Winter 2018 Vol. 3 Issue 2
WE AR E J AC K S O N C O L L E G E Publisher: Cynthia S. Allen Editor: Dotty A. Karkheck Writer: Marilynn T. Fryer Graphic Designer: Abbie E. Stein Photography: Jackson College Marketing: Ashley Banks, Del Belcher, Dotty Karkheck, Marilynn Fryer, and Abbie Stein
BOA R D OF T R U S T E E S Chairman: Sam R. Barnes Vice Chairman: John M. Crist Secretary: Sheila A. Patterson Treasurer: Donna L. Lake Trustee: Matthew R. Heins Trustee: Philip E. Hoffman Trustee: Dr. Edward A. Mathein President/CEO: Dr. Daniel J. Phelan
IN 1930, IN THE EARLY YEARS OF THE GREAT DEPRESSION, JACKSON JUNIOR COLLEGE SAW 34 GRADUATES IN ITS FIRST GRADUATING CLASS. HERE THEY PROUDLY STAND ON THE STEPS OF MARSH HALL IN DOWNTOWN JACKSON.
This commemorative edition of We Are Jackson College celebrates the 90th anniversary of Jackson College, 1928-2018. We have provided readers with some highlights of the institution’s history, trends from the nine decades, notable leaders and alumni, students and student life and more. Check out the Jackson College 90th website, www.jccmi.edu/90, for enhanced content. We will update this site as additonal information is given to us. Contributors include: Jackson College students; Cecelia Alaniz, Brian Alcenius, Gavin Baker, Barbara Barber, Carly Bendall, Alex Bennett, Jennifer Bolenbaugh, Brianna Boley, Krista Burke, Nicole Clark, Austin Colyer, Paula Crow, Bethany Ekins, Safca Frost, Mary Greer, Leighanna Hutchinson, Reese Horne, Megan Hoop, Brooke Jennette, Jo Koerkel, Robert Lombrana (alum), Emily Mast, Brandon McIntyre, Paula Mikulen, Angela Peterson, Alexys Ray, Nicole Cossum-Ready, Peggy Reimers, Mackenzie Reynolds, Haley Smith, Mackenzie Smith, and Jayden Snyder. Additonally photos and information were obtained from The Jackson College Library, Jackson District Library, Ella Sharp Museum, the Jackson Citizen Patriot. Special thanks to: Diana Agy, JC faculty; Martha Petry, retired faculty and current PTK advisor; and Dr. George E.
TA BLE O F CO NT ENT S
1 2 4 6
Reflections from the president Where it all began: Union School District History of our presidents Leaving their mark: Frank Dove and J. Ward Preston
8 1930s: The College begins 10 1940s: World War II years 12 1950s: Years of growth 14 1960s: Jackson Community College 16 1970s: Changing times 18 1980s: Offering a helping hand 20 1990s: Education evolves
22 2000s: Building & renovations 24 2010s: Toward the future 26 Sports adds to college life 28 THEN and NOW 29 George E. Potter Center 30 Reaching out with multiple locations 31 Community Connections:
Michigan Space & Science Center,
Dahlem Environmental Center,
Glen & Phyllis Walker Memorial Clock Tower
32 Student life important to success
Potter, JC alumnus and trustee emeritus. Comments or questions about the publication can be directed to the Marketing Department at 517.796.8416.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Jackson College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The Higher Learning Commission 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500 Chicago, IL 60604-1411 (800) 621-7440 • hlcommission.org
Throughout 2018 Jackson College will be celebrating our 90th anniversary in many ways. Please be sure to go to www.jccmi.edu/90 for a complete list of CALENDAR OF EVENTS.
CELEBRATING 90 YEARS of inspiring and transforming lives
J
ackson looked quite different in the late 1920s. The Ford Model T was new on the market, and mass production in manufacturing was on the rise. Skilled workers were needed in the changing workforce. Into this fast-changing world, local leaders took a step forward and established Jackson Junior College in 1928.
Fast forward 90 years. Much has changed. Today’s factories are increasingly being automated and offices are stocked with computers for daily needs. People carry more computing power in mobile phones than was needed to take Neil Armstrong to the moon in 1969. Today, much like 90 years ago, Jackson and South Central Michigan needs an educated workforce. Our early junior college began as part of the Union School District, operating near the downtown high school. The early curriculum was patterned after the University of Michigan, with the belief that many students would transfer there after two years. Later, the difficulties of the Depression years impacted, but did not halt, growth of the young junior college. In the 1960s, rapid enrollment growth spurred the need for more space. More and more high school graduates were attending college, creating the need to evolve to an independent community college district. A community college was subsequently created and governed by its own board of trustees, following a favorable approval by voters. A new campus was created and new buildings followed. Through the latter 20th and into the 21st century, new programs and additional buildings have continued. Throughout its history, the College has been responsive to the needs of our communities, developing innovative educational programming and incorporating technology toward learning.
The creation of first, a junior college, and later community college, helped to fill a vital need for local employers. Higher education helps students prepare for more career opportunities and better-paying jobs beyond those available with a high school diploma. Today, change and innovation continue faster than ever, as students not only need education beyond high school, they need continuing education throughout their work careers to keep pace.
Your community college will not waver in the commitment set forth 90 years ago. Our commitment is to provide necessary, vital education for our students and our communities, and in so doing, we inspire and transform lives. It’s difficult to say what the community will look like in the future, but whatever form it takes, Jackson College will be there, helping to prepare students to be active, productive workers and community members.
Jackson College continues to educate and to serve its communities. New programs and efforts continue to be introduced, the latest of which include agriculture and dental hygiene. Education continues to evolve, with online learning opportunities allowing Jackson College to reach around the world. Dual enrollment and early/middle college programs help to reach more students. Jackson College launched two bachelor’s degree programs to help our students and meet local job demands.
Join us as we celebrate Jackson College’s 90th anniversary!
Dr. Daniel J. Phelan Jackson College President
Early History of Jackson Junior College and its ‘Founding Fathers’
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN… Edward O. Marsh (1869-1931) can be counted as Jackson College’s
recommendations included the objectives: the programs of Jackson
first “Founding Father.” Born in 1869, E.O Marsh received his
Junior College (JJC) must be compatible with a liberal arts college’s
grammar and high school education in Illinois. Deciding to
first two years, must be based on U-M curriculum for transfer in
make teaching his profession, and realizing the importance of
engineering or liberal arts, and be staffed in close contact with U-M
college, Marsh temporarily taught at a village school to secure the
and with teachers having a master’s degree in their subject fields.
necessary money to attend the University of Michigan. During his
On Feb. 16, 1928, the Union School District Board unanimously
senior year, he moved to California and then to Arizona to cure
approved the creation of Jackson Junior College.
a bronchial infection. While in Tucson, he became the city editor of its newspaper. He presented institutes and papers at teachers’ conventions and was asked to become the superintendent of the Phoenix school system. He recognized that he needed to complete college, so he returned to the University and completed his bachelor’s degree in 1893. He was elected to the superintendency at Schoolcraft, declined that offer, and became instead the principal at Bay City.
staffed by 10 faculty, all of whom had U-M graduate degrees. JJC’s first home was the magnificent old mansion on the west side of the newly built Jackson High School (later called Marsh Hall). Laboratories, classrooms, gym and auditorium facilities were shared with the high school. Extracurricular activities were encouraged: women’s organizations, men’s athletics, debate, dramatics, chorus, college paper and annual — all to be managed by the students.
In 1911, Marsh
Marsh believed that a school system was only as good as its
became the
teachers, and thus he set higher educational and experience
superintendent of
requirements for all teachers. JJC was described as “the most
schools in Jackson,
progressive two-year college in the state.”
(called the Union School District). From its beginning, the Jackson Union School District led educational innovation. From 1911 to 1930, Marsh drew from his education at U-M and from his legendary past as a Wild West denizen (he was purported to have been kidnapped by Geronimo). He developed a special education program, designed accelerated programs for gifted children, promoted open air schools for anemic children, and established intermediate schools to solve the problem of ninth-grade dropouts. Superintendent Marsh helped launch the 1927 opening of Jackson High School. He served as its principal for 13 years while simultaneously serving as superintendent. The idea for a Junior College originated with the Union School District’s Board direction to Marsh to study junior colleges throughout Michigan and report back to them. Marsh’s
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Opening in fall 1928, the first class totaled 113 students and was
WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE / 90th Anniversary Edition
Marsh resigned in February 1930 because of failing health. The Jackson Citizen Patriot noted that the years of Marsh’s tenure were marked by unprecedented progress in public education, which entitled him to be recognized as one of the outstanding leaders in Jackson’s history. Marsh met Harold Steele (1879-1962) during the time he had spent in Tucson. Harold Steele had served as the Tucson superintendent from 1916-‘18 and, in 1911, had organized the first Boy Scout troop in Arizona. Because of those connections, Marsh recommended that Harold Steele become his replacement as the next Union School District superintendent. The Jackson Junior College catalog refers to Steele as the superintendent from 1930-‘33, but names him as both “Superintendent of Schools and President of the College” in 1934. During Steele’s tenure and despite the Depression, JJC adapted to the needs of the community and its students. Enrollment now included 50 students from outside the Union School District and five out-of-state students, with 327 students in 1939. During the 1930s, the College added courses, sponsored a civic orchestra
and produced dramatic productions for the community. Faculty increased by 120 percent from the College’s first days. Burgeoning enrollment meant increasing space demands, but the onset of World War II caused another decline in enrollment because of drafts and enlistments. Harold Steele’s 1942 Draft Registration Card shows his address as
EDWARD O. MARSH
504 Wildwood, steps from Jackson High School. Steele returned
1869-1931
to Tucson in 1944 for the dedication of Harold Steele Elementary School, named after him, the second of JJC’s “Founding Fathers.” During World War II, JJC enrollments dropped over 25 percent. Graduates in 1944 numbered only 15 women. Most of the College’s activities during the war years featured student organizations promoting the sale of war stamps and bonds. Some knit scarves; others collected materials for bandages. JJC’s pilot training program expanded and many of these pilots served in the war. 1946 saw the use of John George Hall which welcomed returning veterans. Over 550 students enrolled, 350 of them were men. Jackson Public School Teacher George L. Greenawalt (1892-1975) became the Union School/Jackson School District’s superintendent in December 1942 and again the College Catalog lists him as both superintendent and president. George Greenawalt served on the
HAROLD STEELE 1879-1972
Board of Directors in the newly chartered Junior Achievement of the Michigan Edge, Inc. In 1952, Greenawalt was granted a leave of absence from his duties because he was asked to serve on the United States Point Four Technical Assistance program in Tehran, Iran, advising Iranian officials as an educational consultant in the areas of training education teachers and advocating for the building of village schools. (Source: Battle Creek Enquirer)
GEORGE L. GREENWALT 1892-1975 Research and article by Phi Theta Kappa officers, members, alumni and Alpha Rho Lambda Chapter Advisor.
