University of Michigan-Flint 2006 Bridges

Bridges Fall 2006

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Linking the Riverfront Campus of the University of Michigan and its 27,000 Alumni

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The University of Michigan-Flint offers graduate programs in: American Culture (MLS)

Health Education (MS)

Anesthesia (MS)

Nursing (MSN) Adult Nurse Practitioner Family Nurse Practitioner Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Biology (MS) Business Administration (MBA) Traditional NetPlus!

Computer and Information Systems (MS) Education (MA) Early Childhood Education Special Education Technology in Education Literacy K-12 Elementary Education with Teacher Certification

Physical Therapy (DPT)

Public Administration (MPA) Administration of Nonprofit Agencies Criminal Justice Administration Educational Administration Health Care Administration Government Administration Social Sciences (MA) Gender Studies Global Studies U.S. History & Politics

w w w. g r a d u a t e p r o g r a m s . u m f l i n t . e d u (810) 762-3171

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50 Years of Achievement The 50s

In the Beginning

From the First Class

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Bobby Crim: Passion for Compassion

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Campus News

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table of contents

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The 60s

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Snoopy

The 70s

Lessons of War The 80s

Weird Science The 90s

From GM to an Island of Dreams

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The 2000s

Activism in Performance Yesterday & Today Capital Campaign

Strategic Plan in Action

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50th Anniversary Events

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Campus Camera

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Alumni in Touch

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Alumni Leadership

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Annual Fund

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Alumni Notes

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Affiliate News

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Fall Events

M-Club of Greater Flint

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chancellor’s notes Juan E. Mestas, Ph.D.

Greetings.

Here's hoping your summer has been just the right mix of rest and excitement. In this issue of Bridges, our annual alumni magazine, we mark some of the most exciting, transformative and memorable events and people of the University of Michigan-Flint's first 50 years.

September 23 is our official anniversary. On that day in 1956, 167 juniors began their first day of classes at Flint Senior College. That was our first name, an apt one since we offered only upper-division classes at that time. Over the next half-century, that pioneering class would be followed by 27,000 graduates of the University of Michigan-Flint, each with his or her own story, each with his or her own memories.

The excellence of any university is best demonstrated by the achievements of its graduates. By that measure, as by many others, UM-Flint is a resounding success. Our graduates have made us proud time and again. These pages reveal the breadth and depth of our alumni's success.

UM-Flint has achieved a great deal over these five decades. We have earned a reputation for academic excellence, for caring about each student as a distinct individual, for having a first-rate faculty, for being good neighbors, for keeping our campus beautiful and safe and for treating each other with respect and civility. We will protect that reputation and will build upon it. The best is yet to come.

The major challenge we face going forward is how to make the educational opportunities this campus offers available for more students. With state funding always unreliable and the cost of delivering education rising, we need the support of our alumni in order to meet this challenge.

How can you help? Contribute generously to our Imagine: The UM-Flint Difference campaign. Help us increase our scholarship funds so we can, in turn, create more opportunities for more deserving students who would not otherwise be able to afford the cost of a university education. The absence of wealth should not stop someone with tireless determination and a burning desire for knowledge from reaching his or her educational goal. If someone helped you make it through college, this is your opportunity to complete the circle. It is your opportunity to ensure UM-Flint’s next 50 years will be marked with as much achievement as our first.

Regents: David A. Brandon, Laurence B. Deitch, Olivia P. Maynard, Rebecca McGowan, Andrea Fischer Newman, Andrew C. Richner, S. Martin Taylor, Katherine E.White, Mary Sue Coleman (ex-officio) Chancellor: Juan E. Mestas

Officers: Jack Kay, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs; David Barthelmes,Vice Chancellor for Administration; Mary Jo Sekelsky, Vice Chancellor for Student Services and Enrollment Management; Kristen Skivington, Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement Academic Deans: D.J.Trela, College of Arts and Sciences; Austin Agho, School of Health Professions and Studies; I. Douglas Moon, School of Management; Susanne Chandler, School of Education and Human Services Citizens Advisory Committee: Thuli Beresford, Bob Emerson, Judith Fullerton, Nick George, Lee Gonzales, Tim Herman, Lawrence E. Moon, Ghassan Saab Kathryn Sharbaugh, David Sharp, Ernestine Smith, Maureen Smyth,Tom Taylor, David Zick Director of University Relations: Lisa Graham Managing Editor: Mel Serow

Contributing Editors: Matt Bohlen & Bob Mabbitt

Juan E. Mestas, Ph.D. Chancellor

Contributing Writers: Gary Ashley, Lisa Graham & Jennifer Hogan Design: Tricia Sentell

Photography: Mel Serow & Matt Bohlen Editorial Office: 432 N. Saginaw St., Suite 1001 The University of Michigan-Flint Flint, MI 48502-1950; (810) 767-2150 alumni-relations@umflint.edu

To learn more about donation opportunities, contact Lisa Graham, Manager of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, at (810) 767-2154 or grahamlm@umflint.edu.

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Published by the University of Michigan-Flint, Office of Institutional Advancement. This publication, as well as any other documents produced by The University of Michigan-Flint, can be made available in alternative formats.

To request a copy of this magazine in enlarged print/Braille or on cassette tape/computer disk, contact the Accessibility Services Office at (810) 762-3456.

alumni society notes

Alumni Society Board of Governors Chairperson: Amy Krug (’95 B.A.) Immediate Past Chairperson: David E. Lossing (’87 B.A.)

Vice-Chair: John Coleman (’93 M.B.A.) Secretary: Gail Keaton (’83 M.B.A.)

Treasurer: Doris Hasan (’77 B.S.N.) At-Large Members: Madonna Aubrey (’77 B.B.A.) Harry Blecker (‘76 B.S.) Minnie Cabine (’03 B.A.) LaShona Clark (’96 B.A.) Carla Henry (‘95 B.A.) Clarence Jennings (‘02 B.S.) Rob Jewell (’78 B.A.) Mattie Malone (’89 B.A.) Heather Nassar (’97 B.S.) Marissa Pierce (’03 B.A.) Thomas Rusch (’82 B.A.) Matt Telliga (’80 B.B.A.) Ex-Officio Members: Lee Gonzales (’79 B.A.) David Robertson (’82 B.A.)

UM-Flint Representative to UM Alumni Association: Anita Anderson (’77 B.A.) Rob Jewell (’78 B.A.) David E. Lossing (’87 B.A.) Matt Telliga (’80 B.B.A.)

Alumni Society Affiliates: School of Management Alumni Affiliate School of Education and Human Services Alumni Affiliate African American Alumni Affiliate

Alumni Relations Staff: Lisa Graham, Manager of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations Gary Ashley (’05 B.A.),Alumni Coordinator

As I take the helm of the University of Michigan-Flint Alumni Society Board of Governors, we are in the midst of the celebration of 50 years of this amazing campus. If you have visited UM-Flint recently, you have felt the energy and excitement in the air at this valuable community resource that has touched all of our lives.

UM-Flint has survived for 50 years because of the unwavering support and dedication of more than 27,000 alumni. In the past year, UM-Flint alumni have given their time and contributed to the success of the campus in many ways including:

Amy Krug

• Fundraising for the UM-Flint Alumni Society Scholarship for Excellence • Assisting the Office of Admissions with student recruitment events • Honoring successful alumni at the Alumni Leadership Awards • Volunteering at community events such as the Crim Festival of Races and in the Westwood Heights School District • Providing feedback on the UM-Flint Strategic Plan For the next two years, I will be spending my time building upon the solid foundation put in place by my predecessor David Lossing. We will continue to build the endowment for the alumni scholarship. We will attend more student recruitment events. We will volunteer for projects. And we will celebrate the 50th Anniversary with a gift of a campus landmark.

Marking the passage of time is important. But it is even more important to take positive actions and not waste time. The UM-Flint Alumni Society is doing just that. We invite you to invest your time and join us as we embark on the next fifty years of the campus. I bet you’ll have the time of your life.

I look forward to meeting you this fall at the 50th Anniversary celebration!

Go Blue!

Amy Krug Chairperson University of Michigan-Flint Alumni Society

If you are interested in becoming a board member, please submit your resume to alumni-relations@umflint.edu or Alumni Relations, 432 N. Saginaw St., Suite 1001, Flint, MI 48502-1950 Parents: If your son or daughter no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the University of Michigan-Flint of his or her new permanent address by calling Alumni Relations at (810) 767-2150.

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campus news Saying Goodbye to Dick Wearing his trademark U of M cap, Dick Horning was often seen walking from building to building on the Flint campus making sure everything was perfect. During his 37 years with the university, 27 of them on the Flint campus, Horning wore a number of hats in his various jobs. He retired at the end of July 2006 as director of facilities management and auxiliary services.

Horning was hired as a junior accountant in Ann Arbor in 1969 after serving two years in Vietnam. In 1979, he was offered the position of director of business operation for UM-Flint.

Of the campus, the one thing that has impressed him most—the staff.

“The quality and professionalism of the people, the pride they take in their jobs,” said Horning. “They want to really do something for the university.”

In 1995, to foster better relationships between staff and faculty, Horning started what became a yearly golf outing. In 1999, it became a fundraiser for Dr. R. Shantaram’s computer science scholarship. The annual outing, which now bears his name, has raised $5,500.

Dick Horning Dave Barthelmes, the vice chancellor for administration, said Horning will be missed.

“I can’t begin to imagine the contribution that Dick has made to the students and the campus community during 37 years of loyal and dedicated service.” said Barthelemes. “ I have always found Dick to be very open, honest, knowledgeable and willing to go the extra mile to serve the needs of the campus.”

Horning wants to continue working part-time and do some volunteer work at the Red Cross and the local food bank.

New LGBT Name The University of Michigan-Flint Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Center (LGBT) will now bear the name of its first advocate Ellen Bommarito.

A ribbon cutting and ceremonial naming were part of a celebration held Thursday, February 16, 2006.

The Center opened in 1994. Bommarito, a UM-Flint alumnus who taught English full-time and was a faculty adviser, started the part-time position of LGBT advocate in September of that year.

"She (Ellen Bommarito) made the Center happen," recalls Jan Worth, a lecturer in the English Department, who was a close friend Chair of the LGBT Center Rose Casement and of Bommarito. "It was out of the belief that there should be a safe Chancellor Juan E. Mestas cut the ribbon at the harbor and tolerance for all people." dedication of the renamed center "She was tremendously proud of the Center and she would be proud that it now has her name. She would have loved it," said Jim Anderson, a lecturer in the English department and Ellen's brother-in-law. "She was an activist her entire life. Where there was an injustice, she was there to fight it."

Ellen Bommarito passed away in January of 1998 after a brief battle with cancer.

MCC Award The Michigan Campus Compact (MCC) has named Linda Pickett, Ph.D. from the University of Michigan-Flint, to receive the MCC Faculty/Staff Community Service Learning Award. This prestigious annual award is the highest MCC bestows on faculty and staff in the state of Michigan.

Pickett was selected by her peers as the faculty person on campus who made the most outstanding contributions in the area of community service learning. This award recognizes the influence on or engagement of students to be involved in community service or service learning through modeling, instruction and/or special projects.

Pickett's involvement in service learning and community outreach has had a significant Linda Pickett, Ph.D. impact on the civic engagement of UM-Flint students. Through a variety of projects, she has encouraged students to step outside of the university campus and interact with the community. She has encouraged them to not only participate in education-related projects, but to extend their involvement to include other service and civic engagement projects through the University Outreach's Center for Civic Engagement. Many of her students have gone on to pursue individual interests in service projects and incited other faculty to include service learning as part of their courses.

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campus news Dual Master’s Degree for Business Students Call it a merging of the blue and gold in Flint. The University of Michigan-Flint and Kettering University will begin offering a dual master's degree that will streamline the transfer process and strengthen the region's educational options for diversifying the workforce.

Officials of the two universities signed an academic partnership agreement in March 2006 that will blend the strengths of Kettering's internationally known engineering and technical programs with UM-Flint's fully accredited Master of Business Administration degree.

UM-Flint Chancellor Juan E. Mestas and Kettering The dual program will consist of a master's of science degree in President Stanley R. Liberty shake hands after Manufacturing Operations (M.S.M.O.) granted by Kettering and a master's signing new agreement of Business Administration (M.B.A.) degree granted by UM-Flint. The partnership also entails coursework to be taken at Kettering for the Lean Manufacturing concentration in UM-Flint's M.B.A. program.

The formal partnership is a continuation of an informal initiative announced in January when the presidents of Kettering, UM-Flint, Mott Community College and Baker College pledged to work together in a variety of ways to better prepare the region's workforce for today's knowledge economy.

Fulbright Scholar Award Two UM-Flint faculty members have been awarded Fulbright Scholar Awards.

Associate Professor Joan R. Mars was awarded a Fulbright Scholar grant to lecture and do research at The Centre for Criminology and Criminal Justice, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, Trinidad and Tobago during the 2005-2006 academic year. Mars conducted research on U.S. Immigration and Deportation: Caribbean Aliens and the Criminal Justice Process.

"I am very grateful to the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board for the opportunity to conduct research on the subject of what has become known as the ‘deportee problem’ in Trinidad and Tobago and the rest of the Caribbean," said Mars. "Immigration policy decisions since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 have resulted in the expedited deportation of hundreds of criminal aliens of Caribbean descent who have resided in the United States for decades as legal permanent residents and have no family connections or means of survival in their countries of origin."

