Gogebic Community College, an equal opportunity institution, s strongly and actively committed to increasing diversity w thin its community
GCC is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools: https://www.hlcommission.org/ or 312-263-0456.
I n s i d e
Board of Trustees ..........................................................4
Statement of Financial Position ......................................4
Foundation Board of Directors ......................................5
Emeritus Recognition ....................................................6
Mt Zion Revitalized ........................................................7
What is a Samson? ........................................................8
Student Success Through Michigan Reconnect ............9
Thank You for Giving 2022 ..........................................10
Greetings, Gogebic Community Co lege is proud to serve the educat onal, career and persona nterests of our local and regional service areas. We take great pride in fulfilling this comprehensive responsibility. The College is a hub for academ c, cultural, economic, and social success for our students and region. We strive to empower and inspire people to thrive in a global environment.
Gogebic Community Co lege is essential to providing affordable and accessible post-secondary education, serving as a pathway to changing lives and advancing prosperity within the Upper Peninsula and Northern Wisconsin region. The College’s faculty and staff prior tize student success in our daily work and strive to be leaders in the community through the advancement of strategic goals of enhancing the student experience, expanding academic programming and services, and increasing community and campus engagement
The work of our robust Institutional Development and Foundation Office and caring Board of D rectors has helped the College to serve many areas of student needs This important work is made possible by you Please take a moment to review the Annual Report and see f rsthand how your contributions make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of our students From the campus in Ironwood and the Cooper Country Center in Houghton, thank you for your generous support of Gogebic Community College!
Ironwood Campus
E4946 Jackson Road Ironwood, MI 49938 906-932-4231
Copper Country Center
Copper Country Mall 47420 Hwy M-26, Suite 107 Houghton, MI 49931 906-483-0070 gogebic.edu alumni@gogebic.edu
Thank You for Giving 2023 ..........................................12
Endowed Funds and Scholarships 15
Giving Runs in the Family ............................................15
What Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up? 17
In Special Tribute ..........................................................18
GCC and NMU Enter an Agreement to Expand Nursing Education n the Western U P 20
Volleyba l Returns to GCC ............................................21
Athletic ‘Honors’ Roll 21
Talent Pipeline Offers Infinite Possibilities ..................22
Gold Status Earned for Veteran Program 23
Dr. Jennifer Sabourin
2
Interim President
“ You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”
3
– Jane Goodall
Jennifer Sabourin, Ph.D. nterim President
The Gogebic Community College Foundation was estab ished in 1977 to promote, encourage, aid and support the Col ege by receiving and investing monies to fulfil the needs of the College which cannot or are not easily met by State and local tax revenue The Foundation is supervised by a Board of Directors made up of dedicated and involved community leaders and is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization.
Board Emer t
Dr R Ernest Dear (1933-2008
Dona d Fortune (1932-2016
Jack T Jacobs
David G Lindquist, ‘55 1929-2014)
David McDonald, Jr , 73
Sh r ey McDona d, ‘40 1920-2015)
Charlene Newhouse (1941-2020)
Mary Paol (1923-2020)
Robert J. Paqu n (1930-2014)
1926-2008
John
1922-2010
Steve Wesselhoft
Ex-Officio
Bea s GCC Board of Trustees Chairperson
Jenn fer Sabour n nterim President
E-Newsletter Available to Those Who Sign Up
4 B o a r d o f Tr u s t e e s
F o u n d a t i o n B o a r d o f D i r e c t o r s
James Mi akovich, ‘69
John C Siira ‘74
Dan Jam son
Dr Maria Sokol
Kel y S Marczak, 86
Nei Beckman Tom Brown
John Matonich
Chad Lushua Hon Joe Massie ‘74
Greg Ryskey
Linda Pao i Carol P san , ‘68
Judith Whitley-Yatchak ‘70
Dayle Jackson ‘98
George Samardich
Dr Carl Raina do
J Rajkovich
Members Susan
5
B A C K R O W M i c h a e l M c P h e r s o n , D P T, T h o m a s B r o w n , E r i c F t t i n g , Tr e a s u r e r F R O N T R O W : R o b e r t S t e m p i h a r, J o h n L u p i n o , ’ 7 0 , S e c r e t a r y, S u s a n B e a s ’ 7 9 , C h a r p e r s o n W i l l i a m M a o y V i c e C h a i r p e r s o n
you like to keep up to date on College activ ties, students etc ? Please email Kelly Marczak, Foundation Director at Kellym@gogebic.edu or call her at 906-307-1202 to share your email address so that we can send you the e-newsletter S t a t e m e n t o f F i n a n c i a l P o s i t i o n 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 G o g e b i c C o m m u n i t y C o l l e g e F o u n d a t i o n
Would
The rank of Emeritus Status is a recognition of those that have made long-term contributions to GCC Emeritus Status is a special honor reserved for a member of the Board of Trustees, faculty, and staff. Each person who achieves this status has in their own distinctive manner supported the college’s mission to advance educational opportunities in the Upper Peninsula. They had unique skill sets and strengths that supported functional operations. Emeriti are a significant part of the col ege ’ s distinguished history and helped form the culture and image of the college as we know it today
You may see some very familiar faces in this photo of our Emeriti group that were recognized in May, 2023 to celebrate the installation of our Emeritus Honor Wall located in the David G Lindquist Student and Conference Center on the Ironwood campus. We thank our Emeriti for this commitment to Gogebic and for the knowledge they imparted over their many years of service
FIRST ROW: Don Pelkola, Lenore Jackson, Kit Malloy, Jeanne Graham, Therese Pawlak, Ela ne Skoveria, Gerry Westeen
SECOND ROW: Ray Niemi, Rod Smith, Brian Panich, Sue Forbes, Kim Wan nk, Mary Beth Barlock, Jim Dahlin
NOT PICTURED: Tim Kolesar, Alex Marciniak (deceased), Patricia Waech (Belmas), Keith Beckman, Cheryl Bunt, John Busch, David Erickson, Linda Gustafson, Laura Kre l, Walt Lessun, James Lorenson, Delaine Maki, Linda Montonati (deceased), Kathie Munn, Mark Wendt
To see a complete ist of our Emeriti, you can visit our website at https://www gogebic edu/ aboutus/emeritus.html.
GCC is the home of one of the few Ski Area Management programs n the United States, and the only community co lege with our own ski hill, Mt. Zion, on campus. Whi e an excellent hands-on learning lab for students in the Ski Area Management (SAM) program, Mt Zion s also well utilized by the community and home of Team Z racing program
The current chalet building was built and opened for operations in 1970, and that was the same year that the SAM program began at GCC The summer of 1979 the chairlift was put in and the summer of 1980 the chalet was moved to its current location on the hill.