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Guiding the path:
JACKSON COLLEGE PRESIDENTS A committed, insightful group of leaders have guided the College throughout its history. Through the changing times and trends, each has used his gifts to ensure the College offers outstanding educational opportunities and is a resource to the community.
Read more about each of our presidents…
WILLIAM N. ATKINSON
HAROLD D. MCANINCH
HAROLD V. SHEFFER
1940-1942 Dean
1968-1969 Vice President
1972-1981 President of JCC
1945-1951 Dean (WWII Navy Lt. 1942-45)
1969-1971 President of JCC
1952-1964 President of JJC
Dr. Harold D. McAninch served as vice
president of Jackson Community College
president of instruction at the new Jackson
in 1972. He brought a diverse background,
Dr. William N. Atkinson came to Jackson Junior
Community College from 1968-69 and served
having worked in business, a non-profit and as
College in 1940 as dean, bringing experience
as president from 1970-71. McAninch was a
a cleric in both the Methodist and Episcopal
both as a teacher and as an administrator,
U.S. Army veteran who began his education
churches. The remarkable growth in student
serving until 1941 when he left to serve in
career as a part-time speech teacher at the
enrollment and physical facilities attests to
the U.S. Navy in World War II. He returned in
University of Arkansas. He taught at two high
his vision and planning skills. His term of
1945, also acting as deputy superintendent
schools and one community college before
office was marked by the development of
of schools for the Union School District, and
moving to Jackson College. From Jackson, he
the George E. Potter Center, Michigan Space
in 1952 became the College’s first full-time
moved on to the Joliet Junior College, earning
Center, Dahlem Environmental Education
president. Atkinson was the first president of
a reputation as a builder, and in 1979-1994
Center, Michigan School of the Arts and the
the new Jackson Community College, serving
he became president of College of DuPage.
Flight Center. In 1993, the College named
until 1969. The remarkable growth of the
In his farewell address to JCC graduates in
the Music Hall after Sheffer. He was also a
College, a new campus under the direction of
1971, McAninch said: “We reflect the rich
recognized leader at the state levels and
an autonomous Board of Trustees attests to
fabric of our society, its good, its evil, its black,
among fellow community college presidents,
the quality of his leadership. He was dedicated
its white, its rich, its students from 8 to 80,
leading to the presidency of the Michigan
not only to the development of this College,
from all elements in our community. This is
Community College Association and
but to community colleges in general. Even
the character of the community college: Not
numerous gubernatorial appointments to
with the demands upon him, Atkinson always
separated by ivory towers but remaining close
statewide committees.
managed time for his faculty and students.
to the people and serving their needs.”
1965-1969 President of JCC
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Harold V. Sheffer was appointed as third
WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE / 90th Anniversary Edition
CLYDE E. LETARTE
E. LEE HOWSER
DANIEL J. PHELAN
1981-1993, President of JCC
1993-2000, President of JCC
2001 – present, President of JCC,
Clyde LeTarte held several academic positions
Dr. E. Lee Howser served as the fifth president
throughout his exceptional career before
of Jackson Community College from 1993
Dr. Daniel J. Phelan became the sixth
taking the Jackson Community College
to 2001. He served the College 32 years,
president of Jackson Community College in
presidency in 1981. He faced turbulent
also holding positions as director of public
early 2001. Continuous innovation, quality,
times with difficult budget decisions during
information, assistant to the president, and
service and vision for an improved future of
his years as Jackson College president, but
vice president for administration. He was
student success have continued to define
proved himself to be a strong leader who was
instrumental in encouraging the Learning
Phelan’s contribution to the community college
respected by his employees. He extended
College concept and led the College
movement. During his tenure, all campuses
the College’s reach into Lenawee County in
through an extensive visioning project. He
have been transformed with renovations and
1989 and Hillsdale County in 1991, increasing
was committed to the CARE program, which
new buildings constructed, and innovations
the College’s enrollment. The Hillsdale center
offered scholarships to middle school students
like on-campus student housing launched.
today is named for him. LeTarte was elected
who could benefit upon successful graduation
Student life initiatives were enhanced and
to the Michigan House of Representatives,
from high school, and vigorously supported
athletics returned to the College during his
serving House District 65 from 1993-1998.
the Day Care Center on campus. He and his
presidency, responding to students’ desires
wife, Norma, initiated a restoration project for
for a well-rounded college experience. He
the Wickwire House.
also has helped initiate the College’s focus on
Jackson College
a “Total Commitment to Student Success.” Phelan is active at the state and national levels for community colleges, and has received multiple accolades and recognitions for his achievements.
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Leaving their mark
FR A N K DO V E A N D J . WA R D PRE S T O N Frank Dove’s influence still felt at college
In the first year of the program, JJC trained 48 pilots, including
Over the past 90 years, many great teachers have graced
women. Maher’s two friends, Zenneth Pond and Elwood Bailey, also
the halls of Jackson College. Frank Dove is chief among them.
went to war, these young pilots must be the best. According to
34 years, providing a steady hand in those formative years. Dove
Maher, “By war’s end, all had received the Air Medal, several the
taught physics and engineering drawing and served as dean for
Distinguished Flying Cross, and one Oak Leaf cluster.” Nine were
most of his tenure. Frank Dove embodied what we now call “Total
killed in action, including Pond and Bailey. Frank Dove was asked to
Commitment to Student Success.” He was consistent, innovative
speak at the funeral of Elwood Bailey, the first JJC casualty of WWII.
and kind.
Frank Dove was loved and appreciated by the College, the
Dove helped the young college through one of the most trying
community and students. He was appointed Dean Emeritus and
times in American history: the Great Depression. Alumnus William
received the Distinguished Service Award. The Sun Dial and Rose
Maher remembered having to leave school because he didn’t have
Garden at Whiting Hall is dedicated to him. William Maher never
decent clothes. He worked long hours, putting $10.00 in a box each
forgot Frank Dove, and he helped create a space for students to
paycheck, saving and waiting for
study at JC. So that Mr. Dove would always be remembered, it
a chance to return. In the spring
was named “The Dove Commons.” In 1942, students voted him
of 1940, Jackson Junior College,
“Our grand friend!”
under the leadership of Frank Dove, participated in the Federal Civilian Pilot Training Program, a program thinly disguised as a means to increase interest in aviation among civilians, but whose clear purpose was to boost military preparedness. When Maher learned of the opportunity, he applied to the program and was accepted. Frank Dove spent long hours tutoring the future pilot, ensuring Maher’s dream to fly would come true.
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signed up. Dove made them toe-the-line, knowing that if America
Before retiring in 1962, he served the College and community for
WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE / 90th Anniversary Edition
In 2018, we only have photos and brief memories to help us remember his commitment to our students. But the words of Dean Dove to JJC students, shared in The Oracle in 1934, best illustrate the man, the teacher, the leader, and the friend: “There are three wishes that I have for each of you. First, may each of you enjoy a happy life. In such abnormal times as ours it is easy to sympathize with Hamlet and resent the “time out of joint” and the necessity of doing something about it. But life has all the richness today that it ever had, possible more. Some interesting work, devoted family and friends, a humble soul: these are the secrets of joyous living.”
“Secondly, I must wish for you a life extraordinary. If you have spent
came to Jackson to teach in the natural sciences, holding a joint
two years with us and do not go out into the community life to
appointment between Jackson High School and Jackson Junior
take a place of leadership in some worthy cause and to give loyal
College until 1938. From 1938 until his resignation because of
support to all good things, then we have not done for you what
illness in 1970, Preston taught botany, zoology, anatomy and other
should have been done. You must be critically minded, guiding
natural science subjects; served as volunteer director of athletics
your action and attitudes not by emotion and prejudice but by all
and acted as alumni secretary; became dean of men, dean of
intelligence and knowledge. You must be different.
student, dean of faculty, vice president for academic affairs and
“Finally, may you always think of Jackson Junior College as home, a place to which you will wish to return often to see your friends.” The Jackson College Heritage Center has produced 12 community projects, including museum displays, films, oral histories, and community projects. We proudly dedicate the 2018 upcoming film about the Jackson Junior College Civilian Pilot Training Program to Frank James Dove, our friend indeed. Research for the Frank Dove article was by Professor Diana Agy’s Heritage Center students.
finally, in 1968, vice president for student personnel services. In 1970 the Board of Trustees conferred upon him the title of Vice President Emeritus. The following passage is from the Faculty Resolution to the Board of Trustees recommending this status: “No one in the history of the college has served it more wholeheartedly, and no one has endeared himself more to the entire staff as well as to the student
Remembering James Ward Preston,
body and the alumni. The faculty is
‘Mr. Community College’
privileged to have worked with him and
James Ward Preston’s name and legacy live on at Jackson College. Dubbed “Mr. Community College” by the Michigan Legislature upon his retirement in 1970, the memory of this beloved
(is) proud to recommend Ward Preston for appointment as Vice President Emeritus.”
instructor of biology carries on in many ways.
In 1989, faculty recommended to the Board of Trustees that the
Preston served Jackson Community College for nearly 40 years. He
Preston Outstanding Faculty Award,” a fitting tribute to one who
was a man who loved what he did and held deep devotion for his
will always be primus inter pares, the outstanding teacher against
place of work.
whom all the rest will be measured.
annual Outstanding Faculty Award be renamed the “J. Ward
Preston received the Bachelor of Science degree from Hillsdale College in 1931, and the Master of Science degree from the University of Michigan in 1934. Upon graduation from Hillsdale, he
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1930s
On a snowy day in the winter of 1929-1930 these Jackson Junior College sophomores stepped outside for their first group picture.
In the 1930s, the Great Depression gripped our nation. In 1931, the
library, gymnasium, classroom and auditorium facilities were shared
Star-Spangled Banner became our national anthem, and gangster
with the high school.
Al Capone was convicted. In 1932, Franklin Delano Roosevelt was elected president while Amelia Earhart was the first woman to fly. The year 1936 saw Jesse Owens win four Gold Medals in the Olympics held in Berlin, Germany, breaking Olympic and world records; German Chancellor Adolf Hitler did not recognize them. Radio shows were popular and big band music had people dancing the foxtrot, lindy hop, Charleston and jitterbug.