Mars had the opportunity to study the impact of U.S. Immigration laws and policies on the rapidly expanding "deportee" population in Trinidad and Tobago and facilitate comparative analysis with the findings of similar research conducted in Guyana.

Professor Seyed Mehdian has been awarded a Fulbright Scholar grant to teach and conduct research in Romania.

He will travel to the Eastern European country in winter and spend one semester lecturing and doing research in his field of banking and finance.

“I am very happy to be selected. It is a very prestigious award,” said Mehdian. “I want to help them with my knowledge in banking and finance and I want to learn how a former communist country is reacting to a free market economy.”

Mehdian has published several papers on the stock market and banking. Two years ago, he published a paper on the Eastern European Emerging Stock Markets.

“I picked Romania because I wanted to be in Eastern Europe,” said Mehdian, who also serves as associate director of UM-Flint’s International and Global Studies Program.

Recipients of Fulbright Scholar awards are selected on the basis of academic or professional achievement and because they have demonstrated extraordinary leadership potential in their fields.

New Scholarship

The Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) program and the College of Arts and Sciences of the University of Michigan-Flint hosted a reception in February to celebrate the M.P.A.'s 25th Anniversary. The Anniversary Celebration provided an opportunity to honor one of the most notable M.P.A. graduates, Michigan Lieutenant Governor John D. Cherry, Jr. ('84 M.P.A.), through the creation of an endowed scholarship.

The objective of the new scholarship is to provide continuing financial support for MPA students. The MPA 25th Anniversary Celebration provided an opportunity to reunite with classmates and meet with current students.

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campus news Grant Burns 1947-2006 Long-time University of Michigan-Flint Librarian Grant Burns died on January 5, 2006 in Flint, Michigan. Grant earned a B.A. in social science at Michigan State University in 1969, an M.A. in English in 1973 at the University of Michigan and an M.L.S. at the University of Michigan in 1976. He was hired as a reference librarian by the University of Michigan-Flint in 1977. He worked for ten years as the head of reference services and served for the past six years as the library's assistant director.

Grant was a skilled writer and editor and was the author of several books, including: The Atomic Papers (1984); The Sports Pages (1987); Affordable Housing (1989); The Nuclear Present (1992); Librarians in Fiction (1998); and his most recent, Railroads in American Grant Burns Fiction (2005). He contributed articles to many library journals, wrote a regular column for the Flint suburban newspaper group during the 1990s and reviewed hundreds of books for the Flint Journal. From 1981 to 1991 he edited New Pages: News and Reviews of the Progressive Book Trade.

Robert G. Schafer 1923-2006 Robert Schafer accepted the position of assistant professor of History at the Flint College of the University of Michigan in 1956, the year the senior college was founded. He and Dorothea Wyatt taught all courses offered by the history department until 1965. Dr. Schafer was named associate professor in 1962 and professor in 1967. He retired in 1989 as professor emeritus and moved to San Clemente, California. In the classroom and as an advisor, he touched generations of students' lives.

After his retirement in 1989, Schafer joined the docent team at Mission San Juan Capistrano where he delighted in guiding grade-school children around the Mission.

He contributed his scholarly and archival skills to organizing and digitizing the Mission's Robert Schafer document collection.

Dr. Schafer’s most important community activity was his involvement with the International Institute of Flint. He served on its board of directors and as its president (1960-1962; 1971-1973) and contributed to the building of its current structure on Stevens Street.

He died after a brief illness in January 2006.

Saving Green by Going Green A new Environmental Stewardship Committee is looking at ways to save energy, reduce costs and waste and lower pollution on the UM-Flint campus.

Team members are in the process of prioritizing nearly 40 potential projects, ranging from complete overhauls of the campus heating and cooling systems to getting rid of space heaters in faculty and staff offices.

The committee's $60,000 starting budget is funded by savings already recouped from basic changes in the way the university buys its energy.

In 2003, UM-Flint formed a coalition of large power users in the Flint area to buy energy at a cheaper bulk rate. The effort has since grown into a statewide consortium of 15 colleges and other large users, allowing the college to knock $200,000 off its energy bill last year.

The committee hopes to convince downtown neighbors to form a power-trading program. Officials say they'll be ready to act on the plan by the end of summer and hope to add another five percent in savings from nearly $3.5 million the university spends annually on water, gas, electricity and oil.

French Hall Renovation Moves Forward The U-M Board of Regents has approved the David M. French Hall renovations project. A 68,000 square foot renovation of classrooms, faculty offices and support areas is planned. The project will also address deferred maintenance items as well as code and accessibility requirements.

The renovation is being proposed to enhance the ability of the campus to meet the learning needs of its students.

It will also include up-to-date academic instructional space, classrooms and labs, staff and faculty offices and a new student lounge.

The estimated cost of the project is $9,350,000. This project is part of a Fiscal Year 2005 Supplemental Capital Outlay Request to the State of Michigan.

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campus news New Appointments to UM-Flint Senior Management Team University of Michigan-Flint Chancellor Juan E. Mestas, Ph.D. announced some major changes to the UM-Flint senior management team. Jack Kay, Ph.D. was appointed provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs with the faculty rank of professor of communication, with tenure. Kay succeeds Renate McLaughlin, Ph.D., who retired last year after 37 years of outstanding service to the campus.

Kay previously served at Wayne State University (WSU) as associate provost for student services, interim dean of the College of Urban, Labor and Metropolitan Affairs, and professor of communication. Before joining WSU in 1990, he was a faculty member for 11 years at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. Earlier this year he was named a WSU Distinguished Alumnus Award recipient. Kay was honored by the College of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts for his service to the college.

An accomplished scholar, Kay has published numerous articles in refereed journals (e.g., Forensic Educator, Journal of Radio Studies, Argumentation and Advocacy and National Forensic Journal). Some of his research has been funded by the Bureau of Educational Exchange of the United States Department of State, the Pew Foundation, the Commission Jack Kay, Ph.D. on Presidential Debates and other agencies. In addition, he is co-author of several textbooks and the author of numerous instructional materials that have been formally published.

Kay received his B.S. from WSU in speech communication and political science and his M.S. from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, in speech communication. His Ph.D. in communication, rhetoric and public address is also from WSU. Kristen Skivington, Ph.D. has been named the vice chancellor for Institutional Advancement and Mary Jo Sekelsky, Ed.D., has been appointed vice chancellor for Student Services and Enrollment Management.

Skivington joined UM-Flint in 1986 as an assistant professor in the School of Management. Five years later she became director of Graduate and Executive Development Management Programs and continued holding administrative positions of increased responsibility, eventually becoming executive director of University Outreach and assistant to the chancellor. As the university prepared to launch its capital campaign, Skivington agreed to take on the duties of vice chancellor for Institutional Advancement on an interim basis.

Kristen Skivington, Ph.D. “Her performance was so impressive that I appointed her to that position permanently,” said Mestas. “These are all critical areas for the university, particularly so as we engage in a concerted effort to raise $30 million by 2008. Kristen’s leadership is a major reason for my confidence that we will rise to the very high expectations we have set for ourselves.”

Among the offices and functions under her supervision are University Relations, University Outreach, Annual Giving and Alumni Relations and Development.

Skivington obtained her Ph.D. in management from Texas A&M University, her M.L.S. from the University of Hawaii and her B.A. from Oregon College of Education.

Sekelsky joined UM-Flint in 1984 as academic advisor. Since then, she has held several managerial positions: student activities coordinator, assistant director for student activities and orientation, director of student life, dean for student services, and assistant vice chancellor for Student Services and Enrollment Management. She became interim vice chancellor last year, when Virginia Allen, Ph.D., retired. Sekelsky has an Ed.D. from Wayne State University, an M.A. in Guidance and Counseling from Oakland University, and a B.A. in psychology from Michigan State University.

“Student Services and Enrollment Management takes the lead in the very important areas of enrollment growth, retention support and student life, among others,” said Chancellor Mestas. “With Mary Jo at the helm, I feel quite confident that her division will perform Mary Jo Sekelsky, Ed.D. effectively, efficiently and with great enthusiasm.”

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campus news New Staff in Annual Giving and Alumni Relations Lisa Graham is the manager of annual giving and alumni relations and is responsible for planning and implementing a comprehensive annual fundraising program for alumni and friends. She is also responsible for planning events and activities in coordination with major gift officers and acting as a liaison between annual donors and UM-Flint.

Lisa was formerly employed as director of annual giving at Kettering University. She has been in the development field since 2001. Prior to that, she held a management position at Lane Bryant and public relation positions at the Flint Institute of Music and the American Cancer Society.

In addition to her work at UM-Flint, Lisa serves on the Fundraising Council for the Visiting Nurse Services of Michigan.

Lisa and her husband are also the proud owners and operators of a small remodeling business in Burton, Limited Edition Kitchens and Baths.

Gary W. Ashley is the annual giving and alumni relations Gary Ashley & Lisa Graham coordinator and is responsible for helping coordinate alumni events, publications, and works on Annual Fund Grant applications.

Gary graduated from the University of Michigan-Flint in the Winter of 2005 with a bachelor’s degree in communication. He’s been with the Annual Giving and Alumni Relations department since January 2006.

Outside of work, Gary likes spending time with his wife Sarah and his newborn son Benjamin. He also tries to find time to spend with the rest of his family and friends.

Nursing in Peru Ten UM-Flint nursing students spent ten days working in hospitals and community centers near Lima, Peru.

Professor Ricardo Alfaro from the mathematics department, Assistant Nursing Professor Maureen Tippen and translator Becky Pettengill traveled with the group.

Alfaro was a student at one of the high schools where the nursing students provided health care information and he was able to open many doors for the group. Three years ago, he helped bring the first group of UM-Flint students to the same area.

Tippen says she would like to continue making the trip every three years. Besides being an opportunity for students to see first-hand a third world country, Tippen sees it as a chance for students to sharpen critical thinking and communication skills.

Unfortunately, the students also found themselves in a real-life version of the movie Terminal. They were fogged in and spent three nights and four days at the airport before they could leave.

Lynn Choranziak checking a child

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Erin Imeson, student, playing with the children

Flint, Michigan in the 1950s, the automotive industry is firing on all cylinders, GIs back from World War II have injected the nation with renewed excitement for possibility and America is on the move. At the forefront, fueling the country’s enthusiasm for opportunity and exploration is the new, Michigan-made symbol of the American spirit: the automobile.

Flint was booming. Jobs were plentiful. The population was growing. And the city needed to keep pace. New infrastructures, roads, social service programs and schools were built to meet the needs of the thriving city. For years, city leaders like Charles Stewart Mott had foreseen the need for increased higher education in the area. Yet in the face of this growing need, Flint remained the only metropolitan area in Michigan without a public four-year university.

Still, Flint was full of passionate, proactive people willing to do the work needed to make the community strong, vibrant and ready for an ever-changing future. If Flint needed a public four-year university, they would make it happen.

Charles Stewart Mott, the University of Michigan Board of Regents and other state and local leaders set the wheels in motion.

September 23, 1956, the first day of classes, marked the beginning of an evolution that saw Flint Senior College grow into Flint College, then blossom as the University of Michigan-Flint.

Meeting needs with vision, action and results. That is the motivation that drives the university to this day. Our faculty, staff, alumni and students are, and always have been, a powerful engine transforming individual lives and entire communities.

They have done so for 50 years and they will continue transforming ever more lives, and this resonant community, for the next 50 years and beyond.

Alfred Raphelson describes himself as a “Michigan Man.” After all, he spent nine years in Ann Arbor earning all three of his degrees (‘50 B.A., ‘51 M.A., ‘56 Ph.D.).

“I was teaching at the University of Illinois in Urbana in 1956 when I heard about the new senior college of the University of Michigan opening in Flint,” recalls Raphelson. “To start a new campus was exciting, but for me, it was an opportunity to return to Michigan and teach.”

“Raphelson taught as an artist. He was a great performer whose lectures were well orchestrated.”

- UM-Flint alumnus

Dean David French hired Raphelson as UM-Flint’s first psychology professor.

Raphelson would spend the next 34 years teaching what have been described as some of the most popular courses offered at the Flint campus. For the first seven years of UM-Flint’s existence, Raphelson was the psychology department. It wasn’t until 1965 that a second instructor was added.

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Raphelson admits that in the early days there was not a clear understanding of the mission of the new senior college. The faculty at that time could only dream of a larger campus. The original building located on the campus of the Flint Junior College, was not attracting new students at the level the faculty had hoped. He says that those that did attend were good students.

“I never expected that the students would be as grateful as they were to get a U-M education in Flint. They were good students, and eager to learn,” said Raphelson. “If there was a negative, it was that they were all from Flint and shared the same general experiences growing up.”

He does remember two students from the early days who would eventually gain positions to help the university in its later growth years. Raphelson said Bobby Crim and Joe Roberson sat across from each other in an early class in social psychology. Crim would go on to be the Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives and a strong advocate for U-M. Roberson returned to the Flint campus as director and then assistant dean of student affairs. He later moved to the Ann Arbor campus where he served as director of corporate and foundation development and then athletic director for the entire University of Michigan.

