said Dr. Rhae-Ann Booker, Executive Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Davenport University.
Advocating at the State Capitol Davenport University students and staff from across Michigan spent a day at the State Capitol on October 28 to advocate for Michigan Tuition Grant (MTG) funding. Students met with a number of State Legislators, including Rep. Andy Schor and Sen. Steve Bieda, to discuss the importance of MTG funding and other pressing state issues, including jobs, road funding and healthcare. Also, staff and students met with Lt. Gov. Brian Calley while seated in the Senate Gallery. The MTG is a critical piece of funding that helps students who would otherwise take out student loans to pay for college. During the 2014–2015 academic year, nearly 3,000 DU students received MTG funding — equating to more than $3 million in state aid. Student scholarships and grants like the MTG assist college students with covering tuition costs without going deeper into student loan debt.
Staff and students on the floor of the Senate Chamber with Senator Steve Bieda (D-Warren).
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Clockwise: 1. Traverse City (L to R): Back row: Tammy Flores, Rachel Dudziak and instructor Vicky Fagerstrom; Front row: Cindy Craig and Ashley Peterman. 2. Lansing: Strides Against Breast Cancer walkers. 3. Livonia (L to R): Schoolcraft Community College student
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Rep. Jennifer Salloum and Schoolcraft Community College student Christopher Ford. Both students are planning to transfer to DU’s W.A.
Campus news round-up Holland Holland Campus staff and faculty volunteered for Day of Caring on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2015. This is an annual program through the Ottawa County United Way, which mobilizes volunteers to provide support to non-profit organizations. This year there were 660 volunteers and 57 projects. The Davenport team consisted of Dr. Tim Pennings, Kelly Wandel, Frank Roder, Tammy Stachowicz and Rhonda Prins. They spent the afternoon at Evergreen Commons Senior Center in Holland and helped with grounds work and planting tulip beds.
Lansing The Lansing Campus joined nearly 3,000 participants and 161 other teams on Saturday, October 10, 2015, to make a difference by participating in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk at the Michigan State Capital. The Lansing team featured more than 75 participants, who raised over $500 toward the cause. The funds support a number of services offered by the American Cancer Society, including transportation and lodging for treatment, support groups, workshops, research and more.
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Lettinga Campus. 4. Holland: Holland staff sprucing up Evergreen Commons Senior Center.
Livonia Students spent the day at the Livonia Campus with CIOs and technology managers from some of Michigan’s largest corporations to receive priceless mentoring, information and feedback from experts in the field. Students enjoyed a day of networking, receiving resume and interview tips and participating in a panel discussion. This allowed them to pose questions to the experts about developing and initiating a job search strategy, differentiating themselves from the competition, creating a public image through social media, answering interview questions effectively, speaking about their career goals and more. It was a day of intense learning and huge value to the students who attended.
Traverse City Students from the Traverse City NURS 415 Evidence Based Nursing Practice course presented their research to the Evidence Based Practice Council at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City on September 21.
DU staff members at the KVCC University Center (from L to R): Shubhada Sagdeo, Kristi Zimmerman, Kathy Stewart, Amanda Hoxie, Amy Doxtater
A commitment to students At the core of Davenport’s success is its commitment to students. Equipping them with the knowledge, global competencies and values they need to achieve career success is lifechanging and a key aspiration of Vision 2020. One way Davenport is expanding and enhancing access to its career-focused education is by developing partnerships with community colleges to provide a more streamlined pathway for students to earn a bachelor’s or graduate degree. As announced last summer, Davenport established partnerships with Mott Community College (MCC) in Flint and Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC) in Kalamazoo, with more partnerships to be announced soon. Students who earn their associate degrees at these community colleges will be able to seamlessly transfer their credits to a bachelor degree program at DU, continuing their studies at the same location. “Mott College is committed to ensuring our students have opportunities to achieve their educational and career goals in ways best suited to their needs,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, President of Mott Community College. “The partnership with
Davenport University represents a new initiative to provide access to four-year degree programs through one of our Branch Centers and supports our mission to deliver quality education where our Genesee County students want it.” In the MCC University Center, Davenport has dedicated classrooms and lab and lecture space as well as access to MCC’s library, computer labs and more. In partnering with KVCC, Davenport became the first institution in KVCC’s University Center at the Texas Township Campus giving students access to dining services, the library, computer labs, gym facilities and classrooms. “We think the university center concept is a logical solution to the degree-completion challenges that many of our students face by providing new and unique opportunities,” noted Marilyn Schlack, President of Kalamazoo Valley Community College. “We are excited to have Davenport become part of our University Center. Davenport’s focus on degrees that lead to careers is very consistent with our mission here at KVCC.”
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Dr. Pamela Imperato named Dean of College of Business and Technology Following a thorough national search, Davenport University has named Pamela R. Imperato, Ph.D., as Dean of the Donald W. Maine College of Business and the College of Technology. Previously, Dr. Imperato was Dean of the College of Business at Bellevue University, where she oversaw 24 academic programs including a Ph.D. program as well as 11 undergraduate programs. In her new role, Dr. Imperato will lead the development of new programs while overseeing the operations and budget for both the College of Business and the College of Technology. Dr. Imperato served as a Director/Assistant Professor of the Master of Public Administration Program, where she launched the inaugural graduate program in public administration for the university. She also served as the Program Director of the Center for Healthcare, Nonprofit and Public Administration. Dr. Imperato holds a Doctorate of Political Science in Public Administration and Public Policy from University of Nebraska, a Master of Administration in Critical and Creative Thinking from the University of Massachusetts and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Emmanuel College.
Frank Merlotti steps in as new Board Chair Frank Merlotti, retired former president of Coalesse and Steelcase North America, has been appointed as Board Chair of the Davenport University Board of Trustees. Previously serving as Vice Chairman of the Board, Merlotti succeeds Tracy Graham, who stepped down after serving as Board Chair for the last five years. Graham will remain on the Board and continue to provide his knowledge and support. Having sat on the Board for the last nine years, Merlotti is excited to step into this next position of leadership. Under his guidance, the Board will move forward guiding the University through Vision 2020 and exploring the possibility of a metro Detroit campus.
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Donna Milham honored with Tyrus R. Wessell Award Each year, Davenport bestows the University’s highest staff recognition, the Tyrus R. Wessell Award, on faculty or staff members who have demonstrated the University’s values through their positive impact on the lives of Davenport students and staff. Tyrus R. Wessell was a devoted faculty member and administrator who served DU. He passed away in 2003 at the age of 90. Donna Milham, the 2015 recipient of this prestigious award, has been involved with the University for over 30 years beginning as a student in the EMS Paramedic Program. In 1985, she started working part-time at DU teaching CPR. She has served as an Admissions Counselor, Advisor, Assistant Registrar and, currently, the Registrar. “Donna has had such an important impact on DU,” stated Dr. Marjolijn van der Velde, Department Chair for the Donald W. Maine College of Business. “Her professionalism rubs off on others. Davenport just wouldn’t be the same without her knowledge, her expertise and her kindness.”
(L to R): Grandson Jordan Sugiyama, granddaughter Kylie Sugiyama, Donna’s significant other Hosea Greer, son-in-law Tim Sugiyama, Donna Milham, Donna’s dad Edward McNally, Donna’s mom Joyce McNally, DBA and daughter Katherine Sugiyama.
Long-time Board Member remembered James N. DeBoer, Jr., a member of Davenport’s Board of Trustees and a dear friend to the University for more than 40 years, passed away on July 5, 2015. Jim retired from the Board in December 2012 and is remembered for his invaluable expertise and wise counsel. Jim was a neighbor and close friend of former Davenport President Robert W. Sneden when he was asked to serve on Davenport’s board. His support helped shepherd DU through accreditation to offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and he assisted with the merger of Davenport College, Detroit College of Business and Great Lakes College to form Davenport University as well as with establishment of the W.A. Lettinga Campus. His support also led to the creation of Vision 2015. Jim and his wife Joy were generous supporters of DU over the years and could often be spotted at DU events. They assisted with DU’s comprehensive campaigns and building projects and, in 2001, established a charitable gift annuity. In 2010, the Executive Conference Room in the Robert W. Sneden Center was named for James N. and Joy DeBoer. “Jim served Davenport for almost a third of our entire history,” said Dr. Rick Pappas.“He was a dear friend and committed supporter whom we will deeply miss.”
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A bright, sunny day By Peg Luy Executive Vice President for Alumni & Development
Below left: The first bits of ground are ceremonially “broken.” Lower right: Shovels stand at the ready in the warm sun.
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When you plan an outdoor event for early November in Michigan, you can never be sure what conditions you will need to be prepared to face. One year you might face a blizzard and the next you’ll enjoy a bright, crisp sunny day. For the ceremonial groundbreaking of the Donald W. Maine College of Business Building on November 4th, we enjoyed record-setting warmth under bright skies. The tent that might have been necessary to fend off icy precipitation instead kept us cool from the midday sun. That we experienced such warmth on a day dedicated to breaking ground for a building honoring Chancellor Emeritus Don Maine should be no surprise, as this project has received a very warm reception since the day it was proposed. The generous response we have received since the Investing in the Vision Campaign began just over two years ago gave this University the confidence to get started on its largest and most visible pillar. To be able to honor Don, a man who served Davenport with distinction for 23 years, is indeed an opportunity that we cherish. Although we have broken ground and the completed building should be ready for ribbon cutting and dedication in a year, the campaign continues to ensure it and the other pillars—the development of the College of Urban Education and growth of our endowment to benefit student scholarships—are fully funded. While we are about 80 percent of the way toward our campaign goal—nearly $20 million toward our $25 million target as we begin the third year of the five-year campaign—we continue to need your support through gifts large and small; each contribution brings us one step closer to the full investment that Vision 2020 deserves. I look forward to watching this new facility emerge over the next year and to the opportunities it will provide for our students and faculty and for all of us in the years to come. Won’t you consider in the coming months how you could help Davenport to reach the finish line of this campaign before we officially open the doors of the Donald W. Maine College of Business Building? Thank you so much for your consideration, and our very best wishes to you in 2016!
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1. GRPS students Robert Brooks and Malik Kelley participate in the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) camp. 2. DU alumni Tori Brooks (’15) with Dr. Tim Pennings, Department Chair of Mathematics. Brooks spoke to students attending the Numb3rs Camp. 3. GRPS student Milan Merriweather in the Numb3rs Camp.