Fast forward 53 years later and the same chalet is still in use This chalet has served our students and community well for many years, but it’s time for a new multi-purpose building that can be open for use year-round The college’s board of trustees and Foundation board members have given their approval on a $3.1 mill on project to construct a new 2-story ADA compliant multi-purpose building This bui ding will move downhill and sit on the current road looking up the hill while
increasing the size from a 1,568 square foot building to a 7,500 square foot building.
The main floor wou d be used for the operation of the ski hill to include the rental shop, lift ticket office, retail space, ADA compliant restrooms, elevator, kitchen and open seating The second floor would include classroom space for the SAM program and cont nuing education summer programs; office for SAM Director; open seating for overf ow of chalet visitors, and floor-to-ceiling w ndow viewing area for Ski and SnoCross races
For more information on this exciting project and to find out how you can help us make th s vision a reality, contact Kelly Marczak, Foundation Director at Kellym@gogebic edu or 715-3603-3030 or Jim VanderSpoel, Director of Ski Area Management at jimv@gogebic edu or 906-285-1341 To keep current on this project, scan this QR code to visit the link on our website, or visit gogebic.edu/news/mt zion campaign. All updates wil be provided on this page
6 7
E m e r i t u s R e c o g n i t i o n
®
Mt. Zion Revitalized
What is a Samson?
The age-old question of “What is a Samson?” was answered this year! Gogebic Community College put a team together comprised of staff, faculty, administration, board members, foundation and the community to create an image behind the name. After months of contemplation and collaboration while working alongside Interact Communications of La Crosse, WI, Gogebic Community
Col ege unveiled its new mascot, a large white snow beast type creature called Sam, at one of the men ’ s basketball games this past season
Samsons are tenacious creatures who roam the dense forest of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Surviving for ages n a harsh climate, Samsons are resilient and a force to be reckoned with. They live in communities that embrace diversity and can often be found rallying around each other when the need arises. Once believed to be mythical, Samsons have slowly been coming out of the woods and showing their faces to those who believe Sam is the BOLDEST of all the Samsons, which is why Gogebic Community
Col ege is now Sam’s home Sam loves to learn and be around students who have similar traits –ruggedness, adaptability, ferocity, and courage. Until now, shyness kept Sam in the shadows, but learning to make the most of chal enges, utilizing teamwork principles when accomplishing tasks, and honoring mental health and wellness helped Sam’s confidence be revealed.
The GCC Foundation helped to fund this initiative and, according to Jim Milakovich, GCC Foundation President, “We welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the birth
of Sam because having a Samson mascot will provide a more collegiate experience for our students ”
Sam loves the outdoors and to try new things. He was spotted on Mt. Zion this winter learning to ski, which is chal eng ng for a creature with such big feet! Sam can
Student Success Through Michigan Reconnect
Michigan Reconnect is a state-funded last-dollar scholarship program that provides free in-district tuition at a Michigan Community College to earn an associate degree or Peleligible skil certif cate. GCC is promoting this program in our region to encourage qualified students to consider this program as a cost-effic ent way to earn a degree or certification. MI Reconnect s open to students who are 25 years of age or older, have not received a col ege degree, and who have been a Michigan resident for at least a year The Foundation has taken th s a step further and has covered the out-of-district cost d fference for those students that qualify for this program
We encourage qualified students to contact our Admissions Office to learn more about this program We share some success stories of student who have successfully completed their degrees through Michigan Reconnect
often be found enjoying lunch at the Samson Canteen, hanging out with fr ends at GCC sporting events, and traveling between the Ironwood and Houghton Copper Country Center, getting to know why so many folks love the Upper Peninsula. Sam has been a great addition to the GCC family and the community. Many requests have come in for appearances, with Sam being a fan favorite for all ages!
“ Thank you, MI Reconnect for the generous financial support. It helped me to focus on my study without worr ying about tuition fees.”
8 9
Kristie Peterson, 2023, Associate of Applied Business - General Business
“My entire experience at GCC for the past two years has been nothing short of phenomenal, I was so scared to go back to college later in life, plus I was able to utilize the MI Reconnect program, which was so helpful. I cannot say enough good about GCC, this community is so lucky to have the college. “
Shonda David, 2023, Licensed Practical Nursing
“Michigan Reconnect IS the reason I was able to go back to school and pursue my dreams. My appreciation is unmeasurable.”
Baisakhi Sen, 2023, Licensed Practical Nursing
Thank You for Giving 2022
The Gogebic Community College Foundation would like to honor our donors who support the college and our mission to help our students achieve success. In this report we are recognizing the donors that supported GCC in our fiscal year 2022 (July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022) AND our fiscal year 2023 (July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023). To keep the integrity of the Giving Levels, we’re keeping the fiscal year donor listings separate. This is being done to provide a more timely recognition to our donors.
Gifts listed are those received between July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2022 (FY2022)
FY22 Founders $10,000 + higher
ARC of Gogebic County
Ashland Industries, Inc.
The late Mary Paoli
Portage Health Foundation
James A. Ruppe Foundation
FY22 Benefactors $5,000 - $9,999
Virginia DeBenedictis
Marian J Nordberg and Carl Taylor
John and Marilyn Rintamak
FY22 President’s Circle
$1,000 - $4,999
William and Sylvia Aho
Robert and Elaine Allen Family Foundation
Banfield, Inc
Neil and Pam Beckman
Stacey Braemer
John Deere
Margaret “Peggy” Malovrh
John Carlson
Mark Da Pra, M.D.
Carol Diamond
Fiorio Wealth Advisors
Gary and Linda Harrington
Joyce Hazen
Daniel and Joan Hinch
Ironwood Kiwan s Club
Robert and Denise Jacquart
Glenn and Donna Korpi
John and Camille Lupino
George and Christie McNulty
Gerald and Mary Maki
Greg and Ellen Metko
Midwest Ski Areas Association
Jim and Jeannie Milakovich
Robb Pairolero
R Rodney and Charlotte Pakonen
Don Pelkola
Robert and Kathleen Re
George Reardon
Dennis and Robin Rolando
Angela Santini
Felicia Santini
Marc Santini, M D
The late Stanley Servia
SISU Ski Fest
John and Sharon Solin
Clay Thomason
Robert Trier
Upward Talent Council
Xcel Energy Foundation
FY22 Patron $500 - $999
Karl and Jennifer Ahonen
Bessemer Car Wash
David Bloshenko
J Dale and Julianne Bulinski
Burton Industries
Consumers Energy Foundation
David and Kris Darrow
Bob and Kris Dionne
Fred and Kathy Friedman
Charles and Jean Gallo
Gogebic Associat on of Retired School Personnel
Gogebic Range Bank
Dennis Huotari
Ironwood Hurley Rotary Club
Jacquart Fabric Products
Dayle Jackson and Chris Tweiten
Keegan Jackson
William and Joanne Johnson
Paul ne Karttunen
Klassic Kruisers Car Club
Norman Korpi
Matt Kurta
Masters Snowmobile Racing
David and Georgia McDonald
Dennis and Andrea Mackey
Mark Nelson
Doug and Cheryl Olsen
Linda Paoli
Brian Pearson
John and Paula Pelissero
Jerry and Carol Pisani
Monica and Jeff Ramme
William Rich e
George Samardich
John and Barbara Siira
Strong Dental Center
Bonnie Tiilikka
Ed and Carole Tuckey
Marion and Gayle True
Steve and Betsy Wesselhoft
FY22 Supporter $100 - $499
Abelman Co.