At least one thing has remained the same over 50 years–UM-Flint has had a nontraditional student body from its

earliest days. Raphelson said many of the early students were the first in their families to go to college, or they were women who were returning to finish a degree, and many had to work to afford college.

He describes the early faculty as fitting into one of two groups: older and well trained or young and just out of graduate school. He said while the campus did not share the cutting-edge research being done at Ann Arbor, it did share the U-M values when it came to teaching.

Raphelson points to what he believes are the four key events that most affected the direction of the college: 1. The start of the college in 1956.

2. The decision to move to a four-year college in 1965.

The 50s

FROM 3. The release of the Haber Report that not only defined the role of Flint as the Regional Campus, but also changed the form of administration to allow for the selection of its first chancellor.

4. The implementation of the Haber Report and the hiring of Bill Moran as the first chancellor.

Until this point in its history, UM-Flint was treated as the 16th college of the University of Michigan.

Raphelson points out that this is how the yearbook that was published until the early 70s got its name. “Sedecim” translates to 16.

While a lack of student housing remains an issue today, Raphelson remembers some early efforts to house students in nearby apartment buildings.

He said part of the problem was that in the early days there was political opposition to establishing housing. It was not until UM-Flint became a regional campus that there was an increase in the accepted belief that a housing option was needed if enrollment was to increase.

Raphelson retired in 1991 after teaching at UM-Flint for nearly three and one-half decades. He still remains very close to Paul Bradley, one of the founding faculty who taught political science and has an occasional correspondence with foreign language professor Frank Richardson.

Raphelson may have best revealed how he felt about UM-Flint and his teaching career in his parting remarks in the 1991 alumni magazine: “I think about the people who have come through UMFlint—they’re still very much a part of me and I’m grateful for them letting me know that I’ve been a part of a significant time in their lives. They couldn’t pay me for that.”

The 50s

THE

FIRST CLASS…

There is only one African American pictured in the first graduating class of the University of Michigan-Flint.

However, while J. Parker Laurence is pictured with the 1958 class, a late change in his major moved his actual graduation to 1959.

Laurence, 88, was in his mid-30s and a pastor when he entered UM-Flint.

It was the late 1950s and racial unrest in Flint was still about a decade away. Laurence has relatively fond memories of the students and faculty at UM-Flint.

“I was accepted very well,” Laurence recalls. “I had very few problems with the students and I got along well with the faculty.”

He does remember a few students who made it a point not to communicate with him and one faculty member who he felt treated him differently.

“I took seven different essay tests in his class and I can still remember that every one of them was scored the same: 83%, a C+” Fifty years later, Laurence still recalls some of his favorite faculty members.

“Dr. Wyatt was my advisor and I felt she was very concerned about me

school science in Detroit. Just after taking the job, he was offered a position with the Flint School District.

He decided to stay in Detroit and taught there for 20 years. During that time, he earned a master’s in Education at Ohio State and an Ed.D. in curriculum at Wayne State.

Laurence’s next teaching position would take him to Africa. He first accepted a position at a mission school in Zambia (Northern Rhodesia) where he would stay for five years.

He then moved on to Solusi University, located in Zimbabwe.

He was appointed chair of the

“I was accepted very well,” Laurence recalled.

“I had very few problems with the students and I got along well with the faculty.” doing well. I remember getting along very well with Dr. French and I considered Dr. Murchie a friend.”

After finishing UM-Flint, Laurence accepted a job teaching junior high

science department and established an education program for teachers.

Laurence has been retired for about 15 years. He lives in Oklahoma with Waustella, his wife of 63 years.

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Bobby Crim and a seeing impaired runner embody the spirit of the Crim Festival of Races.

Of all the talented men who have ever called Flint home, Bobby Crim is one whose every passion, every motivation and every success has been driven entirely by his desire to improve the lives of his fellow man. Veteran. Teacher. City council person. State representative. State Speaker of the House. Founder of the Crim Festival of Races. Michigan Special Olympics board member. Father. Grandfather. Husband.

Dear friend and true supporter of the city of Flint and the University of MichiganFlint. When we think local legend, Bobby Crim is the benchmark.

After serving in the Korean War with the U.S. Navy, Crim returned to Flint to begin his college career. Bobby received the very first C.S. Mott scholarship, enabling him to attend UM-Flint.

“I’m so lucky that UM-Flint was there,” said Crim. “I was married and already 20

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had a child. It would have been pretty difficult for me to go off to some other campus and get an education. I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to get such a quality education close to my home and family.”

Crim credits two UM-Flint professors for helping him refocus his life after serving his country. “Dr. Dorothea Wyatt, my history professor, and Dr. Paul Bradley, my political science instructor, made my transition from the service back into academics very smooth because they were so good, so worldly and at the same time very focused on individuals and the local community.”

Bobby earned his master's degree in education at the Ann Arbor campus. He found teaching work in Flint and Davison, and although he found teaching incredibly rewarding, he had difficulty

making ends meet. “I was teaching in Davison and I would take my students down to the Davison city council meetings.

One of the city council members had a heart attack and was not going to run again and said, ‘well why don’t you run?’

I’d only lived there for a few years and wasn’t sure about it, but he agreed to help me with the petitions and so forth, so I said OK. There were four or five of us running for two seats, and I was fortunate enough to win. So I became a Davison city councilman in 1962. Then in 1964, I ran for the State legislature and won. That’s what started my career in State politics.”

Bobby recalls the spirit of real action and progress he found as a young State congressman. “The first term I served in 1965-66 was a whole new legislature. As a matter of fact, half of the members of the legislature were freshmen who had never served before. We did things like give teachers bargaining rights, unemployment compensation, workers compensation, minimum wage, all these things that were way behind, needed to be updated, we did. I’ve always been very proud of that. I was elected Speaker of the House four times from 1974 to 1982.

We accomplished a lot during that time too – especially in the area of education.

For instance, we developed formulas for K-12 to help even out funding for poorer districts.”

As proud as he is of the accomplishments he and his colleagues were able to make in the State legislature, Bobby is most proud of the way Flint and Genesee County embraced an idea that turned The 60s

into an international sensation. “It started out as a result of me going out to Kearsley High School in 1976,” remembers Crim.

“I was invited out to a Special Olympics track meet. I had always supported the Special Olympics, of course, but I had never really been to an event. When I saw these handicapped kids having the time of their lives, knowing what it is to succeed, getting medals, hugs, smiling all day, sharing it all with their parents and brothers and sisters and friends, I was so moved. When I was growing up in the 40s and 50s, you didn’t see handicapped children. They were somewhere else. So to see that made a real impression on me.

And I was already a runner, so I talked with my staff and others and in 1977 we

be very popular, but I would like to see Genesee County as a whole, more than just the City of Flint, as a tax base. The tax base of the entire area could be used for industrial parks and bring in industry.

I remember back in the 60s I was head of a legislative committee looking at a proposal to have a countywide plan.

Historically, central areas suffer. Cities have infrastructures that can and do deteriorate. Yet they are still major population centers and centers of business, culture and industry. And that impacts areas that branch off from that core. What is good for Flint is good for its suburbs, and people have to realize that.”

Crim not only sees the University of Michigan-Flint playing a critical role in

SNOOPY The closest UM-Flint may have come to having a mascot was Snoopy, a Dachshund that belonged to English Professor Edward T. Calver. Founding faculty members remember that Calver would take her everywhere he went including class, committee meetings and social events. Snoopy was often free to roam the halls and would often wander in and out various classrooms.

“I would like to see UM-Flint alums and future alums become more involved in the communities they call home.”

- Bobby Crim

had the first Crim race with about 700 runners. The community totally embraced it. That was what was so great.

We had volunteers and runners and it became a big event very rapidly. Within a couple of years we were able to give $100,000 to the Special Olympics. It has continued to grow in many, many ways since that time. Now I’m on the Michigan Special Olympics board of directors, which is very rewarding.”

Crim, perhaps more than any other individual, has the experience, track record, and proven aptitude for knowing what ideas will and will not work in this community. Of Flint’s future, he said, “I have hope for Flint. There will be a situation and things done that will attract a diversity of industry. I know it may not

The 60s

efforts to transform Flint, but its graduates, too. “I think the University of MichiganFlint is the big thing. There has to be a leadership role taken to capitalize on it as a resource to build and grow from, in every way at every level. Get involved.

You know, for many people, ‘politics’ and ‘politician’ have become bad words. I understand it, but in many ways their lack of involvement is what allows politics and politicians to become bad.

You can cry about it all you want, but if you personally don’t do anything about it, that’s nobody’s fault but yours. I would like to see UM-Flint alums and future alums become more involved in the communities they call home.”

For more on Bobby Crim and The Crim Festival of Races, visit www.crim.org.

Professor Calver and Snoopy

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21

The late 1960s and early 70s mark a time of controversy, a time of war and a time of American separation. As Vietnam War protests raged across the country, including at the UM-Flint campus, one of our future alumni was in the thick of battle.

“I didn’t have to think about (the protests). I was too busy trying to stay alive,” said Master of American Cultures graduate, Joe Mishler. “I didn’t start thinking about the actual war until I was out of the hospital.”

Out of the hospital…for the second time. Drafted at the age of 18 in 1967, Mishler spent two years of service as part of the United States Army, 25th Division.

During that time, he was severely wounded twice. The first time, his armored personnel carrier ran over a set of mines, sending explosions throughout his unit. He sustained bruises and cuts and spent time in the infirmary.

When he returned to the front lines, he was once again caught in the middle of explosions. Trapped in the heart of a heavy engagement, enemy blasts caused severe injuries and he was immediately evacuated and emergency surgery was performed.

“Explosions above my carrier cut up my head, face and hands and left me badly wounded. I was evacuated to Japan, where I spent four months in the hospital,” recalled Mishler.

When he left the hospital for the second time, he had two Purple Hearts, dozens of scars and a different opinion.

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“It left me angry and bitter,” said Mishler. “Being a part of the Tet Offensive changed everything. It was bloody and senseless. I began feeling like my efforts were senseless.”

The Tet Offensive was a series of strategic offensives by the National Liberation Front or Viet Cong (Vietnamese Communists) against the South Vietnam's Army of the Republic of Vietnam and the United States military.

On the first day of the Tet (Vietnamese lunar New Year, January 31, 1968), 1000 Viet Cong troops infiltrated the city of Saigon, captured the Citadel at Hue and seized part of the U.S. embassy in Saigon.

Despite the loss of over 10,000 troops, the Tet Offensive, and specifically the battle in Saigon, marked an enormous psychological and propagandnist victory for the Viet Cong. For Americans who had believed that the war was being won, the sight of Viet Cong troops holding the U.S. embassy forced them to question America’s intervention in Vietnam. This was the beginning of the end for popular American support of the war.

The Tet Offensive and Mishler’s change of opinion led him directly into his teaching career. He has spent the last 34 years trying to be a positive influence on young people.

“Being an infantry man was a hell of an education. I saw a lot of war and death. I saw young men’s lives radically change in a heartbeat. I wanted to help young people get a reality of life,” said Mishler.

Mishler graduated from Central Michigan University in 1972 with a certification to teach political science and history. He was immediately hired by the Holly (Mich.) School District, a place where he has spent his entire career. In the late 1970s, he returned to school and obtained his master’s degree from UM-Flint in 1984.

In the early 1980s, Mishler began to write short stories about his experience in Vietnam. By the early 1990s, he had several articles and poems published in veteran magazines and even began to write plays.

Through grants from the Greater Flint Arts Council and the Ruth Mott Foundation in Flint, Mishler has written and performed over ten plays. His work includes tales about American home life during and after Vietnam, bits about battles, a piece on the current war in Iraq and even a play about issues of dealing with sexual abuse and children.

One particular play called Wall, is about the experience of a couple that goes to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. A soldier they both knew steps out of the Wall and the experience begins. The play was performed in 2003 at Blue Bell Beach in Flint as part of a special visit of The Moving Wall. This half-size replica of the Washington, DC Vietnam Veterans Memorial has been touring the country for almost twenty years.

Wall and other plays of Mishler’s have been performed at Buckham Alley Theatre, Holly High School and even as far as the University of Texas El Paso.

“My work is mainly about Vietnam. I explore the topic from every conceivable perspective. Veterans must tell their own story so that people will not forget the devastation and horror of war,” said Mishler.

He began teaching drama classes at Holly High in 1983. He feels that plays help his students learn. “Plays are a good and fun way to teach history.”

Mishler is incredibly proud of his current and former Holly High School students. The theater department he The 70s

heads performs three main-stage shows per year and for the last few years, has done extremely well in competition. His students have also gone on to win several theater scholarships from internships across the state including UM-Flint.

As a student himself, Mishler feels the American Cultures master’s program was exactly what he was looking for. “It was challenging but I looked forward to it everyday. It was well worth it. My instructors were wonderful and all our classes were made up of good people,” complimented Mishler.

He also recently returned for additional drama certifications. One class was an independent study conducted by UM-Flint Theatre Professor Carolyn Gillespie.

Professor Gillespie spent one day a week for an entire semester observing Mishler’s class.

“I hope the students realized that teaching is a life-long commitment to learning and appreciated the extra mile Joe was treading on their behalf,” said Gillespie.

“The (UM-Flint) theatre department is an amazing program. The students get involved immediately and turn out wonderful productions. That doesn’t happen at most universities,” complimented Mishler.