O
n Feb. 16, 1928, the Jackson Board of Education passes resolution creating Jackson Junior College; College
opens in September, 1928
The curriculum was patterned after the University of Michigan, with the thought that students could transfer after two years in Jackson. After the first year, an inspection committee from the University of Michigan reviewed the new institution very carefully and had reported that “an excellent start has been made,” rating the JJC courses on a par with their own. The University immediately began accepting JJC transfer students without loss of grade points or credit hours. Jackson Junior College opened with a total staff of 14, and the first year saw 113 students enrolled – higher than what school officials
Jackson College was born in later years of the 1920s. To meet the
had expected. Unfortunately, October 1929 saw the Wall Street
demands of the changing workplace and economic climate, there
Stock Market Crash which started what would become the Great
was a need for more high school students to go to college and gain education beyond high school. Many students, however, were reluctant or unable to travel far from home to attend college. To meet this need, members of the governing board of the Jackson
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Union School District founded Jackson Junior College. College classes met in what had been an old family home in downtown Jackson, west end of Jackson High A popular student activity was the annual Spring Fete and hoop-rolling competition.
School, which was subsequently named E.O. Marsh Hall. Laboratory,
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WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE / 90th Anniversary Edition
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A science class examines specimens under microscopes.
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The annual spring fete was popular in the 1930s; here are the 1937 hoop-rolling champions.
NO TABLE ALUMNI FR O M THE 1930s Robert Whiting 1930
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Early students try their archery skills.
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Students participate in a tug of war during Soph and Frosh Day.
Depression of the 1930s. The Depression cut deeply into college enrollments across the country, and Jackson was no different. Of the 113 students who began at the College, only 34 graduated. That first class, however, did have many who graduated and
Robert “Bob” Whiting was known around Jackson as the “bird man.” A student in the second class ever to enter JJC in 1929, he went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in geology and biology. After teaching high school in the 1930s and serving in the Army, he returned to Jackson and started teaching at Jackson Junior College. He began the local Audubon Society, and has been active in both the state and national Audubon Society. He taught ornithology and geology classes at JJC.
remained in the community. Robert Whiting became a longtime member of the College’s faculty and was active in the local
Ethelene Jones Crockett 1934
Audubon Society. Class president Floyd J. Poole became a Jackson
Dr. Ethelene Jones Crockett gave of her time and talents as a physician, community leader and humanitarian. Crockett (1914-1978) attended Jackson High School and graduated from Jackson Junior College in 1934. She began medical school at Howard University when she was 28 years old, when she was married to George W. Crockett Jr., later a Congressman, and also the mother of three children. She became Michigan’s first black woman specializing in obstetrics and gynecology. For 35 years, she practiced medicine as an outstanding obstetrician in Detroit and received the Detroit Medical Society’s “Physician of the Year” award in 1977.
County Clerk for many years. Many among that first class would send their sons and daughters to the College in later years. Despite the Depression, the young College survived, adapting itself to the needs of the community. By the mid-1930s, the enrollment began to creep upward again. The
College introduced a full range of courses in business & commercial skills, including typing.
first two-year terminal course that could be completed was a
secretarial program started in 1935. By fall of 1939, enrollment had reached 327, with 50 coming from outside the Union School District and five more from out of state. In 1938, the Board of Education authorized organization of the junior college into two divisions, a division of Arts and Science for students interested in transferring to a four-year college, and a division of General Studies for those enrolled in two-year programs or other not leading to graduation from a senior college.
Dr. Pearl Lee Walker McNeil 1935 Dr. Pearl Lee Walker McNeil (1915-2014) was a pioneering ecumenist and award-winning educator. Her life encompassed many careers: social scientist, college administrator and professor, humanitarian, ecumenist and homemaker. Service to others was a hallmark of her life, via volunteerism in the local, national and international communities.
Robert Freitag 1937 Robert Freitag had a long history of using his expertise to serve his country. Freitag was a retired Navy Captain and engineer who was a development manager of the Saturn space launch vehicle and worked on other manned flight programs at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
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For more information on these and other notable alumni visit www.jccmi.edu/90 9
1940s
Students record results in a science laboratory class. The early years of Jackson Junior College offered courses designed primarily for transfer to a university.
The 1940s saw the U.S. drawn into World War II. There were food
and science, with programs like engineering and general business
rations and a host of efforts to support the war on the home front.
offered. A civilian pilot training program, launched in 1939,
Radio was a mainstay in homes, for news and for big band and
expanded in the 1940s. Increasing numbers of graduates went on to
jazz music, with hits like the “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” by The
take advanced military flying instruction.
Andrews Sisters, “All or Nothing at All” by Frank Sinatra, and “God Bless the Child” by Billie Holiday. Big names in music were Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Glenn Miller, Nat “King” Cole, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong.
A
With the country’s entrance into World War II in 1941, problems with a need for more space came to a sudden end. Within a year, enrollments had dropped 25 percent. Enrollments would continue to drop during the war years until, in 1944, only 15 sophomores – all
s Jackson Junior College continued into its second decade,
of them women – graduated. During the war years, JJC men and
the Depression years were waning and enrollment continued
women saw duty in every branch of the service and all corners of the
to grow. Beginning in 1939, sharing of space with the high school
created some difficulties. The board began to consider the possibility of finding more room for the College. “The board felt that early consideration to the problem of supplying junior college
globe. Sadly, by war’s end, 39 JJC students had given their lives. The end of WWII again brought a rapid shift in college enrollment. In 1946, John George Hall, also downtown, was purchased with
students with their own building is necessary,” reported the Jackson Citizen Patriot. The decade began with a small but significant event in June 1940: the College’s first graduating class held its first reunion at a
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10th-anniversary dinner in During WW II, JJC men and women saw duty in every branch of the service and all corners of the globe.
Jackson. College programs had continued to grow beyond the traditional arts
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WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE / 90th Anniversary Edition
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In 1942, JJC student groups staged a competition to collect silk and
NO TABLE ALUMNI FR O M THE 1940s
nylon which could be used in the making of parachutes. The winners, who collected 248 1 /2 pounds, are shown here.
William Maher 1941
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Students take a study break outside on the lawn.
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Students having fun between classes.
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Black Friday offered students a chance for fun and friendly competition.
assistance from the John George Fund. John George was a Jackson publisher who had passed away and bequeathed the income from more than one million dollars as an educational fund for Jackson County young people. The board of trustees named to administer the fund later bought the building from its owners, the Shaughnessy family, and in 1946, made it available to the College. As veterans returned from war, new challenges sprang up for JJC. With faculty and staff in short supply, arrangements had to be made for the handling of a steadily-increasing number of discharged veterans under the provisions of the G.I. Bill of Rights. Enrollment began an upward climb; by fall of 1946 there were more than 550 students at JJC,
William “Bill” Maher spent a lifetime committed to aviation, with more than 70 years as a pilot. He flew as a civilian pilot in World War II, was an alumnus of Jackson Junior College, and served as chair of the College Flight Center Advisory Board for more than 20 years. He also served two terms on the Jackson College Foundation Board of Directors and founded the William and Mary Lee Maher Aviation Scholarship.
Dr. Wilbur L. Dungy 1948 Dr. Wilbur L. Dungy was a strong proponent of quality education and leaves a lasting legacy for future generations. Dungy returned to Jackson in 1953 to teach biology and anatomy at Jackson College. Dungy was the first black professor at the College and gave freely of his time to help his students, regularly coming in early and staying late to individually tutor those who were struggling. With commitment and dedication for his students and an infectious passion for teaching, he taught at Jackson College for 16 years, ending his career at Jackson as Life Sciences Chair in 1969.
and more than 350
During the war years, JJC students staged a competition to collect silk and nylon which could be used in the making of parachutes.
of them were men.
Larry Bullen 1949
As the veterans
Larry Bullen has served on countless boards and agencies, receiving numerous recognitions – including the 2017 Jackson Citizen Patriot Citizen of the Year – a record that speaks for itself of his commitment for Jackson County. A Jackson-area attorney since 1956, he served as trustee of the Weatherwax Foundation. Bullen taught at Jackson Junior College and was active in the committees that resulted in the formation of Jackson Community College.
eventually began to disappear from campus, they would be replaced by even larger numbers of young people who had been born during the war years who were now growing up in a technically complex world. One which demanded that they pursue education beyond a high school diploma. The pattern was being duplicated on every college campus across the country.
Michael Baughman 1949
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Michael Baughman has spent a lifetime representing and serving the people of Jackson County. He began practicing law in 1956 in Jackson. A committed alumnus, he was elected to the Board of Trustees in 1968 and served 30 years. An advocate for programs that enhanced student achievement and the performing arts, one of the Potter Center’s three theaters is named in his honor.
For more information on these and other notable alumni visit www.jccmi.edu/90 11
1950s
In a surveying course, engineering and forestry students applied their mathematics while enjoying the spring air.
The 1950s saw the U.S. continuing a time of growth and change.
Academic emphases on the nursing program grew, and in 1953, the
Fashion trends saw women sporting chin length and shorter hair and
title “Associate in Nursing” was authorized for students completing
poodle skirts, wingtip shoes for the men, leather jackets, and blue
the first two years of the prescribed three-year curriculum with the
jeans. Gasoline cost 25 cents per gallon, and an average car cost
Foote Hospital Nursing Program.
$2,200. It was a decade of many firsts – the first telephone answering machine, credit card, pocket-sized transistor radio, home microwave ovens, computer hard disk, and microchip. Color TV came into people’s homes, and Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and Buddy Holly were big on the radio. Moviegoers thrilled to James Dean and Marilyn Monroe.
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he decade of the 1950s saw continued growth at JJC, growth that would put the need for change front and center. What
began as a handful of college courses grew to dozens. Enrollment continued to climb, and students were active in a variety of sports and activities that made up junior college life.
The year 1952 saw Dr. William N. Atkinson take over the as interim superintendent, after George A. Greenawalt’s departure. Atkinson was named president of the junior college.
Student newspaper “The Oracle” keeps student up-todate on all the happenings and plans for JJC.
In memory of the 39 Jackson Junior College students who lost their lives serving their country in World War II, faculty members Ruth Arnold and Barbara Fausel conceived the idea for a memorial library that would be open to JJC students. Lumber companies donated material for shelves, volunteers constructed the shelves, and friends and relatives of
In 1950, the Jackson Veterans’ Institute was incorporated into the junior college. It had previously operated as an independent
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unit. Both veteran and non-veteran students benefitted from a variety of preparatory courses on an accelerated basis, as well as approved on-the-job In 1955, Dr. Wiliam N. Atkinson was elected president of the Michigan Association of Junior Colleges.
apprenticeship training in agriculture and a number of trades.
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The Caduceus Club included student nurses and other allied health
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professions students interested in learning more about the nursing profession. 2
A student performs an experiment in organic chemistry.
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JJC even had a horseback-riding club!