Glen and George Ackerman-Behr
Amazon Smile
American Electric Power
Brian and Shannon Anderson
Therese Angw n
Greta Armata
Lana Armstrong
Dick and Mary Beth Barlock
Brian Bauer
Dennis and Susan Beals
Stacy Brey
Thomas and LaVerna Brown
Kurt Bucknell
Calligaro Family
Jim and Karen Callovi
Karin Carlson
Kristine Carlson
Jesse and Haille Carroll
Brian Ceccon
Jon and Susan Christensen
Allen and Barbara Clishe
Bob and Kitty Colassacco
Bill Dahlgren
James and Lorraine Dahlin
Karen Damgard
Robert Duckstad
Dennis and Linda DuFrane
Paul and Sandy Dural
Laura Erickson
Marilyn Fassett
R Michael Foster
Jackie Franzoi
Mary Jean Fredrickson
Tibor and Kathleen Gal o
Robert Gamache
Gary and Wendy Gouin
Jeanne Graham
Heather Gritt
Eero Haukkala
Miranda and Derek Heglund
Jeffrey Hendrickson
Nicole Hocking
Rebecca Hoefs
Paula Marie Holevac
James and Judith Huss
Wil iam and Susan Imm ch
Iron County Commun ty Credit Union
Ironwood Chamber of Commerce
Ironwood Plastics
Keith and Lenore Jackson
Archie and Judy Johnson
Clifford and Ardyth Johnson
Robert and Sandra Jurkovich
Gavin King
Kari and Neil Klemme
Dave Knight
Angela Korteme er
Jean Kovalainen
Jamie Kovalaske
Lawrence Kriska
John Leppanen
Norbert and Luise Leppanen
Judy Leviton
Tod and Jeanean Lewis
Makela, Pollack and Ahonen
Marie Lindquist
Bill and Kit Malloy
Kelly Marczak
Pauline Martini
Joel and Janice Massie
John and Stephanie Maton ch
Bill and Susan Mattson
Ryan and Amy McDonald
William and Judith McMullin
Serena Mershon-Lohkamp
Kevin Miller
Mitchell Land, LLC
Lisa Morr s
Bill Newhouse
Christine Olgren
Cory Osterman
Gary Pelkola
Bill and Betty Perkis
Mary Joe Perry
Renee Peterson
Vincent Polkus
Michael Popko
Fred and Barbara Puente
RMF Enterprises
Paul Re
Marilyn Reardon
JR Richardson
Adele Rottenbucher
Nicole Rowe
Nancy Rudolph
Greg and Jessie Ryskey
Richard and Karen Sauter
Dennis Scholar
Paul and Sheila Semmerling
Nancy Skerchock
Dr Maria L Sokol
Richard and Joan Steiger
Steiger’s Home Center
Donald and Stephanie Stone
Jerry and Paulette Strelcheck
Amy Tarro
John and Bonnie Thayer
John Thors
Lanny and Mary Tibaldo
James and Sharon Tregembo
Tara Tregembo
Ronald and Carol Trethewey
Robert Trezise
Carl and Kathleen Vaara
John Valesano
Marlene Vuorenmaa
Wakefield Bessemer Rotary
Dav d and Michelle Wasielewski
Andrew Wirt
Lillian Wooley
Dav d and Doris Wroblewski
Jerome and Judith Yatchak
Carrie and Pete Yon
Tom and Kim Zeckov ch
Dav d and Mariane Zielinski
FY22 Friend Up to $99
Karen Balyeat
Susan Barker
John B oomquist
Danielle Boyette
Cynthia Brandon-Slocum
Diane Buchko
Bob and Annette Burchell
Linda Bybee
John Cox
Neil Everson
Richard and Janice Foley
Emily Geiger-Dedo
Carlos and Antonella Gheller
Henry and Norene Gilbertson
Gerald Gripper
Andrea Grube
Dennis and Shyanne Gulan
Eric Halfman
Holly Halvorson
Keri Hinshaw
Don and Judy Holst
Melissa Hymel
John and Sharon Iafolla
Debbie Janczak
Thomas Jewell
10
11 ➻
Sue Kaffine
Nancy Kangas
Richard and Carol Kinnunen
Stanley Kopacz
Virginia Kretschmar
Joseph Kryzewski
Dale Kupczyk
Judith Lake
Mary Lantz
Chenin K. Limback
Joyce Manzanares
Lawrence Mascotti
Terry Massoglia
Ronald Matonich
Daniel and Alice Michela
Tom and Pat Niksich
David Pahl
Tom Pairolero
Steve and Sue Pallin
Brian Panich
Ashley Paquette
John Petersen
Anna Mae Petrusha
Susan Piazza
Dale and Terrie Pohjola
Gerald and Shirley Prosek
Gerald Rintamaki
Susan Roberts
Jennifer Sabourin, Ph.D.
Jennifer Santini
Susan Scott
Paula Setterlund-Blair
Thank You for Giving 2023
Jessica Shetler
Jason Shrontz
Linda Slining
Marge Sliva
John Sokol
Joseph and Jennifer Kolesar-Springhetti
Larry and Barbara Tibaldo
David and Kandy Vuorenmaa
Steven and Michelle Wanie
Mary Westerberg
Janice Williams
Ryan Zahn
James Zawlocki
Gerald and Mary Maki
Margaret “Peggy” Malovrh
George and Christie McNulty
Midwest Ski Areas Association
Robb Pairolero
R Rodney and Charlotte Pakonen
Don Pelkola
Mon ca and Jeff Ramme
JR Richardson
Dennis and Robin Rolando
Ange a Santini
Felicia Santini
Robert Trier
FY23 Patron $500 - $999
Patty Ball and Mike Rebholz
Bessemer Plywood
David Bloshenko
Burton Industries
David and Kris Darrow
Leah Eder
First National Bank of Wakefield
Charles and Jean Gallo
Robb Garrett
Paula Marie Holevac
Dennis Huotari
The Gogebic Community College Foundation would like to honor our donors who support the college and our mission to help our students achieve success. In this report we are recognizing the donors that supported GCC in our fiscal year 2022 (July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022) AND our fiscal year 2023 (July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023). To keep the integrity of the Giving Levels, we’re keeping the fiscal year donor listings separate. This is being done to provide a more timely recognition to our donors.