In addition to teaching at Holly High School and writing plays, Mishler spent nine years as the president of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #175 and remains active.

His father also served America during World War II, a fact in which Mishler takes great pride.

“It’s not very easy serving your country, especially in the military,” explains Mishler. “I don’t think most people recognize that. We need to respect our brave men and women more. We don’t necessarily have to like or agree with what they’re doing, but we should respect the fact they are doing it for us at home, our country.”

“Being an infantry man was a hell of an education.

I saw a lot of war and death. I saw young men’s lives radically change in a heartbeat. I wanted to help young people get a reality of life.”

- Joe Mishler

Mishler standing back row left with his cast.

The 70s

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Some might find it strange to forgo a lucrative, secure and routine job in one’s chosen field in favor of constant doubt, uncertainty of outcome and the freedom to boldly follow a passion that may well transform the world. According to Lars Beholz (BS Biology ’87) there is nothing strange about it – at least not for an inventor.

Lars works out of a renovated apartment above his father’s shop, Guenter Beholz Jeweler in downtown Flint. But don’t let the funny hoses, assorted household chemicals and chipped beakers fool you. This is a place of important science.

Lars has developed a process that transforms the physical properties of plastic surfaces from hydrophobic (water fearing), to hydrophilic (water loving), with considerable applications for the medical, automotive and consumer products industries. Notably, Lars can alter the surface of inexpensive, un-paintable plastic so that paint will adhere to it – something chemists and manufacturers have long struggled with.

Recently, Lars made another important breakthrough. “We can adhere to nylon now. There are a lot of companies excited about that, like one that manufactures radiator hose assemblies. They put a hose 28

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into a nylon fitting that connects to the radiator. Right now they have to take the nylon and the hose and over-mold the assembly to get them to stay together.

The ability to use glue would replace that over-molding process.”

Lars is also working on a process with chlorine that would replace fluorination, a highly toxic process used to make plastic fuel tanks. With Lars’ method, there would be no toxicity from the making of the vapor-resistant tank surfaces.

When Lars graduated from Flint’s Valley School, chemistry was not his passion. “I started college in music,” he laughed. “I played the violin for years and years. Then I decided that if I couldn’t be real good at something, I didn’t want to touch it. The last thing I did was play in

seemed so boring, all these numbers and “moles” and professors never told you what you could do with them.”

Lucky for Lars, he began working with David O’Keefe on water remediation using water hyacinths in his fifth year at UM-Flint. “He was like the evangelist of chemistry,” said Lars. “I found out there was actually stuff I could do with chemistry. That was huge for me. After graduation with a BA in Biology, I took all of the necessary chemistry courses at U of M-Flint to get into graduate school. After that, I went up to Central Michigan University to raise my GPA and do more hands-on research.” Lars was awarded a graduate fellowship at Michigan State, where he earned a Doctorate of Philosophy in organic chemistry.

“I loved that I was able to be exposed to all sorts of things at UM-Flint, I like the liberal arts environment. I’m skeptical of high school and college-aged kids who already have their career all plotted out. Life rarely works that way.”

- Lars Beholz

a punk band called Prep Militia. I then dabbled around in the business department.

I took a lot of history classes. I hated chemistry. While in the biology department, I failed my first-year chemistry course. It

Lars worked in the water treatment business for a while, then was hired as a consultant at Plastics Research Corporation in Flint. He made some key, money-saving innovations for them, then got laid off.

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He began his own research in 1997 with those two areas, water and plastics, mixing in his head. “There aren’t that many chemists with experience in both,” says Lars. “That’s where most inventions come from, a weird set of experiences or ideas, and your brain working to put them together.”

To supplement his income and fund his own work, Lars taught at UM-Flint and Kettering University as an adjunct professor, earning a distinguished professor award from the UM-Flint student government. “I loved that I was able to be exposed to all sorts of things at UM-Flint,” he said. “I like the liberal arts environment. I’m skeptical of high school and college-aged kids who already have their career all plotted out. Life rarely works that way.”

Lars has made some of the most significant advancements of his career while enduring some of the most frustrating realities of his line of work. “I deal with a lot of companies in different parts of the world. I’ve found that the companies here, for the most part, don’t give a rip about the environment. It’s been said to me point blank, ‘until we get a new administration, we don’t care.’ In Europe, they see the environmental aspects of my technology and they are much more interested in it from that standpoint. Thankfully, there is still a cost-reduction standpoint to my stuff too, so the American companies will still talk to me. I’m ecstatic that some politicians are trying to bring these issues The 80s

to the forefront, but there is still so much resistance at the corporate level. You get into their offices and they say, ‘there is no global warming.’ Call it whatever you want. Blame it on whatever you want. But to deny it is ridiculous.”

Keeping his research funded is always on Lars’ mind. “I really don’t know how I got through 2005. I was about to go bellyup back in January of ‘06. Then somebody invested $25,000. And I’ve been able to do all of this new stuff with it. The actual work doesn’t really require a huge amount of money. Then of course there are the bills, protecting patents, so that money is gone. But all you can do is work through it. I mean, you can’t stop.”

Lars won’t. He may not get to spend much time with his wife and three children. They may all go without health insurance.

They have not had a vacation in five years. Still, Lars is optimistic. “I’m excited about what the future holds for me, UM-Flint and the city of Flint. It would be crazy to move my business somewhere else. There are no traffic jams, no pollution, the property is cheap, so lots of people could easily move here. It’s the perfect place for taking my business to the next level.”

Lars Beholz (B.S. Biology ’87) shows off his plastic processing chamber in his downtown Flint laboratory.

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The advancements of the 1980s coincided with an increase in international competition in many business sectors, especially the automotive industry. As a result, corporate money-saving measures brought new pressures on communities throughout America.

Still, manufacturing-focused areas like Flint were the hardest hit, enduring massive layoffs and unemployment rates higher than 20 percent.

Yet, by the 1990s, the Michigan economy was rebounding, and would eventually lead the nation in economic gains throughout much of the decade. The state was seeking less reliance on the automotive industry. And so was long-time General Motors (GM) worker Shon (Shardon) Allen.

“I took the money and ran,” explained Allen about taking the last of the major GM buyouts in

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1991. At age 51 he felt he was too young to retire, but did not have enough seniority to continue much longer at GM. “I didn’t want to quit working, I just didn’t see myself long-term there.”

“Long-term” is a relative description considering Allen had been at GM since the 60s. But that is precisely the attitude that defines his life. While many of his peers were leaving GM to pursue leisure activities or part-time jobs, Allen decided to start his own business. He opened a consulting firm that dealt with many of the manufacturing companies whom he had contact with while an employee at GM. He experienced early success turning companies around that relied heavily on the automotive industry.

“I contribute my success to Ross Perot,” acknowledged Allen. “He grew his empire on one basic idea, ‘take care of your people and the product will take care of itself.’”

After a few years, Allen put his clients on hold to pursue more adventurous activities with his wife, Judy and children. When motherhood allowed, Judy was a professional model and actress. So in grateful spirit, Shon bought an RV and took the family on the road when Judy traveled.

This allowed her to branch out beyond her normal territory for auditions.

“I felt I owed a great deal to my wife.

After all she spent most of her life raising our five children while I was out doing the easy job,” recalled Allen. “I wanted to support her because she supported me for so long.”

Several years prior, Allen was taking advantage of GM’s tuition reimbursement program and had earned his business administration degree from Oakland University. He continued taking classes at UM-Flint throughout the late 80s and in 1993 he received a communication degree and a theatre minor.

The acting classes proved useful because while on tour with his wife, he was asked to perform in various commercials. The couple was then fortunate to be cast opposite each other in a series of University of Detroit theater performances throughout Greece. The couple performed as part of three Aristophanes plays touring ancient amphitheaters in Athens, Peloponnesus and Alexandropoulos. When they returned, Shon was cast as Henry Ford in a PBS television production.

Niki and Shon’s wedding picture at the Renaissance Festival

The 90s

In 1997, Judy passed away. As anyone can imagine, the loss of his partner and mother of their children was extremely hard on Shon. He went to Mexico as a resident massage therapist (a hobby of his) to clear his head. Before he left GM, Shon was often sent to Mexico to explore the automobile manufacturing industry. He fell in love with the then-small town of Cancun and dreamed of owning a vacation resort there.

He ended up purchasing property in Mexico with the vision of creating his resort. Upon returning to Michigan, Shon introduced himself to his new neighbor, Niki. A professional photographer, Niki was also in love with Mexico. The couple wed in the summer of 2000. Since then, they have been committed to each other and Serenidad Shardon, their Mayan Caribbean retreat in Punta Allen.

Punta Allen is at the southern tip of the Boca Paila Peninsula. One side of the village borders the Caribbean Sea, the other side by the world famous salt water fly fishing flats of the Ascension Bay. About 400 people live there. Cancun is the closest international airport, 1.5 hours from Tulum, which is the closest city. The road to Punta Allen is primitive; 56 kilometers through Mayan jungle, over the Boca Paila Bridge, past Mayan ruins and into the small lobster-fishing village.

Located at the southern end of the peninsula, Shon’s dream began as five acres of sand, jungle and a dilapidated building. Withing six months, Shon transformed it into a private Mayan Caribbean beachfront retreat designed to focus on those seeking an alternative secluded tropical destination.

Serenidad (Spanish for serenity) Shardon is a health and education retreat catering to individuals, families and groups. The resort includes four buildings ranging from the old dilapidated building (now a beach house that sleeps 16) to a secluded couple’s cabana. There is also a furnished campground and bunk-house for hikers.

The resort is part of the Sian Ka’an park.

This is the second largest ecologically protected biosphere in the world. It is over The 90s

1.5 million acres of protected rain forest.

Shon and his staff offer jungle tours, fishing and snorkeling on the second largest reef in the world. Shon and Niki are also licensed massage therapists and instruct yoga and tai chi classes. They also provide special services for weddings, reunions and corporate retreats.

“We are blessed to share our talents with both the people in our community and our guests,” said Shon.

The couple helps in other ways, too.

After Hurricane Wilma, the entire town was evacuated and many people lost their homes and possessions. With no food, water, electricity and the bridge (the only land route to the town) completely flooded, Punta Allen was in desperate need of help. Shon and Niki were worried that the Mexican and U.S. governments would overlook their little village and send aid to larger communities first, so they mobilized relief efforts.

Through a friend in Toronto radio named Amy Rendon, they made a public appeal for supplies and medicine. A couple of puddle jumpers and a boat ride later, Shon and the supplies reached the community a few weeks after the hurricane. He also helped organize people and resources to rebuild.

“The damage was substantial, but we organized as a community and went from one building to another rebuilding. Everyone was in on it,” said Shon.

Shon and Niki spend nine months out of the year in Mexico and the rest in Michigan. They come home every fall to participate in the Michigan Renaissance Festival in Holly. Jiva’s Originals is where Niki sells elegant hand-made costumes and Shon (an all-around handyman and actor) entertains the crowd.

At age 66, Shon remains passionate about life and is scheduled to speak at

UM-Flint in the fall about the importance of continuing education.

“There are unlimited possibilities for us. After all, life is really a period of continuing education. Our choice is whether we take advantage of learning or expect life to give us something for nothing.”

More information on Serenidad Shardon can be viewed at www.shardon.com and the couple’s booth at the Renaissance Festival www.michrenfest.com.

A view into the Caribbean

Serenidad Shardon Resort

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The first years of this millenium have been marked by a general escalation of the social issues of the 1990s. Terrorism, economic globalization and pop-culture have been gaining steady momentum thanks to the rapid expansion of communication technology. Advances in mobile phones and the Internet have helped create a society where new thoughts and ideas are exchanged with ever-increasing simplicity and speed.

Enter the myspace page of Liza Garza (’05 B.I.S.) at www.myspace.com/lizagarza and discover why, like so many other musicians, artists and writers, Garza uses her no-cost myspace account to 36

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promote her talents as a spoken word artist.

“With focus and good intention myspace can be used to build with others with like goals,” said Garza.

“It can help us build a strong front of artists and a community that will only accept a certain standard of art and God willing, transform the current condition of all things.”

Garza’s career as a performer began in kindergarten with her discovery of and fascination with words. Even though there were no fancy web sites for her to post her poetry, she began writing almost immediately. She eventually participated in the drama club at Flint Central High School. She also took advanced placement and honors courses in other subjects, but never received her diploma.

After spending time in Texas with her sick grandmother, Liza returned to find out that she was expelled from high school for violating attendance policies.

Determined to go to college, Garza completed the necessary requirements and was admitted to Baker College where she received an associate’s degree in graphic design. Liza was preparing to move to Texas when she was prompted to visit UM-Flint, something the Flint native had never done.

She spoke to an admissions counselor who, “wanted to hear my story, not give me a sales pitch. She, and the university, made a wonderful first impression.”

That year, UM-Flint offered the first Mott Educational Opportunities Initiative

scholarship for minority students. Liza applied for and got it.

“It was a full ride. It included daycare, a stipend for books, everything. I was so thrilled. Everything fell into place,” recalled Garza.

Well, almost everything.

“My problem then became, well what do I major in? I already knew what I wanted to do, performance poetry. But that was not in the catalog.”

Performance poetry is a type of spoken word where a poet either reads previouslypublished or original poems. Spoken word is often done with a musical background, but the emphasis remains on the speaker.