Herman Miller Cares Foundation funds DU summer academic camps When you think about children coming home from summer camp, you imagine them telling their families about camp fires, canoeing and fishing. But, do you imagine them excitedly explaining a visit to a murder scene, fighting off a ferocious dragon or learning physics from a dog? This past summer, thanks to a generous gift from the Herman Miller Cares Foundation, Grand Rapids area youth did just that! Davenport has a tradition of helping those who struggle in math/English to move on to a career-focused curricula with innovative, interventive programs. As a result, the pass rate for students in developmental math increased from 59% in 2011 to 76% in 2015 and in English from 55% to 86%, contributing to a 110 percent increase in DU’s graduation rate. In this spirit, Davenport wanted to create camps that would benefit youth through participation. This past summer, Davenport’s new College of Urban Education worked collaboratively with the College of Arts and Sciences to offer three Summer Academic Enrichment Camps (SAECs) that focused on educating through experience. These camps will be offered again in 2016 and 2017. The three camps included: • CSI Davenport Forensic Science (Biology-focused) • Write Your World (Creative Writing-focused) • Numb3rs (Mathematics-focused) At CSI Forensic Science Camp, students applied laboratory techniques to analyze evidence recovered from a mock crime scene. By day four, students had solved the crime. They identified the victim (via forensic anthropology and blood typing), determined time and cause of death (via forensic entomology and examining skeletal remains) and identified which suspect committed the crime (via blood-typing and DNA analysis). Students learned how to give
scientific presentations and prepare posters, culminating in oral and visual presentations on the fifth day. Each day, different ScienceTechnology-Enginering-Math (STEM) careers were highlighted and discussed by speakers working in STEM fields. During Write Your World Camp, high school students explored real and imaginary worlds through written expression in multiple genres. They developed their creative writing voice through a variety of activities, including prewriting, brainstorming, outlining, writing, editing and revising exercises. Activities were engaging, inspiring and fun in order to encourage the continuation of creative writing not only during the school year and college but well into adulthood. Activities combined digital and print experiences to broaden their scope. They learned about document preparation, editing and design through the creation of an anthology. The camp ended with public readings and a reception for friends, family, staff and faculty. At Numb3rs Camp, students participated in numerous activities geared toward making high school math a fun, hands-on exploration of the world. They studied probability by rolling dice, then applied these probabilities to a game where they tried to find the best strategy. They were challenged to find the best route to either visit all or some given locations/paths (Hamilton and Euler Circuits). They explored the Fibonacci sequence and the golden ratio to determine how they occur in nature. Finally, they calculated the optimal path for a dog trying to retrieve a tennis ball from Lake Michigan. The three summer academic enrichment camps targeted high school students from the greater Grand Rapids area who are traditionally underrepresented in STEM and/or are economically disadvantaged. Grand Rapids Public Schools, Michigan’s fourth largest public school district, serves more than 17,000 students through 1,400 teachers. Each year, SAECs aim to serve nearly 100 Grand Rapids youth.
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Davenport University receives its largest gift in history from M.E. Davenport Foundation M.E. Davenport
Davenport University will receive a gift to its endowment fund of $5.5 million over the next four years from the M.E. Davenport Foundation. It is the single largest commitment in the University’s history and brings historical giving to Davenport University by the independent family foundation to more than $15.4 million. “This is an extraordinary gift from the M.E. Davenport Foundation,” said Dr. Rick Pappas, President of Davenport University. “This investment by the Foundation will have a lasting impact on the University’s ability to develop innovative new programs.” “There are special moments in the life of a university like welcoming new freshmen and congratulating graduating seniors,” Dr. Pappas continued. “Some moments are truly transformational; this gift from the family foundation of our namesake, M.E. Davenport, is one of those moments.” Marcia Sneden, President of the M.E. Davenport Foundation, and Mary Sneden Sullivan, secretary/treasurer, both granddaughters of the foundation’s namesake, issued this statement on behalf of their Foundation Trustees: “The M.E. Davenport Legacy Endowment is intended to optimize the educational, professional and civic mission of Davenport University. The projects funded by this Legacy
18 | DAVENPORT UNIVERSITY REVIEW
Endowment will advance academic excellence, promote innovations in the professions and enrich the communities that Davenport serves. Funded projects will exemplify the tenets of an education at Davenport University that were so important to our grandfather. We are excited about the future of the University and the opportunity for our family foundation to partner with Davenport in this enduring legacy.” The perpetual innovation fund, for which details continue to be developed, will support academic and learning-related initiatives not subject to the regular university operating budget, including potential initiatives which are part of the University’s recently announced Vision 2020 innovative, longrange plan. The timing also anticipates year-long celebrations in 2016 of Davenport University’s 150th Anniversary. “Throughout its existence, the M.E. Davenport Foundation has supported Davenport University as well as other community initiatives. With this gift, we are seeking to reflect the shared origins and values of both the Foundation and the University,” said Peggy Moceri, Chair of the Endowment Committee and also a granddaughter of the foundation’s namesake. “The purpose of the endowment is to regenerate, in an enduring way, M.E. Davenport’s founding motto: Make a Living, Make a Life, Make a Contribution.”
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1. (L to R): Grandson David Meyering, daughter-in-law Laura Meyering, son John Meyering, wife Char Meyering, Jack Meyering, granddaughter Andrea Snyder. 2. (L to R): Steve Boshoven, President of Foremost Brand, Farmers Insurance; Jason Madden; Dr. Rick Pappas; Jack Meyering; Char Meyering; and Board Chair Frank Merlotti during the presentation. 3. (L to R): Board Chair Frank Merlotti; President of Foremost Brand, Farmers Insurance Steve Boshoven; and Dr. Rick Pappas..
Farmers Insurance Athletic Complex field dedication On Saturday, October 3, the Davenport University community gathered to celebrate the expansion of the new Farmers Insurance Athletic Complex. To mark the occasion, Steve Boshoven, President of Foremost Brand, Farmers Insurance, along with Jack Meyering and his family gathered for a ceremony and lunch. Farmers Insurance gifted the land for the expanded complex in addition to the land they donated in 2012 for the baseball, softball and tennis complex. In total, they have donated 62 acres to DU. Jack Meyering, a ’56 DU graduate and founder of Atlas Truck Rental & Leasing, and his wife, Char, made a generous commitment to the University to name the new scoreboard and turf. Meyering Field appears on the scoreboard as a tribute to this gift. “After serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, Davenport was an important step for me in developing the skills to pursue my career in building a business,” said Meyering. “Davenport has built a great reputation for academics and now can provide the same opportunity for their students to excel in the sports as well.” The Farmers Insurance Athletic Complex will help meet the needs of the growing athletic programs. The field will be home to football, soccer, track and field and men’s rugby. This complex is an excellent reminder that life-changing experiences take place in and out of the classroom. Athletics are just one of the many ways Davenport students gain meaningful experiences to Make a Living, Make a Life, and Make a Contribution. Opportunities are still available to support the Farmers Insurance Athletic Complex. For information on making a gift or supporting Davenport University’s mission, please visit davenport.edu/alumni-development/make-contribution or call Jason Madden in the Alumni and Development Office at 616-233-2593.
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Swinging to support student scholarships Thanks to the generous support of 63 sponsors and 240 golfers, more than $100,000 was raised for student scholarships and athletics at the 29th Annual Scholarship Golf Classic. We greatly appreciate everyone who came out to play and those who joined us for dinner and the auction. We are sincerely grateful to all of our sponsors for their generous contributions, including the continuous support of our title sponsor, Integrated Architecture. If you were unable to participate this year but would still like to make a donation to student scholarships or athletics, please visit davenport.edu/gift.
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Major Sponsors: Title Sponsor – Integrated Architecture Beverage Sponsor – West Side Beer Distributing Lunch Sponsors – Fifth Third Bank & Fifth Third Securities Scorecard/Course Sponsor – Michigan Office Solutions Scoring Sponsors – Custer and Nederveld Putting Green Sponsor – Holland Special Delivery Golfer Favor Sponsors – Interphase Interiors and Haworth Cart Sponsor – Rockford Construction Driving Range Sponsors – Cascade Cement Contractors
& Connan, Inc.
5
Golf Committee: Jim Albers, Marcus Bradman, Mike Corby, Erik Dane, Linda Den Hartish, Damon Gonzales, Bill Lettinga, Paul Lowden, Jason Madden, Mike Volk, Bruce Wynalda
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THANKS Davenport University is honored by the support and commitment of many great partners in the communities we serve. It is because of all of YOU — our alumni, staff, faculty and donors — that we can proceed confidently in our mission of preparing students for successful careers and leadership roles in our communities. On behalf of the students, staff and faculty of Davenport University, thank you for your commitment to this institution and your continued support to help DU students “Get Where the World Is Going!” Sincerely, Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D. President
Davenport University expresses its gratitude to the following individuals and organizations for their gifts to the University during the 2014–2015 fiscal year (July 1, 2014–June 30, 2015). Donors are recognized by the giving level as follows:
Investor Club: Gifts of $100,000 or more
Leader Club: Gifts of $50,000–$99,999
David and Carol Van Andel Foundation Fifth Third Bank Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) M.E. Davenport Foundation Peter C. and Emajean Cook Foundation The Richard and Helen DeVos Foundation Kenneth and Carole Yerrick
Alticor, Inc. Amway Corporation Creative Dining Services, Inc. Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation The Dick and Betsy DeVos Family Foundation Internal Revenue Service Rockford Construction Wolverine Worldwide Foundation Wolverine Worldwide, Inc.
Executive Club: Gifts of $10,000–$49,999 Area Community Service Employment & Training Council Barry Community Foundation Franco and Alessandra Bianchi Catherine Buzzitta Joseph and Susan Buzzitta Cumulus Media Farmers Insurance Group Robert and Joyce Hetzler Hi-Tec Building Services Inc.
Brian and Tamra Hogan Howard Miller Clock Company J. C. Huizenga and Tammy Born Integrated Architecture Keith and Kathryn Klingenberg Mary and Blake Krueger Wilbur and Sharon Lettinga William and Rochelle Lettinga Liberty Mutual Group, Inc. Frank and Susan Merlotti
† Deceased Italics — indicates donors that have supported the University for the last five consecutive years or more. *Denotes donor advised funds given through The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area ** Denotes donor advised funds given through the Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund *** Denotes donor advised funds given through the National Christian Foundation
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Michigan Office Solutions The Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation Saint Alphonsus Church The Source Townsquare Media Michael and Michelle Van Dyke Varnum LLP W A Lettinga Investment
THANKS Innovator Club: Gifts of $5,000–$9,999 James and Joy Albers Aquinas College David A. Brandon Foundation Doug and Maria DeVos Foundation Engineered Comfort Systems, Inc. Holland Special Delivery Initech Global, LLC John and Judy Spoelhof John and Judy Spoelhof Foundation
The Estate of Ruth Kilmer Donald Lawless and Sherri Jones Meijer, Inc. Metro Health Hospital Metro Health Sports Medicine Jack H. Miller Dr. Richard and Pam Pappas Public Affairs Associates, Inc. Ronald Rodorigo
Skytron The Steve Van Andel Foundation Town & Country Group, Inc. Van Andel Institute Van Dyken Mechanical, Inc. Dave Veneklase Russel and Mary Warner
“To say I was extremely anxious about returning to school after more than 24 years is truly an understatement. I am a wife and a mother and I work a full-time job. Since attending Davenport University, I have received amazing encouragement and support. I am completing my Associate in Business Administration. I have been on the Dean’s List since my enrollment. Without scholarship patrons willing to support continuing education, this would not have been possible. Your contribution has truly played a part in helping me reach my goals. I sincerely thank you with all of my heart.” Patricia A. Robinson – Senator Glenn D. Steil Endowed Scholarship recipient Ambassador Club: Gifts of $1,000–$4,999 Anonymous (2) Advantage Benefits Group Allied Brands Arthur J. Gallagher & Company of Michigan, Inc. Association of University Programs in Health Administration Astroturf Auditrax, LLC Barnes & Thornburg, LLP Scott Bernecker Joel and Laura Blanchard BlueWater Technologies Ron and Heather Boji Kenneth and Stephanie Bovee Fred and Beverly Braun BrightFormat, Inc. Brooks Family Community Fund*
Brooks Capital Management, LLC Builder’s Iron Inc. John and Marie Canepa Cascade Cement Contracting, Inc. Cascade Engineering, Inc. CBRE The Center for Physical Rehabilitation Chemical Bank Consumers Energy Foundation Dr. Colleen Coughlin Crestmark Equipment Finance Susan Crkovski Paula Cunningham Custer, Inc. David and Karen Custer Dr. Karen and Jack Daley Michael and Debra Door
Eastern Floral & Gift Shop Dr. Scott and Susan Epstein Rami and Rea Fawaz Fifth Third Securities, Inc. The Larry & Judy Fredrick Charitable Fund*** Dan and Michelle Georgevich Gene and Phyllis Gilmore Gilson Graphics, Inc. Mitchell and Jane Glover GMB Architects-Engineers Gordon Food Service Grand Valley State University Donald and Nancy Hamelink Harder & Warner Landscape Contractors, Inc. Hastings Public Library Hauenstein Foundation Doyle A. Hayes, Sr.