Gifts listed are those received between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023 (FY2023)
FY23 Founders $10,000 + higher
Anonymous
Trilby Cohen
Robert and Lorie Janssen
Eldred Mugford Trust
Portage Health Foundation
Robert and Kathleen Re
James A Ruppe Foundation
Dennis Scholar
The late James Scholar
Fred Scholar
FY23 Benefactors $5,000 - $9,999
Virginia DeBenedictis
Marian J Nordberg and Carl Taylor
John and Marilyn Rintamaki
Xcel Energy Foundation
FY23 President’s Circle
$1,000 - $4,999
Ne l and Pam Beckman
John Carlson
Consumers Energy Foundation
Dennis and Sarah DaPra
Mark DalPra, M.D.
Gogebic Range Bank
Gogebic Range United Way
Jeanne Graham
Gary and Linda Harr ngton
Joyce Hazen
Ironwood Kiwanis Club
Jacquart Fabric Products
William and Joanne Johnson
Thomas Kraynak
John and Camille Lupino
Dennis and Andrea Mackey
Incredib e Bank
Iron County Commun ty Credit Union
Dayle Jackson and Chris Tweiten
Keegan Jackson
Keith and Lenore Jackson
Klassic Kruisers Car Club
Matthew Kurta
Marie Lindquist
Adam Little
Marsha Lucas
Jim and Jeannie Milakovich
Dorothy Nelson
Linda Paoli
Bill and Betty Perkis
Jerry and Carol Pisani
George Reardon
Wil iam Richie
George Samardich
Marc Santini, M D
John and Barbara Siira
Bonnie Tiilikka
Robert Trezise
Marion and Gayle True
Steve and Betsy Wesselhoft
FY23 Supporter $100 - $499
Abelman Co.
Glen and George Ackerman-Behr
Melissa Adams
Karl and Jenn fer Ahonen
Alpha Delta Kappa Teacher’s Society
Amazon Smile
Br an and Shannon Anderson
Carne Andrews
Greta Armata
Waino and Carolyn Aukee
Karen Ball
Don and Joan Barbacovi
Dick and Mary Beth Barlock
Christine Barry
Dennis and Susan Beals
Dennis Beaudette
Betty Best
John Bloomquist
Charles Bown
Danielle Boyette
Cynthia Brandon-Slocum
David Brentar
Mike Bria
Arno d Brown
Raymond Brown
Florence Brownfield
Lawrence Burt
Linda Bybee
Calligaro Family
Jim and Karen Callovi
Karin Carlson
Jon and Susan Christensen
Bob and Kitty Colassacco
Kendra Connally
John Cox
Dean Law Office
Linda Delegan
Loreen Didier
Bob and Kris D onne
Robert Duckstad
Dennis and Linda DuFrane
Paul and Sandy Dura
Philip Eaton
William and Jean Eckloff
Gary and Cathie Erickson
Bob Franti
Mary Jean Fredrickson
Tibor and Kathleen Gallo
Gary and Wendy Gouin
Mark Graham
Glen Guilbault
Dennis and Shyanne Gulan
Wendy Hagstrom
Miranda and Derek Heglund
Jeffrey Hendrickson
Louis Henneck
Sue Hermann
Eileen Holmstrom
James and Judith Huss
Gary Ilminen
Susan Inglish
Ironwood Business and Professional Women
Alan Johnson
Archie and Judy Johnson
Clifford and Ardyth Johnson
Robert and Sandra Jurkov ch
Heather Kalm
Jim and Marie Kangas
Pauline Karttunen
Gavin King
Kari and Neil Klemme
Angela Kortemeier
Lawrence Kriska
Joseph Kryzewski
John Leppanen
Norbert and Lu se Leppanen
Tod and Jeanean Lewis
Doris Maccani
Makela, Pollack and Ahonen
Bill and Kit Malloy
Kelly Marczak
Sandra Martell
Pauline Martini
Lawrence Mascotti
Joel and Jan ce Massie
John and Stephanie Matonich
Bill and Karen McDonald
William and Judith McMullin
Serena Mershon-Lohkamp
Greg and Ellen Metko
Richard Miller
12 13
➻
B ll Newhouse
Chr stine Olgren
Peter Pairolero
Pauline Pakonen
Peter Pairolero
Brian Panich
Joseph Paprocki
Tom and Joy Pelissero
Michael Popko
Gerald and Shirley Prosek
Marilyn Reardon
Adele Rottenbucher
Nicole Rowe
Greg and Jessie Ryskey
Jennifer Sabourin, Ph.D.
Ken and Alice Sauter
Richard and Karen Sauter
Paul and Sheila Semmerling
Yung Shiow-Jiau
Nancy Skerchock
Sam Skoviera
Dr. Maria L. Sokol
St Paul Lutheran Church
Richard and Joan Steiger
Steiger’s Home Center
Donald and Stephanie Stone
Jerry and Paulette Strelcheck
Matt and Cynthia Sturmer
Charles Supercynski
Amy Tarro
John and Bonnie Thayer
John Thors
Lanny and Mary Tiba do
James and Sharon Tregembo
Tara Tregembo
Ronald and Carol Trethewey
Jont and Anne Tyson
Carl and Kathleen Vaara
John Valesano
Marlene Vuorenmaa
Wakefield Bessemer Rotary
David and Michelle Wasielewski
Debra Wasley
Andrew Wirt
Michael Wirt
David and Doris Wrob ewski
Jerome and Judith Yatchak
David and Vicki Ylkanen
Carrie and Pete Yon
Tom and Kim Zeckovich
Zion Lutheran Church
FY23 Friend Up to $99
Robert and Sue Abelman
Rick Ant n
George and Patricia Bal
Karen Balyeat
Susan Barker
William Beltrone
George Boline
Diane Buchko
Peter and Jennifer Burla
James and Lorraine Dahl n
Karen Damgard
Laura Erickson
Bernie and Sue Finco
Richard and Janice Foley
Jackie Franzoi
Anthony and Sandra Furyk
Patrick and Deloris Gallinagh
Ingrid Gallo
Lee Ann Gayan
Emily Geiger-Dedo
Henry and Norene Gilbertson
Miche le Gil
Jennifer Gomel
Thomas and Mary Gorrilla
Jim Grenzow
Don and Judy Holst
Gary Jackson
Debbie Janczak
Carolyn Johnson
Sue Kaffine
Frank Kalan
McKenzie Kanipes
Rebecca Kendall
Robb and Theresa Kimmes
Richard and Carol Kinnunen
Kristin Kolesar
Stanley Kopacz
Mary Lantz
Chen n K. Limback
Mary Grace Loreti
