Albion College President's Report by Albion College

President’s Report

Dear Brits,

Now in my third year as president, I am reminded daily that Albion’s strength lies in its people. Each new year brings students eager to discover their potential, faculty advancing teaching and scholarship, and staff dedicated to creating a supportive environment—all carrying forward our shared legacy and responsibility.

Like many private, liberal arts colleges, Albion faces real challenges. Demographic shifts have reduced the pool of college-bound students, especially in the Midwest. Cost pressures weigh heavily on families, public universities compete with the advantage of state support, obtaining international student visas has become more difficult, and skepticism about higher education continues to grow. Several peers have closed, and more will. These headwinds are sobering, but Albion is responding with focus and resolve— leaning into the distinctive elements of our experience that set us apart.

This fall, our incoming class size remained stable with a number of international and transfer students expected to join us later in the year—a clear sign of momentum. Just as important, we reduced our tuition discount rate by five percentage points over two cycles, producing nearly $2,500 more in net revenue per student compared to two years ago. At the same time, philanthropic support is growing

at record levels. In FY25, “cash-in-thedoor” giving increased 50 percent, with total philanthropic activity reaching nearly $10 million—exceeding our goal by $2.5 million. This generosity directly improves the student experience, from scholarships to renovated spaces.

We celebrate these gains while keeping Albion affordable and accessible. Paired with $6 million in expense reductions, increased revenues, and better resource alignment over the past two years, these advances are strengthening our foundation. We have reduced our projected cash-operating budget deficit from $16 million in 2023 to $8 million this year, with plans to reach $4 million next fall. Much work remains, but we are taking control of our future.

Student success remains at the center of our work, with many of our improvements targeted towards our incoming classlike a new first-year advising program. Our Summer Bridge program—which prepares incoming students for academic and social success—grew to 84 students this year, up from 53 last year, and nine the year before. The renewal of our five-year federal TRIO Student Support Services grant further demonstrates our commitment to equipping every student with the tools to thrive.

At the heart of Albion’s promise is experiential learning. With 82 percent of faculty approving the new Experiential Learning for All initiative, every Brit will graduate having engaged in hands-on learning—whether through research, internships, community engagement, or global study. These experiences

build confidence, sharpen career readiness, and prepare graduates for lives of purpose and impact.

We are also investing in the spaces that shape student life, completing 13 major renovations since 2023. This year, we completed renovations to Kresge Gymnasium, the Kellogg Center, Upper Baldwin Ballroom, the back lounge and patio of Wesley Hall, and more. These improvements were made possible by the generosity of donors who know that where students learn, gather, and grow matters.

The past year has been filled with achievement across the college as shared in the following report. Alumni are opening doors for future Britons, students are seizing transformative opportunities, and faculty are forging partnerships that expand knowledge and impact. These stories show the many ways Albion continues to make a difference.

Thank you for walking this journey with us. Your engagement with Albion matters more than ever, and I am deeply grateful for the role you play in sustaining and advancing this college.

Together, we will continue to write the next chapter in Albion’s proud history.

With gratitude,

College

Albion

Budget at a Glance

Sound financial stewardship is essential to sustaining Albion’s mission. About 70 percent of our revenue is generated through tuition, fees, room, and board, while the other 30 percent comes from gifts, grants, endowment interest, and auxiliary fees such as summer camps and conferences. The majority of these operating revenues go directly to salaries and benefits for employees and to funding programmatic needs across departments throughout the college.

Fundraising

The total value of Albion’s endowment stayed relatively steady in fiscal year 2025, and we adhered to donor restrictions, where applicable. As of June 30, 2025, the market value of the endowment was $143,052,827. Gifts to the Albion College Fund and restricted gifts amounted to a total of $6.7M. The planned-giving pipeline includes a total of 555 documented and undocumented gifts totaling $78,337,440.

Fiscal Year 2025 Gifts and Grants

Experiential Learning for All

FACULTY APPROVES EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING FOR ALL STUDENTS

Albion College has a well-earned, national reputation for helping students succeed through handson experiences which supplement academics. Earlier this year, the college’s faculty voted to ensure all students benefit from experiential learning by making it a graduation requirement.

In March, the faculty approved catalog language mandating all Albion College students complete an experiential learning requirement before graduating.

Types of Experiential Learning

• Internships, Practicums, or Fellowships

• Undergraduate Research (FURSCA, Federally funded REUs, Directed Studies)

• Performances, Exhibitions, or Capstone Projects

• Clinical Education and Student Teaching

• Study Abroad and Off-Campus Study

• Participation in The Albion Pleiad and Student Media

• Community-Engaged Service Learning

• Work-Study or Off-Campus Employment

• Experiential Learning-Approved Courses Across Departments

“Albion College has long championed various forms of experiential learning for our students. And experiential learning for all (EL4A) is a natural extension of our history,” said Bradley Rabquer, professor of biology, chair of the Kinesiology Department, faculty director of Lisa and James Wilson Institute for Medicine, and co-chair of the faculty’s Curriculum and Resources Committee. “The faculty strongly support the EL4A initiative and the opportunity to ensure that all Albion College students have the opportunity to engage in experiential learning.”

Students will select an appropriate experiential learning opportunity, with support from their academic advisor, that works in service to and alongside academic and professional goals and learning. Once the experiential learning opportunity has been selected and the experiential learning supervisor identified, the student will engage in structured self-reflection that will occur across three phases: before, during, and after the experience.

For most experiential learning engagements, students will be required to prepare a proposal in writing, which must be endorsed by the experiential learning supervisor and reviewed by the corresponding administrative unit.