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Students compete during the tug of war.
the fallen service members donated books. Some of the materials included history, fiction, medicine, and a collection of the Harvard Classics. It opened in 1952. Disaster struck in April, 1956, when a lightning strike sparked a fire that destroyed E. O. Marsh Hall, the junior college’s original building. Classes had to be moved to another location. Crowded to near capacity, JJC had no place to go. The College was forced to turn away applicants for the first time in its history, not because they were unqualified, but because of lack of space. Growing pains for the junior college became very apparent in the later ‘50s. In 1956, a move to West Intermediate school building was in the foreseeable future. The dream began, at this time, of building on land south of town. An article in the student newspaper, The Oracle, from 1956 states that building was being considered, “but that is far ahead.” Enrollment in 1957 reached more than 850 students, an increase of 20 percent from the previous year and a figure that had been predicted for 1963. By the end of the decade in 1959, enrollment was approximately 1,100 students. To deal with burgeoning enrollments and lack of space, officials began studying the possibility of building a new junior college campus. By 1959, the 200-acre site contained within Kimmel and Emmons roads on the south and north and Hague and Browns Lake
James McDivitt 1950 Jackson Junior College alumnus James McDivitt was a pioneer in the space program as an astronaut and program manager for NASA. McDivitt served in the U.S. Air Force as a fighter pilot in the Korean War. With many service decorations, he was selected by NASA as an astronaut in 1962 and was command pilot for Gemini IV in 1965, and commanded the Apollo IX flight in 1969 in which the Lunar Module was tested for the first time in earth orbit. He retired from the Air Force in 1972 as brigadier general and went to work in the private sector.
Arthur Ellis 1952 Arthur E. Ellis was a committed public servant who dedicated himself to the people of Michigan. He served as superintendent of public instruction for the State Board of Education from 1996-2001, having served in an interim capacity since 1995. Ellis also served as president of Central Michigan University from 1985-’88, and from 1991’95 served as director of the Michigan Department of Commerce.
George Potter 1956 Retired local attorney George Potter served on the College’s Board of Trustees for 44 years. He stepped down from the board in 2006, having served longer than any community college trustee in the nation. Potter was just 25 years old when he was elected to the first-ever Board of Trustees of the new Jackson Community College in 1962. He served not only Jackson but community colleges across the nation during his service.
roads on the east and west had been identified. Further study in the early 1960s would lead to the launch of a new community college.
Patricia Anderson 1958 Patricia Anderson was a role model for teacher education students. She enrolled in college and completed her degree in 1953 to become a teacher. Anderson went on to teach elementary in the Jackson Public School district, teaching firstthrough sixth-grades. She team taught for a number of years with a fellow teacher and tried several different programs and methods to help improve the children’s educational experience. For her influence and dedication in helping educate children, Anderson was awarded the Jackson Public Schools Teacher of the Year honors in 1982.
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For more information on these and other notable alumni visit www.jccmi.edu/90 13
1960s
Students connect between classes with a pickup game of football.
Change and civil unrest were trends in the 1960s. Freedom riders
Early in 1961, a study was made of the post-high school
challenged segregation in the South. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
requirements of the Jackson, Lenawee and Hillsdale county areas.
spoke out for civil rights, including his “I Have a Dream” speech in
Findings showed that the three counties would be best served by
1963. He would be assassinated in 1968. President John F. Kennedy
creating a three-county community college district and assuming
challenged America to put a man on the moon before the end of
control of JJC. In an election, two of the counties turned the
the decade, accomplished by Neil Armstrong in 1969. Kennedy
proposal down. But Jackson County voters, used to having a junior
was assassinated in 1963. U.S involvement in the Vietnam War grew
college, supported the measure by more than two-to-one.
throughout the decade. The Beatles were a hit on the radio, and the Motown sound was popular, especially in Michigan.
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The following November, a proposal to create a community college district of Jackson County was submitted to the voters. Again they
n the 1960s, planning that had begun in the 1950s for a
supported the idea and, at the same time, they elected six trustees
community college continued. In January 1960, a General Citizens
to represent them as the governing body of the new college.
Advisory Committee for Jackson, Hillsdale and Lenawee counties
Among those first trustees was George Potter, an alumnus of the
began meeting. County superintendents and county board of
junior college, who would go on to serve on the board for 44 years.
education presidents, educators and civic leaders comprised the
In February and again in October of 1963, the trustees tried to
committee. The committee felt a study was necessary because
gain support for a millage necessary to create and operate the new
of projected population growth. Because current facilities were
college, failing both times.
inadequate, leaders began to explore new opportunities. First class of 24 practical nursing students were admitted to Jackson Junior College in 1961.
In the meantime, what was known as the West Intermediate school building was used by Jackson Junior
College in 1962, upon completion of the new Hunt junior high. It was renamed the Cortland building and housed most of the College’s classes throughout the mid-1960s.
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Students had fun with the Grand Prix du Tricyclette!
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A student dance band performs.
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When JCC was established, sports teams became the Golden Jets.
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These young ladies are ready for a parade!
The plan to broaden JJC’s support throughout the county had, meanwhile, been given a boost in 1961 when Jackson industrialist J. Sterling Wickwire offered the county some 270 acres of property south of the city as a possible site for the new facility. However, because of the way the bequest was made, it did not work out. Trying for the third time, in November, 1964, voters approved a 1.3-mill tax to operate the new community college. This time the proposal carried strongly, and JJC was to become Jackson Community College. In each election leading to the successful vote, students worked to build support for the proposal. In 1965, JCC
In June, 1965, alumnus Col. James A. McDivitt Jr., Gemini IV and Apollo VIII astronaut, delivered the commencement address.
began countywide operation. The new college kept its colors, maroon and
old gold, but changed its nickname to the “Golden Jets.” The year also saw the first community college graduates, with 53 graduating. Construction on a new campus began in 1966. The first building was Justin R. Whiting Vocational-Technical building. Completed in 1968, it was designed to serve the vocational and engineering areas of the community college program. The second building completed on the new community college campus was the James A. McDivitt Jr. Hall of Science, and a Campus Services Building, which housed a student commons, food services and college bookstore. By 1969, everyone had moved to the new campus..
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Leland Bassett 1964 Leland Bassett is leaving his mark on the world of communication management. Co-founder of the Detroit-based Bassett & Bassett, Inc., Communications Managers and Counselors, he has been a pioneer in the application of communication psychology and strategic planning for decades. Leland and Tina Bassett established the Vera Bassett Nursing Scholarship in honor of his mother, who was instrumental in the establishment of the College nursing program. Bassett is active in the Detroit community.
Farris Coppage 1964 Farris Coppage distinguished himself as a prolific educator and a man of courage and distinction. After graduating from Jackson Junior college and Eastern Michigan University, he spent more than 30 years as an educator in Albion Public Schools and then at Jackson High School. He has been active in the community, and was the 2015 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Service Award winner.
John Crist 1966 John Crist is a man of humble heart with a history of service to the College and community. He has served the College’s Board of Trustees since 2006, and is currently the vice chairperson. Crist guided CP Federal Credit Union as president and chief executive officer for 20 years, and before that worked 29 years for Consumers Energy. He’s served a host of community groups, including the Western Schools board, United Way, March of Dimes, Jackson Enterprise Group, Allegiance Hospice and more.
Woodrow Wilson Jr. 1967 3
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During his nearly 40 years at Jackson Community College, Woodrow Wilson Jr. helped to guide many in their educational and professional endeavors. Wilson started as a student at JCC, graduating in 1967, then returned to work for the college from 1972-2011 in a variety of positions. He retired from the teaching faculty in 2011. He was honored with the 2012 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Service Award. In his retirement, he has established a student scholarship and support of the Woodrow Wilson Multicultural Center on Central Campus.
For more information on these and other notable alumni visit www.jccmi.edu/90 15
1970s
A manufacturing student learns about machinery. JCC offered opportunities both for students who were interested in transfer to a university to continue their studies, as well as career programs that would help put them into a career after community college.
The 1970s saw the Vietnam War draw many young soldiers. The
has been found to reduce recidivism rates, lessening the likelihood
decade also saw the resignation of President Richard Nixon
that they would return to prison after release. The first class had 211
following the Watergate scandal. Americans celebrated its
enrolled in five classes, with 153 completing class requirements.
bicentennial birthday in 1976. Moviegoers enjoyed some landmark
By 1973, enrollment had grown to 450 students in 48 classes. JCC
Box Office films, such as “The Godfather,” “Jaws,” “Rocky”
was one of 26 colleges in the nation making an associate degree
“Saturday Night Fever” and “Star Wars.” Young people at home
available to prison inmates. At one time, prisoners were bused to
pulled on bell bottoms and danced to disco. Alex Haley’s “Roots”
campus after hours, at 10 p.m., and attended classes until 2 a.m.
was a popular book and mini-series. Video cassette recorders gained
They participated in vocational program training, in coordination
mass market success, and an AMC Gremlin car cost $1,879.
with the extensive curriculum offered at the prison facility.
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CC in the 1970s was a place of more building. Finding a home
The 1970s saw JCC experience the changing times of the
for health and physical education, intramurals and sports
nation. Concern for the environment prompted discussion of an
programs, the college fieldhouse was built; called the Health
environmental education center, later leading to the Nature Center
Services Building. Walker Hall construction was completed, housing
would lead to the establishment of the Dahlem Environmental
primarily language, literature and arts courses and the College library. Both were dedicated in 1971. Enrollment at the College had grown to 3,500, with more than 400 courses offered. The decade
Education Center. After the shooting at Kent State University on May 4, 1970, numbers of students gathered around the campus flagpole to the north of Whiting Hall. The decade that included
began with Dr. Harold McAninch as president, and Harold Sheffer became president in 1972. Jackson has long been known as a “prison city.” Following a first class with a handful of students in 1967, in 1969-70, a pilot prison education program for the In 1979, the College purchased a building that had housed Jackson Aviation at Jackson County Reynolds Airport to restart the aviation program.
Southern Michigan Prison was launched. Qualifying inmates could further
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Homecoming activities offer a fun break from classes!
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Student tries on a pilot’s helmet.
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Smile for the camera!
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Hands-on learning prepares students for careers.
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Carlene Walz Lefere 1970
racial tension and the Vietnam War continued to spur marches and demonstrations on campus and in Jackson. Political protest was not the only kind of action on campus. Students participated in dozens of organizations, men’s and women’s sororities, clubs, sports, PanHellenic groups, the international club and nursing
Carlene Walz Lefere is a Jackson County native who served as a District Judge for 12 years. Prior to that, she served as a practicing attorney in Jackson. Active in the community, Lefere is an emeritus trustee for the Jackson Community Foundation, College and Career Access board, and a member of the Jackson County Legal Services Advisory Board.
student clubs. Athletics for both men and women grew strong, with
Kirk Mercer 1970
many conference, regional and even national titles.
Each day, Kirk Mercer oversees the R.W. Mercer Co., founded by his father in 1961. A JCC alumnus, he oversees the multi-state general contracting firm, which has grown from five employees to more than 170 employees. Mercer has been active both professionally and in the community, serving the Petroleum Equipment Institute, Gilbarco Distributor Advisory Committee, Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s Renewable Fuels Commission and the Michigan Petroleum Association. He’s also served on the Liberty Township Planning Commission, Jackson Enterprise Group, Mason State Bank Board, and as a corporate ambassador of Michigan International Speedway.
