WINTER 2018 · VOLUME 11 · NO. 1
M AG A Z I N E
Stories about how DU prepares students for future-focused careers around the world
Table of Contents Winter 2018, Volume 10, No. 3
SECTIONS
05 University News News from around the University
DU Review is published by Davenport University.
FEATURES
6191 Kraft Avenue Grand Rapids, Michigan 49512
Say Yes and See What Happens Meet Sara Brondsema, ’07, MBA ’09
Infiltrating the Department of Defense Meet Andrew Cranmer, ’15
Alumnus Shares Stormy Hurricane Harvey Experience Meet Eric Dykema, ’13
11 Faculty See who is changing the world, one student at a time
12 Students Check out what our incredible students are doing
15 Athletics Heartfelt athlete stories, NCAA Division II news and more
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©2018 Davenport University Alumni & Development Executive Vice President for Alumni & Development Peg Luy Executive Director of Grant Development Michele Davis Executive Director of Leadership Gifts & Donor Services Louise Kidd Executive Director of Alumni & Development Jason Madden, ’08 MBA Director of Major Gifts Nick Glaser
A Day in the Life Meet National Cherry Festival Director Kat Paye, ’04
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Kjarkur, Leadership and Life Stories Meet Professor Chris Hamstra, Ph.D.
Assistant Director of Alumni Relations & Events Erik Dane, ’07 MBA Assistant Director of Alumni Communications & Development Sara Mooney, ’09 Director of Prospect Research and Stewardship Alysa Hunton Assistant Director of Annual Giving Megan Sjolander
Creating Opportunities Meet Aaron House, ’16
Giving Get to know our donors and why they choose to give to DU
Alumni Read about fellow classmates and catch up on alumni events
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Honoring Outstanding Alumni Alumni Awards 2017
Manager of Data Systems & Gift Processing Laura Macka
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Executive Administrative Assistant Mary Nelsen
Marketing & Communications Executive Vice President for Marketing & Communications Debra Cooper Executive Director of Communications Robin Luymes, APR, ’15 MM
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o n t h e c o v e r Stories about how DU prepares students for future-focused careers around the world
Director of Communications Rachel Esterline Perkins
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MOVE-IN
From the President
FUTURE-FOCUSED CAREERS A
t Davenport, we promise to prepare students “to get where the world is going” in their chosen career fields in business, technology, health and urban education. These continually evolving careers will present new challenges and obstacles in the years ahead, but a futurefocused DU education prepares students well for the adventure.
“One way to get the most out of life is to look upon it as an adventure.” W I L L I A M F E AT H E R
Through a Davenport degree, we are preparing students to shape their lives as they try new things, grow their skills and contribute to society. Their careers may take them to new places around the world or to new experiences they could never have previously imagined. However, through the future-focus of a Davenport education, our students will be prepared to shape the lives they seek to live.
“The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams.” OPRAH WINFREY
In this issue of DU Review, you will read about some of the career and learning adventures experienced by students, faculty and alumni. From Iceland and Germany to Traverse City and Costa Rica, we live in a world where a Davenport education can make all the difference. 4
When faced with issues of national security, DU alumni like Andrew Cranmer, ’15, are rising to the challenge, while students like Michael Kreiner are preparing for the future of that industry. Alumnus Eric Dykema, ’13, credits the critical thinking skills learned at Davenport with preparing him to help save lives during Hurricane Harvey, an experience he never could have imagined as a student. DU faculty like Dr. Chris Hamstra are exploring the ongoing process of leadership in order to prepare his students for what lies ahead, while Davenport volleyball players learned to view the world in a new way through their Nicaraguan experience. A new world view is exactly what alumna Sara Brondsema, ’07, is experiencing right now. It was her Davenport student experience that gave her the confidence to chart her future career opportunities. The stories in this issue are but a few of the outstanding examples of the ways in which a Davenport education is shaping the future in our communities. We hope you will continue to find new ways to contribute to our journey!
Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D. President
University News
WELCOMING NEW DU PANTHERS TO THE DEN
2X Graduation rate has more than doubled since 2009
Each year, new students participate in activities to help them meet new friends, discover DU’s helpful resources and to get them off to a great start for their academic year.
95%
Student-athlete volunteers and President Richard Pappas help students move into their residence halls. Once they’re settled, they experience Panther Prowl — a threeday transitional experience that helps them make new friends, explore campus and learn how to be successful in college.
graduate satisfaction
PANTHER PROWL
PANTHERPALOOZA
CONVOCATION
Convocation serves as the official welcome from President Pappas and Dr. Linda Rinker, Executive Vice President for Academics and Provost.
At Pantherpalooza, new students discover student organizations, services and opportunities that will help them get involved in campus life and enrich their college experience.
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THE DAVENPORT DIFFERENCE Who at Davenport University has made the greatest impact on you? A few students shared how DU faculty and staff help get them where the world is going.
Career Services Coordinator Ethan Tanis has impacted me the most. I have always been able to go and talk with him if I had any questions about what I wanted to graduate with or what companies are actually looking for. — John Nelson, a junior from Grand Rapids, Michigan, studying Business Management
Andrea Shaw has made the biggest impact on me for several reasons. When my family experienced a multitude of hardships, I wanted to take a leave of absence. She offered kind words of encouragement and told me that she saw something special in me. More importantly, she told me that she believed in me. As a senior BSN student, I cannot help but think that without the guidance, support and mentorship of Mrs. Shaw, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to have grown as both a nursing student and a professional.
Professor Andrea Shaw and Professor Juan Harrison. Both are not only faculty members but are caring, loving, understanding and inspiring people. There are not enough words to describe their efforts to help us and motivate us as students. — Rami Yousif, a senior from Warren, Michigan, studying Nursing
— Marcia Davis, a senior from Warren, Michigan, studying Nursing
Aaron Montanino, the Director of Student Services, is a guy I can go talk to. He helps point me in the right direction. — Jeffrey Hudgins, a sophomore from Grand Rapids, Michigan, studying Health Services Administration
My professor, Tim Bergsma, from my first year helped me. When I came to Davenport, I was new to everything. He helped tutor me more and got me extra help. —
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Sally Tran, a senior from Grand Rapids, Michigan, studying Accounting
My chemistry teacher, Dr. Daniel Palmatier. He is very helpful and is always in the tutoring center if we need to go to him. He is a very good resource! — Abby Wasieleski, a freshman from Greenville, South Carolina, studying Biological Lab Science
I think it would be Dr. Rhae-Ann Booker. Dr. Booker is the Executive Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. She impacted me by being a friend during my first days at Davenport. She was one of the people that I knew right away. — Daniel Caracheo, a freshman from Grand Rapids, Michigan, studying Biological Laboratory Sciences
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University News
University News
Cooper joins DU to lead Marketing and Communications
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eb Cooper joined Davenport University in July as Executive Vice President for Marketing and Communications. She is responsible for brand and marketing strategy development and execution, as well as leading community and government relations programs.
“I’m honored to join the Davenport Leadership Team and look forward to promoting the DU story,” Cooper said. Cooper joined DU from Spectrum Health and subsidiary Priority Health, where she led marketing and enterprise customer relationship management functions in a variety of executive roles.