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THANKS Ambassador Club: Gifts of $1,000–$4,999, continued Richard Holmes Holmes & Wiseley, P.C. Hope Network Scott and Kimberly Huizenga Huntington National Bank Edward and Angela Igrisan Interphase Office Interiors, Inc. Earle and Kyle Irwin Irwin Seating Company Mark Iveson Michael and Susan Jandernoa Jet’s Pizza Jeff and Rose Karsten Kelly Scott Madison Kent County Office of the Defender Kent District Library - Wyoming Branch KI Furniture Louise and David Kidd Mark and Michelle Kooyers The Korff Foundation Jack J. Korff Arthur and Alberta Kuhn Lacks Enterprises, Inc. James and Clarine Lanting Connie Lettinga and Robert Barto Liberty Mutual Insurance Mike LoMonaco
Timothy and Kimberley Long Bruce and Deb Los Peggy and Donald Luy Donald and Kathleen Maine MCPc Mercy Health Jim and Nancy Meyer Michigan Virtual Charter Academy Midstate Security Company, LLC Midwest Construction Group, Inc. Donna K. Milham MLive Media Group The MSJ Foundation John and Barbara Myaard Northern Trust Old National Bank Walter and Felisa O’Neill Panopoulos Family Foundation** Christos and Joan Panopoulos Parkway Electric & Communications, LLC Patterson Ice Center, LLC Tim Pennings Peppino’s Pizzeria & Sports Grille Todd and Lori Pitts Plante Moran, PLLC David Poock Putnam District Library
Rhoades McKee, PC The Charles E. Schell Foundation Wayne D. Sneath, Ph.D. SoundOff Signal Steelcase, Inc. Jerome P. Subar Foundation Mrs. Judith Subar Robert Sullivan Robert & Timothy Sullivan Scholarship Fund Trust Tournament of Friendship True North Insurance and Financial Strategies Uccello’s Ristorante - Caledonia Universal Forest Products Foundation Brian VanBeveran Roger and Clare VanderLaan James and Mary Veldheer Michael and Janice Volk Vos Glass, Inc. Shelly and Warren Westbrook Shannon Witt Thomas Woods Bruce and LV Wynalda WZZM 13 Bradley and Lacrissa Zuraw Jeffrey and Trisha Zylstra
Grand Rapids Public Museum Jefra Groendyk Dr. Kenneth and Catherine K. Ho Mike Holtvluwer Isaacson, Miller KSS Enterprises Betty LaCroix Lamont Christian School David and Connie Lawrence Lettinga & Associates, LLC - CPAs Tom Lonergan and Fred Buras Bill Mackay Master Tech Services, LLC Gerilyn and Jamie May Barbara A. Mieras, Ph.D. Julie and Andy Milanowski Brian and Megan Miller Matthew and Rachael Miller Charmayne Mulligan Kathryn Mullins Dr. Donald and Alice Nichols
Frank Novakowski Rich and Lisa O’Donovan Joyce Penn Mark and Sara Peters Daniel and Sara Peterson Dr. Dale and Terry Prondzinski Mandee Rick The Right Place, Inc. Dr. Linda Rinker and Dr. Harry Rinker Gwendolyn Seay Linda and Arlyn Sievert Amy Stahley Jacqueline D. Taylor, Ph.D. Technical Academy Group, LLC Todd Wenzel Buick GMC Albert Torres Jan Vander Weide, C.P.A. Aurelio Velasquez Marjolijn van der Velde Ann and Andy Vidro Alan and Carolynn Wright
Builder Club: Gifts of $500–$999 A-1 Asphalt, Inc. Leah and Ryan Aalderink Drs. Kathy and Edward Aboufadel Phillip Allen Michael Allie Barry County Commission on Aging Thaddeus and Irene Bembenista Broadmoor Motor Group, LLC Thomas and Lorna Brown Butterball Farms, Incorporated Jerry and Suzanne Callahan Clean Resources Lynda and Sam Cribari Debora Crudele Michele and Roberto Davis-Jara Dr. Lonnie G. Decker Delton District Library DK Security Ferris and Patricia Finerty David and Judith Frey Dennis and Patricia Gillett
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THANKS Sustainer Club: Gifts of $100–$499 Anonymous (15) Terry and Geraldine Abel Adam Altman Jonathan and Leslie Anderson B & B Maintenance Services, Inc. Jeffry and Lori Babbitt Robert and Kay Babcock Lori Baker and David Koski Jean M. Balcer Paul Beasley Janice and Lachlan Beatson Duane and JoAnn Bedard Ronald and Mary Berg Rick Berkey Roger and Jill Betten, Sr. John and Kathleen Bissell Randolph C. Black Dr. Rhae-Ann Booker Mark and Wynelle Brayman Kevin and Elaine Brazell Frank and Patricia Brechbiel Debra Brondsema Bryan and Debra Brower George and Willa Brown Roger and Esther Brown Thomas and Carna Brown Robert J. Bruggema Donna Burns Bushwood Golf Course Theresa Cardon-Weiss Michael and Lynne Carey The Carl E. & Glenda R. Welmers Charitable Fund*** Bradley and Janelle Carnduff Tim and Deborah Chenoweth Jessica Cheriez Rudolfo and Judith Cifolelli Robert and Mary Clarkson Daryl Cliff and Diane Manko-Cliff Jodi Colby Lyle Converse Scott Cook Barbara A. Craft, J.D. and Dr. John Otterbacher Anne Cramer Linda G. Crosby James Czerew Erik Dane Daniel and Kathleen Davis Paul Davis Jeniece Dawkins Angeline De Santis Guy and Sheryl Dean David and Jane DeBoer Anna M. DeLisle
Betty Deloach Denise Derr Pat DeVoy Tracy Dill Michael Dokter Maureen Downer Jessica Dunn Keri Dutkiewicz Mark and Cynthia Eilander Embassy Suites - Livonia Larry Engelsman Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company of Michigan James and Ginny Farmer Robert Ferrans Kathleen Finkler Christine Fisher Warren and Martha Gant George’s Senate Restaurants David Gillespie Nick and Liz Glaser Joann Gray Hosea Greer Mr. Donald L. Gusfa Craig Haan Judy Haase John and Barbara Habicht Rachel Hahn William and Vicki Hall Kelly Hanke Gerald and Lorraine Hardebeck Arthur and Betsy Hasse James and Jayne Hayden Meredith Healy† Alan and Gail Hering Marylee van den Heuvel Holly M. Hill Brian and Kelly Hobbs Jeff and Becky Hoeks Marie Hojeij Roger and Roberta Horton Stanley Hreneczko Christopher Hughes Allen and Barbara Huston Ronald P. Igrisan Josh and PoWah Isaak Gary and Terry Isham John M. Jaksa Amanda and Jon Jakubowski Frank Jasper-Stump Kirk Jewell Aphrodite Jones Shari Jones Lisa Kagay
Margaret Kaiser Andrew and Heather Kalafut Robin Lee Kauffman David and Beth Keim Harris and Beth Kiekover Betty J. Kingma Ronald Kinsman Debra Kiss and Randy Smolenski Judy Knapp Heather Knechtel Bonnie and Ronald Kopp Jennifer Krueger Rick and Deborah LaMeyer Joseph Lamontagne David and Kirsten Larson Brenda F. Lauer Linda LeSage Melissa S. Lettinga Livonia Chamber of Commerce Sharon E. Long Lynette Love Paul and Lisa Lowden Stuart and Shelley Lowe Amy Lucas Jean M. Luoma, M.A.T. Laura and Joe Macka Colleen and Mark Maire Richard and Beth Martin Christopher L. Marx Janet Maschke David and DuAnne Masselink Timothy McCabe Joseph and Linda McCormick Jerry McKay Jesse Medina Dr. James and Barbara Mendola Daniel and Fawn Meyerholt Michigan NonProfit Association Scott Miller Kathy Miner Gary Mitchell William and Marijane Molag Jerrid Mooney Fredrick Morley Matthew and Wendy Morrow Kenneth and Phyllis Neitzel Mary and Rick Nelsen Kristy Nelson Lynn Nelson Woldemar and Joann Nikkel Wendy Norton and Timothy Westdorp Brad Nyhoff Janice and Jack O’Donnell
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THANKS Sustainer Club: Gifts of $100–$499, continued Susan Offenbecker Marilyn Oliver Amy Ostrow Duane and Betty Overbeek Judith and Steven Penning Kenneth and Ramona Phillips Patricia Phillips Ms. Susan Porrett Jessica Powers Eric R. Pung Rita and Edward Rahe Shawn Raymond Thomas Reeder Resendes Design Group, LLC Jamie Rhine Frank and Sue Roder James and Leanna Rollins Dianna Rose Gabriel and Melissa Rousseau Patricia and David Sabol Shubhada Sagdeo Thomas and Michelle Sall McCall Salmon Jacquolyn Sawyer Deborah A. Schoenwether Andrea Shacks
Richard and Mary Shirey Robert Shubitowski Harold and Monica Skinner Michael and Betsy Sleva Mark and Debra Smith Soil and Materials Engineers, Inc. Linda Sorensen Linda Spang Terrence M. Start Scott Stevens Mary Sullivan Daniel Swartzinski Bruce and Karla Ter Haar Ross and Cindy Thompson Craig Timmerman Nancy Titmus Trans Tech Automotive Group, LLC Kevin and Erin Tryon David and Danielle Tyler Richard S. and Suzanne Unger US Bank Dale and Diane VanAllsburg Gordon and Judith VanAmburg John and Patricia VanderHeide Gerald and Diane VanderLugt Ron and Katherine VanDragt
Randall and Laurie VanHouten James and Juliet Veneziano Venture Creations, LLC Valerie A. Villalta Peter and Natalie Villemure James A. Von Ins, C.P.A. Mark A. Vroman Dr. Elmer H. Vruggink Kelvin Wabeke Alan L. Walczak Floyd Walton, Jr. Kelly and Bob Wandel Scott Wang Ruth Washburn Tyrus and Kathy Wessell, Jr. West Michigan Beverage Steve and Susan Wiersum Susan L. Wilder Amy and Robert Wilkins Ben and Bridget Williams Michael Williams Jennifer Phillips Wilson Lee and Marty Witt Arthur Wright Maria Ziegler Sabrina Zoppa
David Barnes Geraldine Barnes Lesha Barnes John and Gwendolyn Bartels John and Arlene Battjes Kenneth and Christine Beaujean Beverly and James Beckem Kenneth and Nancy Bekkering Jeanine L. Bellinger Anne Benson Ronald and Suzanne Berg Denny and Jaye Lynn Bergers Douglas Bergman Thomas L. Bergy, C.P.A. Ralph and Dianne Berndtson Jerome and Doreen Bernier Better World Books Karen and John Beukema Patti M. Bierlein Joseph D. Bishop Dennis and Belva Bobeldyk Dawn M. Bower