Built in 1979, the Knight Energy Institute built to offer courses in heating, refrigeration and air conditioning, also performed energy research.
In the early 1970s, W.A. Foote Hospital
(now Henry Ford Allegiance Health), closed its longtime registered nurse-diploma program and collaborated with JCC to provide a registered nurse educational program. In 1974, the Michigan State Board of Nursing approved JCC’s proposal for an associate degree program in nursing, and the first class of 40 students was admitted. The Michigan Space and Science Center opened in 1977. Planning began for the Potter Center. (See related stories). Throughout the decade, JCC continued to expand learning opportunities for college and community. Articulation agreements were decided that would lead more students to attending college. In 1978, JCC and Eastern Michigan University entered into what would be called a “2+2” program agreement. EMU established a University Center office on the JCC campus and offered the second two years of many bachelor’s degree programs in Jackson – students could complete a bachelor’s degree in certain programs through EMU, all on the JCC campus.
Dr. Jon Lake 1972 An early mentor shared with Jon Lake the importance of giving back to his community, and Lake’s never forgotten. He started his career as a physician’s assistant, working for 15 years before following his dream of becoming a doctor and enrolling in medical school. He’s practiced family medicine since 1999, and gives of his time to many local and state medical societies and community groups. In 2017 he received the Dr. Ethelene Jones Crockett Distinguished Alumni Award from Jackson College.
Marsena Covington 1979 Always on the go with her job at Eaton Corporation or busy with volunteer work, Marsena Covington is a hard person to pin down. She is the senior account manager for Defense Logistics Agency Account for Eaton Aerospace Corporation. Her 30 years of experience with Eaton where she has predominantly been in customer service focusing almost entirely on the U.S. military sector of the Department of Defense. In 2013 she received the Defense Logistics Agency’s top civilian vendor-support honor, the Commander’s Choice Award.
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For more information on these and other notable alumni visit www.jccmi.edu/90 17
1980s
The Michigan Space and Science Center highlighted the nation’s Space Age.
The decade of the 1980s saw former actor Ronald Reagan serving as
offices, developed to fulfill training needs. College staff and faculty
president, and times of major change around the world as Mikhail
worked to create a multitude of training opportunities for employers
Gorbachev lead the Soviet Union into what would be the end of an
and for unemployed and underemployed workers. The Job Training
era. At home, young people were breakdancing to music on boom
Institute, the Entrepreneurial Center, the Personnel Development
boxes, and Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” was everywhere. Children
Institute, Continuing Education, an industrial incubator and courses
kept their Cabbage Patch Dolls and Care Bears, and teens donned
for senior citizens were all part.
mullets and became “mallrats.” Sally Ride became the first woman in space, and America witnessed the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster in 1986, which claimed seven, including teacher Christa McAuliffe. In 1989, the Berlin Wall was torn down.
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Economic limitations caused college leaders to tighten their belt. In 1982, budget constraints led the Board to discontinue intercollegiate athletics programs completely. LeTarte said that the decision to eliminate athletics was one of the most difficult decisions
CC persevered, but the 1980s were a difficult decade. Following Sheffer’s retirement in 1981, Clyde LeTarte became president.
that he ever made. While the decision was difficult, JCC did continue to help Jackson
Jackson County suffered a severe economic downturn during the
County get active. Rather than sending sports teams out, physical
1980s. Having always been tied to industry, especially the auto
education staff welcomed the community to the fieldhouse for
industry, many Jackson businesses were lost as other industries
fitness, and hosted events such as the Ultimate Health Experience –
failed, closed or Jackson College personnel were active in the All-America City Award presentation for the city of Jackson, which was named an All-America City in 1986.
Ultimate Runner, and businesses for the Corporate Challenge relays.
moved out of the county. Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company and Clark
Equipment Company closed during this time. Nearly 4,000 people were laid off. JCC offered opportunity for education and retraining. New departments came into being during this time. Community and Business Services, an outgrowth of earlier continuing education
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Early in the decade, budget constraints prompted the College to
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A welding student practices her new skill.
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Students have fun outside the classroom!
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A ceramics student works with a bowl on the pottery wheel.
Tim Booth 1981
To help support the College and its students, the Jackson Community College Foundation formed in 1983. Sensing future trends in the areas of development and community support, the Board determined that an institutional foundation, whose role was to provide assistance only to the College, would be beneficial throughout the future. The Foundation maintains a tax-exempt status and is an independent corporation. Since its inception, the Foundation, from its own assets and management of the College’s loaned funds, has offered hundreds of thousands of dollars in support, primarily in grants, programs and scholarships. In 1989, the College launched a scholarship program for students identified in sixth-grade who went on to successfully graduate high school, CARE (Concerned Adults Responding Early). It was supported for a number of years by a classic car show fundraiser that drew In 1984, “Star Trek” creator Gene Roddenberry visited campus to talk about the future and his science fiction, and also visit Michigan Space Center.
hundreds to campus. The College’s reach
extended in 1989 with the opening of the Lenawee Center in Adrian. This location allowed for consolidation of instruction and student services activities that had been taking place at several locations in Lenawee County. Courses continued there for nearly 15 years, until the College built its current site in 2003. (see related story)
Tim Booth serves as director of guest services at Michigan International Speedway, helping visitors have a great experience. He received the 2009 Home Depot NMPA Humanitarian Award for his work coordinating the Spirit of America Blood Drive. The Spirit of America Blood Drive is a way to honor victims and heroes of the Sept. 11, 2001 tragedy.
Chad Noble 1981 Chad Noble serves as president of the Henry Ford Allegiance Health Foundation. He has a passion for connecting with others about the important work of the health system and finds being part of something that helps others truly rewarding. He joined Henry Ford Allegiance Health in 1998 as director of corporate accounts management and governmental affairs. A Jackson native, he attended Jackson Public Schools, graduated from Jackson Community College and Spring Arbor University.
Brian Walker 1982 Brian Walker serves as president and chief executive officer of Herman Miller, Inc., overseeing the company’s global efforts to invent solutions that help create great places to work, to learn and to heal. Active in business and community, Walker serves on the boards of The Right Place, Briggs & Stratton Corp., and advisory board, The Stephen A. Wynn Institute. Walker received the 2005 MCCA Outstanding Alumnus Award and the 2006 Jackson College Dr. Ethelene Jones Crockett Distinguished Alumni Award.
Cindy Allen 1986 Cindy Allen has worked for Jackson Community College/Jackson College since 1980. She continued her education part-time as she worked, married and started a family. Today she is vice president of administration and human resources, and has long served over the cultural affairs and performing arts areas. In 2009, Allen was recognized with the JCC Outstanding Administrator Award. She is active in the community and volunteers her fundraising and event planning skills with many organizations.
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For more information on these and other notable alumni visit www.jccmi.edu/90 19
1990s
The decade of the 1990s saw continued growth in technology, and desktop computers and the Internet became commonplace.
The final decade of the 20th century saw the end to the Cold War
The Hillsdale Center opened in 1991. All classes were previously
and dissolution of the former Soviet Union. The First Gulf War
offered through the adult education program at Hillsdale High
was fought in 1990-91. Bush left office and Bill Clinton began his
School. The center was later named in honor of President Clyde
two terms in office. In the middle of the decade, the murder trial
LeTarte. After several years of discussion, the College opened
of O.J. Simpson captured the nation’s attention. Britain’s Princess
the Downtown Center in 1991 on Cortland Street in Jackson. The
Diana died in 1997, and the end of the decade, 1999, saw the mass
building was dedicated in 1993 in honor of Trustee Robert Johnson,
shootings at Columbine Schools. On the radio, people listened to
who had advocated for its creation.
Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and “Can’t Touch This” by M.C. Hammer. Moviegoers thrilled to “Jurassic Park” and “Titanic.”
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The 1990s saw the continued growth and change in technology, along with rapid growth of the Internet. Starting in 1985 and
ackson College greeted the last decade of the 1900s with
through ‘95, JCC participated in the Apple Community College
growth in programs, locations and learning philosophy.
Alliance. It hosted Computers and Writing Conferences on campus,
In 1991, President Clyde LeTarte was one of the original presidents involved in a new Community College Continuous Quality Improvement Network, or CQIN. The purpose would be an open and honest sharing of information – the pluses and minuses – among presidents who had committed to implementation of Total Quality Management principles. LeTarte was selected as interim
and appeared in the national Apple Alliance telecast. Student consultants helped boost the new information technology program. Visitors came to the campus to see how the College was using computers in the classroom. Improvements in the mid-1990s were made to the campus network, computer laboratories and classrooms, making it possible to use Internet resources in a wide
chair of the first network; JC remains active with CQIN today. On campus, trustees, The prison education program was discontinued in the mid-1990s as the Legislature cut funding.
administration and faculty joined in discussions of the Learning College concept, core courses and basic
skills necessary for students. A Learning College is one that places learning first and provides educational experiences for learners any way, anywhere, anytime. 20
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The College has long offered opportunities for lifelong learning for all
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hoping to upgrade their skills. 2
Automotive technology students get hands-on learning repairs.
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Manufacturing students learn about and practice on machinery.
variety of classes. JCC’s home page first appeared. The College’s Personnel and Development Institute (PDI) shifted focus in 1994 to being workforce education specialists. Rapidly advancing technology, global competition, and a skills gap in the labor force were issues needing attention, and JCC stepped in to serve. In 1998, the Enterprise Institute was formed as a resource to the community to make contributions to its economic development by providing one-stop educational training services to the Enterprise clients in the tri-county area, Jackson, Hillsdale and Lenawee. JCC started developing its first website in 1992, with the Internet growing in popularity.
One of the community college’s hallmarks
has been the diverse nature of its student body. In 1997, under Howser’s guidance, opened a Child Care Center in the former site
Ted Christoff 1990 Ted Christoff is a Jackson businessman who gives back to his hometown community. He is a vice president at Christoff and Sons Floor Covering, Window Treatment and Carpet Cleaning, with his brother, Tom. He has served on the East Jackson School Board, Jackson Commercial Contractors Association, Chamber of Commerce Vice President, and leadership positions with the Boy Scouts.