All experiential learning opportunities will be assessed using two of the following five student learning outcomes:

1. Personal Growth & Lifelong Learning (required of all students)

2. Analysis & Communication

3. Practical Application & Skills Development

4. Creativity & Expression

5. Ethical & Civic Engagement

“We see a future where our graduates are drivers of change in the world around them. Rooted in critical inquiry and hands-on experience, our students emerge as fearless leaders, creative problem-solvers, and compassionate citizens,” a vision statement accompanying the faculty motion stated. “Albion College is a catalyst of innovation, where every graduate leaves not only with a degree, but with the confidence, skills, and vision to create lasting impact.”

Students in the Class of 2029—and continuing students who opt in—are now working under the new graduation requirement, while cross-campus teams are clarifying expectations, establishing processes, and building supports to help students engage fully in these opportunities. Many students will earn their experiential learning credit within their major but the process allows for flexibility for students to fulfill in any way appropriate to their professional interests.

NEW ALUMNI GIFTS INCREASE

AC3’S

REACH

Whether inspired by their hands-on learning experiences while Britons or the excitement of seeing their alma mater making a difference in the lives of its students, Albion College alumni are stepping up to ensure experiential learning remains part of the college’s DNA.

Recently, two alumni gifts were made to support the Albion College Community Collaborative (AC3). Initially funded by the Arthur Vining Davis Foundation, AC3 is an experiential learning lab designed to allow students to translate ideas into action.

Chuck ’77 and Julie Frayer ’77 made a generous gift to support student internship opportunities with the Grand Rapids Symphony (GRS). The gift provides four students a 13-week summer internship experience focused on assessing, collecting, and developing a community stakeholder impact report for GRS.

The Frayers have been long-time supporters of Albion College. They previously set up an endowed scholarship and have supported projects such as the renovation of the Bonta Admissions Center.

“I went to a presentation a year or so ago at the college related to AC3. I was quickly attracted to [Economics and Management Department Chair] Vicki Baker’s vision and energy,” Chuck Frayer said. “As a Gerstacker Professional Management grad, the value of experiential learning was an important part of my Albion experience many years ago. I see the AC3 program as an extension, and improvement of what I experienced many years ago.”

“Chuck helped open the door with leadership at GRS, which ultimately led to a partnership this summer between AC3 and GRS,” Albion College Director of Philanthropy Jon Hankins said.

GRS President and CEO Keith Elder called the internship program a meaningful partnership that provided valuable professional experience for Albion students. This year’s interns were Brinley McCaig ’26, Brenna Staley ’26, Brandon Blake ’26, and Adriana Viscomi ’25.

“This summer, the Grand Rapids Symphony was proud to partner with Albion College and the AC3 program. We hosted a wonderful group of interns whose enthusiasm, professionalism, and clear love for live music and the arts made a lasting impression on our team,” Elder said. “The interns focused primarily on conducting in-depth audience research, work that provided us with thoughtful, data-driven insights into who our patrons are and how we can better serve them.”

“Whether in meetings, at concerts, or engaging with patrons, their positive attitudes and genuine interest in our mission stood out,” Elder said.

The second gift came from Betsy Ford Maine ’77 and Cliff Maine, whose gift commitment is supporting experientiallearning programming over the next three years, focused on collaborative, community-based projects between students, businesses, non-profit community partners, and Albion College.

“Having reached that point in life where one pauses to reflect on life’s experiences, I find myself forever grateful for my Albion College education,” Betsy Ford Maine said.

“Friendships and associations from my time at Albion continue to enrich my life and I have always been proud to be a Briton.”

“As a recipient of significant scholarships and financial aid during my time at Albion, I felt strongly that it was important to help make sure others could have a similar opportunity and I felt that the Albion College Community Collaborative was the perfect fit,” she said. “Fortunately my husband, who did not attend Albion College, has been enthusiastic and supportive. We are honored to be able to help.”

Chuck ’77 and Julie Frayer ’77

Cliff and Betsy Ford Maine ’77

Brinley McCaig ’26, Brenna Staley ’26, Brandon Blake ’26, and Adriana Viscomi ’25 of the AC3 Grand Rapids team.

PAINTING

ONE’S PLACE IN SOCIETY

All students participating in Albion College’s summer Foundation for Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity (FURSCA) program do a formal presentation of their project to the entire group. Leo Gomez ’26 was in the middle of his when he was interrupted by art professor Michael Dixon.

“I was saying that my goal was to create six paintings this summer when Michael told everyone I would do eight,” Gomez recalled. “I’ve had to sometimes work on two paintings at once, and I’ve stayed up late some nights. It was a surprise, but I thought I could do it.”

Along with testing his ability to do more than he thought, Gomez has spent the summer studying autism and seeing how he can apply his new knowledge and personal experiences to his art. With the eight paintings he finished this summer, Gomez has a total of 16 paintings reflecting on “Isolation, Autism, and Me.”

“Michael Dixon says to do a series, you need at least 16 paintings,” Gomez said. “Take this opportunity as a mock residency.”

Gomez has studied and practiced art for years, but his current FURSCA project, with its focus on autism, is leading him to consider his work on a new level. “Autism isn’t something I’ve ever really talked about,” he said. “It manifests through isolation and in these paintings, I more or less go through that. Many of these pieces touch on things like my place in this world, my place within academics, and my interests.”

The centerpiece of his summer is a portrait of himself with Dixon and Dixon’s teacher Beverly Mclver, an art professor at Duke University. The portrait reflects conflicting emotions Gomez felt about their meeting.