Previously, Cooper led global and North American marketing units at Steelcase Inc., where she developed and implemented brand positioning and marketing plans, and served as Director of Brand Marketing for Zenith Corporation in Chicago. “We are pleased to bring in an accomplished executive who has demonstrated such high levels of leadership and achievement in the business and healthcare fields,” President Richard Pappas said. “Deb will be a strong addition to Davenport’s Leadership Team as we continue to guide the University toward ever higher levels of quality outcomes.” Cooper obtained her Bachelor of Business Administration from Grand Valley State University and completed master’s level coursework at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management in Chicago. She currently serves as a Board Member for the Ronald McDonald House of West Michigan.
Tyrus R. Wessell Award presented to Al Gunther NEW PROGRAM
DU LAUNCHES NEW BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT
“Working in a department where no one calls unless they have a problem, Al’s track record is ridiculously amazing,” Senior ITS Leader Kathy Finkler said. “Of the more than 1,200 interactions he’s had with students, faculty and staff just this year, not a single one had a negative thing to say about him.”
Davenport University’s new Bachelor of Business Administration in Industrial Production Management will prepare graduates to oversee manufacturing operations on the production floor and various stages along the value chain.
People raved about Gunther’s highquality service.
“Demand for industrial production managers is strong, with Michigan leading the nation in having the highest concentration of jobs and locations in need of this expertise, followed by Wisconsin, Kentucky and Indiana,” said Dr. Pamela Imperato, Dean of the Donald W. Maine College of Business, citing Bureau of Labor Statistics data from May of 2016. “In addition, the Midwest represents the top five states in the country with the highest employment levels for industrial production management.” The program provides knowledge in the areas of accounting, finance and strategy along with industry-based expertise. The degree offers the flexibility of in-seat and online classes and also will be offered with a supply chain and logistics specialty.
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service to students, faculty and staff, Gunther has helped thousands navigate their use of DU’s technology solutions.
Courses in this program are application-based, providing the theoretical foundations necessary to understand the industry.
“Al was patient with my lack of technical skills,” a customer said. “He was very detailed and knowledgeable in answering all of my questions.” Steve Roth, Team Leader and Training Coordinator for the Customer Support Center, said Gunther never hesitated to ask if there was anything else he could do to help a customer, even if it meant coming in early, staying late or changing his plans. At the event, Roth recounted a memory about driving with Gunther during a snow storm.
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l Gunther, ITS Customer Support Specialist/Training Coordinator, was presented the prestigious Tyrus R. Wessell Award at the annual all-employee Davenfest celebration in August. The recognition is given annually to a faculty or staff member who has
exemplified the University’s values through their positive impact on the lives of students and staff. A few weeks later, the DU community celebrated with Gunther again as he retired after 19 years of dedicated service to DU. Known for his outstanding customer
“As we were headed out, he stopped the car right in the middle of the street,” Roth said. “He jumped right out of the car in his work clothes, walked to the side of the road and started to help a young man push his car out of a snow bank. He didn’t think twice about it because that’s the kind of person he is.” DU Review 9
l e f t More than 20 students attended the Summer Math Camp.
SERVANT LEADERSHIP—IN LIFE, THE MILITARY AND THE CLASSROOM Davenport University professor shares his life experiences and his theory of how leaders serve at an international conference.
EXPLORING SCIENCE, MATH AND HEALTH Children and teens visit Davenport for adventures in hands-on learning.
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ne of the ways Davenport University contributes to the community is through its summer camps, helping elementary, middle and high school students discover their passion for a variety of career fields. This past summer, DU’s math, nursing and CSI camps helped some of these students start thinking about their future in new ways. DU’s Science Camp program helped 32 students engage in active learning about how to collect, analyze and present scientific data from a crime scene – CSI-style. The camp exposed students to science laboratory techniques that helped them solve a DU CSI “crime” while seeing how their interests can be explored in a science classroom. In the mock exercise, students analyzed pond water, blood and hair samples to identify a fictional crime victim and suspects.
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“I applied all that I learned as a child growing up, taking care of my siblings, and taking care of my troops when I was a commander. I always put their needs above my own,” he said.
a b o v e Two students learn math through hands-on activities.
“This camp helps students connect what they perceive on TV to the real jobs of scientists and investigators. This is a unique opportunity to take a deeper dive into the interdisciplinary fields of science,” said Dr. Leah Cook, Associate Department Chair of Science. Two CSI Camps, funded by the Herman Miller Cares Foundation, were hosted in late July and early August at the W.A. Lettinga Campus. At the Warren Campus, students from 12 high schools participated in the inaugural Nursing Camp in July. “We involved senior nursing students in the curriculum as active leaders and educators,” said Andrea Shaw, Associate Department Chair of Nursing. “The students learned skills from critical thinking to hands-on tasks such as assessment of vital signs, injections and bedside procedures.” Davenport student Angelique Ware helped run the simulation labs and taught basic skills like taking vital signs and physical assessments.
At 10, Turner was tasked with raising his five younger siblings due to family circumstances.
“It made me feel good that I could share my passion for nursing with an audience that was eager to learn and craved advice,” Ware said. The DU Summer Math Camp program helped 24 students discover the beauty of patterns and relationships inherent in the rotations and flips of rectangles and triangles. “This area of mathematics — called group theory — is at the very heart of modern mathematics and is used by chemists and physicists to understand the behavior of molecules and subatomic particles,” said Dr. Tim Pennings, Chair of the DU Department of Mathematics. The free Math Camp — funded by the M.E. Davenport Legacy Endowment — took place in July at the W.A. Lettinga and Holland Campuses. “We loved that the focus of the camp wasn’t on ‘teaching to the test’ and really sparked a love of learning,” said a parent of one of the camp participants.
“I didn’t know it at that time, but I was learning how to be a servant leader – putting the needs of others above my own,” he said. Dr. James Turner
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nything worthwhile is worth working for and nothing’s free. That’s the mantra of Dr. James Turner, a faculty member in the Donald W. Maine College of Business at Davenport University. Turner spoke at the 19th annual International Leadership Association’s global conference in Brussels, Belgium, in October about “Military Servant Leadership in Turbulent Times.” The session culminated his lifetime of experience as a servant leader and retired United States Air Force Officer with nearly three decades of active duty military service. It also summarized his dissertation for his doctoral degree in management, which he defended this summer.