William Patterson 1991 William Patterson is passionate about education. With more than 15 years of experience, Patterson currently serves as director of secondary education and federal programs with the Jackson Public Schools Administrative Office. He began as a teacher in 1998. In his current position, Patterson has primary responsibility for effectively directing, facilitating, coordinating and managing the successful short-term and longterm implementation of the Secondary Student Achievement programs for the school district.
of the Knight Energy Institute. Child care services were available
Brendon Beer 1995
to students, employees and the community through cooperative
Brendon Beer is a Jackson native who continues to serve the legal needs of Jackson County. He is an attorney and partner with the firm of Abbott, Thomson, Mauldin, Parker & Beer, PLC. Beer is active in many legal associations, and volunteers for community groups including the Board of Directors for the United Way of Jackson County and the Ella sharp Museum of Art and History. He serves as a member and legal counsel for various nonprofit corporations.
agreement with the ABC Academy. By 1999, rapid growth of the Internet brought a web of opportunities to distance learning. JCC joined in the Michigan Community College Virtual Learning Collaborative (MCCVLC), a group of 28 community colleges that permitted students to access distance learning courses from any member college.
Kendra Suddeth Henry 1996
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Kendra Suddeth Henry sees the challenges that stress can put on children each day in her job as a school social worker, and she is glad to be there to help. Henry is a 1996 graduate of JCC who went on to Spring Arbor University to earn her bachelor’s degree in family life education, and later enrolled at Michigan State University to earn her master’s degree in social work.
For more information on these and other notable alumni visit www.jccmi.edu/90 21
2000s
Physics students complete a laboratory assignment.
The first decade of the new millennium will be remembered, sadly,
To help meet increasing demand for college classes in Lenawee
for the events of Sept. 11, 2001 in New York City, Washington, D.C.
County, JCC worked with the Lenawee Intermediate School District
and Pennsylvania, and the resulting War on Terror. George H.W.
on a land acquisition to build a new campus. JCC @ LISD TECH
Bush was president as U.S. forces invaded Iraq, leading to the end
was built next door to what was the Lenawee Vo-Tech Center, today
of Saddam Hussein’s rule as Iraqi president. Harvard student Mark
LISD TECH, with completion in 2003.
Zuckerberg founded social networking service Facebook in 2004. At home, the popularity of the Internet, mobile phone and text messaging surged. At the movie theater, computer-generated films such as “Avatar” became widespread.
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Renovations to the nearly 40-year-old Central Campus began in 2005 with James McDivitt Hall. The building houses many of the physical and social sciences, mathematics, criminal justice and engineering classes. Renovations were made to classrooms,
he new millennium saw JCC continue its longtime commitment
laboratories and lecture halls, including additional prep spaces,
to providing quality higher education. Rapid growth in use of
improved computer commons on the first floor and bistro area.
the Internet opened a new area of distance learning opportunities via the World Wide Web. As more and more working adults found the need to further their education, course delivery methods were altered to meet busy schedules, with mini-semester and compressed courses offering the same material in a shortened time frame, allowing students to get the credits they need faster.
Alumna Patricia Kelley Emerson ’07 was named to the All-USA Academic First Team for two-year colleges, a national recognition.
College officials initiated efforts to boost student life activities on campus. Marketing surveys had indicated that students wanted a fuller college experience beyond going to classes. Student life was identified as part of the College’s strategic plan in 2003, and opportunities grew for students to connect and get involved.
In 2001, President Daniel J. Phelan took the helm of
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the College following the retirement of Lee Howser.
Later that year, Jackson and the nation was rocked by the events of Sept. 11. In response to those events, and with the efforts of some retired faculty, Phelan formed a committee to establish a flag display on campus. The Spirit of America Flag Tribute was dedicated in 2002. 22
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Sand volleyball offers a fun pastime and chance for students to connect.
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Associate Professor of Music Ron Douglass launched an African Drum Ensemble in 2002.
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Assistant Professor Steve Brennan works with a student at the Hillsdale Workforce Development and Technology Center.
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Sports returned to the College after a 25-year hiatus; pictured here is a Jets women’s basketball team.
One part of that came in 2006 when the College welcomed back intercollegiate sports after a 25-year hiatus. The College’s facilities continued to change. Bringing library and information technology facilities together into one building, William Atkinson Hall was built and dedicated in 2007. A large, open computer area is joined by breakout rooms, along with the traditional library stacks. The building houses classrooms, information technology JCC establishes first endowed faculty chair in honor of Dr. Wilbur Dungy, science faculty member and the College’s first African-American professor.
campus offices, and a café. Taking an
innovative step for a community college, Jackson built student housing on campus. This allowed students the opportunity to live on their own and have a residential campus experience. Campus View 1 was constructed in 2007, and Campus View 2 was built in 2009. With the return of sports, the Victor Cuiss Fieldhouse was renovated in 2007, updating facilities and installing a beautiful parquet floor. Hillsdale LeTarte Center was also renovated in 2007, upgrading facilities and adding laboratory and office space for that location. In 2008, the center core of Whiting Hall was renovated to create the Rawal Center for Health Professions, thanks to the generosity of local neurosurgeon and family, Dr. Harish and Sudha Rawal. The center
NO TABLE ALUMN I FR O M THE 2000s Valerie Schuette 2000 Valerie Schuette got her start as a student at Jackson College, went to work for the College for a number of years, and today continues to serve the Jackson College Foundation Board of Directors. Today she works as chief operations officer at CP Federal Credit Union, and she previously worked as vice president of human resources and branch operations. In addition to serving on the foundation board, she has served on the Child Care Network and Girl Scouts Board of Directors, as well as the United Way Family Vision Council.
Heather Ruttkofsky 2001 Heather Ruttkofsky never saw herself as a “college person.” Today, she is a professional sonographer who teaches Jackson College students about the field she loves, and most importantly, how to help people. After working in a salsa factory for $5 an hour, she returned to college, studying emergency medical services and later sonography. She went to work as a sonographer and was hired by Jackson College as a clinical instructor. Today she is vascular sonography program coordinator and loves the opportunity to help today’s students achieve their goals.
Philicia Richmond 2009 Philicia Richmond marvels at the chain of events that led her to attend Jackson College and become a registered nurse and then a family nurse practitioner. Richmond graduated from the nursing program in December 2009, and currently works as a nurse practitioner in Behavioral Health at Henry Ford Allegiance Health.
contains prototype laboratories for nursing and allied health fields, including simulation mannequins to enhance student learning.
Dr. Elizabeth Phillip 2009
4
3
Dr. Elizabeth Phillip loves to help people as a chiropractor. Surprisingly, she wasn’t sure about going to college at first, but being recruited to play volleyball for the Jets helped set her on a new course. Today she and her husband, James, operate their joint practice, Phillip Family Chiropractic of Chelsea and Onsted.
For more information on these and other notable alumni visit www.jccmi.edu/90 23
2010s
Justin Whiting Hall was renovated and a new Health Laboratory Center was constructed. Here, radiography students learn how to position a patient.
The decade began with Barack Obama in the White House. The
available from 2007 to 2010. Cuts were made to bring the budget
Occupy Wall Street movement protested what many felt was the
back into balance.
undue influence of corporations on government. The Patient and Affordable Care Act is signed into law in 2010, designed to make health accessible for more Americans. In 2011, Osama bin Laden, leader of militant Islamic group Al-Qaeda, was killed. Reality TV shows grew in popularity, and the box office saw “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” engage in a new generation of fans. Donald Trump was elected president and took office in 2017.
T
To broaden access to local students, in 2012 the JCC Foundation purchased a 42,000-square-foot building to lease to the College as a new campus. The building is located near the crossroads of I-94 and US-127. Originally called the North Campus, it provides an easily accessible option from the northern areas of Jackson County and to evening students. It was renamed the W.J. Maher Campus in honor of alumnus William J. Maher, a longtime local businessman
he second decade of the new millennium has seen continued
and pilot who had served both the College Flight Center Advisory
change. At the outset of the decade, renovation was underway
Board and the JC Foundation Board of Directors.
to Justin Whiting Hall. Following completion of the Rawal Center for Health Professions, renovation continued on the east and west wings and the addition of a 42,000-square-foot health learning center. The Health Laboratory Center includes spaces for nursing and allied health programs, in facilities including additional learning
studios, a seminar studio, high-tech conference rooms, office areas
A momentous change came in June 2013, when the Board of Trustees voted to rename the institution Jackson College. President Phelan suggested the name change because of the changing ability for community college to offer bachelor’s degrees, as well as an emphasis on drawing more international students.
and student study areas. In 2012, College launches pilot program for prison education at G. Robert Cotton Correctional Facility, with prisoners self-pay.
2
College enrollment continued its climb through 2011 and 2012, then started a decrease.
A variety of factors contributed to the decline, including smaller high school graduating classes, changes in Pell availability and the conclusion of programs like No Worker Left Behind that had been 24
WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE / 90th Anniversary Edition
1
NO TABLE ALUMNI FR O M THE 2010s
1
Science students complete a laboratory assignment.
2
The Health Laboratory Center offers enhanced facilities for nursing and allied health fields, such as respiratory care, shown here.
3
A manufacturing student works at the LISD TECH Center in Adrian.
4
With a focus on international education, students traveled to Brazil through a fellowship program, US-Brazil Connect.
In 2014, JC received authorization from the Higher Learning Commission to offer its first-ever bachelor’s degree program, the Bachelor of Science in Energy Systems Management, preparing students for professional careers in the energy industry. The College saw its first bachelor’s degree graduate in 2017. Community historical research projects found a home in 2016 with the establishment of the Heritage Center at Maher Campus.
The decade has seen continued campus
growth with a third student housing unit, Campus View 3, opening in 2015. To help both campus residents and all students connect on campus, a new recreation area was created in 2015 in the former Space Center, now called the Jets Hangar. In 2015, renovation began on Bert Walker Hall. Space was added for a large community room, and the building was reconfigured to house all of Student Services. With the College’s emphasis on student success, the decade has seen a shift to hiring more student success navigators – beyond an advisor, a total resource person and coach for students throughout their college experience. Walker Hall houses navigator offices, as well as financial aid, the Center for Student Success, Veterans Services, Multicultural Affairs and more. In addition, it houses classrooms and faculty offices. In 2017, JC gained approval for its second bachelor’s degree, a Bachelor of Applied Science in Culinary Management and Hospitality. With society’s trend of eating out more and more, there is growing demand in both the culinary and hospitality fields for qualified professionals.
3
4
Emily Hoffman 2010 Emily (Garcia) Hoffman has been a driving force in the Jackson Young Professionals organization, helping to make Jackson a great place to live, work and play. Since 2014, she’s worked with the family-owned Garcia Clinical Laboratory as an account executive with focus on infectious disease. She is the lead person who reports infectious disease for more than 30 states. In 2015, Jackson Magazine named her a 30 and Under Award recipient for her community involvement.
Mara Wierzbicki 2012 Mara Wierzbicki was an active student on campus, playing volleyball for two years, working on campus and mentoring peers as a Writing Fellow. She completed her Master of Arts in Education from the University of Michigan in 2017, and she currently teaches second grade at Northwest Early Elementary School. While at JC, Wierzbicki was selected for the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society All-Michigan Academy Team. She also earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing communications from Columbia College in Chicago.