“Imagine having your mentor and your mentor’s mentor in the same room. You’re surrounded by people very important to you, and you also feel very sensitive to autistic stimuli like touching as you take the photo,” Gomez recalled. “It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the occasion. I showed this by making the background very red.”

Gomez displayed another emotion (and his talent) in the way he painted each face using a different technique. “I thought it would be fun to show these two artists in the style they show themselves,” he said. “I painted them in their own style, and myself in my style.”

Along with exhibiting his work at next year’s Elkin R. Isaac Student Research Symposium, Gomez is contemplating sharing it with others with the condition. Among them is Kaelynn Partlow, an autistic therapist and advocate whose Youtube channel has served as a source of inspiration.

“This channel provided a lot of research material for this project, and I also don’t want to only speak about myself,” Gomez said. “This work may be relatable to other people with autism. Sharing what I’ve done is more or less the plan and I’m hoping that things go well with that.”

Leo Gomez is a senior majoring in art with a minor in art history. He is the child of Salvador Gomez and Maria Coronado of Dallas and is a graduate of Hampton Preparatory School.

Philanthropy

ALUMNI: Median gift $100

ALUMNI: 1,319 donors gave $5,246,739.92

STUDENTS:

103 donors gave $4,353.50

COMMUNITY

MEMBERS:

51 donors gave $117,297.52

PARENTS:

438 donors gave $928,442.09

Top classes for participation in giving: 2025: 63 donors 1970: 44 donors 1969: 42 donors 1971: 40 donors

FACULTY AND STAFF:

133 donors gave $114,112.80

Gifts of $150 or less had a collective impact of $84,000

Giving Tuesday 2024 saw boundless support from Albion College alumni and friends. With the help of 513 donors, we raised $481,191.29 to support student-centered spaces, experiential learning, and more to help our students thrive.

On May 3, we welcomed 328 new alumni to the Briton community! In the Class of 2025, 52 seniors completed a thesis and 43 graduated with honors. In addition, graduates raised $3,189 for the Briton Scholarship Fund through Senior Class Gift and 127 students gave or participated in some way. The Class of 2025 wanted to contribute toward ensuring that an Albion College education remains affordable for generations of future Britons.

It was a great day to be a Brit! Our secondannual Athletic Day of Giving, held in conjunction with the Briton Classic on Aug. 1, was a huge success; 136 golfers joined us on the green, and together, with the help of 306 donors, we raised over $73,000 for our student-athletes. The money raised on Athletic Day of Giving will help set our athletes up with the resources they need to succeed in the coming year.

Gifts collected on Athletic Day of Giving will also help fund future updates to the Champion’s Weight Room, including new, safer flooring and updated weight plates.

ALB IO N C OLLEGE

ENHANCING STUDENT-CENTERED SPACES

The Pathway Forward plan has continued to emphasize opportunities to enhance student-centered spaces as a way to foster engagement, connection, wellness, and belonging for every student at Albion. The following updates reflect our commitment to ensuring students find a second home that is safe, community-focused, and filled with meaningful experiences that reflect the diverse, interconnected world they will enter after graduation.

One of the first indoor sports facilities in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association, Kresge Gymnasium is Michigan’s oldest active intercollegiate athletic venue and home to men’s and women’s basketball; women’s volleyball; and men’s and women’s wrestling. In October 2025–on its 100th birthday–Albion College unveiled the renovated Kresge Gymnasium, which affords Britons new opportunities to thrive in competition and grow in community.

Albion College acknowledges the generous support of the following: Anonymous

Cedric ’54 and B. June Dempsey ’54

Bruce ’53 and Peggy Sale Kresge ’53

Eric ’82 and Deb Caudel Lipp ’83

David and Nancy Graham Roush ’72

Jeffrey Ott ’86 and Mary Ann Sabo, for the Jeffrey Ott Family Scoreboard

Joe ’82 and Julie Serra

Donald ’82 and Angela Scott Sheets ’82

Jeffrey ’75, Cheryl Lee Weedman ’77 and Carl Lee Weedman ’15, for the Carl E Lee lobby

The Kellogg Center–affectionately known to generations of students as the “KC”–sits at the heart of campus, serving as the vibrant hub of student life and activities. In 2025, thanks to a generous gifts from Patrick J. (P.J.) Thompson ’84, Larry Allen Hoellwarth ’70, Louisa J. Hayward ’76 and Roger Peterson, the KC’s beloved common areas received a fresh new look. Their support funded physical improvements to the Living Room on the first floor and The Stack on the second floor, including updated paint, carpet, and furniture–enhancing the welcoming spaces where Britons gather, connect, and create lasting memories.

The college is scheduled to open a newly renovated outdoor patio in the back of Wesley Hall designed for connection, relaxation, and community-building. The cleaned-up, refreshed patio will include all-weather, flexible furniture, commercial propane fire pits, ambient outdoor lighting, patio games, and new plantings.

Updates are underway this fall on the back lounge of Wesley Hall, including a new kitchen space and lounge. Renovations entail new flooring, paint, furniture, appliances, cabinets, lighting, a refurbished pool table, and air conditioning!

Kresge Gymnasium

Kellogg Center

Wesley Hall Outdoor Patio

Rendered Visuals

Wesley Hall Back Lounge

Class of 2029 Profile

385

19 States Represented 71% From Michigan

13 Countries Represented

Arts College in Michigan Second in Midwest

3.5 Average GPA

7 New Build Albion Fellows

Sienna Heights University students transferred to Albion College following the announcement of their Spring 2026 closure. 6 4

Northland College students transferred following the announcement of their Spring 2025 closure.