Mrs. Tina Branch-Dawson Sara Brondsema Scott A. Brouwer Marsha F. Brubaker Eleanor Bryant Harold W. Bryant, III Ronald and Suzanne Burrows Kelvin and Kimberly Busscher Lita Byers Bartell H. Bylsma Lenora Bynum Orletta Caldwell Cardinal Health Foundation Inc. Becky Chamberlin Steven and Sandra Champion William and Linda Chase Louise Chronowski Richard and Carolyn Chudik David and Amy Clark Cynthia Clarke Kenneth and Dorothy Clemens Rachel and Mark Clover
Initiator Club: Gifts of $1–$99 Jone K. Aardema Dennis D. Abraham Edward Alberts Leo and Denise Alberts Lester and Patricia Albright Joanne Alford Kimberley Alleman William and Stacey Aman Deborah and James Anderson Martha Anderson Robert and Christine Anderson Charles and Sharon Andrews Amy and Martin Angell David and Corine Anthony Lonn and Patricia Ashbrook Jill and James Avery B52 Express Oil Change & Car Wash Dorothy H. Badynee Patrick and Karina Bak Shevella Banks Crystal Bankston Cheryl Barbera
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THANKS Initiator Club: Gifts of $1–$99, continued Rachel D. Connell Byron and Jacquelyn Converse Mark and Mary Ann Corey Steven and Perpetua Crawford Jeffery and Trudy Crowley William and Ann Cusack Donald and Barbara Czurak Steven and Cynthia Damstra Randall H. Darnell Jessica L Dawson-Will and Dustin E. Will Joseph and Loretta De Santis Steven and Lori DeForest Michael and Melinda DeJong Ronald and Katherine DeKiep Ann DeLeeuw Decker Gregory and Janice Despres Robert L. Diamond Dr. Betsy L. Diegel Jacob and Harriet Diehm Roy and Kim Dingman Nancy S. Doane Scott and Doni Driemeier-Showers Eileen Edwards Electric Sales & Creative Marketing, LLC Alberic and Cindy Emery Dawn M. England Monna Essenberg Phillip M. Fascetti and Marcie Muir Harold and Dawn Fischer Flint Alumni Council Soraida Flores Kenneth Fortier Gregory Foster Ronald and Susan Foster Maria Franco Carl and Barbara Franken Deborah Fraser Lois Frazier Stacy Frazier Jones and John Jones David and Marni Fredrickson Edward and Emma Freeland Ronald and Jane French Laura Frey James and Linda Fridsma Bradley and Joan Fry Lenardo Gambril Debra Gannon Aura Gardner Arthur and Cheryl Garner Kathleen Garrett James and M. Garvelink Gregg and Debra Garver Pamela Garza
Laurel J. George Tim and Lori Gifford Deann Giles Terika Gillam Kathleen S. Glovick Garret Goosen Annette J. Gootjes Raymond A. Gornowich Rodney Gouine Stanley A. Gracki Michael and Therese Graham Thomas and Linda Greenfield C. Robert Gudbrandson John E. Gurney Mackenzie D. Hacker Beverly H. Haglund Marvin and Delores Haight Catherine B. Haney W. Larry Hanlin Erik and Boni Hansen Marilyn J. Hartley-Kik Daryl L. Hassevoort Chad and Kimberly Hathcock Scott A. Hattan Cheryl E. Haverdink G. Thomas and Dierdra Hazen Paul Hebert Mark and Terri Heeren Darlene Herndon David Hewson Allen and Karen Hibbler Don Hill Michelle and Jeffrey Hill Kipp and Kathy Hofmeyer Mr. Michael E. Hohf James and Ruth Holkeboer Calvin J. Hoogstra Sara Hop Joy L. Horning Raymond Horrocks James and Cynthia Housel Terrelene A. Hovis Kenneth Howe Scot and Carol Hubbard Thomas and Amber Hunt Beverly J. Inderbitzen Bernard Jackson and Sharon Spencer-Jackson Richard Jensen Raymond and Sena Jingles Clara Johnson David and Susan Johnson Lisa Johnson Warren and Elizabeth Johnson
Karen R. Jones Robert J. Julien Eugene and Shirley Kallio Timothy L. Kalota C. Louise King Michael and Patricia King Daryl and Dana Kingrey Kelley Kipfmiller Darrell and Cheryl Kirby Daniel J. Klanseck Michael Klosowski Mr. and Mrs. Doug Knapp Jay and Evelyn Koets Delphine A. Kolacki Gary and Cheryl Korman John and Lynne Kotarski James and Eleita Kotke Nicholas Kraska Mark Lang Clayton Laturneau Carlos and Kathleen Ledezma Janeen C. Lemke Mark and Marcella Lewis Marvin I. Libby Andrew and Alice Limber David and Carolyn Lind Valerie A. Lockridge James and Margaret Lothschutz Christi Lower Tonia Lowery Henry and Geraldine Lucas John J. Lucas Shari A. Ludwa Jason and Jennifer Madden Joyce L. Mannor Albert and Cynthia Mansen Charles and Michelle Mason Holly Matewicz Cynthia Matson Catherine McAuliffe Brook McDougall James and Cynthia McGrath Michael McMahon Brandi Melkild Leo and Janet Miller Douglas and Kathleen Ming Mary Minjeur Gregory and Wilma Mitchell Keitha T. Mitchell Sarah A. Mitchell Susan Mitchell Samantha Mol Timothy and Suzanne Monck
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THANKS Initiator Club: Gifts of $1–$99, continued Kyle Moore Regina M. Moore Stephanie Moss Bonnie Mroczek Alice Mulkey Michael J. Munson Thomas and Kristi Nessner Net Plus Connections Roxanne Newhouse Michael and Goldie Nicholas Roxann M. Nichols Jack and Paula Nienhuis Wesley and Mary Norden Herbert and Carol Norris William and Nancy Norris Meghan Olivier James Outland Randall and Kari Patton Louise Pawlowski Marcia G. Pell Dan and Rebecca Pennington Nolan Peters Eric Peterson Bill and Barb Peuler The Pfizer Foundation Jan Phinisee Patrick and Deidre Piechocki Amy Pierce Angela Plainte David and Shelley Plambeck PNC Bank Tim and Vickie Poel Audrey Poole Jacquelyn Porter Gregory and Lynn Powers Robert and Rosalie Pulaski Janice Putt Quantum Leap Communications, Inc. Mr. Frank D. Radeck, Jr. Lisa Rader-Gulch Gary and Donna Ranger David and Carol Reames Terry and Laura Reese Dirk and Valerie Richardson Michael and Deanne Richter Tara L. Rietberg Richard and Barbara Rinella Kristin and Edward Ritsema
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Rockford Components Larry and Mary Roelofs Emily Rosenzweig James Rouse Stacy Russell Ronald Rutherford Barbara A. Rynbrandt Brandy Rypma Jimmy Sabin Robert and E. Ellen Sadler†Penny Sage Willie J. Sanders Michael Scanlon Hal Schichtel Michael and Marcia Schierbeek Brian and Connie Scott Kristil Semrau Beverly Seymour Richard and Denise Sherman Aaron D. Shoemaker Lindsey Shull Kristie A. Slancik Carol Duylea Sluis Linda Smith Peggy J. Smith Warren T. Smith William Snyder Randall and Arla Spaman Robert and Carol Spaman Pamela Squire Bruce and Karen Sterk Mark Stewart Mary D. Stewart Brian and Laurel Stiehl Robin M. Stoner, C.P.A. Margaret A. Sullivan Michael and Shelley Swope Janice Sylvertooth Elizabeth and Jeffrey Szubinski Janet Taglauer Jean Tata Barbara L. Taylor David and Ruth Taylor Rick and Paula Terpsma Marylee Thiry LaTeasha Thomas Kyle and Carol Thornton Hubert and Tena Timmer
Gary and Joan Titus Richard and Marjorie Tomczak Nick Toyeas Joseph Trimew George and Ingrid Tuinstra Anthony Valore, Jr. and Judy Valore Jaime and Kirk Van Essen Andrew and Ashley Van Manen Marvin and Toots Vander Wall Donald and Joyce VanDoeselaar Calvin and Pamela VanDyke Donald and Arlene VanGelderen Laura A. VanRy Jack and Gertrude VanStee Randall and Gail VanVels Rolland J. Varner Richard and Amy Veenhoven Cara D. Vilders Calvin and Debra Vis Duane and Kathy Vosburg Tom and Mary Vryhof Steven and Diane Vugteveen Janice Walker Robert and Susan Walters Mrs. Toria B. Ward-Gilkey Mr. and Mrs. Robert Ware Nelda R. Warren Jack and Kathleen Washburn Ms. Cassandra Washington Catherine M. Wasson Rasheedah Wazeerud-Din Claire Webb Wells Fargo Foundation Ralph and Michele Westbrook Barbara Westenberg John White Maryelise White Alvin C. Whited Phyllis K. Wier Gladys A. Wierenga Robert Wilkins John Wilson Shirley and Robert Wirth Gary and Gail Wohlscheid Gerald and Leslie Yon Richard and Barbara Young Craig and Helen Zeerip Kathleen Zickel
THANKS Staff Circle Anonymous(17) Leah and Ryan Aalderink Drs. Kathy and Edward Aboufadel Jean M. Balcer Paul Beasley Beverly and James Beckem Thaddeus and Irene Bembenista Ronald and Mary Berg Ronald and Suzanne Berg Joseph D. Bishop Denton Bobeldyk Dr. Rhae-Ann Booker Frank and Patricia Brechbiel Debra Brondsema Roger and Esther Brown Thomas and Carna Brown Jerry and Suzanne Callahan Theresa Cardon-Weiss Tim and Deborah Chenoweth Jessica Cheriez Robert and Mary Clarkson Jodi Colby Dr. Colleen Coughlin Barbara A. Craft, J.D. and Dr. John Otterbacher Lynda and Sam Cribari Susan Crkovski Linda G. Crosby Debora Crudele Dr. Karen and Jack Daley Erik K. Dane Michele and Roberto Davis-Jara David and Jane DeBoer Dr. Lonnie G. Decker Betty Deloach Denise Derr Pat DeVoy Dr. Betsy L. Diegel Tracy Dill Michael Dokter Jessica Dunn Keri Dutkiewicz Dr. Scott and Susan Epstein Ferris and Patricia Finerty Kathleen Finkler Christine Fisher Gregory Foster Deborah Fraser Stacy Frazier Jones and John Jones Bradley and Joan Fry Kathleen Garrett Dan and Michelle Georgevich David Gillespie Nick and Liz Glaser
Hosea Greer Rachel Hahn Kelly Hanke W. Larry Hanlin James and Jayne Hayden Holly M. Hill Jeff and Becky Hoeks Marie Hojeij Raymond Horrocks Thomas and Amber Hunt Allen and Barbara Huston Josh and PoWah Isaak Mark Iveson John M. Jaksa Frank Jasper-Stump Clara Johnson Aphrodite Jones Shari Jones Lisa Kagay Jeff and Rose Karsten Robin Lee Kauffman Louise and David Kidd Michael and Patricia King Ronald Kinsman Debra Kiss and Randy Smolenski Judy Knapp Heather Knechtel Jennifer Krueger Joseph Lamontagne Brenda F. Lauer David and Connie Lawrence Tom Lonergan and Fred Buras Paul and Lisa Lowden Stuart and Shelley Lowe Amy Lucas Shari A. Ludwa Jean M. Luoma, M.A.T. Peggy and Donald Luy Laura and Joe Macka Jason and Jennifer Madden Daryl Cliff and Diane Manko-Cliff Janet Maschke Timothy McCabe Jesse Medina Brandi Melkild Julie and Andy Milanowski Donna K. Milham Brian and Megan Miller Matthew and Rachael Miller Scott Miller Kathy Miner Gary Mitchell Keitha T. Mitchell