John Hays 2013 Each day, John Hays is actively involved in running Judicial Services Group, Ltd. of Jackson. He’s leading his staff in helping to support the justice system in Michigan. Hays found his important calling at Jackson College. He started taking classes as a dual enrolled high school student, then enrolled full time after high school, all together, from 2005-2013. He began studying business, but decided to follow another path and went into law enforcement. It was a good fit for him.
Alyssia Hall 2016 Alyssia Hall sought a new path for herself and her children. After working as a certified nurse assistant to support her family, she knew in the back of her mind she wanted to go to college. She chose Jackson College and became a respiratory therapist. Today she works at Henry Ford Allegiance Health in a job she loves. Her decision has made all the different in the world for her family, she said.
For more information on these and other notable alumni visit www.jccmi.edu/90 25
From classroom to playing field
SPORTS ADDS TO COLLEGE LIFE Athletics have long been an important part of life at Jackson College. Teams started out in the junior college days as the Maroons and later the Golden Jets, and for many years utilized facilities at Jackson High and wherever they could find space. Since its beginning, a variety of sports were held. Basketball, golf, tennis, cheerleading, cross country, track, swimming, soccer, baseball, softball and volleyball – there was even a JJC football team for the first few years. Teams faced other community colleges, and sometimes even took on local teams, including the team from the local Goodyear plant. In the 1980s, budget constraints led the Board of Trustees to discontinue the sports program. After a 25-year hiatus, in 2006 trustees voted to again implement a competitive sports program. Many today have fond memories of their playing days at Jackson Junior/Community College. Jackson College continues to welcome talented, strong student-athletes today. Here are some from history…
Bobby Thompkins and Robert Burton played basketball together at Jackson High and continued at Jackson Community College in the early 1960s, to play for Coach Chet Eicher. JCC basketball was a popular ticket, with fans continuing to follow their favorites who went from Jackson THOMPKINS High to the College. “It was great, there were four or five of us from high school that decided we would go to the junior college, play for Coach Eicher,” Thompkins recalls. He played well for the Golden Jets, being named All-American both his freshman and sophomore years. “I really enjoyed it,” said Burton. “There were several of us from Jackson High, some from St. Mary’s, and some transfers in from other cities. BURTON We had good teams, real good teams. The teams were very successful, we even went to Nationals in Hutchinson, Kansas.” 26
WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE / 90th Anniversary Edition
Interestingly, while both Thompkins and Burton played ball together in school and in college, both also went into careers in education and spent several years in administrative positions in Jackson Public Schools. In the late 1960s, when Jackson Community College’s campus was very new, Beth (Garn) Kuntzleman left her first-grade teaching job to teach physical education at the College. She asked in 1968 to put together a women’s basketball team. Women’s sports were very new, with a Women’s Recreation Association of Michigan granting permission just a few years earlier to offer sports to women, or “coeds” as they were referred to in the yearbooks. “I just advertised in my physical education classes that we were going to start a women’s team, and I took all comers,” Kuntzleman said. “I didn’t even have to recruit. All were from Jackson County. We had good gals, even for the first season. Jackson Community College was wonderful, saying, ‘if you want to do it, go for it.’”
The women’s team had to find time to practice at 5:30 p.m. at night at the Northeast Middle School gym, because that was when it was available. While the College provided money for officials and even for a training workshop for coaches, there wasn’t money for uniforms. Players wore “pinnies” or practice jerseys for games. But coach and players were committed, playing eight games the first season, even facing off again big schools like Michigan State University and University of Michigan. “You had to make it happen yourself – you had to be pretty aggressive and independent. I really appreciated the support that JCC gave the women, early on. They were light years ahead of others,” she said. Pat Henderson played for Kuntzleman during those early years, and they still keep in touch today. Henderson recalls struggling for gym time, but is thankful for Kuntzleman who fought to get the ladies time on the court. “When I heard about the team at JCC, I thought it was awesome, I jumped all over it. It was a blast – especially when we went to play schools like MSU and U of M,” Henderson said. She continued playing at Western Michigan after JCC. Emily Manwaring took over for Kuntzleman after she left to start a family and continued to grow women’s sports. There was basketball and volleyball, and Manwaring started softball a year later. Both the basketball and softball teams had seasons where they finished NJCAA National Tournament runner-up. “The most important thing about the whole program was that JCC was the first college to offer athletic scholarships for women in the State of Michigan,” Manwaring said. Strong women’s teams developed, and more players continued their sports at four-year institutions. A proud history of women’s athletics was born!
Bill Lundberg ran away with success at Jackson Community College in the early 1970s. After graduating from Lumen Christi High School in 1972, Lundberg continued at JCC for two years. Lundberg had played basketball throughout high school and went out for track his senior year. At the community college, running took first place. Lundberg was an AllAmerican in cross country and a two-time NJCAA National champion in track and also set a national record with his two-mile win while representing JCC in the National Junior College Indoor Championships. He was selected Most Valuable Performer at that 1974 Indoor National Meet. He went on to University of Kansas where he captained the cross country and track teams. In 1976, he finished fifth in the 3000-meter steeplechase at the U.S. Olympic Trials. In 1977, he returned to coach at Jackson Community College, the nation’s youngest head track coach. His teams were nationally ranked, producing many All-Americans and National Champions. After the College discontinued sports in the early 1980s, he continued to coach at the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University. He began coaching at Hillsdale College in 1985, and continues there today. “College was really the start of my deeper commitment and really getting stronger in the whole world of athletics and the running scene,” Lundberg said. “My days at the community college gave me a lot of exposure. I was grateful for what I experienced at JCC.” A man of faith, he refers to the Bible verse Hebrews 13:7-8 which starts “Remember your leaders…” He recalls his coaches at JCC, Bob Oring and Jerry Reis and their great influence in his life, and even working on campus helped him in many ways. “JCC was really the catalyst for me to be successful. Becoming a disciplined runner and a fine student, I developed a great work ethic that continued to keep building throughout my life!” 27
1928
THEN LOCATION
Wildwood Avenue, adjacent to Jackson High School
NUMBER OF BUILDINGS Marsh Hall (Administration, Academic Classrooms); Jackson High use of library, gym, labs, and auditorium
FACULTY 10 Full-Time
STUDENTS ENROLLED 113
CURRICULUM All Transfer, 2 year programs in Arts, Science, Engineering, Business Administration, Dentistry, Education, Law, Medicine (required an additional year)
TUITION PER CREDIT HOUR For those taking less than 10 credits, $2.25 per semester hour for residents; $5.25 per semester hour for non-residents
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS Jackson Junior College Students’ Association; Women’s League, Men’s Union, Athletics, Dramatics, Chorus, College Paper, Debating
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WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE / 90th Anniversary Edition
2018
NOW LOCATION 4 Campuses in 3 Counties; Virtual Campus (Online Courses), Reynolds Airport and 7 Michigan Department of Corrections facilities
NUMBER OF BUILDINGS Central Campus: 14 buildings, including 3 student housing units; 3 additional campuses and flight center
FACULTY 74 Full-Time; 361 Part-Time
STUDENTS ENROLLED 5,489
CURRICULUM The College offers 2 bachelor’s degrees, more than 115 associate degrees and certificate programs and 450 courses in general education, occupational education, and developmental education.
TUITION PER CREDIT HOUR $145 per semester for Jackson County residents; $217 for non-residents
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS Athletics, Christian Student Club, Dynamic Dancing Jets, Geek Society, Global Student Organization, Men of Merit, NAMI on Campus, Pagan Student Union, Phi Theta Kappa, Sisters of Strength, Student Government, Student Veterans of America
the planning, even traveling with architects to different theaters throughout the Midwest, committee members recommended the name, the George E. Potter Center. “I had put my heart into it, and they recognized it. I was in tears at that meeting,” Potter said. He added that it was important not just that the building be named for him, but that the facilities within it be named for those actively involved in the project. Potter Center became immediately popular with area arts groups using the facilities for their performances. “The opening of the Potter Center was tremendous. At the time it was probably one of the finest facilities, if not the finest facility, in the Midwest,” said Maestro Stephen
POTTER CENTER Provides world class entertainment and center for students
Each year, thousands of patrons enjoy performances or attend events at Jackson College’s George E. Potter Center.
Osmond, longtime music director and executive director of the Jackson Symphony Orchestra who retired in 2017 after 40 years. “I was here for 40 years and I had three reasons for not wanting to leave Jackson, and the Music Hall was one of them.”
“The creation of the Potter Center and opening of the Music Hall in 1980 has added a significant dimension to the quality of life in our community,” said Cindy Allen, vice president of administration and human resources. “Real estate agents used our season brochure to introduce new residents to our community. The Chamber used it to
Shortly after the launch of the new community college in its Summit
show prospective businesses and families a great jewel available right
Township location, planning began for a student cultural center. While
in their back yard. This place had multiple choices for entertainment
the original community college master plan called for three separate
nearly every weekend.”
buildings – an administration building, a student center and a theater – Trustee Chair George Potter said the concept of combining them all into one was “an epiphany” that came to his mind, in about 1972 or 1973. He approached President Harold Sheffer and his fellow trustees with the idea, and they were in favor. In 1973, planning began. President Sheffer said at the time the first concept was to provide adequate eating facilities, a lounge and recreation area so students could have a place to get together, something missing on the new community college campus. The little theater would be useful for
Over the years, the Potter Center has become both a student and community hub, with multiple college, community, business and personal events held throughout the year. In 2012, the Robert Snyder Dining Commons was remodeled and updated. The floor was leveled, new booth seating installed and big screen TVs added. The updated look was designed to make it more inviting for students, while also freshening up the space for large community events and weddings.
the school’s drama program, and the auditorium would be part of
In 2017, the first phase of a renovation project on the Potter
the College’s service to the community. Phase I opened in 1978 and
Center lobby area was completed. Fundraising continues for future
included everything but the music hall – the 367-seat little theatre,
renovations to the Harold Sheffer Music Hall and more.
later named for board member Michael Baughman, the smaller Ruth Day Theatre, dining commons, bookstore and more. Phase II of the project was the 1,500-seat Harold Sheffer Music Hall, which opened in 1980 with the New Orleans Preservation Hall Jazz Band performing the opening celebration. When completed, the center cost about $13.5 million. George Potter today says he still remembers the 1978 board meeting when a committee recommended naming the facility in his honor. After coming up with the concept and being intricately involved in Photos courtesy of Jackson Citizen Patriot.
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Multiple campuses
PROVIDES EASE IN ACCESS Providing higher education opportunities to the South Central Michigan area, Jackson College reaches out with campuses in Lenawee County, Hillsdale County, a second Jackson campus near I-94, and the Flight Center at Jackson’s Reynolds Airport.