127 First-Gen

220 Athletes

BRITS BY THE NUMBERS 2024-25

Total Student Population

Fall total: 1,335

Alumni Engagement

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

March 2025: Albion Everywhere in NYC

In the heart of Manhattan, overlooking Times Square, Albion College students, faculty, and alumni came together for dinner during a multi-day spring break trip with the math department. Hosted by Barbara Weiskittel ’83 and Richard Linebaugh ’86 as part of Albion Everywhere, students shared their college experiences and future goals with alumni from the area.

March 2025: Albion Everywhere in Dallas

President Wayne Webster and alumni host Jim Anderson ’83 welcomed special alumni speaker Doug Parker ’84, retired CEO of American Airlines, to give the talk “From Albion to Airlines.” Over 40 Dallas-area alumni and current students gathered for this spring break gathering as part of Albion Everywhere.

May 2025: Sleight Leadership Program

in Detroit

As part of the Ford Institute’s annual five-day program, Albion College sophomores dove into modern leadership practices through a mix of classes, hands-on activities, and small-group projects. They also connected with Detroit-area alumni, community leaders, and local organizations to explore how leadership is shaping the city’s economic comeback.

June 2025: Gerstacker Institute in Chicago

During a professional development trip to the city, Gerstacker Institute students, staff, and faculty met with Chicagoland alumni for a networking event on June 5. Students visited companies around the city throughout the day and capped off the evening with fellow Britons representing a variety of career paths.

2,200

ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Creating an endowed scholarship is one of the most powerful ways a donor can invest in Albion College’s future. These permanent funds generate support year after year, ensuring that generations of talented students can access an Albion education. The students featured here represent just a few of the outstanding Britons whose journeys have been shaped by the generosity and vision of those who have established endowed scholarships.

“As a first-generation student from a low-income family, college has always been my dream, but not without challenges. Thanks to the Minnesota Endowed Scholarship, I can focus on my studies in psychology—without the constant worry of debt—and fully embrace opportunities in the classroom, on stage, and in service to others. I will never forget this generosity, and I hope one day to pay it forward to future students.”

Nico Alfahed ’26, from Champlin, Minnesota, received the Minnesota Endowed Scholarship.

Major: Psychology and Anthropology/ Sociology

“The scholarships I have been awarded have given me the freedom to focus on my writing and pursue an honors thesis in poetry, all while staying deeply involved on campus.”

Lindsay Ratcliffe ’26, from Flat Rock, Michigan, received three endowed scholarships, the J.D. Reed '62 Memorial Scholarship in Creative Writing, the William A. Krenerick Endowed Scholarship, and the Joe and Laurie Irwin Endowed Scholarship.

Majors: English with a creative writing emphasis and political science

Distinguished Memberships: Prentiss M. Brown Honors Program

“Albion has become the best home I could have imagined during this time in my life. Thanks to the E. Maynard Aris Endowed Scholarship, I can continue my studies in business, gain hands-on experience in construction management, and compete with the men’s lacrosse team—building skills, friendships, and memories I’ll carry for a lifetime.”

Logan Bride ’26, from Waterford, Michigan, received the E. Maynard Aris Endowed Scholarship.

Major: Business

“The Stefan Kobiljak Scholarship allows me to pursue my passions in biochemistry, Spanish, and public health while deepening my research and volunteer work. From serving as a CNA to editing the campus news, my experiences at Albion have shaped both my academic path and personal growth— and your generosity makes it possible for me to keep exploring every opportunity.”

Natalie Altayeb ’26, from Novi, Michigan, received the Stefan H. Kobiljak, Jr. PreMedicine Scholarship and the Michael K. Wilson Endowed Scholarship.

Major: Biochemistry, Spanish Minor: Cell and Molecular Biology

Distinguished Memberships: Prentiss M. Brown Honors Program

“Thanks to the Geraldine Townsend Fitch Scholarship, I’ve been able to fully immerse myself in academics, leadership, and research while pursuing my double major in international studies and economics. From leading the International Student Union to conducting human rights research, your support is helping me follow my dream to graduate next year and continue on to graduate school.”

Egshiglen Batjargal ’25 from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, received the Geraldine Townsend Fitch 1917 Endowed Scholarship.

Majors: Economics, International Studies Distinguished Memberships: Gerald R. Ford Institute for Leadership in Public Policy and Service

“The Boggan and Womack Scholarship has opened doors for me academically and eased the financial burden, allowing me to stay focused on my goals as a kinesiology major and active member of the Albion community.”

Makayla Vines ’26, from Detroit, Michigan, received the Boggan-Womack Families Scholarship.

Major: Kinesiology-Exercise Science Minor: Psychology

THE HIGHER EDUCATION LANDSCAPE AND ALBION’S PATHWAY FORWARD

Albion College is entering the third year of its Pathway Forward plan at a time of significant pressures for higher education nationally and locally. Across the country, demographic decline is reducing the number of traditional college-bound students, price pressures are straining families and institutions alike, public confidence in the value of a degree is eroding, and closures of peer institutions are accelerating.

In addition to these national headwinds, Albion faces challenges that are closer to home. The Midwest—and Michigan

in particular—are projected to see some of the sharpest declines in high school graduates over the next two decades. Recent closures of private colleges in the state have created uncertainty in the market, while misinformation about Albion’s financial standing has fueled questions about our stability. And while the college has moved out of crisis mode, addressing liquidity and longterm sustainability remains urgent.