Sarah A Mitchell Susan Mitchell Fredrick Morley Douglas and Karen Mosier Charmayne Mulligan Mary and Rick Nelsen Frank Novakowski Rich and Lisa O’Donovan Susan Offenbecker Meghan Olivier Walter and Felisa O’Neill Amy Ostrow Dr. Richard and Pam Pappas Joyce Penn Tim Pennings Patricia Phillips Jan Phinisee Todd and Lori Pitts David Poock Susan Porrett Jessica Powers Dr. Dale and Terry Prondzinski Eric R. Pung Janice Putt Shawn Raymond Thomas Reeder Jamie Rhine Dr. Linda Rinker and Dr. Harry Rinker Frank and Sue Roder James and Leanna Rollins Gabriel and Melissa Rousseau Shubhada Sagdeo Thomas and Michelle Sall Deborah A. Schoenwether Gwendolyn Seay Andrea Shacks Robert Shubitowski Lindsey Shull Linda and Arlyn Sievert Michael and Betsy Sleva Mark and Debby Smith Wayne D. Sneath, Ph.D. William Snyder Linda Sorensen Linda Spang Amy Stahley Scott Stevens Mark Stewart Daniel Swartzinski Janice Sylvertooth David and Ruth Taylor Marylee Thiry Hubert and Tena Timmer
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THANKS Staff Circle, continued Michael and Janice Volk Kelly and Bob Wandel Scott Wang Maryelise White Ben and Bridget Williams John Wilson Lee and Marty Witt
Nancy Titmus David and Danielle Tyler Marylee van den Heuvel Marjolijn van der Velde Aurelio Velasquez Dave Veneklase James and Juliet Veneziano
Shannon Witt Thomas Woods Alan and Carolynn Wright Arthur Wright Maria Ziegler Sabrina Zoppa Bradley and Lacrissa Zuraw
“The scholarships I received changed my life. I would not have been able to go to school to become a nurse without the support of DU donors. Davenport is setting me up for success.” – Cassandra Hester – Droski, Lindsay & Meyers Endowed Scholarship and
Martin Morales Minority Endowed Scholarship recipient
The Davenport University Legacy Society Members of this society are recognized for their generous support of the university through deferred or estate gifts. These donors are contributing substantially toward Davenport’s long-term growth and its vitality for years to come. The Legacy Society allows the university to thank donors today for the gifts of tomorrow, which will benefit our students long into the future. For further information about how you can be part of the Legacy Society, please contact the Office of Alumni & Development at 616-233-3413. Anonymous (2) William H. Anderson Sue E. Andrews Anne M. Benson Franco and Alessandra Bianchi Nancy S. Boese Ron and Heather Boji Fred G. Braun Janell M. Brickley Gail I. Brink Jack E. Brothers† Ellen W. Brown Thomas H. Brown, Ph.D. Sharon S. Burgis Sharon M. Buursma Joe Buzzitta Linda L. Byington Gerald D. Callahan, Ph.D. Matthew C. Cawood, Ph.D. Robert S. Chapla Molly A. Charles John D. Cichy, Ph.D. Cynthia E. Claus Peter C. Cook† James DeBoer, Jr.†and Joy Deboer
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Kenneth H. DeHaan† James R. Doane Thomas E. Dulude† Ronald E. Falk Larry D. Fredricks Carol E. Greene† Norma A Hansen Doyle A. Hayes, Sr. Barbara J. Huston William W. Idema† Suzanne M. Kenyon Ruth Kilmer† Keith A. Klingenberg David Ladd Wilbur A. Lettinga Sharon Lettinga Jean M. Luoma Peggy and Donald Luy James E. McCarty Frank and Susan Merlotti Barbara A. Mieras, Ph.D. Peter H. Moll Diane Mulder Michael J. Munson John H. Myaard
Kevin B. O’Halla† Joan A. Peterson Timothy J. Pixley Debra A. Ralya E. Ellen Sadler† Peter Secchia David Sellars Bobby J. Springer Glenn D. Steil† Stephanie L. Hehl Stotenbur Edwin W. Thauer Lenora Triggs Janice K. Twork Fred E. Vandenberg† Lynne A. Vander Wall Marvin L. Vander Wall Dave Veneklase John D. Waite Kathleen Warners Steven J. Wessell E. Allen Wetherell Bruce A. Wynalda Harold F. Zahm† Michele Zuidema
THANKS Davenport University Foundation Scholarships and Program Funds The Davenport University Foundation is tremendously grateful to the individuals, families and organizations who support annual and endowed scholarships at Davenport. 100% of all contributions designated for scholarship support reach DU students, assisting them as they work toward completing their education and attaining a degree. The scholarships listed here were available to award for the 2014–15 academic year. For further information about how you can establish a scholarship or program fund in your name and help deserving students earn an education, please contact the Office of Alumni & Development at 616-233-3413.
Annual Scholarships Hearst Foundations Nursing Scholars Accounting Annual Scholarship Alumni Association General Scholarship Amical Foundation/Donald J. Phillips Annual Scholarship Battle Creek Employees Annual Scholarship Bob Clarkson Annual Scholarship Cindy Thompson Saginaw Medical Assistant Annual Scholarship Dave Veneklase and Family Annual Scholarship Davenport University Online Annual Scholarship Donald G. and Peggy S. Luy Annual Scholarship Donald W. Maine College of Business Annual Scholarship
Farmers Insurance Annual Scholarship Flint Campus Annual Scholarship Foster G. McGaw Annual Scholarship Holland Campus Annual Scholarship Honors Accounting Annual Scholarship Kalamazoo Campus Annual Scholarship Kenneth Krug Memorial Scholarship for the College of Technology Lansing Campus Annual Scholarship LAUP Annual Scholarship Linda Haberaecker Memorial Scholarship for Women in Technology
Livonia Campus Annual Scholarship Lynda and Sam Cribari Annual Scholarship Mandee Rick Annual Scholarship Midland Campus Annual Scholarship Saginaw Campus Annual Scholarship Student Veterans of America Annual Scholarship Study Abroad Annual Scholarship Tim and Bob Sullivan Annual Scholarship Tournament of Friendship Annual Scholarship Traverse City Campus Annual Scholarship Warren Campus Annual Scholarship Yvette Russell Annual Scholarship
Carol J. Adams Endowed Scholarship Carroll & Frances Streeter Endowed Scholarship Casey J. Cnossen, Jr. Endowed Scholarship Charles “Andy” Anderson Memorial Endowed Scholarship Charles and Stella Royce Endowed Scholarship Charles F. and Helen Harrison Endowed Scholarship Chemical Bank Endowed Scholarship Chris and Joan Panopoulos Endowed Scholarship Colleen Wolfe Endowed Scholarship College of Health Professions Endowed Scholarship Comerica Bank Endowed Scholarship Community Choice Credit Union Endowed Scholarship Custer Workplace Interiors Scholarship Daniel and Michelle Georgevich Endowed Scholarship Daoud Foundation Endowed Scholarship Davenport University Employees Endowed Scholarship Davenport University Memorial Scholarship David and Judy Frey Endowed Scholarship David J. Steenstra, Ph.D. Endowed Scholarship Dearborn Agency (R. Putnam & K. Cude) Endowed Scholarship Dearborn Exchange Club Endowed Scholarship Detroit College of Business Alumni Scholarship Donald and Nancy Hamelink Endowed Scholarship Door Family Accounting Endowed Scholarship Dr. Alberta Muirhead Endowed Scholarship Dr. Charles and Sydell Pappas Endowed Scholarship
Dr. Donald and Alice Nichols Endowed Scholarship Dr. James & Barbara Mendola Endowed Scholarship Dr. Robert and Christine Funaro Endowed Scholarship Dr. Robert W. Sneden Endowed Scholarship Dr. Ronald Bartson Memorial Scholarship Dr. Woldemar H. Nikkel Endowed Scholarship Droski, Lindsay & Meyers Endowed Scholarship DU Alumni Association Panther Ambassador Scholarship Award Dykhouse Construction Endowed Scholarship E. Scott Derr Memorial Scholarship Ed and Mako Bauer Endowed Scholarship Edna Losgar and Marilyn Losgar Smith Memorial Scholarship Edward and Sandra Hanenburg Endowed Scholarship Eleanor Spidell Endowed Scholarship Elmer Vruggink, Ph.D. Endowed Scholarship Elton Carl and Margaret E. Twork (Underwood) Endowed Scholarship Emerson G. McCarty East Endowed Scholarship Emerson G. McCarty West Memorial Scholarship Engineered Comfort Systems, Inc. Endowed Scholarship Entrepreneurial Endowed Scholarship Fairlane Car Wash Endowed Scholarship Fifth Third Bank Endowed Scholarship Flechsig Family Endowed Scholarship Foundation Board Endowed Scholarship
Endowed Scholarships Alan G. Hering Endowed Scholarship Alfred and Eleanor Dinsmore Endowed Nursing Scholarship Alpha Iota of Grand Rapids Endowed Scholarship Alticor Inc. Endowed Scholarship Alumni Legacy Endowed Scholarship Amy Barnaby Memorial Endowed Scholarship Angeline Keller Endowed Scholarship Anna B. McPherson, RN Endowed Scholarship Antoinette (Toni) Wykstra Memorial Endowed Scholarship Art and Betsy Hasse Endowed Scholarship Aubrey J. Terbrack Endowed Scholarship Bank of America Endowed Scholarship Barbara A. Mieras, Ph.D. Endowed Scholarship Batts Foundation Endowed Scholarship BDO USA, LLP Endowed Scholarship Bernard & Jean VanderVeen Endowed Scholarship Bernice G. Rudzinski Memorial Endowed Scholarship Beta Endowed Scholarship Betty Igrisan Memorial Endowed Scholarship Blaise Newman Memorial Endowed Scholarship Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland Endowed Scholarship Brooks Beverage Management Endowed Scholarship Bruce & Lavina Wynalda Endowed Scholarship Bruce W. Gilmore Memorial Endowed Scholarship C. Dexter & Sandra Rohm Endowed Scholarship Canteen Services, Inc. Scholarship