Liza fulfilled her desires when she discovered the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies requirements whereby she could create her own degree.

“You have to submit the rationale for it, the courses you will take in order to earn the degree, have it endorsed by four faculty members, and come up with a title. My degree was in Performance Activism, using performance art to spur and initiate new thought and new action, thus creating change. This is not art for art’s sake,” described Garza.

“The departments that I pulled from were communication, for the technical, tactical public speaking instruction and etiquette; theatre, for how to use your body, the space around your body, your presence, to project, to envision yourself, to be commanding. I was interested in Africana Studies. I think all people should know more about themselves and their history. English, to work on the craft of writing and expose myself to more of the great poets and writers. The The 2000s

education department, they had a class on folklore and storytelling. That was valuable. And so many other courses, all with real, valid and applicable knowledge.”

For her thesis course, Liza spent time in the recording studio, honing her art and sound, which she describes as a mix of Spanish, hip-hop, Motown and urban influences, distinct even in the spoken word genre. She promoted, managed, performed and organized her own spoken word tour, entitled My Nighttime Cry. She also wrote a poetry book titled You Never Knew Until I Wrote to complete her thesis.

Liza’s talent runs in the family. Her mother sang and played the guitar and her father played in a band with his father. Her two sons, Ezra, 7 and Eli, 5 also show strong signs of following in the family’s footsteps. They borrow Liza’s background music, take it to their rooms and create their own lyrics and poetry.

Most of their content is about God, of which Liza is very proud.

“I want them to be good. I want to raise honorable, virtuous men,” said Garza.

Liza currently tours various colleges, bookstores and coffee shops with Amir

“That is my goal, to be able to reach everyone, to be able to provoke new thought, new emotion and new action in all peoples, no matter their age, race, economic status, gender or sexual orientation.”

For the last six years she has performed locally and around the country. She has toured Connecticut, Chicago and New York as well as Atlanta at the 40th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

“What I write and the way I perform somehow has an appeal to a wide array of people. That is my goal, to be able to reach everyone, to be able to provoke new thought, new emotion and new action in all peoples, no matter their age, race, economic status, gender or sexual orientation. It is such an amazing experience. I don’t understand it myself, but it keeps me hungry,” said Garza.

Liza began performing spoken word publicly in 2000 as Liza Lakes. In 2002 tragedy struck Liza’s family when a loved one passed away. She uses this and other events in her life as the inspiration behind her poems.

“My words come from the most sincere place,” said Garza. “It’s so hard to know someone unless you know their story. I use spoken word as an outlet for my story.”

The 2000s

Sulaiman and will be featured on his upcoming album in the song “Making it Through.” Sulaiman is one of the most recognizable and popular figures in spoken word today.

Liza’s resume is also filled with more than performance poetry. She was nominated for an Emmy for her spoken word “I am UM-Flint” commercial, was the student commencement speaker at her graduation and won the Maize & Blue award, the top nod the university gives to students.

Still, Liza remains modest.

“God has given me what I have. He has given me a desire to be good and pure in the heart. I can never be too grateful. Only through Him can I be beautiful.”

Someday, after her career as a performance activist, Liza would like to become a college professor, teaching Performance Activism. Liza’s work as a spoken word artist as well as her poetry book can be found at www.lizagarza.com and www.myspace.com/lizagarza.

Yesterday & Today 2005-06 Undergraduate Tuition: $2,876 1956-57 Undergraduate Tuition: $200

2004-05 Undergraduate Degrees Awarded: 907 1958 Undergraduate Degrees Awarded: 67

2005-06 Degrees offered: 100 undergraduate, 27 graduate 1958 B.A. degree offered in 12 areas

2005-06 Enrollment: 6,422 1956 Enrollment: 170

2005-06 Faculty: 404 full-time and part-time 1959 Faculty: 17 full-time and four part-time

2005-06 State appropriation: $20,782,000 1955 State appropriation: $37,000

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IMAGINE: THE UM-FLINT DIFFERENCE THE UM-FLINT CAPITAL CAMPAIGN HAS RAISED OVER $23 MILLION ON ITS WAY TO A GOAL OF $30 MILLION BY 2008!

CHANCELLOR LEADS CAMPAIGN EFFORTS WITH GIFT

Chancellor Juan E. Mestas

Chancellor Juan E. Mestas announced his personal contribution to the capital campaign. Chancellor Mestas made a bequest of $500,000 to further fund the Juan E. Mestas Scholarship for Academic Excellence anc Community Engagement. He will also make $50,000 in contributions to the scholarship over the next four years.

Originally established by Mestas in 2001, the scholarship is awarded to UM-Flint students who meet specific academic achievement standards and “who have distinguished themselves for their community engagement, participating as students in activities that address the needs and improve the quality of our neighboring communities.”

SCHOLARSHIP ESTABLISHED IN HONOR OF LT. GOVERNOR JOHN CHERRY As part of the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the UM-Flint Master of Public Administration Program, Lt. Governor John D. Cherry, Jr. (’84 M.P.A.) was honored with the creation of a scholarship. The scholarship will provide continuing financial support for MPA students who pursue a career in public service.

DEAN TRELA PLEDGES SUPPORT TO HONORS PROGRAM Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, D.J. Trela, Ph.D., has made a $50,000 bequest to the Honors Program at UM-Flint. In making the gift, Dean Trela remarked, “Setting up a bequest is a way to get started on a long range commitment. It is a small way of giving something back. Doing it for the Honors Program seemed like a logical place to direct it.”

Dean D.J. Trela

FRIENDS OF FESMIRE Professor Emeritus Walker Fesmire of the UM-Flint is getting by with some help from his friends.

Alums David Gibbons (’84 B.B.A.) and Christopher Studer (’86 B.B.A. & ’98 M.B.A.) are spearheading a fundraising effort to launch a scholarship for students who are pursuing their accounting degrees.

Professor Fesmire has already made his commitment to the fund, and he will be honored at a reception later this year. If you would like to be a Friend of Fesmire, contact Nicole Borcherding at (810) 767-2150.

Emeritus Walker Fesmire

September 16, 2006 Northbank Center Ballroom Tickets - $150 each Call (810) 767-2150 for more information.

Special Thanks to our Sponsors: Community Foundation of Greater Flint Fifth Third Bank Health Plus of Michigan Hurley Foundation Lewis & Knopf CPA M-Club of Greater Flint McLaren Regional Medical Center

Patsy Lou Williamson Buick-GMC Inc. Plante & Moran, PLLC Sorensen Gross The Speakeasy and Tiki Bar THA Architects Engineers TIAA-CREF UBS Financial Services

Proceeds from the event to benefit student scholarships at UM-Flint.

STRATEGIC PLAN IN ACTION In 2005, UM-Flint Chancellor Juan E. Mestas and the Strategic Plan Committee, comprised of faculty, staff, students, alumni and community leaders, enacted the plan that will ‘chart the institutional course’ for the University of Michigan-Flint through the year 2010. The thirty-member committee was co-chaired by Dr. Madhukar G. Angur, Professor of Marketing, and Robert L. Houbeck, Jr., director of the Frances Willson Thompson Library.

Rooted in the campus vision, “Engaging Minds, Preparing Leaders,” the plan is designed to foster growth in student enrollment, initiatives that encourage academic excellence and enrich the communities served by UM-Flint.

Emerging from the arduous work of the committee and extensive input from myriad sources inside and outside of the university are three strategic directions – or, as they have been deemed, the three pillars. They are: - Academic Excellence - Student-Centeredness - Engaged Citizenship Robert Houbeck, Strategic Plan Committee co-chair, said, “The Strategic Plan is a framework.

It’s intentionally flexible, created to be a compass, not a cookbook. It gives all stakeholders the opportunity to translate the strategic direction of the university into tactics that move us all forward.”

The Strategic Plan has already triggered major new actions in each of the three focus areas.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE – THE BLUE RIBBON COMMISSION Provost Jack Kay has charged the Blue Ribbon Commission with: - Developing new and enhanced academic programs that encourage interdisciplinary partnering and new intersections for learning.

- Forging stronger working connections between Academic Affairs and Student Services and Enrollment Management.

- Establishing offices devoted to achieving excellence in learning, teaching and scholarship, creating new diversity initiatives and finding ways to invest in our faculty, their expertise and their passions.

STUDENT CENTEREDNESS – RETURN TO LEARN UM-Flint has embraced the State of Michigan’s “Return to Learn” initiative with the creation of an all-new center focused exclusively on assisting individuals seeking to complete their post-secondary education. Michigan has 1.5 million working-age adults who have experienced some college, but have no degree or credential. At 23% of the adult population, this constitutes a greater share of Michigan’s workforce than other states. In addition to the personal benefits of higher education for individuals and their families, on a larger level, an educated workforce will be critical to attracting new, information- and technology-based industries and jobs to Michigan in the years ahead.

With flexible options for busy adults, including evening courses, mixed-mode (part on campus, part online), and fully online courses, UM-Flint again places the student’s needs at the center of learning.

ENGAGED CITIZENSHIP – GENERAL EDUCATION REFORM UM-Flint's General Education Program has always been focused on academic excellence and student-centeredness, as well as engaged citizenship, a foundation for learning only a strong liberal arts education can provide.

This spring, the General Education Reform committee's rigorous 12-month proposal development and selection process resulted in the selection of a new General Education curriculum entitled "Learning Community & Engaged Citizenship." The proposal features an innovative approach to learning, whereby entering freshmen participate in Learning Communities focused on the theme, “The Citizen and the City.” Students will participate in service learning coordinated with “suites” of courses and in their junior or senior year, present a capstone project, where students apply the knowledge obtained through their General Education. Learning communities, service learning, and capstone projects have long been hallmarks of successful general education programs nationwide. University of Michigan-Flint is positioned to develop a signature General Education program attractive to new students and easily adaptable for transfer students.

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The University of Michigan-Flint Alumni Society is sponsoring a bus trip to Michigan Stadium for the 2006 homecoming game against Iowa Hawkeyes, Saturday, October 21. The trip cost of $66 includes one game ticket, one seat on an Indian Trails bus and a chance to win UM-Flint giveaways. Kick off time is 1 p.m. The buses will leave the UM-Flint Recreation Center parking lot approximately three hours before game time, which will leave plenty of time for tailgating fun.

Tailgate with the UM-Flint Alumni Society for Homecoming 2006!

Date: Saturday, October 21 Cost: $66

Departure Location: UM-Flint Recreation Center parking lot Departure Time: TBA

For more information visit www.umflint.edu/alumni Only a limited number of tickets are available so send your money TODAY!

Yes, sign me up for the 2006 Michigan Bus Trip!

Name: ___________________________________________________________________ Daytime Telephone Number: __________________________ Address: ____________________________________ City: _______________________________________ State: _________ Zip Code: ________________ Number of 2006 Michigan Bus Trip Packages @ $66 per person _____________

Total Amount Enclosed $_____________________

Additional names(s) in your group ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Make check payable to University of Michigan-Flint or use charge card form and return to: Office of Alumni Relations, University of Michigan-Flint, 432 N. Saginaw Street, Suite 1001, Flint, MI 48502-1950

Credit Card/Charge Statement Authorization Form

Card Number:

llll-llll-llll-llll Visa, MasterCard, or Discover cards only

Full Name of Cardholder: ______________________________________________________________________ Card Expiration Date: ____________ Cardholder Signature/Date: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Amount Charged: $_____________________

FALL

EVENTS

SEPTEMBER (See page 41 for Anniversary details) 9/6 9/11 9/13 9/14 9/16 9/20

UM-Flint Alumni Society Board of Governors monthly meeting, Alumni Room, University Center African American Alumni Affiliate meeting, Alumni Room, University Center School of Education and Human Services Alumni Affiliate meeting, Alumni Room, University Center Michigan vs. Michigan State football pep rally, Michigan Rooms, University Center School of Management Alumni Affiliate meeting Walker E. Fesmire Scholarship Reception, William S. White Building Atrium

OCTOBER 10/4 10/5 10/5 10/9 10/11 10/11 10/13 10/26

UM-Flint Alumni Society Board of Governors monthly meeting, Alumni Room, University Center Michigan vs. Notre Dame football pep rally, Michigan Rooms, University Center Women in Philanthropy Conference, University Center African American Alumni Affiliate meeting, Alumni Room, University Center School of Education and Human Services Alumni Affiliate meeting, Alumni Room, University Center Women’s Educational Center’s 5th Anniversary Wine Tasting Scholarship Fundraiser Holt, Broadway, Broome, McCree, Wright, and Pointer Scholarship Funds 20th Anniversary Celebration Ballroom, Northbank Center

NOVEMBER 11/1 11/8 11/10-12 11/13 11/16 11/18

UM-Flint Alumni Society Board of Governors monthly meeting, Alumni Room, University Center School of Education and Human Services Alumni Affiliate meeting, Alumni Room, University Center M-Club of Greater Flint football bus trip to Indiana African American Alumni Affiliate meeting, Alumni Room, University Center Michigan vs. Ohio State football pep rally, Michigan Rooms, University Center UM-Flint Homecoming, Michigan vs. Ohio State, Big Screen Bash in the University Center

DECEMBER 12/5 12/6 12/11 12/13 12/18

School of Management Alumni Affiliate meeting UM-Flint Alumni Society Board of Governors monthly meeting, Alumni Room, University Center African American Alumni Affiliate meeting, Alumni Room, University Center School of Education and Human Services Alumni Affiliate meeting, Alumni Room, University Center UM-Flint Winter Commencement

For more information on any of these events, contact the Office of Alumni Relations at (810) 767-9598.