The Pathway Forward plan was designed to meet these realities directly. Its framework—centered on revenue

NATIONAL AND REGIONAL

Demographic shifts

Projections indicate a 10% decline in U.S. high school graduates between 2023 and 2041, according to a report by the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE). The Midwest is expected to see a 16% reduction, while Michigan will experience a 20% decline—from 106,883 graduates in 2023 to 85,131 by 2041.

Financial pressures and affordability challenges persist

The average published tuition at private, nonprofit four-year colleges reached $43,350 in 2024-25, nearly four times higher than the $11,610 average for in-state students at public institutions, according to College Board’s Trends in College Pricing 2024 report. Institutions continue to increase tuition discounting,

PRESSURES

with the average discount rate at 56.3%, while net tuition revenue across the sector grew just 1.4%, reports the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO).

Public perceptions

Only 22% of U.S. adults believe a fouryear degree is worth the cost, while more than half say it is not, according to Pew Research. A 2023 Gallup poll shows confidence in higher education has dropped to 36% nationally.

Closures and consolidation

Since 2016, more than 100 U.S. colleges and universities have closed or merged. In Michigan, Concordia University–Ann Arbor closed in 2024, and Siena Heights University announced it will close in 2026.

generation, academic and student success, and administrative and operational excellence—has already delivered meaningful progress in its first two years. Now, in year three of the plan, led by President Wayne Webster, strategic decisions continue to be guided by it that strengthen Albion’s foundation and ensure it remains a vibrant, relevant, and resilient liberal arts college.

Only 22% of U.S. adults say the cost of college is worth it even if someone has to take out loans

Percentage of respondents saying the cost of getting a four-year college degree today is ...

*Refer to topline for full question wording. Note: Share of respondents who didn't offer an answer is shown but not labeled.

Source: Survey of U.S. adults conducted Nov. 27-Dec. 3, 2023 "Is College Worth It?" Pew Research Center

ALBION’S PATHWAY FORWARD

Albion has embraced urgency and focus through the Pathway Forward plan, organized around three central priorities:

Revenue Generation

Albion is pursuing a balanced approach to grow net revenue from enrollment, philanthropy, and real estate assets. Strategic investments in programs and positions are designed to drive student interest and retention, while thoughtful property management ensures resources are aligned with long-term sustainability.

Academic and Student Success

A faculty-led Academic Program Review established a framework for evaluating programs and allocating resources annually. In 2025, faculty approved experiential learning for all (EL4A) with 82 percent support, making it a graduation requirement and guaranteeing every student a hands-on learning experience. Albion also joined CREDO’s Moving the Needle initiative to improve persistence, and faculty and staff are developing new advising and intervention structures to remove barriers to success.

Milestones and progress

• EL4A is now a graduation requirement

• A five-year, $1.4 million TRIO grant renewal strengthens support for first-generation, low-income, and students with disabilities

• Albion’s tuition discount rate fell by 5 percent over two admission cycles, raising net tuition revenue by more than $1 million per entering cohort

• Philanthropy surged: cash donations rose 50 percent year-over-year, and total giving surpassed $10 million—$2.5 million above goal

• Faculty and staff received an across-the-board raise, the first since before COVID

• Albion was removed from the Higher Learning Commission’s financial distress watchlist

• National recognition grew: Wall Street Journal / College Pulse ranked Albion the #1 liberal arts college in Michigan and #2 in the Midwest; Carnegie designated Albion as an Opportunity College, one of only 10 in the nation

Administrative and Operational Excellence

A Non-Academic Program Review continues to identify opportunities for efficiency in staffing, technology, and services. Over the past two years, Albion has reduced expenses by $6 million, sold real estate assets that do not have a direct impact on the student experience, began a data governance process, and continued to work on reaching a faculty-and-staffto-student ratio that is sustainable and within available resources.

LOOKING AHEAD

Year three of the Pathway Forward plan focuses on embedding new practices into ongoing systems and structures. This includes refining the delivery and assessment of experiential learning for all, expanding academic-support initiatives, and continuing investments in student-centered spaces. The college will also advance sustainable budgeting and progress toward a long-term faculty- and staff-to-student ratio that preserves access, affordability, and the quality of the student experience while ensuring financial health.

Albion has moved beyond crisis response and is now building durable momentum. The Pathway Forward remains the framework through which the college can navigate external pressures, respond to local challenges, and position itself as a resilient and relevant liberal arts institution for the future.

Albion College receives $65,000 Native American Heritage Fund grant

Whether it’s the Tech-Savvy Seniors program, the Albion Community Gardens, or partnerships with local schools, Albion College continues to form meaningful partnerships with our surrounding community.

One of those partnerships which continues to grow is with the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi (NHBP) and the Native American Heritage Fund (NAHF) Board, which recently granted the college $65,000 to co-create culturally appropriate exhibits and co-management plans for natural and cultural resources in the college’s Whitehouse Nature Center.

Community-curated displays and trail signs will feature the talents of local Anishinaabe artists and communicate two key messages to the public: First, Albion history is Anishinaabe history. And second, by restoring relationships we can restore the land.

In total, NAHF has granted Albion College $100,000 in the past two years for this purpose.

“Since its inception, the Native American Heritage Fund has been a catalyst for positive change in Michigan communities,” said NAHF Chairperson Dorie Rios, who also serves as tribal council chairperson for NHBP. “Our

mission goes beyond financial support. We partner with communities through every step of the process—from education and cultural guidance to implementation—so that changes are not only made, but made meaningfully. These grants help restore accurate representation, uplift indigenous voices, and build stronger bridges between tribes and local communities.”