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THANKS “My motivation for continuing my college career is, without a doubt, people like you who are supporting me. There is nothing I can say to truly thank you enough for your generous donation. You have inspired me to work harder, knowing that there is someone other than myself who is counting on me to do well. Thank you once again for your support that reminds me that my success in college matters.” –Courtney Page – William and Beatrice Idema Endowed Scholarship recipient Endowed Scholarships, continued Frank Breukink Memorial Scholarship Fred E. and Gretchen Vandenberg Endowed Scholarship GE Aviation Endowed Scholarship Geerlings Development/Scott Geerlings Endowed Scholarship George L. Young Memorial Scholarship Gerrit and June Kamphouse Endowed Scholarship GM Lansing Women’s Club Endowed Scholarship Godwin Hardware & Plumbing Endowed Scholarship Gordon H. Poll Memorial Scholarship Grand Rapids Press Minority Endowed Scholarship GunnLevine Architects Endowed Scholarship H.B. Shaine & Company, Inc. Endowed Scholarship H.J. Heinz Company Endowed Scholarship H.S. Die & Engineering Endowed Scholarship Helen Frays Memorial Scholarship Helen L. and Dallas L. Darling Endowed Scholarship Henry and Carolyn Bouma Endowed Scholarship Herman and Jennie VanderLaan Memorial Scholarship Herman Miller Inc. Endowed Scholarship Howard Miller Company Endowed Scholarship Hugh and Melbarose Wichert Endowed Scholarship Huntington National Bank Endowed Scholarship Hy and Greta Berkowitz Memorial Scholarship Interphase Office Systems Endowed Scholarship Irving and Birdella White Endowed Scholarship Islamic Institute Expression of Gratitude Endowed Scholarship Jack E. Brothers Endowed Scholarhip Jacqueline D. Taylor Endowed Scholarship James A. Farmer, Sr. Endowed Scholarship James and Clarine Lanting Calvin Christian Schools Endowed Scholarship James N. DeBoer, Jr. (Metropolitan Hospital) Endowed Scholarship James R. and Clarine L. Lanting Endowed Scholarship Jane Wetherell Memorial Scholarship Janice K. Stauffer Memorial Scholarship
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Jason Bruso Memorial Scholarship Jean E. Lindsey Memorial Scholarship Jean F. Kinsman Memorial Scholarship Jenny Engle Endowed Nursing Scholarship Jerry and Judy Subar Endowed Scholarship Jerry and Suzanne Callahan Endowed Scholarship Jim and Ginger Jurries Endowed Scholarship John A. and Elinore Mulder Endowed Scholarship John and Judy Spoelhof Endowed Scholarship John and Mildred Burt Endowed Scholarship John David Endowed Scholarship John Dishaw Memorial Scholarship John H. Myaard Endowed Scholarship John P. Keller Endowed Scholarship John S. Vander Heide, III Memorial Scholarship Johnson Controls Endowed Scholarship Josephine M. and John Oonk Jr. Memorial Scholarship Judith A. Lettinga Memorial Scholarship Kalamazoo Employees Endowed Scholarship Kane Group, Inc. Endowed Scholarship Kane Group, Inc. Endowed Scholarship (Grand Rapids Area) Kathryn and Harold Zahm Memorial Scholarship Kathryn L. Wiese Endowed Scholarship Keith and Kathryn Klingenberg Endowed Scholarship Kenneth and Carole Yerrick Endowed Scholarship Kenneth H. & Carlene R. DeHaan Scholarship Kevin L. Rotman Memorial Scholarship Knape and Vogt Manufacturing Co. Endowed Scholarship Kristin M. Ten Harmsel Anderson Memorial Scholarship Larry D. and Judith C. Fredricks Endowed Scholarship Les Lindsay Endowed Scholarship Linda L. Benedict Sales & Marketing Scholarship Linda R. Lindsay Byington Endowed Scholarship Lisa Trombley Endowed Scholarship Lou Holtz Foundation Endowed Athletic Scholarship
Louis V. and Catherine Buzzitta Endowed Scholarship Lumbermen’s Incorporated Endowed Scholarship M.E. Davenport Family Endowed Scholarship Maine Family Memorial Scholarship Marble and Tile (Dr. William Piersante) Endowed Scholarship Martin Morales Minority Endowed Scholarship Marvin “Red” Brummel Memorial Scholarship Mary Kay Lettinga Memorial Scholarship Mary Walsh Kole Memorial Scholarship Mary Warner Endowed Scholarship Matthew Brian Feko Memorial Scholarship Max and Micki Young Endowed Scholarship McDonald Plumbing Endowed Scholarship Meijer, Inc. Endowed Scholarship MI Food and Beverage Assoc. (Deeb) Endowed Scholarship Michael and Connie Lettinga Endowed Scholarship Michael Berry Endowed Scholarship Michael D. Allie Endowed Scholarship Michael D. Davis Endowed Scholarship Michigan Office Solutions Endowed Scholarship Midwest Health Center (Dr. Mark Saffer) Endowed Scholarship Mila Crkovski Endowed Scholarship MJK Architects Engineers Planners, Inc. Scholarship Ned Fawaz Expression of Gratitude Endowed Scholarship Nichole Lake Memorial Scholarship Nilda Caceres Memorial Scholarship P. Robert and Charlene Vanderson Endowed Scholarship Patrick and Katherine Mullen Endowed Scholarship Paul Ames Memorial Scholarship Paula Brown - Warren Campus - Endowed Scholarship Pauline Roskam Memorial Scholarship Perrigo Company Endowed Scholarship Peter C. and Emajean Cook Endowed Scholarship Powell Moving and Storage, Inc. Endowed Scholarship
THANKS Endowed Scholarships, continued Ralph, Berniece and Ralph, Jr. Damstra Endowed Scholarship Rhonda Goodyke-Hoorn Memorial Scholarship Richard and Gretchen Tierney Endowed Scholarship Robert and Ellen Sadler Endowed Scholarship Robert and Ellie Kunkel Endowed Scholarship Robert and Helen Jean Schmiedicke Endowed Scholarship Robert J. and Inez M. McBain Endowed Scholarship Robert J. DenHerder Memorial Scholarship Robert L. Hooker, Jr. and Michelle Harmody Endowed Scholarship Robert T. Orlikowski Memorial Scholarship Robert W. and Margaret D. Sneden Endowed Scholarship Rockford Construction Company, Inc. Endowed Scholarship Roger and Clare VanderLaan East Endowed Scholarship Roger and Clare VanderLaan Endowed Scholarship for the Lettinga Campus Roger and Clare VanderLaan West Endowed Scholarship
Roger E. Erickson Memorial Scholarship Roger W. O’Halla Endowed Scholarship Ron Zoulek Memorial Scholarship Ronald D. Brady Endowed Scholarship Ronald E. Falk Endowed Scholarship Rosemary Braun Memorial Scholarship Rudolfo and Judith Cifolelli Endowed Scholarship Russel Warner Endowed Scholarship Sandra Scoville (Flint Campus) Endowed Scholarship Sara Lee Endowed Scholarship Senator Glenn D. Steil Memorial Endowed Scholarship Sharon Lettinga Endowed Scholarship Southeast Michigan Alumni Endowed Scholarship SpartanNash Endowed Scholarship Stephen A. and Ruth Stream Endowed Scholarship Thomas A. Carey Endowed Scholarship Thomas Deem Endowed Scholarship Thomas F. Dulude Memorial Scholarship Thomas Fisher Reed Memorial Scholarship Thomas H. Brown, Ph.D. Endowed Scholarship
Gifts In Honor
Gifts In Memory
Matthew Iveson Donald W. Maine Joshua Vandegriff Michael VerMerris
Jeff Gustinis Betty Igrisan Dan Litson Arstric and Ben Oliver Skyler Snyder-Pitts Janice K. Stauffer
Tim and Diane Mulder Endowed Scholarship TrueNorth Companies Endowed Scholarship Tyrus R. Wessell Endowed Scholarship Universal Forest Products Endowed Scholarship Van Dyken Mechanical Endowed Scholarship Vander Wall Family Memorial Scholarship Varnum Endowed Scholarship Voetberg Endowed Scholarship for Students with Disabilities Volk Family Endowed Scholarship West Side Beer Distributing Endowed Scholarship Wilbur A. Lettinga Endowed Scholarship William and Beatrice Idema Endowed Scholarship William and Rochelle Lettinga Endowed Scholarship William R. Heible Memorial Scholarship William R. Kingma Memorial Scholarship Wilma D. Brudy Memorial Scholarship
Gifts In Kind Aquinas College Area Community Service Employment & Training Council Barry Community Foundation Barry County Commission on Aging BlueWater Technologies BrightFormat, Inc. Broadmoor Motor Group, LLC BZP Pro Cumulus Media
DADDS Magic Bus, Inc. Delton District Library Eastern Floral & Gift Shop Gilson Graphics, Inc. Hastings Public Library Hope Network Kent District Library - Wyoming Branch KI Furniture Lamont Christian School Maple Hill Golf Course, Inc.
Meijer, Inc. Microsoft MLive Media Group Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt Peppino’s Pizzeria & Sports Grille Putnam District Library Saint Alphonsus Church The Source Townsquare Media Uccello’s Ristorante - Caledonia
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THANKS Panther Athletic Fund Club The Panther Athletic Fund is dedicated to providing financial support for intercollegiate athletics at Davenport University and helping the Panther student athletes, coaches and athletic staff achieve success on and off the field. For more information, visit davenport.edu/paf.