After failing his senior year and being voted least likely to succeed, Turner attended summer school to graduate. Six months into college, his father had a heart attack and Turner joined the Air Force to financially support his family. “I sent my first six months of checks home to my mom so she could provide food for my brothers and sisters. Then my dad came out of a coma and gradually came back to normal,” he said. As Turner worked through the ranks in the military, he completed his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. “I went to school at night, so I empathize with my students who have to work all day, raise families and go to school,” he said. “I remember walking around B-52s when I was a young airman with an M-16 rifle during the day and carrying three semester hours every night. I would go home exhausted and my wife would hand me my books with a sack lunch
FACULTY
and shut the door behind me. Off to school I went. I earned a four-year degree in four-anda-half years, while working 60 hours a week with two children.” Turner describes the servant leadership mindset as an inverted pyramid. The needs of others come before a leader’s needs, he said. “Servant leadership comes from the heart,” he said. “It isn’t a definition out of a book. It’s a feeling, a belief and an attitude.” Turner, who began teaching in higher education in 1985 and joined DU in 2007, teaches business management courses at both the Lansing and W.A. Lettinga campuses. In the classroom, Turner teaches his students to be servant leaders through activities and role-playing. “I put them in scenarios of leadership and then I talk to them about the thought processes of leading. It’s not about them. It’s about the people,” he said. “I have a passion and compassion for what I do. Because of the scenarios, the real-world exercises and the stories, their takeaway in the class is something they remember because it relates to them.” Turner’s goal is to incorporate servant leadership in the military as a standalone training program. “Servant leadership in the military is different than the traditional autocratic leadership style,” he said. “I want to use my lived experiences in the military, my academic training and the outstanding experiences I’ve had at Davenport University to talk to military leaders about servant leadership and change the leadership mindset.”
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STUDENTS San Juan del Sur
A CARIBBEAN ADVENTURE IN SERVICE, SPORT AND SIGHTS
a b o v e Guadalupe Church in Granada.
Experiencing life through the eyes of Nicaraguans Nicaragua is among the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere. On their first day in the country, the team visited the El Carizal community where Nicaraguan women run their own businesses making and selling jams and salsas.
M a b o v e Izzy Huntington, Charlie Smith, Morgan Torres, Sami White, Ashley Vanderhorst and Jessica Marvin pose with children in Nicaragua.
Davenport University’s volleyball team visited Nicaragua last summer and played against the country’s national team.
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ore than 2,000 miles from Michigan, the Women’s Volleyball team explored life in what seemed like another world — surrounded by volcanoes, jungles and Caribbean beaches — in early August.
The players traveled to Nicaragua for a week to serve communities, experience adventures and play against the country’s national team. “Seeing the way the people of Nicaragua live was a humbling visual,” said Ashley VanderHorst, a junior from Caledonia, Michigan. “Once you actually experience a third-world country, it brings a new perspective on how much we are truly blessed and how we take so much for granted.”
“One of the biggest impacts of this trip would definitely be the women,” said Sydney Tracer, a junior from Lafayette, Indiana. “I am so thankful for the level of empowerment women receive in the United States compared to other countries. I love how the ladies we encountered were working toward their independence and it made me want to serve even more.” Some players volunteered at Escuela Adelante, an international school that offers education ranging from bilingual preschool to adult English as a Second Language classes. They read books, created crafts and sang songs with preschool-aged children. Other players visited Manos Unidas, a cooperative for adults with disabilities who make jewelry and tote bags from re-purposed rice bags. On average, these Nicaraguans earn only $1.20 a day. “I was moved in a way I didn’t know I could understand,” said Carly Nichols, a senior from Three Rivers, Michigan.
“I loved to see the happiness on their face when they all saw us interested in buying their items. With a simple purchase, I made each one of them feel more worthy of their goods. This trip made me thankful for things I never thought I would be.” The team also visited Tio Antonio’s hammock factory to learn the history of the company and its impact in Nicaragua. The company has employed nearly 40 men who are either blind or deaf. The founder also started Café de las Sonrisas, a cafe run by people with disabilities. Honing skills as players and leaders The team played against the Nicaraguan national team three times in San Juan del Sur, Granada and Managua. “I was so proud of how the team played in three very different environments and after only three practices as a whole group,” Head Coach Megan Lenhart said. “Although they are still up-andcoming in international volleyball, the Nicaraguan team was tough. It was such a special experience for this team that we’ll never forget.”
Team captains Morgan Torres and Krissy Dill perform the coin flip before the team’s first match on an outdoor court in San Juan del Sur.
The team also conducted a youth volleyball clinic for more than 30 middle school-aged girls who solely spoke Spanish, challenging the players’ Spanish-speaking and leadership skills.
The final match against the Nicaraguan national team at the national training center in Managua.
“I’m blessed to have been able to go on the trip. I feel like I learned so much,” said Maddy Housenga, a freshman from Grand Haven, Michigan. In addition to service and sport, the players explored the country’s sights and culture. They visited a volcanic lake, toured cathedrals in historic Granada, ziplined through the jungle and boated in Lake Nicaragua — the largest freshwater lake in Central America. They also tried salsa dancing in San Juan del Sur and took surfing lessons at Playa Hermosa.
l e f t The DU team and the Nicaraguan national team at their second match in Granada. r i g h t The team visited a hammock factory that employs men who are blind or deaf.
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STUDENTS Within two months, Jaenicke learned that a donor was found. He received his new heart in June at Spectrum Health Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The initial question of “Can I play hockey again?” seemed like a long way off. He slowly began to regain his strength and realized that with precautions, it could be possible. Jaenicke, a member of the DU ACHA Division II men’s hockey program, was back on the ice as a Panther in October after a nearly six-year absence from competitive hockey. Head Coach Chris Green and the team provided Jaenicke with tremendous support during his comeback. At his first game, a chorus of cheers from family, friends and medical personnel could be heard as he was introduced. The players from both sides tapped their sticks on the ice as tradition to acknowledge the feat.
“You can’t give in to what life throws at you.” TYLER JAENICKE, ’16
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yler Jaenicke, ’16, was struggling to breathe on and off the ice. After this happened more than once, Jaenicke and his parents saw a doctor. The diagnosis came back as cardiomyopathy, a disease of the heart muscle.
HEART OF A CHAMPION Photos by Michael Clark, MLive
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ATHLETICS
ATHLETIC BRIEFS
“When I spoke to the cardiologist, he said I was lucky to be alive,” Jaenicke, a Davenport University student from Spring Lake, Michigan, said. “He mentioned that without recognizing my struggles during a game and pulling myself out that I might not have made it to the end of it.” Over time, his conditioned worsened. In April 2016, Jaenicke received a heart pump to assist with his left ventricle. The procedure served as merely a short-term solution. Jaenicke needed a heart transplant.
“It gave me chills and is a moment that I will never forget,” Green said. “The amount of courage and determination it takes to come back from that speaks volumes about the character of Tyler.” Jaenicke has earned his bachelor’s degree in Sports Management from Davenport and is currently working on his Master in Business Administration with a concentration in health care management. He continues to grow stronger each day and, when he looks down, he can see a scar in the middle of his chest that reminds him that giving up is never an option. “You can’t give in to what life throws at you,” Jaenicke said. “I’ve been able to reach out to others in this same situation and help them. They see what I went through and it gives them hope. I see that impact and what a difference it makes and that also keeps me inspired.”
Burt Paddock named Alumni Coach of the Year by Manchester University
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ead men’s basketball coach Burt Paddock was recognized as the Claude Wolfe Alumni Coach of the Year from his alma mater, Manchester University, in late 2017.