Since 2020, Albion College’s anthropology and sociology and biology departments have collaborated with the NHBP’s Environment Department and Tribal Historic Preservation Office to develop a course on the archaeology of wild rice in Michigan and design and deploy an innovative tool (wigwasmkek) that braids traditional ecological knowledge with western biology field methods in the study of wild rice (mnomen) ecosystems. Mnomen is the official state native grain of Michigan and holds deep cultural and religious significance for Indigenous peoples of the Great Lakes.

The collaborators have also begun poring through the archaeological and archival records pertaining to the Anishinaabe history of Albion—including a 1,000-yearold ancestral site and documents discussing the 19th century “Indian Department” at Albion College (then the Wesleyan Seminary) that enrolled dozens of local Native American students.

This past summer, representatives from the NHBP and Albion College gathered at the Whitehouse Nature Center for a water ceremony, a pipe ceremony, and a communal lunch of mnomen, bison, maple syrup, corn, squash, beans, a berry parfait, and sweetgrass tea to celebrate their ongoing partnership.

Participants included Potawatomi Pipe Carriers and Water Carriers, employees of the NHBP Culture Department, Environment Department, and Tribal Historic Preservation Office, and their families. Representing Albion College were professors Abigail Cahill (biology), Brad Chase and Alli Harnish (anthropology & sociology), WNC Manager Misty Brooks and members of the WNC advisory committee, Albion College President Wayne Webster, Albion College Board Member Mae Ola Dunklin, Provost Lisa Lewis, Assistant Provost Vanessa McCaffrey, Assistant Director for Spiritual Life Laura Todd, and students, staff, and faculty from the college’s Center for Sustainability and the Environment.

Associate Professor of Anthropology Alli Harnish, who co-wrote the grant with Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Onyleen Zapata said, “it’s been beautiful, powerful, humbling, and fulfilling to see our two communities come together.”

A SIMPLE REFERRAL, A LASTING IMPACT

Alumni engagement is a defining hallmark of an Albion College education. Through mentorship, guidance, and participation in on-campus programs, alumni contribute in meaningful ways that enrich the student experience. This tradition of support continues through the alumni referral program. Prospective students who are referred by alumni and enroll receive a $3,000 scholarship for each year they attend—extending the legacy of alumni impact to the next generation.

For Marquette, Michigan, native, Althea Schalow ’28, the path to Albion College was already taking shape by her senior year of high school—but thanks to the support and referral of Lesley Davis Addison ’92, her college search became a little smoother, more personal, and a lot more rewarding.

After Director of Orchestra & String Studies Ji Hyun Kim visited Schalow’s high school, the possibility of attending Albion piqued her interest. She had a conversation with her high school

guidance counselor, who then connected her to Addison–who is not only a fellow Marquette native, but had also worked as a guidance counselor at Althea’s middle school.

“I was honestly shocked to hear that there was someone else in the community who went to Albion,” Schalow said. “I had never heard of Albion before, so it was a huge comfort to know that someone else in Marquette had gone to Albion and had that whole experience.” When Addison went on her own college search, she’d found a similar comfort in knowing that other students from her high school had attended Albion, but she didn’t truly know it was the place for her until she visited campus.

“When I work with students, I always encourage them to visit colleges,” Addison said. “I feel like you can just tell when you're on campus. You can tell if it's the right place for you.”

For Addison, Albion College was the right place, and she’s never looked back.

Through the years, Addison has helped countless students find their paths to Albion. She worked as an admission counselor at Albion after graduating and continues to attend college fairs in northern Michigan on behalf of the institution. Every year, she sends out reminders to guidance counselors in her county that she is an Albion alum and is happy to talk to or make referrals for students who are interested in attending Albion.

“I think anything that we can do as alumni to help make something that is as good as Albion accessible to students is worth it,” Addison said. “We know how much Albion means to us, how much we’ve gained from it–friendships, education, experience, and more. It’s hard to put it into words, to describe exactly what a benefit that Albion experience has been for us. So, if we can help make it more attainable for somebody else, I don’t see why we wouldn't do that.”

For Schalow–though she appreciates the scholarship that comes with it–the referral itself means much more than that.

“It’s very comforting having that financial cushion. It really helps,” Schalow said. “But for me personally, there’s a reminder every time I look at my transcript and see the referral scholarship, that all of this is worth it. Things can get hard, but it’s a reminder that there are people who have gone through these college experiences before, and there are people who believe in me. And that means I can do this.”

If you know a student who is interested in attending Albion, please visit albion.edu/admission/refer-a-student to make a referral.

FROM STAGE TO SERVICE: DENNIS MOORE ’70 LIVES THE LIBERAL ARTS

From his days performing in choir and theatre at Albion College to his continued presence on campus today, Dennis Moore ’70 is a living testament to the power and versatility of a liberal arts education.

His career has taken him from graduate studies in theatre at the University of Michigan to nonprofit fundraising, public service, radio, and even the National Park Service. Yet Moore’s most enduring role may be the one he plays at his alma mater: That of a mentor and a volunteer simply seeking to better the lives of those around him.

Over the years, Moore has remained deeply engaged with Albion College. He regularly returns to campus to work with student groups, assist with choir rehearsals and, using his extensive

knowledge of theatre and performance, offer workshops on public speaking. He has served on the Ford Institute advisory board, been a resource for students seeking internships or career advice, and remains a member of the Alumni Board. His unique ability to connect across disciplines and generations exemplifies the liberal arts in action.