Banner Advertisers B52 Express Oil Change & Car Wash Berger Chevrolet Big Apple Bagels Broadmoor Motor Group, LLC The Center for Physical Rehabilitation Hi-Tec Building Services Jet’s Pizza Jostens Metro Health Sports Medicine Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company Parkway Electric & Communications, LLC Peppino’s Pizzeria & Sports Grille
Panther Athletic Fund Donors 7-Eleven Orison and Addie Abel Absolute Advertising Albert and Vivian Albanese David and Melissa Allen AMG Business Centers Edward Anderson Lindsay Andrade Phillip and Victoria Annese Glenn and Sylvia Baird Jovita Baker Todd and Lisa Baker Susan Baranski Gerald Bargowski Bruce and Eloise Baxter Matthew S. and Shari Berger Robert and Linda Beukema Robert Blovsky Denton Bobeldyk Robert Boerema Edward and Arlene Boss Scott Boss Shawn and Kristine Bowen Mary K. Boyd John Brandt Tina Brandt Alan and Dawn Brinningstaull Ashley and Joshua Burgess Carol Butzer Marsha Butzer Celebration Cinema Raymond Troth and Sharon K. Chambers Peter and Nanvy Chargo
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Rosemary Cheslock Frank and Frances Ciaramitaro James and Tina Cisler Lori and Doug Clancy Michael Clay Clean Resources Troy and Louann Click Virginia Click Mr. and Mrs. Dave O. Clouse J.M. Clouse Paul and Amy Clouse David and Laura Coletta Charles and Dawn Collard Dannie and Robin Collins Sue and Tom Cowen Victoria Creechan CRS Sales Enterprises, LLC Lynnette and Daniel Cunningham Kathleen Dattulo Curtis Davis Debeau Construction James and Penny Debeau Michael and Mary Debeau Barbara Deckinga Frederic and Sary Denise Karlyn Deveau Norman DeVries Steven DeVries Miranda Doan Kirk and Barb Doane Therese and Ernst Drawert James J. Dunne John Durkin John and Shelanne Durkin Rohan Eli Rupert Eli Janine Eloff John and Phyllis Elzinga Richard and Judy Epstein Etna Supply Company Fairlane Dental Laboratory, Inc. Timothy Fatum Allen and Vicki Filipski Arlene Ann Filipski and Catherine M. Steller Paul and Mary Filipski Donald and Joan Foote Phyllis Ford Edwin and Sally Gall Ellen Gallagher
Jane Garner Lucille Goerbig James and Betty Gonyo Thomas and Christine Gooch Goodman Dairy Farm, LLC Danielle Greear James and Virginia Green Ronald Green Timothy and Karen Green Edward and Rhonda Grochowalski Glen and Janet Haight Richard and Teri Hanchon Andrea Hartman Ricky and Nancy Hayes Richard M. Haynes Constance and Robert Heintz Robert and Kristine Heintz Constance and Donald Hendges Henn Film Company, LLC Earl Hilaski Jerry and Pamela Hoag Howard and Linda Hoffenkamp Gerald and Linda Hoge Michael Hoge Michael Holtvluwer Kevin and Shellie Hubert Melvin and Jule Huhn Timothy and Susie Hulst Catherine and Chris Huntley Arlyn Jansen Evan Jansen Gregory and Lynda Jansen Henry and Suzette Jaskie Christine Johnson Jerry and Denise Johnson Kenneth S. Johnson Charles Karas Keb Management Services, LLC George Kelly Steven and Deborah Kissane Dorthy Koblack Francis Kolenic Carolyn Koszegi Katherine Kuzava Laux Construction Bruce Lester Scott Livingston Robin Logtenberg The Lovelace Family
THANKS “I am genuinely thankful for all the amazing DU donors and supporters who give to the General Scholarship Fund. The scholarships I received from DU really made a difference not only in my education, but my life.” –Emily Gatlin – Foundation Board Endowed Scholarship recipient Panther Athletic Fund Donors, continued Sharon Loveless Peggy and Donald Luy Joanne and Arlin Maas James and Shari Madison Richard and Janet Magsig Richard Todd Magsig Debbie Malone Patsylee and Kate Malone Ron Mandernach Gary Manning Dave and Therese Markowitz John E. Matthew Donald and Phyllis Maves Joseph and Lynda Mayberry Dale and Annlyn McKenzie Ross and Denise McLain Mary Jo and Rod Meade Drs. Tim R. Meade and Jere Booth Meade Zachary Miedema Patricia Miller Miller Welding Supply Company Mills Products Mark and Tiffany Minder Monsanto Fund Rhona Morris Leah and James Morse Shawn and Kristina Morton Douglas and Karen Mosier Sue Murphy James and Dianne Nanni Donna Nichols and Tamara Babcock Patrick and Mercedes Nicosia J.D. Nordstrom John and Tonia North Mike and Geraldine Ocsai Daniel and Candice Oosdyke Ottawa Kent - Sparta Insurance Agency Thomas and Deborah Pavlak Jeffrey and Shari Pepper Debra Peters Frank and Jonneal Petravicius
Leo Petronis Jeffrey and Suzanne Pierce George and Gail Powell Georgia A. Powell Precision Label, Inc. Harry Prellwitz Bennett Price Mr. Joseph and Mrs. Geraldine Priebe Jeffrey Rahrig Thomas and Sharon Reamer Mr. and Mrs. Robert Reister Remax of Michigan Mark and Lynn Rocca Lt. Col. Dale and Helene Rodenroth Rodenroth Motors Gerald and Linda Romito Kathleen and Michael Rose Jean and Jacqueline Royale David and Lynda Jo Rypma Ann Sbeity Domenico Scalzo and Antonia Nitti Mario Scalzo Kenneth and Shelley Schmaltz Andrew Schneider J. A. Schneider, Jr. and P. J. Morrison-Schneider Mr. and Mrs. John A. Schneider John and Lisa Schuemann Alice Schuiling Melissa and Steven Schuiling Susan Schuitema John and Dolores Schultz Steve and Karin Schultz Thomas and Janice Seal Mary Ann Seymour Victor and Lynne Shepherd Donna A. Sinnema Frank Sleger Sluiter, VanGessel, Winther & Carlson, PC Darlene E. Smith Southgate Process Equipment, Inc. Stephen and Lisa Spetoskey
Eric and Jodee Springer David and Sheri Springvloed George and Judy Springvloed Tomalynne Srabian Marvin Steffes Maxine and Melvin Steffes Jean Stewart Lawrence and Virginia Stoffer Renee and Jason Stuller William and Mary Sutton Heather and Christopher Sypien D. Richard and Patricia Teachout Toni Thomley Lyndsay and Eric Truskoski Shawn and Cassandra Tyll Kelly and Jeff Vander Ark Tim VanderWiere Harry and Diane VanDyk Tom and Judy VanSyckle Marilyn Velten Clark and Meribeth VerHulst James and Carolyn Viane Scott and Laurie Vicari Barbara Victory Russell and Christine Visner John and Janet Vigna Laurie Wellman West End Body Shop, LLC Dave and Susan Whiteside Ruth Wilson Dr. Donald Wilton Winberg Construction, Inc. Jerome and Gertrude Wisniewski David and Anne Wynalda-Swink Marcia Young Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth J. Zylstra Wendy Zylstra Vincent Zerillo Josephine A. Zerrillo
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THANKS Inspiring Minds, Igniting Careers, Investing in the Vision Campaign Our sincere thanks to these early donors, who since 2012–13, have made commitments to the Inspiring Minds, Igniting Careers, Investing in the Vision campaign. Your generosity has helped us achieve $19.7 million in gifts and pledges toward our $25 million goal in just two years. For further information about how you can be part of this campaign, please contact the Office of Alumni & Development at 616-233-3413. Anonymous (3) Michael Allie Allied Brands Amway Corporation Franco and Alessandra Bianchi Joel and Laura Blanchard Ron and Heather Boji Kenneth and Stephanie Bovee Debra Brondsema Kimberly A. Bruyn Butterball Farms, Incorporated Theresa Cardon-Weiss Bradley and Janelle Carnduff Consumers Energy Foundation Creative Dining Services, Inc. Paula Cunningham Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation David A. Brandon Foundation David and Carol Van Andel Foundation Danielle DeLonge Department of Defense National Security Administration The Dick and Betsy DeVos Family Foundation Michael and Debra Door Engineered Comfort Systems, Inc. Dr. Scott and Susan Epstein The Estate of Richard Faber Farmers Insurance Group Rami and Rea Fawaz Fifth Third Bank Flint Alumni Council Kenneth Fortier Freddolino Family Fund* Frey Foundation Ellen M. Gallavan Gordon Food Service Rodney Gouine Tracy and Kerie Graham John Greenfield Doyle A. Hayes, Sr. Haworth, Inc. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)
The Hearst Foundations Herman Miller Cares Robert and Joyce Hetzler Hi-Tec Building Services, Inc. Howard Miller Clock Company Stanley Hreneczko Gregg and Kimberly Hughes Scott and Kimberly Huizenga Initech Global, LLC Interphase Office Interiors, Inc. Mike and Sue Jandernoa Fund** Jerome P. Subar Foundation Kirk Jewell Lisa Johnson Mr. Timothy L. Kalota The Estate of Ruth Kilmer Keith and Kathryn Klingenberg Mark and Michelle Kooyers KPMG, LLP Mary and Blake Krueger James and Clarine Lanting The Larry and Judy Fredricks Charitable Fund*** Donald Lawless and Sherri Jones David and Connie Lawrence Wilbur and Sharon Lettinga William and Rochelle Lettinga Livonia Chamber of Commerce Bruce and Deb Los Stuart and Shelley Lowe Peggy and Donald Luy Donald and Kathleen Maine Master Tech Services, LLC Gerilyn and Jamie May Tom and Jackie McGovern Jerry McKay M. E. Davenport Foundation The Meijer Foundation Frank and Susan Merlotti Jim and Nancy Meyer Char and Jack Meyering Michigan Office Solutions Barbara A. Mieras, Ph.D.
* Denotes donor advised funds given through the Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund ** Denotes donor advised funds given through the Grand Rapids Community Foundation *** Denotes donors advised funds given through the National Christian Foundation
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Julie and Andy Milanowski Brian and Megan Miller Jack H. Miller Mary and Rick Nelsen Net Plus Connections Dr. Donald and Alice Nichols The Estate of Kevin O’Halla Walter and Felisa O’Neill Christos and Joan Panopoulos Panopoulos Family Foundation* Dr. Richard and Pam Pappas Peter C. and Emajean Cook Foundation Resendes Design Group, LLC The Richard and Helen DeVos Foundation Richards Gift Fund* Mandee Rick Rockford Construction Frank and Sue Roder Ronald Rodorigo Peter F. Secchia Family Michael and Betsy Sleva Shallan Spielmaker State Farm Companies Foundation Steelcase Foundation Steelcase, Inc. LaTeasha Thomas David and Danielle Tyler Michael and Michelle Van Dyke Michael and Gayle Van Gessel Dave A. Veneklase Family Ann and Andy Vidro Mark A. Vroman Steven and Beverly Wall Russel and Mary Warner Shelly and Warren Westbrook Jennifer Phillips Wilson Wolverine Worldwide Foundation Kenneth and Carole Yerrick Bradley and Lacrissa Zuraw
Persevering through challenges Jason Madden, MBA ’08, Executive Director of Alumni & Development
As we look toward the 150th Anniversary of Davenport University, we celebrate the outstanding achievements of our graduates. Some graduates, though, are not only recognizing the end of their college career, but also their efforts to overcome difficult life challenges. As a first-generation college student, Aaron Heikkila, ’13, grew up in Battle Creek. Aaron knew that his journey after high school would take a lot of hard work and perseverance. He attended Michigan Tech for two years but decided to go in a different direction. He needed discipline, focus and new skills. He joined the U.S. Army and served for four years in an IT role. He was able to use the skills he learned in the army to get ahead at DU. He started taking classes at the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo campuses. But, since he didn’t own a car, Heikkila walked nearly five miles a day to attend classes, and he knew that in order to finish his degree in a timely matter, he had to put all his obstacles aside. He moved to Grand Rapids to finish taking classes at the W.A. Lettinga Campus. He lived on campus until he had saved enough money to buy a car and rent an apartment. Heikkila was very focused on his studies and gained an interest in networking security. “I liked to take computer viruses apart and see what they were and what they were intended to do,” stated Heikkila. Through his new interest in network security, Heikkila gained a mentor with one of his adjunct professors, Chris Payne, a Davenport alum (’08 and ’10). Payne helped Heikkila earn internships and his first job at Spectrum Health. Coincidentally, Payne and Heikkila were both recruited by Target to work at their world headquarters in Minnesota. Heikkila is a member of the Cyber Security Incident Response Team as a Triage Analyst, and Payne is his boss. “I am in the major leagues in the IT field. I was called up from the minor leagues, from an Area Regional Leader. Now, I am employed by one of the world leaders in computer security,” stated Aaron. “The best thing that happened to me while I was at DU were the connections and friendships I made, especially with Chris. I am so grateful for all the hardships I had, because it made me a better person and helped me to achieve my goals. Now, I help other DU students and graduates through their own struggles.” If you have a story of perseverance and would like to share it with us, please email me at jmadden@davenport.edu.
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(L to R): Ken Fortier, Vice-President of Alumni Association; Sam Ajwah; Mark Bugge; Ron Strachan; Patrick Hatch; Laura Oblinger; David Zokoe; Donald Maine,
Chancellor Emeritus; and Dr. Rick Pappas.
Honoring outstanding alumni On a fall evening in October, the 2015 Alumni Awards Celebration was held in the Wilbur and Sharon Lettinga Auditorium inside the Robert W. Sneden Center on the W.A. Lettinga Campus. More than 100 alumni, faculty, staff, friends and students were in attendance to commend six graduates for their professional and personal accomplishments. The ceremony featured each awardees’ triumphs and tribulations and provided an opportunity for each to speak about their experiences since graduation. Chancellor Emeritus Donald W. Maine attended and presented the Donald W. Maine College of Business Alumni Achievement Award to Laura Oblinger (’00). The awardees shared their powerful and heartfelt stories throughout the evening and expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the education they received at Davenport and one of its predecessor institutions, the Detroit College of Business.
You may nominate a graduate at any time at Davenport.edu/AlumniAwards.
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Distinguished Alumni Award Mark Bugge, Chief Financial Officer, VA Enterprises, LLC MBA, 2000 Bugge began his career in 1992 at Amway, working in a variety of finance positions until the family office was established in 2000. Mark serves as Chief Financial Officer and leads VA Enterprises, LLC (VAE), the office representing the Van Andel family. His primary responsibilities include oversight of internal and external staff, finance, risk management, human resources, portfolio investments and acting liaison with Amway. In addition to the responsibilities at VAE, Mark serves as a board member and audit committee chairman for Macatawa Bank and board member and chairman of the investment committee for Knighthead Annuity & Life Assurance Company.