“I am truly humbled to be given this award,” Paddock said. “I am honored to accept it on behalf of the terrific coaches who have worked with me as well as the terrific young men who have allowed me to be a part of their lives and coach them here at Davenport.”
Paddock was inducted into the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2008 and graduated from Manchester in 1997. Over his nine seasons at the helm for the Panthers, he has an overall record of 246-67 with a winning percentage of .785. He has earned four regular season conference championships, two conference tournament championships and three NAIA Fab Four appearances in the National Tournament.
Burt Paddock poses for a photo after being recognized by his alma mater.
“The Claude Wolfe Alumni Coach of the Year award is an outstanding recognition of a coach that has committed his life to the success of others,” DU Athletic Director Paul Lowden said. “The positive impact he has on all of the student-athletes he has coached is equally as impressive as the overwhelming success in wins and losses.”
NCAA advances Davenport to Year Two of NCAA Division II Membership Process
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avenport University Athletics achieved another milestone in its transition toward full NCAA Division II membership last summer when the program was approved to advance to year two of the membership process. Full membership in NCAA Division II is a three-year process with the Panthers participating in candidacy year two during the 2017–18 athletic year. Davenport can move on to year three of the NCAA Division II membership process in 2018–19. Davenport will be eligible for NCAA postseason play upon completion of the three-year membership process.
“We are excited to take the next step in our transition towards NCAA Division II active membership status,” President Richard Pappas said. “Participating in the NCAA and the GLIAC aligns with our Vision 2020 and allows our coaches and student-athletes to compete at the next level of athletic excellence.” The Panthers entered their first season as a member of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference in 2017–18 and are eligible to compete for GLIAC Conference Level Championships.
“While we still have more work ahead of us, this is another important step toward active membership in NCAA Division II and the GLIAC, which will further enhance the university and the experience for our student-athletes,” said Director of Athletics Paul Lowden. DU Review 15
GIVING
9/23/17 Summer “Wine” Down at Rove Estate in Traverse City
t o p l e f t Kirk Ferris, Linda Den Hartigh, Paul Knibbe and Jessica Ferris from Cascade Cement t o p r i g h t Riley Aalderink and Jim Lanting, ’55 b e l o w Brad Ochsankehl, Ryan Stephen, Gary Slosser and Kevin Slosser of Harder and Warner Landscape Contractors, Inc.
ALUMNI
10/8/17 Alumni Fall Gathering at Robinette’s Apple Haus and Winery
EXPLORING ALUMNI EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES The Alumni Association offers many opportunities to explore new cities and activities with fellow Panthers. We invite you to uncover the countless ways to stay
TEEING UP STUDENT SUCCESS M The 2017 Scholarship Golf Classic was a huge success.
ore than $120,000 was raised at the 31st Annual Scholarship Golf Classic last August.
The event, which took place at Egypt Valley Country Club in Ada, Michigan, supports DU’s general scholarship fund and helps students like Allison Luurtsema pursue higher education and become future leaders.
connected to DU through alumni events and activities.
8/12/17 Detroit Tigers Annual Game
10/14/17 Homecoming
“I can’t thank you and the generous donors enough for the opportunity the scholarship gave me. Because of you, I feel like I belong at Davenport.” Davenport is grateful for the continued support of its Title Sponsor, Integrated Architecture, and all the sponsors that provided generous contributions to make the Scholarship Golf Classic a success.
7/28/17 Lansing Lugnuts Annual Baseball Game
Luurtsema was the guest speaker at the event. She shared her story with the nearly 200 golfers who attended.
a b o v e Allison Luurtsema 16
“Knowing that I had people who care about my success and saw the importance in aiding me with my college education not only gave me motivation, but also the confidence to do well in my studies,” she said.
Support Davenport students like Allison D A V E N P O R T. E D U / G I V E
9/15/17 Detroit Institute of Arts Alumni Outing
Attend or organize an event in your area D A V E N P O R T. E D U / A L U M N I / E V E N T S
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FEATURE
STUDY ABROAD EXPERIENCE
Last July, Brondsema boarded a plane to Munich with a handful of her personal items in tow and a shipping container of her furniture set to arrive a few weeks later.
shaped the beliefs she holds now about the important and distinct differences between cultures and being a better-rounded person when she experiences diversity.
“Adventure is not easy,” she said. “Moving to Europe is great, but it’s hard. It’s emotionally difficult and I’ll question if I can do it. When you’re climbing that mountain, you’ll have moments of doubt. Can I get all the way to the top? Why did I start this? It’s about having the courage. Rewarding experiences are often difficult.”
“Those beliefs shaped my actions of seeking an international company to work for and being vocal about seeking international work,” Brondsema said. “Finally, it led to my courage to seize opportunities when I see them.”
Adventures in Learning Brondsema, who picked DU because of its reputation for hands-on learning and small class sizes, studied abroad twice — in London as an undergrad and in Germany during her master’s program.
Brondsema advises others seeking adventure — in their life or career — to take the leap when an opportunity arises. “Say yes and see what happens,” she said.
Say Yes and See What Happens DU alumna catapults her global career after graduating from Davenport University.
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early a decade after two life-changing study abroad experiences offered through Davenport University, Sara Brondsema, ’07, MBA ’09, is living and working in Munich, Germany. The adventure wasn’t something she had planned to pursue so early in her career. Hired by Steelcase in 2015 as a learning consultant, Brondsema was
only beginning to get a handle on her role when the opportunity to help open the new Steelcase headquarters in Munich came up. “Sometimes great opportunities present themselves,” she said. “But more often, great opportunities happen because you’re constantly preparing yourself to make them happen. Doors don’t always open at the exact moment you want them to, so you have to be ready to jump.”
Sara Brondsema supports the Davenport University Study Abroad Scholarship Fund that helps DU students seek adventure, learn about new cultures and gain experience. “I will be forever thankful for the opportunities to study abroad as a DU student,” she said. “My trips opened my eyes to new adventures and experiences. And, now, that’s why I go on adventures – to learn something about myself or other people. It’s about growth.” No matter what adventure you experienced with the help of DU — whether it be study abroad, BPA, an internship or a dream job — you can support the experiences and growth of others through a gift.
“Studying abroad gave me a safe way to get out of my comfort zone and travel to build my confidence,” she said.
S A R A B R O N D S E M A , ’ 0 7, M B A ’ 0 9
SUPPORTING STUDY ABROAD
Born and raised in West Michigan, Brondsema traveled quite frequently to visit family living in Pennsylvania and Florida but never had an extravagant family vacation. She spent her time outdoors in the country, riding bikes, hiking and finding adventure in active and frugal ways. After her college study abroad experiences, however, she continued to travel with confidence and without a guide, making solo trips to Spain, Ireland and Germany.
D AV E N P O R T. E D U / G I V E
“I feel like life is too short to have a small set of hobbies and interests,” Brondsema said. “I like to collect experiences and having that richness gives me a palette to connect with other people.” Her experiences traveling abroad a b o v e Brondsema and her friends exploring Germany.