JACKSON COLLEGE ADRIAN
LETARTE CENTER HILLSDALE
FLIGHT CENTER JACKSON
W.J. MAHER CAMPUS JACKSON
Jackson College expanded its operation to Lenawee County with the opening of the Lenawee Center, on Maple Avenue in Adrian, in 1989 and under the leadership of President Clyde LeTarte. The center’s growth was affirmation that Lenawee residents were looking for the quality education that the College offered.
Jackson College has a long history of offering classes in Hillsdale. The Hillsdale Center opened in 1991, and previously, all classes were offered through the adult education program at Hillsdale High School. In 2000, the Hillsdale Center was renamed to honor former President Clyde LeTarte and his service. In 2007 the center was renovated to upgrade facilities, adding a science lab, laptop computer lab, remodeled student lounge, café, improve office areas and more. This 10,700-square-foot facility houses seven classrooms and several student computers in the lobby area. The LeTarte Center offers one-stop services designed to make the enrollment process easy for students.
The Jackson College aviation flight technology program, established in 1979, has training facilities at Jackson municipal airport. The center includes classroom areas, briefing and instructor rooms with hangar. Jackson College utilizes a fleet of modern Cessna and Piper single engine aircraft for safe, effective training. Working in partnership with Solo Aviation of Ann Arbor, education and certification is available for private pilot, commercial pilot, instrument rating, flight instructor certification and instrument flight instructor rating. Jackson College offers associate degree, concentration and skill set in aviation flight technology.
In 2012, the Jackson Community College Foundation purchased the Photo Marketing Association International building located off Interstate 94 near the Elm Street exit. The purchase was an effort to diversity the foundation’s holdings and make a direct investment in the local economy. The Foundation has entered into an agreement to lease the entire building to JCC. This campus location offers ease of access, and is closer to those in the northern sections of Jackson County.
By 2001, Jackson was again looking to expand and signed a historic educational partnership with the Lenawee Intermediate School District. JCC purchased land on the LISD TECH Center’s campus and built a new facility. JCC @ LISD TECH opened in the fall of 2003. It is located next to the LISD TECH Center, allowing some sharing of facilities. Jackson College now offers the JC/ LISD Academy, a Regional Middle College. Launched in 2010-11, the academy allows high school students to be fully immersed in the postsecondary learning environment, while affording them the opportunity to complete a high school diploma and associate degree in five years.
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In fall 2017, the Hillsdale County Early/Middle College program began. Beginning in the 11thgrade year, students will complete high school and enroll in at least one college course a semester. Students will continue with a fifth year beyond their typical senior year, finishing with both a high school diploma, 15 college credits and a Michigan Early Middle College Association (MEMCA) Certificate.
WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE / 90th Anniversary Edition
In 2013, the North Campus was renamed in honor of William J. “Bill” Maher, longtime businessman and pilot who was a staunch supporter of education. Maher was an alumnus of Jackson Junior College and was always thankful for the opportunities he received at the College. The need to give back to the College was something Maher felt strongly about. The building also houses the Jackson College Foundation offices, and space if available for rental.
Community
CONNECTIONS
MICHIGAN SPACE CENTER With numerous ties to the space program, JCC became the site of the Michigan Space Center in 1977, attracting many during the early days of space travel. Three astronauts, all with local ties, were present: Brig. Gen. (retired) James McDivitt, Jr., JJC alumnus; Lt. Col. Alfred Worden and Lt. Col. Jack Lousma. Main speaker at the dedication was NASA Deputy Director, Robert Freitag, a JJC alumnus. The educational museumlecture facility housed numerous artifacts and welcomed tourists and school children from all around. On display was equipment used in various space programs and related materials, reflecting the history of the space program and rocketry. A Mercury Redstone rocket was erected in front of the building. The Apollo 9 space capsule and the space suit of former astronaut James A. McDivitt Jr. were added to the College from their previous home in McDivitt Hall. In the 1980s, as space travel became more routine, visitors to the Space Center dropped. After a millage in 2003 that would have included improvements to the College and the Space Center was rejected, the board of trustees closed the center. About 95 percent of the artifacts, which were owned by the Smithsonian Institution, were moved to the Air Zoo near Kalamazoo. The Apollo 9 command module was relocated to the San Diego Aerospace Museum. DAHLEM CENTER CONSERVANCY The Dahlem had its start back in 1961 when James Sterling Wickwire announced the gift of 270 acres of land, including the Wickwire House, to what was then JJC. After Wickwire’s death in 1971, the land officially became part of the College’s grounds.
In 1969, it was clear the land would not be used for the community college campus. So, the biology department began planning a nature center on at least some of the acreage. By 1971, two trails had been cut on the property. In 1973, an Environmental Problems class, taught by Myrna Berlet, developed an interpretive master plan for a future nature center, authorized by the Board of Trustees that October. In 1974, JCC purchased the Fannie Beach Arboretum, off South Jackson Road, with funds acquired by the sale of two houses donated for this purpose. The nature center became a reality in 1976 when Dr. Betty Dahlem Desbiens made a generous donation on behalf of herself and her siblings. The John and Mary Dahlem Environmental Education Center was named for their parents. The Dahlem Center developed public and school programs, and the first building constructed in 1978. Its main purpose was education, preserving the natural area for scientific students and community involvement. Workshops, holiday bazaars, summer camps and Halloween goblin walks became familiar events over the years. In 2003, Master Gardeners created the Natalie Emmons Memorial Children’s Garden. This is an educational tool for children who visit the garden each year. In 2004, economic times at Jackson College were tight. A failed millage attempt left the College looking for ways to balance the budget. In January 2005, the Board of Trustees agreed to sever ties with the nature center, giving a 30-year lease to the center and 291 acres to a new private, independent nonprofit group. The Dahlem Conservancy continues to operate as an independent, 501c3 organization.
GLEN & PHYLLIS MEMORIAL CLOCK TOWER Standing in the middle of Central Campus, between Potter Center and Bert Walker Hall, stands the College’s clock tower. Two sisters, Jackson Community College alumni, contributed to the clock tower as a tribute to their parents’ sacrifice, and a living memorial to their commitment. Glen and Phyllis Walker were unable to attend college themselves; money was tight for those growing up in the Great Depression and the World War II years. Like many from their generation, the Walkers worked and sacrificed to ensure their daughters both went to college. Glen and Phyllis both had ties to the College – Phyllis Walker worked as a college secretary, while her husband took classes and attended events at the Potter Center. To honor their parents, daughters Jacqueline Walker and Patricia (Walker) Fenchuk contributed $75,000 to the Jackson College Foundation for construction of this special tribute. The Glen & Phyllis Walker Memorial Clock Tower was dedicated in March, 2005. At the time, Jacqueline said: “We felt that JCC is poised to make some changes that dedicate itself to the 21st century. There are some real changes coming on that campus that will enhance the education experience of students, and we want to be a part of that. This is something that every single student would draw something positive from.” When on campus and hearing the chimes of the clock tower, all can remember the commitment to education that the Walkers – like many parents and students – have made. They create the story of Jackson College.
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Student life activities help students find
SUCCESS BEYOND CLASSROOM At Jackson College students have been top priority since our founding in 1928, and our commitment continues. Most recently, the College has re-emphasized its Total Commitment to Student Success, helping students both inside and outside the classroom find success. At Jackson College, the success of students comes first. Part of student success comes from student life activities -- those extracurricular activities that help students have fun, get connected and boost their skills. While the past saw groups like the men’s union and women’s league, today Jackson College features a variety of student groups and activities to help students connect beyond the classroom.
CHRISTIAN STUDENT BIBLE CLUB This group, open to students of all faiths, provides opportunities for students to come together to study and discuss the Bible during weekly meetings. Students can also connect and share in fellowship with others at group activities throughout the year, including worship services held in the Jets Hangar, and prayer sessions during exams week. DYNAMIC DANCING JETS Students who want to practice and perform organized dance are welcome in the Dynamic Dancing Jets. Students have the opportunity to have fun and connect with each other. GEEK SOCIETY Student hobby group for students who enjoy “geek” culture – video games, role-playing games, anime/manga, card games and board games. Students may get to know others with similar interests. GLOBAL STUDENT ORGANIZATION All students with an interest in the world around them are welcome in the Global Student Organization. This group is dedicated to enhancing the academic, social, and cultural development for international students as well as domestic students through student organized activities and programs. MEN OF MERIT Men of Merit is a service and leadership initiative whose mission is to inspire members to stay in college, advance academically, serve their community and become the men they dream to be. Members have several opportunities to meet weekly for group study sessions and to hear from local leaders. They also visit local elementary, middle and high schools to encourage younger students to stay in school and think about college and the future. Students are encouraged to participate in community service and mentoring opportunities.
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WE ARE JACKSON COLLEGE / 90th Anniversary Edition
NAMI ON CAMPUS Student branch of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. NAMI is a student-run organization that educates students on mental illnesses, coping mechanisms, and spotting the signs of relapse. There are guest speakers, student panels and many activities to help educate students and help them become an advocate for mental health awareness. PAGAN STUDENT UNION This group, open to students of all faiths, provides a safe, non-judgmental haven for students to gather, share information and connect. PHI THETA KAPPA In May, 1961, Jackson Junior College inducted its first 30 members into the Lambda Lambda Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society of two-year institutions. As Phi Theta Kappa membership grew nationally, the Jackson chapter was renamed Alpha Rho Lambda in April 1990 and, again, 30 charter members were inducted. Since then, Phi Theta Kappa’s presence has continued to grow on the college campus. The hallmarks of leadership, scholarship, fellowship, and service continue to guide the planning and projects of the Alpha Rho Lambda Chapter. SISTERS OF STRENGTH Sisters of Strength is a service and leadership initiative whose mission is to inspire members to stay in college, advance academically, serve their community and become the women they dream to be. Members have several opportunities to meet weekly for group study sessions and to hear from local leaders. Sisters of Strength also visits local elementary, middle and high school students to mentor young people and urge them to stay in school and think about college and the future. Students are encouraged to participate in community service and mentoring opportunities. STUDENT GOVERNMENT This group serves as the official representative voice for the students who attend Jackson College. Student Government exists to advocate for and empower all members of the student body. Members have an office on campus to hear from students and hold regular meetings at Jackson, Lenawee and Hillsdale campuses. STUDENT VETERANS OF AMERICA This group is dedicated to promoting connectivity and networking with an end result of academic success. While the transition from military life to civilian life can be confusing, the Student Veterans of America exists to help. All student veterans are welcome, as well as staff and faculty who want to assist student veterans. 33
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
DEARBORN, MI PERMIT NO. 11
2111 Emmons Road Jackson, MI 49201-8399
*****ECRWSS***** Local Postal Customer
Jackson College’s Marketing and Communications office has collected and researched the last 90 years of Jackson College for this publication, including highlights of alumni, changes in education, leadership, our students and much more.
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