Hy Berkowitz Professional Excellence Award Sam Ajwah, Owner and Founder of Beacon Engineering BS in Electrical Engineering, 1999 Executive MBA, 2011 The owner and founder of Beacon Engineering, Ajwah has 15 years of total practical experience in engineering design and management, operations management, project strategic planning and financial management, bid negotiations and business management. He is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). Prior to establishing Beacon Engineering, Sam was an engineering department manager for an engineering services provider. He worked on a variety of manufacturing projects while leading a large group of engineers.
Outstanding Young Alumni Award David Zokoe, Corporate Account Manager, Consumers Energy Co-Owner of Zokoe Investments, LLC BBA, 2011 Zokoe serves as the Corporate Account Manager in the Grand Rapids area for Consumers Energy. In this position, he builds and manages relationships with the largest, most energy intensive businesses in the Ionia, Wyoming and Kentwood areas. Outside of his corporate job, Dave and his wife, Alex, have a growing entrepreneurial business. Their company buys, sells and holds numerous investment properties that provide quality, affordable housing for the community.
Donald W. Maine College of Business Alumni Achievement Award Laura Oblinger, Executive Director, Traverse City Chamber of Commerce BBA in Marketing, 2000 Oblinger is the first female Executive Director in the Traverse City Chamber of Commerce’s 100-year history. In her 12-year tenure at the Chamber, Oblinger has the oversight of all program and service work, organizational structure and procedures and communications strategies of membership and making sure its members needs are met. In 2014, under her leadership, the Chamber was named Chamber of the Year by the Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals. For three consecutive years, Oblinger was recognized in the Traverse City Business News as one of the Top 40 Under 40 most influential professionals in the area.
College of Health Professions Alumni Achievement Award Patrick Hatch, Paramedic, Life EMS EMT Degree, 1984 After obtaining his State of Michigan licensure, he began his 31-year occupation as a paramedic at Life EMS. He has held multiple roles at Life EMS, including field supervisor and training instructor as well as an adjunct lab instructor at DU. With his commitment to patient care, detail and overall patient satisfaction, he has become a proven teacher and leader in the field of EMS. Patrick loves mentoring new associates and leads with the belief that “presentation creates perception.”
College of Technology Alumni Achievement Award Ron Strachan, Corporate Chief Information Officer, McLaren Healthcare BBA Computer Information Systems, 1984
Strachan currently serves as the Corporate Chief Information Officer for McLaren Healthcare in Flint. He has been working in Information Technology for over 30 years with his primary focus on Healthcare IT. In 2007, he served as Chairman of the Board for the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) and is a long-term member of the Healthcare Information Management Systems Society. He has achieved the distinction of CHIME Fellow and is also a CHIME Certified Healthcare CIO.
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• Name: Mike Nelsen • Graduation Year: 1987 • Degree: Bachelor of Business Administration • Location: Grand Rapids Fulton Campus • Current Job: Chief Development Officer
at CommerceHub
Being a differentiator in and out of the classroom! From the call center manager at JCPenney to becoming the Chief Development Officer of CommerceHub, Mike Nelsen is recognized as one of the retail industry’s top experts on drop-ship fulfillment. Mike started to work at an early age and quickly became motivated by his paychecks. He knew he had to attend college and could have gone anywhere. He was drawn to Davenport because of the flexible scheduling and proximity of the school to his work and home. Mike was able to start taking classes at 7:00 a.m. and work second shift. He loved how the professors were still involved in the industry, making the classroom work very hands-on and practical. “I can remember on my first day of class, I had a professor say, ‘Open the book...Now close the book...That is about the extent we are going to use the book.’ The class was based on real-life examples and information that I could directly apply to my work,” stated Mike. Graduating in four years, going to school and working fulltime, Mike earned his BBA in Business in 1987. He was quickly promoted and recruited to help launch QVC.com as employee number two. Mike said, “They knew they wanted to sell things on the Internet, and they knew that I knew how to do it.” Mike built fulfillment operations from the ground up, including one of the industry’s first drop-ship networks of 300+ suppliers that
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powered $100+ million in 1999. After QVC.com, Mike helped start Craftopia.com, which was sold to HSN. Now, the Chief Development Officer at CommerceHub, Mike is responsible for all business and client development efforts, both online and brick-and-mortar retailers, distributors, and supplier companies such Staples, Best Buy, Gateway, Sears, Costco, QVC and Meijer. He was one of the first employees who started this company, helping it grow from 15 employees to 400 today. Mike is an extremely accomplished alum and credits his success to the hands-on educational foundation he received at DU. Mike’s advice to students and recent grads is to approach anything you do like you have to earn it. “Most companies will give you a chance and reward you if you do what they ask. Be a differentiator in and out the classroom. Get involved in things and go above and beyond.” When Mike is not working, he spends most of his time with his wife and three sons, who are all very active in athletics. Between football, lacrosse and hockey games, Mike travels nearly 5,000 miles a year to watch his sons’ sports. Do you know someone that has made DU proud? Submit their story to the alumni office at alumni@davenport.edu — we would love to hear from you!
In January 2016, Davenport University will begin a year-long celebration of its 150th anniversary. To commemorate this milestone, a new Davenport history book is in development. This is an excerpt.
A capitol relationship: The Davenport-Ford connection As America prepares to elect its 45th president, Davenport University maintains its own ongoing connection with the 38th occupant of the White House. Gerald R. Ford represented Michigan’s fifth congressional district in the House of Representatives for a dozen consecutive terms before becoming president of the United States. However, the relationship between Ford and Davenport not only preceded Ford’s career in politics, it continued throughout his path from Capitol Hill to the White House. Through a scholarship exclusive to Davenport University, this important legacy will continue in perpetuity. In 1941, several years before his first campaign for Congress, Ford was hired by leaders of the University of Grand Rapids, a four-year college affiliated with Davenport-McLachlan Institute. Ford taught courses in law while serving alongside former Detroit Lions coach George ‘Potsy’ Clark as assistant football coach of the UGR Lancers.
Ford left Grand Rapids in 1942 to enlist in the U.S. Navy. Returning to West Michigan after World War II, he entered private law practice and became active in Republican politics. He was elected to the House in 1948, a seat he would hold for the next quarter-century. Through Davenport College President Robert Sneden and his wife Margaret, Ford maintained strong ties to Davenport throughout his Congressional career. He was a regular guest speaker at school functions, and during his terms he hired several Davenport graduates as aides in his Washington D.C. office. Before his passing in 2006, President Ford personally granted Davenport University the exceptional opportunity to name a prestigious scholarship in his honor and memory. The scholarship, requiring a superlative academic record, is awarded annually to one incoming freshman who demonstrates the character and values exemplified by President Ford.
Clockwise from Left: 1. Barb Mieras, Randy Flechsig, Jerry Ford, and Donald Maine at the Fulton Street campus in the early 2000s. 2. Michigan Governor William Milliken, Davenport College President Robert W. Sneden and Congressman Jerry Ford. 3. The University of Grand Rapids football squad. 4. Betty and Jerry Ford at the Oval Office.
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Classnotes Professional
Health Taryn Anderson, ’06 BBA Marketing & Advertising and Promotion, was recently appointed to the Client Relationship Manager role with Copper Beech Wealth Management in Bloomfield Hills.
Caitlin MacNeil, ’10 BBA Marketing, is now the STEM Career Counselor at University of Houston in Houston, Texas.
Alexis Burbul, ’15 BBA Marketing, is now the Support Human & Content Lead at PayIt2 in Grand Rapids.
Daysee Dawn Salleva, ’14 MBA Health Care Mgmt Concentration, is now the Operations, Programs and Human Resources Manager at Physicians’ Organization of Western Michigan.
Kelly Chase, ’14 MBA Health Care Mgmt
Christine L. Welton, ’00 BAS Business, joined
Concentration, has recently joined the Physicians’ Organization of Western Michigan as a Data Analyst.
Bolhouse, Baar & Hofstee, P.C. in Grandville as an Associate Attorney.
Sara Clancy, ’15 BBA Management, recently
Honors/Awards Jenelle Marie Davis, ’10 BBA and MBA in
joined Novus Media Inc. in Plymouth, Minnesota, as a Buying Coordinator.
Amanda Denomme, ’15 BBA Marketing, joined Dart Container as a Digital Content Strategist in Mason. Mike Epstein, ’14 BBA Management, joined the St. Louis Cardinals as a Direct Sales Representative in St. Louis, Missouri.
Sarah Gombar, ’13 BBA Human Resource Management, is now the Head Women’s Lacrosse Coach at Maine Maritime Academy.
Heather Fairfax, ’12 BS Medical Case Management, is a Talent Associate at Experis in Grand Rapids.
Mirza Harambasic, ’14 BBA Management, has
Accounting, was recently honored by the Grand Rapids Business Journal as one of their 2015 ‘40 Under 40’ award recipients.
Deaths Sandra Badini, ’89 AS and BBA Computer Information Systems, passed away on July 10, 2015.
Kimberly Cooper, ’93 BBA Business, passed away on August 2, 2015. Denise DeMarchis, ’95 BBA Marketing, passed away on June 23, 2015.
Charles Harburn, ’77 AS Management, passed away on September 21, 2015.
Douglas Kauffman, ’78 AS Management, passed away on September 22, 2015.
joined the University of Hartford Men’s Soccer Coaching staff as the Goalkeeper Coach in West Hartford, Connecticut.
Bessie Mathis, ’78 AS Admin Technology, passed away on June 30, 2015.
Aaron Heikkila, ’14 BS Computer Networking
Eloise Smock, ’98 AAS Health Insurance Claims Management, passed away on July 19, 2015.
Technology, recently joined Target in Minneapolis, Minnesota as an Incident Triage Analyst.
Wendi Wing, ’01 AAS Physical Therapist Assistant, passed away on July 1, 2015.
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Alumni Events 2016 Detroit “Hat Trick” Event Friday, February 12 • 5:30 p.m. – BBQ and Brews • 7:30 p.m. – Detroit Red Wings Cost: $35 per person (Wings only) $40 per person (Brewery and Wings) Meet us in Detroit and enjoy a “hat trick” of the city’s finest attractions. Start the night off at Atwater Brewery and enjoy BBQ sliders from the famous Slows BBQ. From there we will head to the Joe for college alumni night and catch the action as the Detroit Red Wings take on the Colorado Avalanche. More info and registration: www.davenort.edu/2016RedWings
Keep in touch!
Submit your news by emailing alumni@davnenport.edu, logging on to davenport.edu/classnotes, calling us at 616-233-3420, or by filling out and mailing this form to: Alumni & Development, Davenport University, 6191 Kraft Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512. Please include your full name, class year, major and campus location you attended. We know exciting things are happening to our graduates around the world, and we want to share the news!
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DAVENPORT.EDU | 43
Friday, May 6, 2016 DeVos Place in Grand Rapids Peter C. Cook Award Honoree: Birgit M. Klohs
President and CEO, The Right Place, Inc. Birgit M. Klohs
Anderson Cooper
Keynote Speaker:
Anderson Cooper Journalist, author and CNN anchor. Anchor of CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360°.
For reservations, call 616-233-3417 or email events@davenport.edu or visit davenport.edu/EIB.
SAVE THE DATE
6191 Kraft Ave. Grand Rapids MI 49512