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Pamela Franklin, Flint postmaster and UM-Flint’s Kyatonna Avery unveil the new Amber Alert stamp at a campus Chamber of Commerce event.

UM-Flint hosted the 15th annual High School Computer Programming Contest that brought nearly a hundred students to campus.

Dennis Brutus, a lifelong human rights activist and poet, spent several days at UM-Flint and in the Flint area leading a number of workshops and forums.

The heads of Flint’s four colleges unveil collaborative billboard.

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UM-Flint students work at the Northend Soup Kitchen for a community service project.

Chancellor Mestas joins international students outside of new International Center.

Arun Gandhi, grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, speaks at Critical Issues Forum.

Veteran broadcast journalist Judy Woodruff meets with students before Critical Issues Forum presentation.

Juan Enriquez, one of the world’s preeminent authorities on the economic and political impacts of the life sciences, meets with students before Critical Issues Forum presentation.

Influential economist Jeffrey D. Sachs is presented with a special “trading card” from the Economics Club.

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t ouch alumni in

Reunion in Malaysia

Malaysia is playing host to a small alumni family reunion.

Julia Bieling and her parents, Kathryn and Larry are calling the dorms at the Dalat International School (DIS) home. 9,095 miles away from the family’s house in Mount Morris, Mich. on the island of Penang, DIS plays host to over 320 students representing 18 nationalities. The school follows an American curriculum and encompasses preschool through grade twelve.

Julia graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts with concentrations in graphic design, photography and art history. Unsure of what she wanted to do and faced with a highly competitive Michigan job market, she discovered an opportunity to work at DIS. She was offered a position in the boarding program and after Post Tsunami cleanup at DIS accepting, Julia instantly became an “aunt” to over 60 students.

In addition to her responsibilities as the dorm assistant, Julia has been able to put her degree to work. Over the last two years, she has taught English, Bible, design and photography classes.

Kathryn and Larry are making their second stay in Asia. The couple graduated in 1975 and 1976 respectively with elementary education degrees. They taught in Michigan for a couple of years, then moved to Florida, Georgia and to Indonesia in the early 1990s. They returned to their home in Michigan for Julia and her sister Lauren to attend high school in America and eventually UM-Flint. Their decision to work at DIS came a year after Julia’s when she told them of a sudden need for dorm parents.

“They had been waiting to return overseas, but had not quite planned to do so for a few more years,” said Julia. “When they heard of the need and prayed about the position they felt it was the right time to dig up roots in Michigan and move on.”

The Bieling family has enjoyed working with children from different backgrounds and the challenges that come along with cultural barriers. They have also been actively involved in relief of the Asian Tsunami.

Penang Island is located on the western shores of Malaysia and, though not tremendous, did sustain substantial damage from the disaster. DIS in particular suffered when its sea wall, which protects the school from wave damage and also unwanted visitors, was completely destroyed. Campus buildings were in turn flooded and harmed. For the last year and a half, students and faculty alike have been fundraising and rebuilding their school.

“It was just unreal listening to all the reports and how bad it was,” expressed Julia. “There was a sense of shock and sorrow amongst the people here on the island. While things return to normal, the Tsunami will be remembered for years to come.”

The Island of Penang will be home for Julia, Kathryn and Larry for at least one more year as they have signed up through 2006-07.

For more information on the family and school please visit www.dalat.org.

Student Body Support Over 100 students gathered in prayer at Lake Fenton High School after their principal, Julie Williams, announced she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She brought the senior class together to tell them the news. The students, in turn, organized a prayer circle outside of the high school.

“I was completely overwhelmed by the support from my student body. I had four seniors step forward and organize everything.

They asked all of the students to wear pink on my last Wednesday before surgery,” said Williams. “They also gave out pink ribbons for donations and collected over $500 to donate to the American Cancer Society in my name.

“It was certainly a turn of events for me. As a building principal you become the rock for the students, the person they go to for advice, help, and support. In an instant, they became my biggest supporters as if they were fighting the disease with me.”

Williams is a 1994 social sciences graduate. Prior to being diagnosed, she took over a new administrative position to help at-risk students. She had proposed creating the job, which will also oversee district transportation and food services. In 2005 she was the district’s main contact for the new $30 million high school in Fenton. She became the principal of the first new high school in Genesee County in over 30 years.

Working Woman Barbara Gutek arrived at the University of Michigan-Flint a married mother of two. When she left the U-M system she was single, had three degrees and was on her way to being one of the nation’s leading minds on women in the work environment.

Influenced by women’s rights movements in the 1960s and 70s, the Flint native decided on “female employment” for the topic of her senior psychology research paper. Gutek wanted to find out what the general public thought of mothers leading professional lives versus those stay-at-home moms. She went Barbara Gutek door to door in Flint to find the answer.

“I found a large number of people thought it wasn’t appropriate for mothers to have a job after the birth of their children,” said Gutek. “It was still the beginning of the change of mindset. It was okay if you needed the money, but many felt it was the mother’s responsibility if the children did not turn out right.”

By the time she graduated in 1971 her marriage had disintegrated and she applied to the Master’s of Social Work program at U-M Ann Arbor. She was admitted and moved with her two children to the family housing residencies on the Ann Arbor campus. It turned out to be a fitting environment as Gutek continued her women in the workplace research through the completion of a Ph.D. in psychology.

Shortly after graduation in 1975, she was hired as a professor at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). She packed her bags, loaded her young children and moved to the west coast. She spent five years at UCLA before moving to Claremont Graduate School and finally to the University of Arizona where she resides today as a professor of women and leadership.

She has authored a dozen published books, over 110 professional articles and has made presentations from Ann Arbor to Australia. Her topics include the service industry, women and their career, affirmative action, and sexual harassment, as well as the laws behind each.

Her first grant to explore sexual harassment in the workplace came from the National Institute for Mental Health. It was in the mid-1980s, slightly before the issue became a hot topic. Her study asked the question, “How common is sexual harassment at work?”

“Broadly defined, about half of all working women could label something as sexual harassment. This is very different from those who come forward as sexually harassed,” explained Gutek.

She is regarded in the legal world as an expert witness in the field of psychology. Her reputation has called for her to make testimonies in dozens of court cases throughout America. Gutek says many women do not come forward with complaints because of the fear of being verbally attacked. She recalls one case in which the female had a very sound argument against a coworker and lost the trial.

“By the time the defense was done attacking her morals, the jury figured she had no claim to her allegations,” said Gutek. “Most cases are actually settled out of court.”

Although she is an advocate for women’s rights, she is not one-sided. Her research shows that many men experience sexual harassment, but do not come forward for the fear of being labeled as weak.

“They think a real man should be able to deal with these issues,” commented Gutek.

Her research and courtroom reputation have led her to be called on by many countries to share her expertise. She spent a month in Australia talking to state ministers about sexual harassment issues and has traveled to Japan, Finland and Switzerland.

In addition to her teaching duties at the University of Arizona, she continues to be an advocate for family life through dozens of articles regarding the support of working mothers.

“For all the common talk of the loss of family values in America, we don’t have a lot of support,” said Gutek. “The U.S. is not making progress. There is no national debate. More companies need to have family-friendly policies.

“There is a struggle between work and family obligations. Many women feel they can’t raise a good family and have a successful career.

The research supports it, too. It says it’s very difficult for women to progress in the workforce after they return from maternity leave,” explained Gutek. “40-hour work weeks are a thing of the past. It is very difficult for both parents to work. There is no time left for their children, plus expensive daycare fees come into play.”

Fortunately Gutek was able to break through the road blocks of a single working mother and raise two fine children. Her son is a successful financial advisor in San Francisco and her daughter won a Grammy for her work as a graphic artist for a Los Angeles record label. Gutek’s father worked in Flint at the Buick plant for 42 years and many of her other relatives still reside in Flint. She remains close to the community and even credits the University of Michigan-Flint for starting her on the right track.

“I owe my whole career to UM-Flint. I started college because UM-Flint was here. It is a wonderful community resource.”

Oakland County's Outstanding Teacher of the Year James Emmerling (’95 B.S.) who teaches ninth-grade physical science at Waterford Mott High School, was selected as teacher of the year at the high school level by Oakland county.

His personal effort to collect and analyze student data for instructional decision-making has resulted in a 20% increase in science scores at his school in the past four years.

"It's very touching to feel that the work you do has made a difference," Emmerling told the Detroit Free Press. "I know the teachers in my life have led me in the right direction and I try to do the same for my students. I care about each individual student I have and I have tried to push them to become the best they can possibly be,” said Emmerling, who has been teaching for nine years.

Your Alumni Dollars at Work In honor of UM-Flint’s 50th anniversary, the Alumni Society Board of Governors voted to award a one-year, full tuition paid scholarship to a deserving student. This year’s Alumni Society Scholarship for Excellence award winner is Jeffrey A. Ruth. Jeffrey is an English major with a specialization in writing and carries a 4.0 grade point average. He is an aspiring fiction and non-fiction author with long-term goals of obtaining a master’s degree and a Ph.D. Jeffrey writes...

This coming fall I will be entering my final year of studies at the University of Michigan-Flint. Though the joyous event of graduation looms now near upon the horizon of my education, I find my attention drawn instead to the wonderful and unique experiences that have brought me to this point. These events, and the people who have participated in them, are far more important to me now than my personal accomplishments.

Prior to my entering UM-Flint in 2003, I had long suffered the effects of a disabling brain tumor. This illness, and an accompanying seizure disorder, had rendered me unemployed and on the rolls of our community’s permanently, totally disabled. Once before, when the tumor was first discovered and operated on, my education had been merely interrupted. Before applying to Michigan, its reoccurrence changed ‘interrupted’ to ‘canceled.’ It was miraculous, therefore, when my wife, Victoria, and I deemed the time ready to again challenge myself within the world of academia. Further difficulties arose, however, in the form of significant medical bills which threatened my family’s finances.

It is not enough to try hard sometimes. It is not nearly enough to rely only on one’s personal efforts. There arise at these moments instruments of blessing and graciousness that bridge difficulties and open doors. Groups like the University of Michigan Alumni can make the difference.

Without their support, my family’s dreams would remain only that, and goals would stay far out of reach. With their help and encouragement hope swelled.

When I stood last year with my five children and watched Victoria graduate from the Nursing Program, I saw my future in the crowd of proud cap and gown wearers. I knew that I had the drive, the will and the grades to make it. Now the proud recipient of this year’s Alumni Scholarship Award, I know that I have the additional resources in hand to ensure this. Two more semesters of diligent work will find me receiving the diploma this time, switching places of honor with my wife who will be applauding my walk.

What I will find myself doing after commencement is nearly unimportant. I will long remember my years at Michigan as ones of tremendous accomplishment. With tempered pride I plan to declare my gratitude for the opportunities that I was offered, and share the achievements that rest upon the many and varied support rendered.

The funds for the Alumni Scholarship for Excellence are raised by our hard-working Alumni Society Board of Governors and generous donations from our alumni population. For information about donating to the scholarship, please call (810) 767-2150.

The Sensational Six What started as friends getting together for lunch at the Terrace cafeteria on the Mott campus has blossomed into an annual event in which six 1971 education graduates reunite.

For the last 25 years Mary Ecker, Linda (Cameron) McCarty, Martha (Warren) Stoppels, Phyllis (Judson) Heusted, Nancy (Gross) Plummer and Elaine Carriere have been meeting throughout the Great Lakes region. Prior to 1980, the college companions were meeting in groups of twos and threes.

At UM-Flint, the ladies shared many classes together and grew close through school activities and homework assignments. Another common bond was the UM-Flint Chorale. Five of the friends were members and actually helped the group receive one-half of a credit for their activity. This in turn aided the development of the university’s first music department in 1974.

The group was also in class together after one of America’s most memorable moments.

“In July of 1969 Dr. Sullivan told us he would forgive us for being ‘less than sharp’ during a morning class because we had all stayed up very late to watch the first man walk on the moon,” recalled Mary.

The Sensational Six is a nickname that Linda created while sending invitations one year. While they jokingly refer to themselves by the name, it is truly remarkable what a time-tested friendship the ladies have developed. They have been together for birthdays, weddings, graduations, births and deaths.

“Laughter and tears have been part of our life together. It is a wonderful support group,” said Mary. “Each of us knows that it only takes a phone call to connect with someone who will listen and care.”

The group remains active with community projects, traveling, substitute teaching, and supporting Moomers, an ice cream shop founded by Nancy in Traverse City.

The Sensational Six at the Longaberger Homestead in Dresden, OH

Alumni Emmy Nominations Six UM-Flint alumni were recently nominated for the National Television Academy 2005 Emmy Awards. Avery Brand (’06 B.A.), Liza Garza (’05 B.I.S.), David Custer (’01 B.A.), Melissa Caudle (’99 B.A.), Andrea Yinger (’06 B.A.), and Jennifer Hogan (’90 B.A.). were all nominated for a variety of categories.