Sara Brondsema
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ANDREW CRANMER, ’15
INFILTRATING THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE Davenport alumnus builds computer science career
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ou need national clearance to know what alumnus Andrew Cranmer, ’15, is working on for the Department of Defense in South Carolina. Many of his duties are classified due to national security. Cranmer mainly works on projects relating to XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX, machine learning, XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX, computer vision, XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX and biometrics — similar to the courses he completed at DU as a computer science major.
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While many of the details about Cranmer’s job at the Space and Naval Warfare Command System Center (SPAWAR) in Atlantic Branch are classified, his general role is as a scientist. “Basically, if a project comes up that needs a computer scientist who has skills in machine learning, computer vision, biometric security or similar areas, I can be pulled into the project,” he said. Cranmer, who is from Belding, Michigan, said his concentration on biometrics at DU set him apart from the crowd and helped lead to his current line of work. He credits one of his professors for his early success. “Growing up, I had absolutely no idea what I would do until I got to Davenport,” he said. “As I got further into my program, I really started to enjoy it. Then I started questioning what I could do with the degree and found a mentor in Denny Bobeldyk.” Bobeldyk, Assistant Professor for the College of Technology, encouraged Cranmer to apply for what would become a life-changing scholarship: the Department of Defense Information Assurance Scholarship Program.
FEATURE
This highly competitive national scholarship is for students attending a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense as recognized by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. DU was one of the first institutions to receive this designation and is one of just five four-year programs in Michigan to hold this designation. Initially, Cranmer didn’t think he had a chance at winning and felt daunted by the long application process. With Bobeldyk’s help, however, his confidence grew. He wrote about his studies in biometrics because DU is one of only a handful of schools in the nation that offer the program. “I would tell students to not let fear keep them from doing things,” Cranmer said. “Apply for everything. This opportunity shaped my whole career.” Though he is proud of receiving the DoD IASP scholarship while at DU, he said it also was scary to accept because the opportunity meant that he could be sent anywhere in the world that the DoD has employees. Cranmer feels fortunate to be stationed in Charleston, South Carolina, where he is experiencing warmer winters and a new culture.
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Computer science senior earns prestigious DoD scholarship Michael Kreiner, a DU senior from Portland, Michigan, recently accepted the Department of Defense Information Assurance Scholarship Program for 2017-18.
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He will receive full tuition, an
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allowance for books and fees, and
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a stipend to complete his studies as a full-time student. “This scholarship will jumpstart my career,” he said. “I have
“Coming from Belding, Michigan, I hadn’t really ever been away from home,” he says. “It was nerve wracking to pick up and move 1,000 miles away all by myself.” Cranmer, who worked as a resident assistant for two years and played rugby for three years at DU, is continuing his pursuit of higher education. He recently completed master’s coursework at Southern Methodist University.
a guaranteed job right after graduation. It will be a great experience.” Typically, 20 to 25 DoD IASP scholarships are awarded in an academic year. However, the scholarship was last awarded in 2013 due to funding limitations. Kreiner takes classes at both the Lansing Campus and the W.A.
He said he enjoys the tangible, handson work at the DoD. However, his goal is to become a CIO or CTO — moving into a leadership and management role after he learns the technical aspects of the computer world.
Lettinga Campus in Grand Rapids. While he has no idea where the DoD will send him after he graduates in May, Kreiner is excited for the opportunity to apply his classroom learning in the workplace.
DU Review 21
FEATURE
Honoring Outstanding Alumni
More than 150 alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends gathered to
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD
COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Mike Nelsen
Class of 1987
After earning his bachelor’s in Business Administration in 1987, Mike Nelsen was recruited to help launch QVC.com as employee No. 2. He built fulfillment operations from the ground up, focusing on one of the industry’s first drop-ship networks of more than 300 suppliers that powered sales of over $100 million in 1999. He later helped start craftopia. com, which was later sold to HSN. Now, the Chief Development Officer at CommerceHub, Nelsen is responsible for business and client development efforts for both online and brick-andmortar retailers, distributors and supplier companies such JCPenney, Best Buy, Dell, Home Depot, Costco and QVC. When Nelsen is not working, he spends most of his time with his wife and three sons. He travels thousands of miles a year to watch them play football, lacrosse and hockey. He also was the first speaker at DU’s inaugural Neighborhood Business and Friends luncheon in 2016. 22
DONALD W. MAINE COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
HY BERKOWITZ PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARD Pat McPherson
honor the accomplishments and service of six esteemed alumni during
Photos by Tyler Triemstra Photography
the 2017 Alumni Awards Ceremony on Oct. 13.
Josh Serba
COLLEGE OF HEALTH ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Joseph Rodriguez
OUTSTANDING YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD Leslie Winkle
Wendy Morrow
Class of 2006
Class of 2011
Class of 2011
Class of 2011 and 2016
Wendy Morrow, a 1993 alumna who earned a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, is a Certified Management Accountant and a member of the Institute of Management Accountants. Prior to working at Grand Haven Custom Molding, Morrow spent 16 years at The Stow Company in Holland, Michigan, where she was the first woman to be named Vice President of Finance in the company’s history. She is an active volunteer at the Tri-Cities Family YMCA. Morrow and her husband, Matt, recently created an endowed scholarship.
From stump grinding to mopping factory floors, Pat McPherson was determined to earn the money he needed to pay for his classes. He sorted bottles from plastic bags at Lakeport Market, cleaned pop can machines at Meijer, mopped factory floors in Detroit, cleaned bathrooms and showers at Lakeport State Park and worked at the family stump grinding business to help pay for college. After earning his bachelor’s degree in Computer Networking in 2006, he started his career in IT. He now works on a team at ITS Partners as a senior sales engineer solving IT problems for clients all over the world.
In the short time that Josh Serba, a 2011 DU alumnus, has served as CIO at AHC+Hospitality, he has upgraded the network infrastructure, WiFi, server environment, TV systems and more with the company. AHC+Hospitality owns the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, JW Marriott Grand Rapids and Peter Island Resort & Spa in the British Virgin Islands, and also operates the Courtyard by Marriott in Downtown Grand Rapids. In his spare time, he enjoys coaching his sons’ baseball and hockey teams.
Joseph Rodriguez earned an associate’s degree in Nursing at the Great Lakes Bay Campus in Midland in 2011. He is a nurse case manager at SouthernCare Hospice in Saginaw, Michigan, and was recognized as the Regional Clinician of the Year for his outstanding performance and delivery of care. He is a strong healthcare advocate and actively shares and teaches his communities about available health care services — not only for end of life care and hospice, but also in preventative care, palliative care and long-term care. In his spare time, Rodriguez supports The ROCK Center for Youth Development, The Diaper Alliance and the American Cancer Society.
Leslie Winkle is a second-generation DU grad. She completed her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 2011 and her Master of Business Administration in 2016. She owns a full-service salon for men, women and children in Traverse City, Michigan, which she purchased in 2014. In 2016, Studio 415 was selected as the recipient of the Hagerty Small Business of the Year Award presented by the Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce. Winkle also is an adjunct instructor at the Traverse City campus where she teaches accounting.