Terry Massoglia
Ronald Matonich
Richard and Cara Matrella
Bill and Sue Mattson
Mark and Stephanie Mazzon
Daniel and Alice Michela
Tom and Pat Niksich
Gary Oberg
Steve and Sue Pal in
Jean Peterson
Anna Mae Petrusha
Sharon Potter
Andrea Puzakulich
John and Faye Racovitis
Angela Sands
Co e Schreiner
Paula Setterlund-Blair
Laura Skallerup
Marge Sliva
Sue Snyder
John Sokol
Jim and Marty Somerville
Joseph and Jennifer Kolesar-Springhetti
Larry and Barbara Tibaldo
David and Kandy Vuorenmaa
Erin Watson
James Wilman
Michae D Wirt
Mark Wourms
James Zawlocki
David and Mariane Zielinski
Endowed Funds and Scholarships
Establishing a scholarship fund
Establishing a scholarsh p fund with the Gogeb c Community College Foundation helps to improve the educational opportunities available to our students. Approximately 70% of GCC students qualify for financ al assistance, making scholarships vitally mportant to the achievement of their education goals Together we can make a positive difference in the r lives
There are three types of scholarships the Foundation administers ncluding Endowed Scholarsh ps, Annual Scholarships and Onetime Memorial or Honorary Scho arships. Gifts of any amount, at any time, are greatly appreciated and can be added to the general scholarship fund For more informat on on establishing a scholarship, please call Ke ly Marczak at (906) 307-1202
Giving Runs in the Family
Dean Pearson graduated from A D Johnston High School and continued his educat on at Northern Michigan University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in ndustr al education He taught automotive repair, small engine repair and other vocat ona educational courses at Ontonagon H gh School and cont nued to share his love of a l things automotive with students when he joined GCC as our Automotive Technology Instructor until his retirement from teaching in 1996
Dean passed away from an unexpected short battle with cancer in December, 2021 His family decided to establish a scholarship at GCC to continue Dean’s legacy of teaching and helping students They chose GCC for this scho arship because h s son Brian graduated from GCC in 1993 and cred ts his start at GCC to his educational and profess ona success After graduating from GCC Brian continued his educat on at Mich gan Techno og cal University (MTU) where he earned a degree in mechanica engineering
“When I got to MTU I had more cred ts than a close friend that went straight to MTU from h gh school,” said Brian “Th s enabled me to comp ete my education w th less expense, and to take lighter course loads at MTU which helped me to maintain a h gh grade po nt average ” Br an is now a Product Engineer Manager for uti ity vehicles for John Deere. “We’re glad that we can he p GCC students as they work towards their goa s ”
The Dean Pearson Memorial Scholarsh p wil be awarded each year to a student in an Applied Technology program
Ke th L Anderson Scholarship
Ange o ’ s Pizza Scholarship
ARC of Gogeb c County Scholarship
Ashland Industries/Bob Eder Memoria Scholarship
Ath etic Heritage Scholarsh p Fund
Bessemer A D Johnston Alumni Scholarship
Violet Anderson Bloshenko Scholarship
Cal igaro Family Endowment
Nancy M Caruso Memorial Scholarship
Wi liam and Bernice Chaney Memoria Scho arship
Alice Chaput-Huotar Memorial Scholarship
Oreste and Inez Chiantel o Memor al Scholarship
Sam M Cohodas Scholarsh p
Ange a Contratto Memorial Scholarship
Mary P Dahlen Memorial Scholarsh p
Gene L. Dahlin Memor al Business Scholarship
DeBenedict s Scho arship
Armand DeFelice Memoria Scho arship
Garfield R. ‘Skip’ Drake II Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Wa t and Dona Edwards Scholarsh p
Rutger F Erickson & Astr d Lorenson Memoria Scho arship
Clarence Forslund Memorial Scholarship
Gentile-Paol Business Scho arship
Den se Gertz-Cohen Memoria Scholarship
Louis A. Gheller Endowed Memor al Scholarship
GCC Achievement Scholarsh p
GCC Construction/Bui ding Trades Scholarship
GCC Faculty M.A.H.E. Occupational Scholarsh p
GCC Faculty M A H E Sophomore Scho arship
GCC Foundation Scholarship
John B. and Mae M. Hakala Scho arship
Ruth M Healy Academic Scholarsh p
Ironwood Woman’s Club Scholarship
Helen Ja onen Education Memoria Scholarship
Isaac and O ga Jalonen Memorial Scholarship
Aileen Hietanen Jarek Nursing Scholarsh p
Wil iam Leonard Johnson Memorial Scholarsh p
Ragnar and Irene Josephson Endowed Scholarship
Keweenaw Land Association LTD Scholarsh p
Rod Steve Kovacevich Memor al Scholarship
Joseph F and Judith A Krause Memoria Scho arship
Doris M Krell Scholarship
Mary M. and Tony J. Krizmanich Memorial Scholarship
Ladin Memor al Scholarsh p
Margaret Ruth LaForge Memor al Nursing Scholarship
14 15
E n d o w e d S c h o l a r s h i p s
➻
Students in our building trades program really measure up!
Endowed Scholarships cont.