Michigan Chapter Category and Nominees: 1) Commercial Single Spot a. Commercial – Avery Brand Spoken Word 2) Commercial Campaign a. Commercial – I am UM-Flint

b. Nominees - Jennifer Hogan, Melissa Caudle, & Andrea Yinger Liza Garza

b. Nominees - Jennifer Hogan, Melissa Caudle, & Andrea Yinger

3) On-Camera Talent Performer/Narrator a. Commercial – Avery Brand Spoken Word

b. Nominee - Avery Brand

4) On-Camera Talent Performer/Narrator a. Commercial – Liza Lakes Spoken Word

b. Nominee - Liza Garza

5) On-Camera Talent Reporter-Feature/Human Interest a. Reporter – David Custer

b. Nominee - David Custer

6) Writer Short Form a. Commercial – Avery Brand Spoken Word

b. Nominee - Avery Brand

Avery Brnad

Training for Disaster Dexter Clark has been a frontline witness to two of America’s greatest disasters. The 1981 psychology graduate trained with the American Red Cross in disaster relief. He has spent time in post-9/11 New York City and New Orleans shortly after Hurricane Katrina.

Clark works in Flint at Genesee County Community Mental Health (CMH) as a supervisor for case management. He has been working his way up at CMH for the last 24 years. He spends most of his time providing services to mentally ill adults.

As a disaster relief volunteer he works with victims dealing with post traumatic stress syndrome, which is result of severe and extraordinary stress in a person’s life. It is usually characterized as environmental (fire, hurricane), war, violent crime or the witnessing of violent incidents. He was amazed at what some of the people he dealt with were going through.

“After 9/11, some of the problems I had didn’t seem so big,” admitted Clark.

In New York City, Clark did a lot of disaster debriefing and counseling to victims. After Katrina, Clark volunteered to spend two weeks counseling hurricane victims as well as helping find and distribute the few local resources.

“Katrina opened my eyes to what losing everything is like,” said Clark. “It put so many people back at the same social status.

Thousands of people had nothing left.”

Those people have helped Clark look at life differently. He is a major advocate of the Red Cross training programs. From introduction to disaster training classes to courses on weapons of mass destruction, the American Red Cross has dozens of programs geared to engage and inspire the public to actively participate in supporting disaster relief. For more information visit www.redcrosslv.org.

Save the Date Join alumni and friends for the annual Flint Alumnae Wine Tasting and Auction on October 13th.

Enjoy a delicious dinner, gain insight on mouth-watering wines and bid on feature items such as wines, gourmet dinners and art work. This event raises money for the Flint Alumnae Scholarship endowment and research funds.

Call Rebecca Pettengill for more information at (810) 762-3242.

October 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Voice Studio Recital Recital Hall, 4 p.m.

October 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chamber Choir Invitational Concert Court Street United Methodist Church, 7:30 p.m.

October 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MusiCollage UM-Flint Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

November 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wind Symphony Concert UM-Flint Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

December 1 & 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Madrigal Dinner St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 6 p.m.

Sounds of the Season Concert St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 7:30 p.m.

December 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jazz Ensemble UM-Flint Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

For ticket information, please call the Department of Music at (810) 762-3377.

The African American Alumni Affiliate

affiliate news

The African American Alumni Affiliate’s major goal is to continue to be a vehicle to increase involvement of African American alumni in UM-Flint programs, recruitment, activities and events.

The affiliate recently held its first graduate celebration in several years. Over 80 African American graduating seniors and family members gathered at the University Center on the University of Michigan-Flint campus. This event was co-sponsored by the office of Educational Opportunities Initiatives. At the reception, graduates received congratulatory words of encouragement and were presented with an African Kente stole to wear at graduation. Over 40 graduates proudly displayed their stoles at commencement.

The African American Alumni Affiliate meets the second Tuesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. in the Alumni Room in the University Center on the UM-Flint campus. We are currently discussing events for the next calendar year. These events include: a reunion to commemorate the University’s 50th Anniversary, various homecoming activities and a winter graduation celebration.

A trip to the Underground Railroad Museum is in the works, too.

- LaShona Clark, AFAA Chairperson

The School of Management Alumni Affiliate The School of Management Alumni Affiliate supports the personal and professional development of our students and alumni while contributing toward the goals of the School of Management, the UM-Flint Alumni Society and the University.

The eMentoring program’s first year had a wonderful start with 15 Protégés and Mentors. We all learned quite a bit of how this program provides benefit to both alumni Mentors and the student Protégés. One of our Protégés’, Shannon Robbins, even received a job as a direct result of the program.

“Debbie (my Mentor) sent my name to the human resources department so when I went to the ‘meet the accounting firms’ reception, Plante Moran already knew who I was. They scheduled me an interview, which eventually led to the job. The foot in the door really helped.” – Shannon Robbins, ’06 B.B.A. We are actively recruiting students for the next academic year and will be in contact with alumni throughout the summer.

Additionally, we are working with the School of Management on a program that will put our alumni in direct contact with the school’s curriculum: Alumni in the Classroom. Details and logistics of how this will be implemented are in development but we are very interested in expanding our knowledge of Alumni experiences and expertise in order to assist School of Management faculty.

Please contact the Office of Alumni Relations with your interest in both of these programs and most certainly share your contact information so that you can join us for our bi-monthly meetings at our favorite “watering holes”. This year we have made it to Brick Street in Grand Blanc, Lucky’s in Davison, Cranberries Café in Goodrich and the Speakeasy in Flushing. We have had a great year and look forward to seeing you all very soon.

- John Coleman, Past Chairperson of SOMAA

The School of Education and Human Services Alumni Affiliate The School of Education and Human Services Alumni Affiliate (SEHSAA) has just finished its second year, during which it has experienced modest growth in terms of membership and tremendous growth in terms of learning how better to serve its various communities.

In serving new alumni, the club participated in both the December and May graduation celebrations hosted by SEHS. This has become a biannual tradition where graduates are “pinned” and they are formally welcomed into the UM-Flint Alumni Society. In serving the community, the group helped organize a book donation to the Westwood Heights School District, which has been adopted by SEHS as part of a massive urban revitalization project. Finally, in service to alumni, the club is working hard to create networking opportunities and to develop interesting opportunities for both educators and social workers to receive Continuing Education Units by participating in workshops held on campus.

The SEHSAA meets the second Wednesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. in the UM-Flint University Center Alumni Room. We invite all SEHS graduates to participate in the club. If you have any questions regarding the activities of the School of Education and Human Services Alumni Affiliate, please call the Office of Alumni Relations.

- Amy Cox, Past Chairperson of SEHSAA All alumni and friends are welcome to join us as we develop opportunities in networking, assisting students and advancing the University of Michigan-Flint.

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Keeping

the

Connection

After graduation, alumni automatically become members of the UM-Flint Alumni Society. Alumni Society, which serves as a liaison between University of Michigan alumni groups, maintains a database of alumni, provides excellent benefits to UM-Flint graduates, and publishes newsletters and Bridges magazine.

ALUMNI ADVANTAGES

Office of Alumni Relations

Membership in the UM-Flint Alumni Society is FREE. To register and receive your FREE Alumni Society card, call the Office of Alumni Relations at (810) 767-2150, e-mail alumni-relations@umflint.edu or visit www.umflint.edu/alumni/benefits. Alumni benefits are updated constantly. A sampling of current advantages include:

432 N. Saginaw St., Suite 1001 • Flint, MI 48502

(810) 767-2150

THE UNIVERSITY

OF

MICHIGAN-FLINT

ALUMNI SOCIETY Membership Card

• Family member eligibility for special UM-Flint scholarships • Recreation Center memberships at a discounted alumni rate • Frances Willson Thompson Library privileges with reduced-rate purchase of library card

Signature

Date

• University of Michigan Golf Course access in Ann Arbor on a daily green-fees basis • Discounted tickets to University of Michigan-Flint Theatre productions • Use of campus computer labs, as well as special prices through Information Technology Services for internet and e-mail accounts featuring e-mail forwarding from your “uniquename@umich.edu” address to other active e-mail accounts.

E-mail alumni-relations@umflint.edu for more information.

• Discounts at the UM-Flint Bookstore • Discounts at area restaurants and stores With your Alumni Society membership, you are automatically invited to exciting cultural, community and campus events throughout the year, including: • UM-Flint annual Homecoming celebration

• Alumni golf outings

• Lectures and seminars

• Dinner before UM-Flint theatre performances

• Bus trips to professional and collegiate sporting events

• Reunions

JOIN THE LEADERS & BEST! All UM-Flint alumni are invited to become more involved with the Alumni Society by joining the Alumni Society Board of Governors or one of the affiliates. UM-Flint's Alumni Society is governed by twenty graduates from the university's fifty years of excellence. The group meets from September to June, once a month, with the annual meeting in late August.

The Board and its affiliates sponsor activities, represent alumni at campus events and help raise funds for much needed scholarships for deserving students. Members also play an important role in an advisory capacity for campus issues and select alumni for prestigious University of Michigan-Flint awards.

A Governor’s term lasts for three years. If you are interested in supporting your alma-mater by joining the Board of Governors, please send us your resume and, in 250 words or less, explain why you want to join.

E-mail: alumni-relations@umflint.edu Phone: (810) 767-2150 Mailing address: Alumni Relations, 432 N. Saginaw St. Suite 1001, Flint, MI 48502-1950

alumni leadership

2006 Alumni Leadership Awards

Over 200 UM-Flint alumni, community leaders, family and friends joined together to honor three of the University’s most commendable graduates. Bobby Crim, Gregory Gaines and Robert V. Jewell were awarded at the 2006 Alumni Leadership Awards.

Congressman Dale Kildee commemorated the event with a Congressional Record presentation and the Crim Foundation presented Bobby with a special award in recognition of the 30th anniversary of the Crim Road Race. The event helped raise over $2,000 for the Alumni Scholarship for Excellence.

Distinguished Alumni Award The Distinguished Alumni Award is presented to an individual who has earned regional and/or international recognition by significant accomplishments in business or a professional career and/or significant human service to community, state or nation.

Winner: Bobby Crim (’60 B.A. and ’86 M.A. Ann Arbor) – presented by long time friend and original Crim Race Director, Lois Craig.

Honorable Mentions: Don Riegle (’60 B.A.); Lt. Governor John D. Cherry, Jr. (’73 B.A. Ann Arbor and ’84 M.P.A.); Deb Cherry (’93 M.P.A.)

Bobby Crim with Lois Craig

Bobby Crim. That name means something different to each of us. State representative.

Speaker of the House. Founder of the Crim Festival of Races. Veteran of the U.S. Navy. Just one of these accomplishments is incredible for someone to achieve, but Bobby Crim has attained all of these distinctions with excellence. That is why he was honored with the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Michigan-Flint.

Celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Crim Festival of Races on Saturday, August 26, 2006!

Call (810) 235-3396 or visit www.crim.org.

Community Service Award The Community Service Award is presented to a dedicated volunteer who has contributed a substantial amount of time, talent and service to her/his community.

Winner: Greg Gaines (’89 B.A.S.) – presented by past Distinguished Alumni Award winner and friend, Pastor Lonnie Brown Honorable Mentions: James Lewis III (’77 B.A.); Maggie Williams (’99 B.A.); Archie Hayman (’81 B.B.A.)

Congressman Dale Kildee with award winners Bobby Crim, Greg Gaines and Rob Jewell

Greg Gaines has been working with young people for the past 20 years. Over 1,800 young men have received his support and encouragement. Gaines currently runs the National Council on Alcohol and Addictions' Mr. Rogers “Say No” Program, a program that recruits and motivates at-risk youth, focusing them on hard work and discipline. The program has targeted impoverished minority boys residing in single-mother dwellings primarily located in the City of Flint. Gaines is the first winner of the Community Service Award.

Campus Service Award The Campus Service Award is presented to a dedicated volunteer who has contributed a substantial amount of time, talent and service to UM-Flint.

Winner: Robert V. Jewell (’78 B.A.) – presented by past Distinguished Alumni Award winner and longtime friend, Michael J. Thorp Honorable Mentions: Barry Trantham (’74 B.B.A.); Gregg Pane (’77 B.S. and ’81 M.D. Ann Arbor); Crystal Flynn (’00 B.B.A.)

Nominees Barry Trantham, Lt. Governor John D. Cherry, Jr., Judge Archie Hayman and Crystal Flynn

For over 15 years Jewell has been a member of the University of Michigan-Flint Alumni Society Board of Governors, two serving as the chairperson. He has also assisted in the development of the UM-Flint School of Education and Human Services Alumni Affiliate. Currently he chairs the Alumni Advocacy Committee which focuses on bringing issues regarding UM-Flint to the ears of local lawmakers.

Jewell is the first winner of the Campus Service Award.

To nominate an alumnus for an alumni award, please call (810) 767-2150, e-mail alumni-relations@umflint.edu or write to the Office of Alumni Relations, 432 N. Saginaw St. Suite 1001, Flint, MI 48502-1950 Bridges

53

The next time your license plate renewal form comes please consider purchasing the UM-Flint plate. *$25 of every purchase goes to the UM-Flint Student Government Council Service Scholarship!

The Student Government Council Service Scholarship is intended to recognize those students who demonstrate a commitment to maintaining a keen balance in their academic, social and volunteer pursuits.

Send us a picture** of your UM-Flint license plate and receive a free alumni t-shirt. Be sure to include your address and most memorable UM-Flint experience.