“I’ve always just wanted to help the students,” Moore said. “The Alumni Board gives me access to campus and faculty, and getting to know the faculty means knowing events that go beyond Homecoming and getting into the day to day.”

Moore’s journey to Albion College began with a desire for a small, non-restrictive academic environment, one that

encouraged exploration and fostered friendships. Arriving on campus in 1967, he found just that. He immersed himself in things that nurtured his love of language and storytelling, such as choir, theatre, and a number of Greek organizations, including Delta Sigma Phi, Phi Mu Alpha, and Theta Alpha Phi.

“Albion was a place of pathfinding,” Moore said. “It helped me to develop paths I was already taking, try new ones, and let some go.”

After graduating in 1970, Moore was drafted to serve in the Vietnam War. Upon his return, he earned a master’s in theatre from the University of Michigan and began a career as multifaceted as his education. He spent 16 years in nonprofit fundraising for the College for Creative Studies in Detroit and Kendall College of Art & Design in Grand Rapids. He then served two years as publicity officer for the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, England, and later worked as a reporter and announcer for WUPYWMQT Radio in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. He also served as public affairs officer at the Canadian Consulate in Detroit before finishing his career as a park ranger at River Raisin National Battlefield Park, where he brought history to life through public education and civic storytelling.

Each role Moore took drew from different liberal arts skills: Writing, speaking, interpreting history, and serving others.

In an age that often demands specialization, Moore’s story serves as a reminder that a liberal arts education isn’t just about opening doors; it’s about having the courage and the curiosity to walk through all of them, if only to see what might lie on the other side.

Around the Rock

Princeton Review names Albion College a Best-Value College

Albion College has been named one of The Princeton Review’s 209 Best Value Colleges for 2025, earning an impressive return-oninvestment (ROI) rating of 88 out of 99. Albion is one of just two private colleges in the state of Michigan — alongside Kalamazoo College — to make the list.

Out of more than 650 colleges and universities surveyed for the 2025 rankings, only 209 earned The Princeton Review’s highest ROI ratings. These ratings were tallied based on an in-depth analysis of more than 40 data points collected from the 2024-2025 survey cycle, focusing on three key areas: academics, affordability, and career preparation.

The Princeton Review’s methodology incorporates data from PayScale.com alumni salary surveys — covering starting and mid-career earnings and social impact — as well as information about academic quality, faculty accessibility, and student satisfaction with financial aid. Together, these elements measure the best “bang for your buck.”

Carnegie classifies Albion College as Opportunity College and University

Albion College was designated as an “Opportunity College and University — Higher Access, Higher Earnings” (OCU) in the newly introduced Student Access and Earnings Classification by Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

This classification recognizes institutions that provide broad access to students—particularly those from underrepresented and low-income backgrounds— and whose graduates achieve higher-than-average earnings. Specifically, OCU institutions have an average of 47% Pell Grant recipients and 56% underrepresented minority students, with graduates earning a median of $52,903 eight years after enrollment.

Albion College stands out as the only liberal arts and sciences college in Michigan to receive this distinction and is among only 10 such colleges nationwide.

Albion College’s OCU designation underscores its mission to provide accessible and transformative education that leads to career success and social mobility.

Albion College awarded $1.36 million grant to support first-generation, low-income, and students with disabilities

Albion College has been awarded a $1,361,820 TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) grant from the U.S. Department of Education to strengthen retention and graduation rates for lowincome students, first-generation students, and students with disabilities.

The award marks the continuation of five years of TRIO SSS services at Albion. Since 2020, the program has supported more than 260 students, helping them stay in school, earn degrees, and prepare for meaningful careers.

Through one-on-one services— academic tutoring, financial aid and scholarship guidance, career exploration, academic counseling, and mentoring—TRIO SSS helps students overcome barriers to success. These supports significantly increase the likelihood of degree completion or successful transfer, while minimizing student debt.

“We are deeply grateful for this renewed support of our program from the U.S. Department of Education,” Albion College President Wayne Webster said. “This grant enables us to continue the essential work of ensuring that every student has access to the tools, resources, and personal support they need to thrive and succeed.”

Alumni Association adds new members

Albion College recently welcomed the newest members of the Alumni Association Board. Each was selected to serve threeyear terms beginning in 2025.

Members of the Alumni Board serve as liaisons between the college and alumni network and are some of Albion’s mostengaged alumni. They serve as ambassadors for the college by staying up to date on current happenings, engaging alumni, and by supporting efforts of the board of trustees, president, and Albion College faculty and staff.

Ryan Cassin ’06 Dallas, Texas Ryan is the cofounder and owner of Here Homes with total acquired assets of $90

million, and is also the cofounder/ owner of Superpowers, providing entrepreneurs with executive assistant resources. At Albion, Ryan served as president of the student senate and the Model UN program, founded the student-run campus television station, and was a four-year student employee with Information Technology.

Kelly Garland Brown ’99 Mokena, Illinois

A former family law practitioner, Kelly heads Pyramid WorkWise Alliance, where she oversees and has helped create job training, apprenticeship, and employment programs serving individuals, area businesses, trade organizations, and statewide labor initiatives. She has been an adviser to Albion’s Delta Gamma Fraternity since 2021 and, while a student, was a member of the Ford Institute and performed with the Albion College Orchestra, symphonic wind ensemble, and British Eighth Marching Band, later renamed the Briton Brigade.

Dan Greden ’89 West Hartford, Connecticut

Dan serves as director of conditionbased products for Evernorth (part of the Cigna group), a company focused on improving the affordability and accessibility of prescription drug health care plans. A former WLBN disc jockey, Dan also served as an Albion College tour guide.