Lehtinen-Wain o Scholarship
Moses and Mary Levinstein Endowed Scholarship
E Wi liam and Nancy J Lindberg Memorial Scho arship
Edna M. L ndberg Memorial Scholarship
Lindberg Family Scholarsh p
Lorenson Fami y Endowed Scholarsh p
A fred and Irene Lund Memoria Scholarship
Verner J Lund Memorial Scholarsh p
David and Florence McDonald Nursing Scholarship
A ex Marc niak Memor al Scholarship
Madeleine M Mor chetti Memoria Nursing Scholarsh p
Serafino (“Suds”) Mor chetti Business Scholarsh p
Eldred George Mugford in Memory of Clare H Mugford, R N Scho arship
David Mussatti, Jr. Memorial Scholarsh p
Br an T Nasi Memorial Scho arship
Dr John A Niemi Scholarship
Marian J. Nordberg Nursing Scholarsh p
James Norman Memoria Scholarship
Arthur and Alma Pakonen Endowed Scholarship
Charlotte & Rod Pakonen Scho arship
John and Katie Patrick Memoria Scho arship
Mary Lou Pe issero Nursing Scholarsh p
George Franc s Pisca Memorial Scho arship
Steven R Plesh Memorial Scholarsh p
John J Rajkov ch Endowed Scho arship Fund
Pau S. Re Family Scho arship
Kathleen Mar e Santini Rich e Scholarship
Leonard and Lorraine Rooni Memorial Scholarsh p
Jennifer T. Ross – WIMI/WJMS Memor al Scholarship
Barbara Jean Samard ch Memoria Scholarship
Teresa Ann Santini Memorial Scholarsh p
Mary Louise and Oscar Sjowall Educat on Scholarship
Jacob A Sol n Memorial Scholarship
Gustave B Swanson Endowed Vocational Scho arship
Robert A. Swanson Scholarsh p Fund
Zera F Tabacchi Scho arship
John R Talaska Memorial Scholarship
Raymond R. Talaska Endowed Scholarship Fund
Tr er ’ s Scho ar-Ath ete Scholarsh p Fund
Vaara Athletic Scholarsh p
Garland and Jennie Vandermade Memorial Scholarship
Reginald T Wi liams Memorial Scho arship
Wirtanen/Minds Memorial Scho arship
Louis and Ann Yel ch Memoria Endowed Scho arship
Mary Louise Yel ch Scholarship
Raymond and Isabelle Ziem Endowed Scho arship
Judge Eugene Z nn Memorial Scholarship
Annnual Scholarships
Abelman Family Scho arship
Ashland Industries/Bob Eder Memor al Scholarship
Esko and Virg nia Aukee Memoria Scho arship
Wayne and Bonita Beckman Fami y Scholarship
Bloshenko Fami y Scholarship
Ken Bowman Memoria Scholarship
Concerned Hearts Club
Angela Contratto Memoria Scho arship
R Ernest Dear Memorial Scholarsh p
Walt and Dona Edwards Scholarship
Eppolite Fam ly Scholarship
Erickson-Lucas Women in STEMS Scho arship
Gogeb c Range Bank Scholarsh p
Dr and Mrs R R Harrington Scho arship
Mike Hazen Memorial Scho arship
Hinch Memorial Scholarship
ronwood Business & Professional Women’s Club Scholarship
ronwood-Hurley Rotary Club Scholarship
ronwood K wanis Club Freshman Scholarsh p
ronwood K wanis Club Sophomore Scholarship
Jodie L (Rye) Johnson Memorial Scholarship
W lliam ‘Bill’ Johnson Memorial Scholarship
Klassic Kru sers Car Club Scho arship
Joy Kraynak Memoria Scho arship
Laur Laht Automotive Scholarsh p
David G. and Audrey M. Lindquist Memorial
Gera d E and Mary E (Rokser) Mak Scholarsh p
Margaret ‘Peggy’ Malovrh Nursing Scholarship
Marvin E Marks Memorial Scholarship
Midwest Ski Areas Association Scholarship
Miche le Mil er Memoria Scholarsh p
Phil p ‘Bud’ and Angeline Nelson Scholarsh p
O ibway Correctional Fac lity Employee Scholarship
Rob Pairo ero Fam ly Scho arship
Franc s E Pao i Memoria Scholarship
Dean Pearson Memorial Scholarship
Portage Health Foundation Scholarsh p
Walter Prosek Annua Scholarship
David J. Ramme, Sr. and Linda K. Ramme Scholarsh p
Mon ca and Jeff Ramme Basketba l Scholarship
Mar o and Mary Re Memorial Scholarship
Kandy R chardson Memorial Scho arship
John and Marilyn Rintamaki Scho arship
Scho ar Fami y Memoria Scholarship
Fam ly of Frederic P. and Bessie M. Scholar Memoria Scholarship
Earle Sell Scholarship
Servia Fam ly Scholarship
Strauss Memoria Scholarsh p
John R Talaska Memor al Scholarship
Henry and Shirley Ti likka Memoria Scholarship
What Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up?
Gogebic Community College (GCC) in collaboration with the Wakefield-Marenisco (WM) School created a career exp oration program for middle school students to explore and engage with the various programs offered at GCC.
“Chris Tweiten, Middle/H gh School Social Studies teacher at WM, reached out with the idea to partner on this initiative. We were thrilled to collaborate and provide students w th a fun and exciting opportunity while showcasing our programs to this group of students,” said Kim Zeckovich, Director of Admissions, Marketing and Community Relations
GCC created a schedule throughout the year where WM would visit two programs per visit to GCC “We limited the timeframe to two hours including travel to and from schoo Each program was allotted 45 minutes for our faculty to inform the students about their respect ve program/department along with providing a hands-on activity for the students to really engage with the programs, ” said Zeckovich
Students earned about Biological Science, Forestry Technology, Computer Science, Business, Welding, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Ski Area Management, Automotive, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Chemistry,
Building Trades, CDL, Nursing, along with student services and support, transfer opportunities, athletics and spent an afternoon snow tubing at Mt Zion
“We’ve seen a need for earlier career explorat on, so our students have a better understanding of what career opportunities are out there. After contacting GCC, we were thrilled they were excited to partner with us to provide our students with hands-on experiences and exposure to new programming. I can’t say enough good things about this partnersh p and the faculty and staff at GCC that helped make this a reality Our middle schoolers at Wakef eld-Maren sco were beyond appreciative of the time they spent learning at GCC, and there s no doubt this experience was extreme y beneficial to them and their future career decisions,” stated Tweiten.
GCC plans to collaborate with other schools in the Gogebic-Ontonagon Intermediate School District (GOISD) on this same initiative in the upcoming year
The WM middle school students stand in front of the WM School wearing their GCC career explorer t-shirts provided by GCC for participating in this pilot program.
Picture from L-R include:
FIRST ROW: Kale Bart ett, Jenna Sandquist, Chase Lane, Blaike Paquette, Ava Lopac, Jacob Morrison
SECOND ROW: Cohen Kanto, Kaelyn Lillie, Avery Keast, Kenly Anderson, Chloe Meyer, Sydney Boetto, Carter Bouvette
THIRD ROW: Kara Prisbe, Mara Jacobson, Ellah Linna, Tara Kendrick, Levi Vogelsberg, Bryson Lynott, Teddy Reel
FOURTH ROW: Scarlett McNulty, Lailah Keast, Bella Elam, Dennis Elam, Leander Gourneau, Joey Lake
Fifth Row: Andy Ahonen, Max Ahonen, Logan Lamaide Students missing from photo include: Gavin Mayer, Zach Mayer, Katalina Bartlett, Emma Grayson, Ean Miskovich, Taavi Rooni and Zack Rossman
16
17
In Special Tribute
Special Tributes include memorial gifts made to the college for those who have passed away, or honor gifts to celebrate special occasions or events. Tribute and memorial gifts are a special way to remember a friend or family member. Special Tribute gifts can be sent to the GCC Foundation or online at www.gogebic.edu/alumni/make a donation. All tribute gifts received by the Foundation are acknowledged to the family members on behalf of the donor.