Class of 1993
Nominate a graduate for an alumni award D A V E N P O R T. E D U / A L U M N I - D E V E L O P M E N T / A L U M N I - A W A R D S DU Review 23
FEATURE
Before leaving his home, Dykema handed his wife a flashlight and a saw, telling her to take the dog to the rooftop for rescue if their home flooded. “I told her to go to the attic and cut a hole to get on the roof. From there, she could call me and I’d come get her with a helicopter,” he said.
Alumnus shares stormy Hurricane Harvey experience After graduating from Davenport University, this alumnus joined the U.S. Coast Guard and helped save lives when Houston faced a devastating hurricane.
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fter Hurricane Harvey made landfall and Texans were climbing to their rooftops for rescue, Davenport University alumnus Eric Dykema, ’13, worked endless hours to ensure the U.S. Coast Guard’s helicopters were ready to take flight and save lives.
The Grand Rapids native enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard months after graduating in May 2013 with a bachelor’s degree in Information and Computer Security. “I had a job offer waiting for me once I got out of school where I had been an intern for two years,” he said. “But I was only 22 and not ready to sit behind a desk.” Dykema had been at home with friends when Hurricane Harvey made landfall. He left for the Houston air station as the hurricane intensified and the roads began to flood. “I made it in around lunchtime Sunday,” he said. “There was a small break in the rain and I was like, ‘This is what I signed up for. I have to go. I have to get there.’”
While his wife weathered the storm from home, Dykema — an avionics electrical technician — refueled and repaired helicopters to ensure his unit could continue to save lives. “In my unit in Houston, we have three helicopters on a normal day. At the height of Hurricane Harvey, we had about 20 helicopters,” he said. “We went from being one of the smallest air stations in the Coast Guard to being the biggest practically overnight with the amount of people and helicopters that came in.” On the first day, Dykema worked for 14 hours straight before trying to go home. “I almost got stuck. In hindsight it was a terrible idea,” he said. “I wanted to check on my wife, but all the roads were flooded. Halfway home, she told me to turn around and go back. The roads I had taken had flooded when I turned around. It was cutting it close to get back. For the next two nights, I slept in my car.” As a Michigander, this had been Dykema’s first hurricane. “It was really awesome to be a part of the experience,” he said. “There’s not a great word to describe it because it was scary at the same time. It was cool from my perspective because I got to see the
work happening to help the people of Houston.” While his days are spent repairing and diagnosing problems with helicopters and avionics systems, electrical systems and wiring, Dykema is thankful for the time he spent at DU. “The biggest thing that transfers over from my time at Davenport is the ability to think critically and troubleshoot an issue — whether it’s a computer network or an aircraft system,” he said. The soft skills he gained also have given him an edge. “Professionalism isn’t really taught like I think it should be,” he said. “I don’t work in an office every day, but I have the skills I gained at Davenport and through my internship. It puts me at a higher level when I talk to people or when I need to explain my position.” Dykema’s next steps are still up in the air. He is undecided on whether he’ll re-enlist or pilot his career in another direction.
t o p The Houston airbase.
b o t t o m Eric and Ashley Dykema
“I really like where I am and what I am doing, so I guess we will see,” he said.
The biggest thing that transfers over from my time at Davenport is the ability to think critically and troubleshoot an issue — whether it’s a computer network or an aircraft system ERIC DYKEMA, ’13
DU Review 25
FEATURE Chris Hamstra and his group of students pose for a photo in Iceland.
Kjarkur means being bold and getting the work done. Chris Hamstra, Ph.D.
Kjarkur, leadership and life stories M.E. Davenport Legacy Endowment supports faculty development at an Icelandic university.
S
urrounded by lava fields, mountains and glaciers, Davenport University Professor Chris Hamstra, Ph.D., spent a few chilly weeks at Bifröst University in Iceland last summer.
As a guest instructor, Hamstra shared his perspectives on leadership life stories and servant leadership with students from around the globe as part of “Connecting Across Borders,” a pilot program at DU. 26
Exploring leadership and courage at Bifröst Bifröst University, which sits in the shadow of a long-dormant volcano, is a private nonprofit university in a small community. But its programs attract students from around the globe. “We had 27 students from 13 countries, including from India, Austria, Germany, Canada, Brazil, the U.S., Spain and Columbia,” he said. “I was the only faculty member from the U.S. Others were from Iceland, the Netherlands, Germany and Mexico.” The program, supported by a grant from the M.E. Davenport Legacy Endowment Fund, encourages faculty members to travel abroad for research or teaching purposes. “If we want to get where the world is going, we should be able to do that as faculty,” said Hamstra, who has taught at DU for more than a decade. “We live in this really big world and we get focused in narrowly. An opportunity abroad helps you see the bigger picture. Learning can surprise us when we open our eyes and get out to explore.”
In addition to time spent in the classroom, Hamstra had the opportunity to experience Iceland alongside faculty and students during planned excursions. “We met an entrepreneur who is running a strawberry farm, toured a brewery, saw an Icelandic horse farm and visited the farm that houses goats used in Game of Thrones,” he said. “It was neat to see the entrepreneurship, cooperation and stubbornness of Iceland.”
The life experiences and formative moments of meeting new people, discovering cultures and facing challenges lead to what Hamstra defines as leadership life stories, which tie to personal and professional learning and success. “Leadership life stories are based on communication and an interaction,” he said. “Instead of leadership being influence, you are co-creating knowledge with people. In my mind, leadership life stories are about developing personal identity and professional meaning.” The development of identity and pursuit of new experiences takes “kjarkur,” Hamstra said. While there is no direct translation, this Icelandic word most closely connects to the idea of courage. “While courage certainly means to be brave in difficult situations, the Nordic understanding adds a level of intensity,” he said. “Kjarkur is deeper and explains a gut-based sense of purpose and action, an engagement of risk. Let me get specific: Kjarkur means being bold and getting the work done.”
Throughout their visit, the faculty and students explored Iceland.
It takes kjarkur to engage in personal growth, to collaborate and to lead others, Hamstra said. “While many view leadership as influence, I choose to see leadership as a coconstructed process that is built through the dialogue of human communication,” he said. “Kjarkur in the context of leadership life stories recognizes that each day we have the choice to interact with others.” Within these interactions people engage in not only their life stories but also the opportunity to contribute to the life stories of others, Hamstra said. It is an ongoing process of co-construction, community, courage and adventure. DU Review 27
FEATURE Aaron House, ’16
creating opportunities
“Apple Computers were installed at my elementary school and I took to them,” House said. “Then a few years later, my dad bought our family our first PC when I was 10 years old. I merely played games on the computer. Then my interest led me to taking it apart and putting it back together.”
Alumnus from Detroit establishes a new
In high school, House attended Golightly Career and Technical Center in the heart of Detroit. He spent half of his day focused on typical high school coursework and the other half exploring applications of the Golightly computer repair program.
scholarship for underserved students interested in technology careers.
A
aron House, ’16, doesn’t take the generosity of others for granted.
That’s why after years of having amazing opportunities and supportive mentors in the IT field, he created a scholarship at Davenport University geared at helping underserved populations obtain jobs in technology.