Richard Linebaugh ’86 South Orange, New Jersey

Now serving as managing director and North America treasury servicing executive based in New York City,

Richard’s 30-year career with Bank of America has included senior appointments in Singapore and Hong Kong. Richard was a member of Albion’s Professional Management program and Tau Kappa Epsilon and has continued to support the fraternity and the Gerstacker Institute over the years. He was also a member of the Albion College Orchestra and appeared in several theatre productions on campus.

Lindsey Lubanski ’14

Daniel Island, South Carolina

Despite the distance from Battle Creek, Lindsey has spent the past three years with Kellogg’s, leading a key strategic program with the company’s commercial enablement team.

A member of Albion’s Alpha Chi Omega, Lindsey was a two-year captain of Briton women’s soccer and a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, Marketing Club, Delta Sigma Pi, and Special Olympics, in addition to serving on search committees that chose a new soccer coach and President Mauri Ditzler.

De’Ondric Sanders ’23

West Bloomfield, Michigan

Maintaining the work ethic he displayed as an Albion College student, De’Ondric works as a business/ customer consultant with EY while managing DemonProof Empire, his athletic wear/training services company. A member of Briton football, De ’Ondric was a founding member of the college’s NAACP Chapter and the Association of Black Brits, worked as an admission tour guide, volunteered with community youth programs, and was the student representative on the

presidential search committee that selected Wayne Webster.

Bradley Simonich ’17

Alexandria, Virginia Bradley serves as senior manager of global memberships for ACT | The App Association, which advocates for global trade policies that support the success of small- and medium-sized technology companies. At Albion, Bradley was a member of the Ford Institute and Delta Tau Delta; his alumni involvement includes leadership of the Washington, D.C.-area alumni group.

Terence Thomas ’90

Grosse Pointe, Michigan

Co-founder of Activate Detroit, Terence and his team specialize in project management for organizations looking at business, government, education, and health care opportunities in the metro area. Terence played football and ran track at Albion, along with serving as a Campus Safety student employee; he was also a member of the History Club.

Meggen Urka ’80

Venice, Florida

A CPA with experience in business transformation and mergers and acquisitions, Meggen is the IT applications manager for Tronox, a global chemical manufacturing company. At Albion, Meggen was in the Professional Management Program and treasurer of Kappa Delta; she is an active member of the KD alumnae chapter of Southwest Florida.

Albion

announces

2025 Hall of Fame class

Albion Athletics has announced the 2025 Hall of Fame class to be inducted during Homecoming weekend. Honorees will be celebrated at the Hall of Fame Ceremony on Oct. 17.

CJ Carroll ’13, Football: The 2012 MIAA Defensive MVP enters the Albion College Hall of Fame as one of the greatest defensive linemen to come through the program. He was a two-time All-MIAA honoree and was part of the 2011 MIAA Championship team.

Amanda (Weaver)

Melvin ’13, Cross Country, Track and Field: Claiming the MIAA Championship in the 10,000m run in 2013, she held seven school records at the time of her graduation.

Julie Okorn ’14, Swimming: Julie was the MIAA Champion in the 200 Butterfly and the 400 IM in 2013, earning All-MIAA status. Upon graduation, she held three individual school records and was part of three record-holding relay teams.

Brett Quayle ’03, Basketball: A twotime All-MIAA pick, Brett was a force on the hardwood for the Britons. Part of the 1,000 point club, he was a crucial piece of the 2003 team’s MIAA Championship.

Visit albion.edu/classnotes to access the alumni directory, update your contact information, view members of the Alumni Association Board of Directors, and get information about upcoming alumni events.

Patty Rewa ’12, Basketball: One of the most impactful players on the hardwood, Patty was a two-time All-MIAA First Team selection after leading the league in rebounding as a junior and a senior. Her 777 career rebounds still ranks first in program history.

Adam Rojeski ’00, Football: A defensive back in a dominant time for Albion football, Adam was a three-time All-MIAA selection. He started every game of his collegiate career – 38 straight games – and was part of three MIAA Championship squads.

Will Taylor ’89 (posthumous), Track and Field, Basketball, Football: A three-sport athlete at Albion, Will excelled in the triple jump, winning the MIAA title three straight years. He was also a marvelous rebounder on the hardwood, leading the league in rebounding average.

Jason Whalen ’00, Football, Track and Field: A two-time MIAA javelin champion, Jason advanced to the NCAA Championships in 2000. Additionally, he was an incredible quarterback for Albion, leading the league in passing efficiency in 1998 and earning all-league status.

1998 Football: With Hall of Famer Craig Rundle at the helm, the Britons went 8-2 and 6-0 in the MIAA to win the conference title. Advancing to the NCAA Playoffs, the Brits narrowly missed out on upsetting eventual-national champion, Mount Union.

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Save albion.edu/alumni-calendar to stay up to date on upcoming alumni events, such as:

OCT. 17-18 - CAMPUS

Homecoming, Hall of Fame, and Milestone Reunions

NOV. 1 - CAMPUS

Presidential Tailgate, Football vs. Hope College

DEC. 13 - CAMPUS

Carl E. Lee Basketball Tournament

DEC. 29 - COLUMBUS / WESTERVILLE

Alumni Gathering, Men’s Basketball at Otterbein University

APRIL 16-18 - CAMPUS

Elkin R. Isaac Student Research Symposium, Alumni Awards Ceremony, and Purple & Gold Weekend

MAY 8-9 - CAMPUS Commencement Weekend

AUG. 7

Briton Classic Golf Outing

Tuesday, Dec. 2