Here we recognize the Special Tributes received from July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2023
IN HONOR OF:
Beth Rondeau Deacon, author of
Seven Doors In
Carol and Jerry Pisani
Jim Halverson
David and Kris Darrow
Andrew Wirt
Michael D Wirt
Michael D. Wirt, II
IN MEMORY OF:
Waino Aukee
Robert Trezise
Marcy Bracket
Michelle Gill
Angela Contratto
The ARC of Gogebic County
Steve & Betsy Wesselhoft
Bob Eder
Leah Eder
Janet Even
Brian Panich
Nancy Gehrke
James and Lorraine Dahlin
Dayle Jackson and Chris Tweiten
Gordon and Hazel Hagstrom
Wendy Hagstrom
Nancy Kangas
James and Lorraine Dahlin
Jeanne Graham
Keith & Lenore Jackson
Gregory & Ellen Metko
Joy Kraynak
Tom Kraynak
David and Audrey Lindquist
Marie Linduist
Shirley McDonald
Bill and Karen McDonald
Matt McGuire
Jean Kovalainen, Grandma
Michelle Miller
Keith and Sherri Aho
Tom and Chris Berquist
Maureen Broemer
Dave and Debbie Double
Bonnie Estola
Paul and Candace Forslund
Scott and Diane Maki
Mike and Anne Manzanares
Dr Richard Miller
Tony & Carol Rodeghiero
Erin and Ian Schoone
Superior Family Vision
Holly Swartz and family
Jeff and Debbie Wasley
Shane, Tracy and Stacey Wyzlik
Peter and Linda Montonati
Dayle Jackson and Chris Tweiten
Robert and Kath een Re
Philip ‘Bud’ and Angeline Nelson
Linda and Dennis DuFrane
Dayle Jackson and Chris Tweiten
Keegan Jackson
Lenore and Keith Jackson
Glenn and Donna Korpi
Norman Korpi
Lisa Morris
Dorothy Nelson
Mark Nelson
Carole Tuckey
Paul Panich
Tom and Pat Niksich
Jim “Tiny” Paynter
Jerry & Paulette Strelcheck
Dean Pearson
Brian Bauer
Scott & Stacey Braemer
Bill Dahlgren
John Deere
Heather Gritt
Andrea Grube
Eric Halfman
Keri Hinshaw
Becky Hoefs
Melissa Hymel
Dave Knight
Jamie Kovalaske
Ryan & Amy McDonald
David Pahl
Brian Pearson
John Peterson
Renee Peterson
Pau and Sheila Semmerling
Jessica Shetler
Steven & Michelle Wanie
Ryan Zahn
Betty Pelkola
Dayle Jackson and Chris Tweiten
Kelly Marczak
Michae Piazza, C ass of 1972
Susan Piazza
Bryn P eschel
Tom, Mary Gorrilla and Family
Pau Pisani
Karen Damgard
Mr. & Mrs. Jim Grenzow
Gary Jackson
Linda Paoli
Jerry & Carol Pisani
Dave Ramme
Steve and Betsy Wesselhoft
Pau Re
Robert and Kathy Re
Kandy Richardson
JR Richardson
Pau ine Karttunen
Carlton Rudolph
Nancy Rudolph
Jerry & Judith Yatchak
Doug Schulze
James and Lorraine Dahlin
Pau and Sheila Semmerling
Stanley and Michael Servia
Bob and Sue Abelman
Karl (Gus) & Jennifer Ahonen
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Alonen
George and Patricia Bal
Jim and Christ ne Barry
Neil and Pam Beckman
MaryAnn Bennetts
Mr & Mrs George Boline
Mr & Mrs Charl e Bown
Bravatto Children – Amy & Kirk
Golbert, Erin Bravatto and Alan Johnson, Sara Bravatto and Jason Bravatto
David and Cheri Brentar
Ray Brown
Michelle Brunelle and family
Peter and Jennifer Burla
Gary and Rick Colasacco
Dave and Nancy Carpenedo
Dave and Debbie Cisewski
Mr and Mrs Jim Collins
James and Lorraine Dahlin
Lori Didier
Philip and Cherri Eaton
Mr & Mrs Pete Ellos
Mr & Mrs Jack Fiamoncini
Sam Fontecchio
Pat and De oris Gallinagh
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Gayan
Mr & Mrs Tony Gheller and Family
Mr. & Mrs. Mike Glatzak
Dave and Jennifer Gomel
Jeanne Graham
Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Hautala
Paul and Debbie Janczak and Family
Jim Jilek Family
Kathy and Dennis Johnson
Mr & Mrs Dennis Johnson and Family
Mr. & Mrs. Bill Joki
Mr & Mrs Frank Kalan
Joyce Karling
Robb and Theresa Kimmes
Mr & Mrs Don Kontney
Carlo and Chris Lahti
Marie Linquist and Family
Donna Lipski
Mary Joe, Mary and Tom Maccani
Jay Maccani and family
Gail Maki-Dlabec
Gary Mariani
Sandra Martell
Joel and Janice Massie
Mr. & Mrs. Richard Matrella
Mark and Stephanie Mazzon
Shawn Melek
Jim and Jeannie M lakovich
Lora ne Mussatti
Mr. & Mrs. Dan Mykkanen
Gary Oberg
Mr. & Mrs. Zach Ofstad
Dr & Mrs Peter Pairolero
Mr & Mrs Joseph Paprocki
Tom & Joy Pelissero
Andrene Peterson
Jean Peterson
Mr & Mrs Jeff Pikka
Sharon Potter
Connie Pricco
Mr & Mrs Dan Quigley
Mr. & Mrs. John Racovitis
Sandy Ravaoldt
Rockford Chamber of Commerce
Rockford Regional Health Council
D anne Rundell
Angela Sands
Gene Schlais
Dr. Robert Schuster and Mary Jo Berenz
Sharon Smarzia and Louis Passink
Paul and Sheila Semmerling
Mr & Mrs George Servia
Sue Snyder
Sonja, Sue, Jeanne and Pam
Jerry and Pau ette Strelcheck
Mr & Mrs Mike Swartz
Bucca & Sharon Switzer
Mr. & Mrs. Jim Trcka
Fred Trevarthan
Mr. & Mrs. Dave Trevarthan
Mr & Mrs Bob Vestich
Dr Erin Watson
Mr. & Mrs. Dan Whitburn
Skeeter and Erin Winkowski
Mark & Patti Wourms
Shiow-Jiau Yung
Mr.& Mrs. David Zielinski and Boys
Mr. & Mrs. Joe Zychowski
Robert “Meatball” Vestich
Jerry & Paulette Strelcheck
Michael Wasley
Brian Panich
➻ 18 19
Gogebic Community College and Norther n Michigan University Enter an Agreement to Expand Nursing Education in the Wester n U.P.
Ironwood Nursing education will be increased in the Western end of the U.P. thanks to a new partnership signed recently by Gogebic Community College and Northern Michigan University.