For House, investing in a scholarship means more than helping students pay for their education. It opens doors. “There is nothing special about me,” House said. “I am very lucky. I am proud of being an underdog and rising to where I am today. That is why I wanted to start this scholarship and I wanted it to be available to the masses, not just the exceptional. I wasn’t exceptional. I was ordinary.”
Ordinary to extraordinary House, who grew up in Detroit and attended Detroit Public Schools, found joy in working on computers at an early age.
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In 11th grade, a recruiter from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers took an interest in him. This recruiter, Kenny Dickson, took House under his wing and helped him build his skills and knowledge. After high school, House didn’t see the value of attending college right away. He continued to work and took college classes to obtain certifications needed in his field. For over a decade, he led large-scale IT projects, which included traveling to many parts of Mexico and Central America for multiple large companies. Early in his career, a director helped House land a project that helped map his career that followed. “At that time, I was just a regular person in an entry-level position when Hazem Barghouty approached me about leading a project,” he said. “At first I was hesitant, but he saw something in me and gave me the opportunity to lead this project even though his peers were doubting his decision.”
House said that director is now a mentor who has helped open doors throughout the rest of his career. “Without him creating this opportunity for me, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” House said. House’s reputation helped him land the lead infrastructure engineer job at Comerica Bank in Auburn Hills, Michigan in 2014. Aaron wanted to continue to advance in his career, but felt that not finishing his bachelor’s degree would discredit his experience and skills in his field. He enrolled at Davenport because of its reputation for degree programs relevant to real-life applications and because it awarded credit for most of his IT certifications, allowing him to advance more quickly towards a degree.
Paying it forward
to the National Black Information Technology Leadership Organization and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, African Americans hold less than 8 percent of all information technology jobs in U.S., and fewer than 3 percent of IT leadership positions. House created a scholarship to help underserved populations attend Davenport University and consider a career in technology. The Aaron House Future Black Technologist Scholarship will be offered to an African American student from the Southeast Michigan area with a major in technology. “I thought, if I could make it, others can make it too,” House said. “That is why I decided to give back. I was just an ordinary kid from Detroit who has done some extraordinary things because of the opportunities I received thanks to my amazing support system of mentors, family and friends. I am just paying it forward.”
House said he was fortunate to work at a company that offered a tuition reimbursement program to help pay for his degree. But it inspired empathy in him for those who don’t have that luxury. “For a person who isn’t working or doesn’t have an employee reimbursement program, earning a degree would be a challenge,” he said. “The opportunities I had allowed to me realize how lucky I am. I wanted to give back.” House also realized there were not many African Americans in his field. According
DU Review 29
T
FEATURE
hey say life is like a bowl of cherries. For Kat Paye, ’04, it really is. Paye is the Executive Director of the National Cherry Festival.
A D AY I N T H E L I F E
Paye’s passion for the NCF began when she was a 6-year-old volunteer commissioned by her friend, Jeff — a quadriplegic whose charisma and love for life inspired her and hundreds of others to volunteer for the festival.
National Cherry Festival Director Kat Paye, ’04
Paye earned her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management from DU in 2010, taking
Paye’s typical day as Executive Director is unpredictable. She juggles hundreds of phone calls, volunteers and staff members without hesitation. In her words, Paye’s first festival in her new role is simply a cherry pit-stop along the journey called life.
9:48 AM
9:58 AM
10:09 AM
7:20 AM
b e l o w Kat’s friend, Jeff
Meet the DU Review staff. Within minutes, receive a phone call about an issue at the volunteer tent. 10:30 AM
AM
Stop at 9&10 News for an interview.
documents a day in the life
AM
9:23
Connect with volunteers.
AM
oversees a festival attended by more than 500,000 annually.
9:31 AM
Receive a call from a volunteer regarding the pie eating contest. She wants to know if there are enough pies for the contest and a donation to the Meals on Wheels Program.
AM
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11:30 AM
Drop by the NCF warehouse to talk with volunteers about the Johnsonville Grill propane tank for the parades.
Arrive at Jimmy John’s to pick up donated sandwiches for the golf outing. While driving, take a call from 9&10 News. They are requesting an on-site interview for Special Kids Day.
1:00 PM
1:39 PM
2:27 PM
Meet and greet sponsors at the golf outing.
Jump in the official NCF’s Toyota courtesy car and drive to the Royale Pageant of Fashion & Luncheon.
PM
6:00 PM
11:30 AM
12:37 PM
9:48
Today, Paye is the NCF’s biggest cheerleader. Follow along as DU Review documents the biggest adventure of Paye’s fruitful career: her first National Cherry Festival as the Executive Director.
4:10 11:10
of a Davenport alumna who
classes at the Traverse City Campus. In 2012, Paye joined the festival staff full time as the operations director.
Wednesday, July 5, 2017
7:30
Follow along as DU Review
By twelve, her love and dedication for the festival had grown deeper. Paye volunteered to fold T-shirts, put stickers on boxes and pin tags on the wheelchair race participants. Soon, she had the starting gun in her hand and, at 20, she was the NCF’s youngest event director.
Change into a pageant outfit and take the stage minutes later.
Return to the office to meet a FedEx driver delivering Cole Swindell merchandise for the concert later in the week. Pick up a colleague and fellow DU graduate Alexander Zelinski, ’16. Change into a custom-made cherry skirt for the next event.
Arrive at the horticultural research station for the Cherry Industry Program and Awards.
Head to Downtown Traverse City to connect with staff and volunteers before the concert.
Enjoy the REO Speedwagon concert backstage with sponsors and special guests.
Pick up custom tablecloths for the next day’s Princess Tea at JOANN Fabrics and Craft Store.
1:39 PM
DU Review 31
DU Class Notes
CLASS NOTES
PROFESSIONAL Eboni Albert, ’17 MM, is an eligibility specialist at the State of Michigan in East Lansing.
Shannon Blodgett, ’17 AAS, is a MPI coordinator at MidMichigan Health in Midland.
Joyce Anderson, ’10 BS, ’11 Diploma, is a licensed practical nurse at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Ann Arbor.
Cindy Bracey, ’86 AS, is a business administrator at Streamline Machine Source, Inc. in Greenville.
Katie Arnson, ’11 AAS, ’13 BS, is a pharmacy technician at Metro Health University of Michigan Health in Wyoming. Blanca Awrey, ’17 BS, is a medical education coordinator at Metro Health University of Michigan Health in Wyoming. Nancy Bazan, ’91 AS, ’94 BBA, ’17 MACC, is a senior accountant at the City of Wyoming.
Carol S. Brown, ’15 BBA, ’17 MBA, is an educator, technology learning at Munson Healthcare in Traverse City. Rachel Buckner, ’11 BBA, ’15 MBA, is an assistant director of admissions at Aquinas College in Grand Rapids. Ryan Coleman, ’16 BBA, joined Minot State University as a graduate assistant in marketing, promotions & tickets in Minot, ND. Marie Elliott, ’08 AAS, is a patient access representative at Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids. Dewey Ellis, ’87 AS, ’89 BBA, is a funeral director/embalmer at Serenity Funeral Home in Las Vegas, NV. Jobarteh Fofana, ’17 MBA, is a direct support professional at Rem Wisconsin in Madison, WI. Tina Gibson, ’12 BBA, is an administrator at FirstLight Home Care in Grand Rapids.