By collaborating with Northern Michigan University, Gogebic Community College will now offer seamless opportunities for nurses with associate degrees to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) without leaving the community college campus, thanks to a plan approved n the state’s Fiscal Year 2023 budget
“Gogebic Community College is excited to partner with NMU to bring BSN level education to the Houghton and Ironwood regions This partnership will build on GCC’s successful Associate Degree Nursing program, and al ow students to affordably continue their education close to home This initiative will help build a more prosperous Michigan,” said Dr. Jennifer Sabourin, GCC Interim President
Gogebic Community College will receive funding from the state to administer the program, which aims to sign ficantly increase the number of bachelor’s prepared registered nurses in this region
“NMU and GCC schools of nursing have been collaborating for several years to offer the BSN to GCC graduates This agreement will enhance our partnership and provide a flexib e and continuous pathway for working nurses to complete the BSN,” said Kristi Adair, Associate Dean and Department Head, Northern M chigan University School of Nursing.
This expanded partnersh p will be available at Gogebic Community College beginning in Fall 2023. Details on how to take advantage of the new nursing offerings at GCC are available on the college website: Gogebic edu or by contacting Robin Bock, Allied Health Programs Coordinator, at (906) 307-1268 or via email: robinb@gogebic.edu.
Volleyball Retur ns to GCC
McKenzie Kanipes, formerly of Ironwood, was selected as the new Head Volleyball Coach at Gogebic Community Co lege She attended the Ironwood Area School District before moving to Clayton, Wisconsin, where she graduated in 2013 McKenzie was a feted student athlete, earning Regional and State Honors in High School volleyball, basketball and track and field She also went on to play collegiate volleyball as a Yellow Jacket for the University of Wisconsin-Superior (UWS).
Kanipes holds a Master’s of Social Work from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota and a bachelor’s of science degree from the University of Wisconsin-Superior.
Athletic ‘Honors’ Roll
Congratu ations to the GCC Samsons players who made the Academic All-American teams for the 2022-23 seasons!
Men’s Basketball
Ethan Libertoski - First Team (4 0 GPA)
Elijah Owens - Second Team (3.8-3.99 GPA)
Women’s Basketball
Kylee Hewitt - First Team (4 0 GPA)
Ida Bengtsson - Third Team (3.6-3.79 GPA)
Hanna Hoskin - Third Team (3 6-3 79 GPA)
Emily Nelson - Third Team (3.6-3.79 GPA)
Women’s Basketball made the 2022-2023 NJCAA Women’s Basketball Academic Teams of the Year list with a cumulative GPA of 3 56 They ranked 15th highest GPA in all of NJCAA Women's Basketball
McKenzie currently serves as the GCC Career Counselor after being hired in November of 2022. “We are excited for volleyball to return to GCC and believe that Coach Kanipes has the compet tive mindset and vision to take our program to the nat onal level,” said Dr Jennifer Sabourin, GCC Interim President. Coach Kanipes states, “Being a part of the GCC community has been wonderful My mom he ped facilitate the start of the first women ’ s volleyba l program back in 1993. To be able to come in and work at the school and now to coach, is truly humbling and exciting The young ladies we have coming in will be able to provide a great foundat on for this program, they are the backbone in this.”
Congratu ations to the Esports Team for winning a National Championship in Rainbow 6 Siege in both Fall of 2022 and Spring of 2023 and National Championship in Call of Duty: MW2 in Spring 2023 •
The following ath etes achieved “All-Academic Student” through the NJCAAE (Esports) for the following semesters:
Fall 2022
Gr ffen McLaugh in
Jakob Wiemeri
Aydan MacLeod
Spring 2023
Aydan MacLeod
Jakob Wiemeri
20 21
“Small class sizes, cost effective, and amazing instructors are why I chose GCC.”
–
Jillian Bastman, Nursing 2023
• • • •
• • • •
• • •
• • •
•
Talent Pipeline Offers Infinite Possibilities
Did you know Gogebic Community College offers a top-notch welding program for students? Our weld ng and manufacturing facility, the Skilled Trades Center, is the outcome of a collaborative effort by the College, the State of Michigan, the American Welding Society, and regional employers Our environment offers robust environmental health and safety systems, robotics, advanced welding processes, precision fabrication and layout tables, and a CNC machine. Students enjoy a flexible training format, which is great for returning adults, and spacious American Welding Association (AWS)-approved workstations.
The GCC Foundation Board played a pivotal role in the acquisition and revitalization of a historic community structure into what is now a state-ofthe-art training facility In addition to c ass training, students have direct access to employment, job shadowing, and tours within the industry. Welding instructor, Gary Gouin of White Pine, explains, “Employment opportunities are expected to remain near 100% placement for we ding manufacturing and construction career paths.”
Gold Status Ear ned for Veteran Program
Gogebic Community College is proud to announce its designation as a Gold Level Veteran Friendly School for the 2022-23 academic year by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA).
MVAA’s Veteran-Friendly School program recognizes academic institutions of higher learning committed to support ng the need of student veterans and dependents. The program awards Gold, Silver or Bronze leve status to institutions that offer veteran centered services and programs “Your commitment to helping student veterans succeed was evident in your application and Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency is honore recognize your institution,” said Robert Nea Deputy Director, MVAA
Gold level is awarded to universities, colleg or trade schools meeting six or more of the criteria listed here:
1 Established process for identification of current student veterans
2. Veteran-specific website
3 Active student veteran organization or club
4. Veteran-specific career services, resources, advising, and/or outcome monitoring
5. On-campus veterans’ coordinator and/or designated staff point of contact
6 System to evaluate and award academic credit
based on prior military training and experience
7. Monitoring and evaluation of student veteran academic retention, progress, and aduation rates
AA was created to serve as a central t, connect ng those who have served he U S armed forces and their families services and benefits throughout the ate MVAA recognizes academic nstitutions of higher learning committed to supporting student veterans and their families
“Gogebic Community College is extremely proud to receive this honor as we continue to serve our student veterans both on and off p addition to online,” said Dr. Jennifer Sabourin, GCC Interim President “We take great pride in assisting our veteran students so they have a seam ess trans tion and positive experience at Gogebic Community College.”
For more information about Gogebic Community College’s commitment to attracting and supporting military students, visit the veteran’s benefit page on the college website at https://www.gogebic.edu/financial aid/veteransservices.ht
m You can also contact Karen Ball, Veteran’s Certifying Official at (906) 307-1219 or karenball@gogebic edu
22 23
GCC 2023 Welding Students literally build a talent pipeline. Every aspect of pipe fabrication and weld ng was used to complete the build By the numbers: The piece weighs 1200 lbs has 38 pressure welds, consists of 75 feet of material, and 18 right-angle turns. The final step in the build was to complete a “hydro” pressure test and attach the base
Summer Basketball Camp 2023
We are proud to serve a higher non-traditional gender population in our welding program. GCC graduates 10% more female welders than the national average!