Pictured in suspenders.
Eric Bradford, ’17 BBA, and Michael Bradford, ’17 BBA, were cast in a national TV commercial for Cars.com. 32
Lisa Hubbard, ’99 AS, is an owner/ office manager at BirchTree Bark and Stone in Grand Rapids.
Troy M. Foster, ’07 BBA, ’13 MBA, is a special agent for the United States Secret Service. He graduated from the United States Secret Service James J. Rowley Training Center in February 2017.
Dianne Lopez-Wild, ’12 BBA, ’16 MBA, was promoted to a clinical applications specialist/EHR trainer at Munson Medical Center with Ambulatory Informatics in Traverse City.
Jeff Lumpp, ’13 MBA, was promoted to president at Hylant in Grand Rapids. He has been elected as a director on Davenport’s Alumni Association Board.
Gwendolyn Moore, ’08 BBA, retired as a manager of communications and external partnerships at Ford Motor Company in Detroit.
Christina Ingraham, ’17 BS, is a senior executive management assistant at State of Michigan in East Lansing.
Wendy Morrow, ’91 AS, ’93 BBA, is a chief financial officer at Grand Haven Custom Molding in Grand Haven. She received the 2017 Donald W. Maine College of Business Alumni Achievement Award.
Randi Olson,’12 BBA, forensic accounting manager at Rehmann, was recognized with a 2017 Vanguard Award by Detroit Young Professionals.
Jonathan Sanford, ’17 AAS, is a coder associate - emergency care at Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids.
Regina Jaeger, ’02 BAS, joined Greenleaf Trust’s Northern Michigan branch as a vice president and trust relationship officer in Traverse City. Zach Lincolnhol, ’12 BBA, works at Champion Aerospace in sales in Liberty, SC. Jody Longnecker, ’17 AAS, is a medical assistant at Cancer & Hematology Center in Grand Rapids. Andrea McClure, ’09 BBA, is an EDI account manager at Bswift in Chicago, IL.
Jennifer Nelson, ’17 BBA, is a payroll specialist at Greenville Public Schools in Greenville. Carolyn O’Connor, ’05 BS, is an immigration legal specialist (DOJ Accredited) at Heritage Church & Esperanza Legal Assistance Center in Moline, IL. Carolyn was accredited by the Department of Justice to practice immigration law in 2016 and opened Esperanza Legal Assistance Center in January 2017 to meet the needs of lowincome clients in the Quad Cities.
Lyndsie Post, ’11 MBA, is an account manager at Next Creative Co in Holland. She also joined the Pine Rest Community & Residential Services Board of Directors. Felisha Rodriguez, ’17 AS, is a section 8 coordinator at Grand Rapids Housing Commission in Grand Rapids. Terry Rostic, ’13 MBA, human resources project manager at Rockford Construction, was recently recognized by the Grand Rapids Business Journal as a 2017 40 Under 40 Award recipient.
Michael Semm, ’17 BBA, is an owner/ business development manager for Payroll Vault in Kalamazoo. Deborah Smith, ’94 AS, ’97 BBA, ’08 MBA, is a vice president of education at Junior Achievement of the Michigan Great Lakes in Grand Rapids. Sherri Snider, ’83 AS, ’04 BAS, is an employee relations manager at Jayco, Inc. in Middlebury, IN. Matthew Teitsma, ’17 BBA, is a national sales representative at American Rainware in Grandville.
DU Review 33
DU Class Notes
Phuong Tran, ’17 BBA, is an accounts payable assistant at Jireh Metal Products, Inc. in Grandville. Richard Waldschmidt, ’17 BBA, is an operations supervisor at Perrigo in Grand Rapids. Heather Zimba, MD, ’14 MBA joined ThedaCare Physicians practicing family medicine in Shawano and in Clintonville, WI.
ENGAGEMENTS AND MARRIAGES Ryan Ricker, ’14 BBA, married Taylor (Jensen) Ricker on Sept. 8, 2017 in Hudsonville, MI. Emily (Veneklase) Plachta, ’13 BSN, ’16 MSN, married Steve Plachta on June 10, 2017 in Grand Rapids. Shannon (Witt) Wilkinson, ’08 ABA, ’10 BBA, ’16 MBA, married Victor Wilkinson on Oct. 7, 2017 in Midland.
IN MEMORIAM Susanna M. Bentley, ’92 ABA, passed away on June 21, 2017.
Megan (Wilcox) MacDonald, ’14 AAS, ’17 BSN, married Nikolas MacDonald on June 17, 2017 in Allendale, MI.
Kevin W. Copeland, ’10 BBA, passed away on July 30, 2017.
Christine A. Linson, ’95 AS, ’05 BBA, passed away on July 19, 2017.
Barbara J. Davenport, ’94 AS, ’01 BS, passed away on July 29, 2017.
Cheryl A. Newton, ’90 AS, passed away on Sept. 5, 2017.
Chad Dewey, ’08 BAS, ’10 MS, passed away on Sept. 29, 2017.
Muriel J. Trott, ’72 BS, passed away on Oct. 5, 2017.
Norman J. Klynstra, ’65 AS, passed away on Oct. 8, 2017.
Beverly S. Wall, ’77 AS, passed away on July 11, 2017.
Lyle Converse, ’49 Diploma, passed away on Oct. 14, 2017.
Have you ever considered supporting Davenport University through your will or estate? Bequests are a simple and impactful way to provide long-term support for Davenport University students and programs long after
Alexandra Lansdale, ’15 BBA, passed away on Oct. 10, 2017.
your lifetime. Whether you decide to leave 10% or 100% to Davenport through your will—you ensure your
Dennis L. Bolles, ’89 AS, passed away on June 30, 2017. Judy A. Bridges, ’92 BBA, passed away on Oct. 1, 2017.
What Legacy Will You Leave?
KEEP IN TOUCH! Share news with your fellow alumni by updating your alumni records. We know exciting things are happening to our graduates around the world, and we want to share! Email us at alumni@davenport.edu or visit davenport.edu/classnotes
interests and passions are supported forever without giving up needed assets and income during your lifetime. If you are interested in or have questions about making a gift from your will or
DUAlumni
davenport.edu/classnotes
estate, please contact the Davenport University Foundation at (616) 233-3418.
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davenport.edu DU Review 35
6191 Kraft Avenue Grand Rapids, Michigan 49512
Save the Dates EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS GALA Peter C. Cook Award Honoree Brian C. Walker, President and Chief Executive Officer, Herman Miller, Inc. Keynote Speaker: Robin Roberts, Co-host of Good Morning America Friday, May 4, 2018 DeVos Place, Grand Rapids, Michigan davenport.edu/eib
Davenport University is shaped by its faculty, staff, students and alumni who are innovators and lifelong learners. We want to hear about your projects, research, triumphs and transformations. Email us at alumni@davenport.edu with your story!