Send to: Alumni Relations, 432 N. Saginaw St., Suite 1001, Flint, MI 48502-1950

*Original fee for the fund-raising license plate is $35 ($25 to UM-Flint) in addition to the annual registration fee. Annual UM-Flint license plate renewal fees are $10 in addition to the yearly registration fee. This $10 goes to UM-Flint’s Student Government Council Scholarship. For more information, visit www.Michigan.gov/sos. **Pictures will be used to promote sales of license plates and will not be returned unless specified.

annual fund

Alumni Society's 50th Anniversary Gift to UM-Flint In celebration of UM-Flint’s 50th Anniversary, Applewood and the Alumni Society commissioned a Landmark, an abstract bench, to be created through a partnership of artists and community members. This beautiful and functional sculpture will be placed on campus for the entire community to enjoy.

The Landmark is made up of three concentric benches that are inscribed with the three points of the university's strategic plan: Student Centeredness, Academic Excellence and Civic Engagement. It’s hoped that students and community members will seek out the bench as a quiet place to read, write poetry or even find the meaning of life.

On the “fin,” which extends from the benches, a fingerprint is displayed. By using this basic symbol, it’s the artists’ hope to convey the message that a fingerprint is something every human leaves behind, but on its own doesn't indicate race, creed, age or gender. Upon closer inspection of the cast porcelain pieces used to make the fingerprint, one will notice that in some are the faces, quotes and signatures of many historical and contemporary social reformers and civic icons. People who've "left their mark" you could say.

On the reverse side of the “fin,” fingerprints of individuals throughout the community were added to the sculpture. In May, the “chicken coup,” Applewood’s art facility, hosted alumni and community members as they left their mark on the sculpture.

On June 29 and July 20, the artists brought pieces of porcelain and ink to campus to make sure alumni, faculty, staff and students had the opportunity to be involved. During its construction an estimated 10,000 community members and alumni were involved in bringing this project to life. The sculpture will be completed and ready for its unveiling at the September 27, 50th Anniversary Celebration on September 27.

The Ruth Mott Foundation’s generous support will cover 95% of the project’s cost. UM-Flint’s Alumni Society is working to raise the additional 5% through alumni support.

Artists Marcy Yurk and Guy Adamac work on the glass mosaic layout

Artists Marcy Yurk and Guy Adamac with the sample 50th Anniversary Sculpture

If you would like to donate to the annual fund or leave your mark by contributing to the landmark, send the donation envelope included in this publication with your gift indicating that it be used for the landmark, visit the online giving website located at www.umflint.edu/onlinegiving/gift.php or make a contribution by phone by calling Lisa Graham, manager of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, at (810) 767-2154. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Bridges

55

m-club of greater flint The University of Michigan Club of Greater Flint is your local connection to the Alumni Association of the University of Michigan. As a member of the M-Club of Greater Flint, you can enjoy upcoming events such as:

Wolverine Football Pep Rallies

Michigan State pep rally, Thursday, September 14, 2006 Notre Dame pep rally, Thursday, October 5, 2006 Ohio State pep rally, Thursday, November 16, 2006 Guest speakers, food and beverages provided FREE to all Wolverine fans!

Located in Michigan Rooms C & D, UM-Flint University Center Pep Rallies start at 5:30 p.m.

Details coming on these M-Club events: Wolverine Basketball Trips

U-M football tickets raffled at every pep rally Wolverine Hockey Trips

Wolverine Football Bus Trips Friday, November 10 to Sunday November 12, 2006 Michigan-Indiana football road trip

Lecture series throughout the year This past year the M-Club hosted a presentation

by Dr. Robert Soderstrom regarding the history of The Big House, a presentation on the economic outlook of Flint by Dr. Mark Perry, a beer tasting at Cranberries Café in Goodrich and a tour of the U-M renovated athletic facilities.

Former U-M All-American running back, Billy Taylor with John Clothier

Annual Sports Night at Atlas Valley Country Club Held every July, this event brings U-M alumni in the Flint area together for a day of golf, dinner, fellowship and a prize raffle that raises money toward scholarships and athletics.

Keeping with tradition, the M-Club presented two donations this year: a $10,000 check to Chancellor Juan Mestas for the UM-Flint scholarship fund and a $20,000 check to U-M Director of Athletics Bill Martin.

The Dominic Tomasi Scholarship was also given to a U-M Ann Arbor incoming freshman. Tomasi was the captain of the 1948 national championship football team and former M-Club president. The evening also featured a U-M athletics summary of the 2005-2006 year from Martin and a preview of the 2006 football season by Head Coach Lloyd Carr.

The M-Club of Greater Flint would like to thank all those who donated door prizes for the raffle.

Coach Lloyd Carr speaks at the Sports Dinner

For more information on how to become a member, events, scholarships, the history and board members, visit www.umclubs.com/flint.

Charter club of Alumni Association of the University of Michigan, Charter No. 36

September 9/28

9/8

Marian E. Wright Writing Center’s 35th Anniversary

9/16

50th Anniversary Gala School of Health Professions and Studies Recruitment/Alumni Event, Noon - 2 p.m. luncheon

9/22

Department of Biology reunion reception

9/22-23, 28-30

Theatre Production, Howl Original musical by Bob Barnett Ph.D., music by Philip Greenfield

Official 50th Anniversary Ceremony 2 p.m.: Official Ceremony, University Theatre 3:30 p.m.: Reception

Other events: • Library anniversary party with former staff and favorite library users, display table • Department of Communication and Visual Arts art reception and display, University Center Gallery • Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice short documentary film screening; UM-Flint Alumnae event • Department of Mathematics alumni reunion with current and retired faculty • Early Childhood Development Center ice cream social • Dinner Theatre featuring Howl sponsored by Institutional Advancement

9/25-29

Welcome Back Week

9/27

50th Anniversary Party, Welcome Back Picnic 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.: Student Organization Fair, UCEN 11:30 a.m.: Cake Race 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.: Dan Gaydou (’73 B.B.A.) School of Management event 3:30 p.m.: Time capsule burial, 2nd Floor UCEN 4 p.m.: Alumni landmark dedication between the Theatre and Library 4:30 p.m.: First class alumni reception 5 - 7 p.m.: Graduate Programs open house

Visit www.umflint.edu/50th for additional information on these and other upcoming events.

alumni association

UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN ALUMNI ASSOCIATION As a U-M graduate, you know that attending U-M had a major impact on you. The time you spent on campus, the classes you took, the friendships you made have all played a role in your professional and personal success and provided you with valuable opportunities.

You also know the important role that alumni play. A strong alumni body supports U-M in a number of ways – attracting the Leaders and Best of the future to attend the University, volunteering for schools and colleges, and serving as knowledgeable advocates, to name just a few.

More than 108,000 U-M alumni have already discovered that a great way to show their loyalty and dedication is to join the Alumni Association.

And, now is a great time for you to join.

As an Alumni Association member you support the University and receive: Subscriptions to Michigan Alumnus magazine and e-TrueBlue newsletter

Group rates on health, life, auto and homeowners insurance

Access to in circle, our online directory and networking community

Discounts on hotels, car rentals and entertainment nationwide

Alumni career services, including job postings and online resources

Fun programs and services like Pigskin Picks, Michigan Fantasy Experiences, Alumni Author Series and the Alumni Store

Local connections through your regional alumni club (there are more the 70 nationwide)

Eligibility for official U-M football bowl tours

Volunteer opportunities, including alumni student recruitment

Alumni travel and Michigania, our northern Michigan camp and retreat center

Opportunity to purchase tickets to home and away football games

Annual memberships are $59 and we offer money-saving multiyear packages and life memberships.

Please visit www.umalumni.com for more details and to sign-up.

*The U-M Alumni Association is open to graduates of all three U-M campuses.

The UM-Flint Alumni Society is made of UM-Flint graduates and is a non-dues paying organization.

58

Bridges

The University of Michigan-Flint would like to thank The Flint Journal and Mott Community College for their generous assistance with this issue of Bridges magazine.

Both organizations provided UM-Flint with archival material and photographs in honor of the campus’ 50th Anniversary.

WORKING

WITH

“U”

TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

In our community …

In our environment …

In our schools …

Due to the many projects and programs initiated and coordinated by University Outreach, our streams are cleaner, our businesses and organizations function more efficiently and more of our children are able to read and stay in school.

Center for Applied Environmental Research Center for Civic Engagement Center for Entrepreneurship and Business Development “Amaizing U” Lifelong Learning Courses Please become our partner and help us continue to make a difference in our community.

To learn how you can become engaged in our community partnerships and activities call (810) 767-2150.

www.umf-outreach.edu

1950s

1980s

Ruth M. Wagner-Belisle, ’58 B.A., and Donald are a newlywed couple and enjoy hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and boating.

Dennis Post, ’80 B.B.A., currently holds the position of Vice President of Solution Delivery for the Food Lion Stores.

George Rowe, ’58 B.A., is currently writing for the two largest daily newspapers in Northern Michigan (Petoskey and Traverse City) and several magazines.

1960s Robert L. Clifton, ’63 B.A., recently was appointed to the position of Interim Chairperson of the Department of Rehabilitation Counseling at Virginia Commonwealth University.

John M. Hobbs, Jr., ’67 B.A., is a physician who has practiced medicine, first in Montana and subsequently in Oregon, since ’76.

1970s Lynn Eastman, ’70 B.A., published a book in ’05. It was a spy novel entitled The Day the Music Died.

Linda Bannister, ’74 B.A., is a professor of English at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. She is also the Associate Director of Freshman English, and coordinates the Journalism Program.

Phyllis Cohen, ’77 B.A., has been surviving breast cancer for the last 6 years. She has had no traditional treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation). She has chosen to use only alternative medicine through a hard-to-find immunologist.

Danny Thomas, ’77 B.B.A., currently resides in Seattle and is the Vice President of VG’s.

Vaughn Smith, ’80 B.B.A., is the Flint Journal Sales Manager and also is the current secretary of the Chamber of Commerce.

Ronald, ’81 B.S., and Jodie Hunt, are excited to announce the birth of their first child, Robbie.

John M. Reigle, ’81 B.G.S., is the author of When Death Occurs. Reigle is also the President and founder of Allband Communications Cooperative. Allband is Michigan’s first non-profit telephone cooperative and Michigan’s first fiber to the home telecommunications company.

Cynthia Agle, ’84 B.S., was recently promoted to CEO of the Michigan Resource Center for Health and Safety, Inc. Cindy has six children, thirteen grandchildren, and will be married this spring.

John Stock, ’84 B.A., is currently working as the Director of Major Gifts at Kettering University. He stays busy with his community as a member of the Flint Club and immediate past president of the Rotary Club of Greater Flint Sunrise.

Elsie Deloney, ’86 B.B.A., and Matthew Kelly announced their engagement on May 27, 2006. Elsie is employed by the State of Michigan.

Connie Palmer, ’87 B.B.A., was elected the Secretary of Genesee Area School Business Officials in 1987. She then accepted the position of Business Manager for Atherton Community Schools and has been elected President of the Burton Kiwanis Club for the 06-07 year.

Leona Resteiner, ’88 B.A., has moved to Texas, retired for the second time. She is traveling, and enjoying her new and only grandson.

Elizabeth Couch, ’89 B.B.A., is working in Washington, D.C. at the US Department of Commerce, International Trade Division.

Michelle Cyr, ‘89 B.S., and Jeffery Meisel were married December 31, 2005 in the Village Chapel in Fowlerville. She is employed at Brighton Analytical , LLC.

1990s

Shelley Locher, ’90 B.B.A., and her partner opened their first Valvoline Instant Oil Change in December 2003. Her store is one of three Franchisee’s in Michigan.

Lynnmarie Johnson, ’91 B.B.A. & ’95 J.D., has opened her own private law practice in Grand Blanc. She specializes in estate planning, wills, trust, probate, real estate and small business start-up.

Jennifer, ’92 B.A. & John Britting, are excited to announce the birth of their second child, Patrick Britting, born on February 11, 2005.

Alan Deeds, ’92 M.B.A., has recently moved to Ann Arbor and is currently President and COO of SAC Company.

Doug Sanders, ’92 B.A., is celebrating his 10th year as a writer-editor in communications at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan in Southfield.

Matthew Shepherd, ’92 B.B.A., and Amanda Kinzie announced their engagement on April 8, 2006. Matthew works for Coca-Cola Enterprise in Auburn Hills.

April Warnock, ’92 B.A., and Terry Tosch were married on July 10, 2004. On September 8, 2005 they became parents to their daughter Mallary Olivia Tosch.

Tracy Atkinson, ’93 B.S. & ’96 M.S.B., was not only recognized as an ’05 Athena Award nominee, but she was also honored as the ’05 Athena Community Advocate Award Winner.

Ammar Daraiseh, ’93 B.F.A., continues to pursue his blue-collar acting career. He recently had a guest starring role on The Shield and also just finished a role on Commander In Chief.

Peggy Braham, ’94 B.A., and Gary Harrington announced their engagement on March 11, 2006. Peggy works at the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation.

Amy Krug, ’94 A.B., recently accepted a new position as Vice President for Programs with Priority Children.

Brian Clark, ’95 B.B.A., and Aimee Lawrence were recently married. Brian is a teacher at Kearsley High School in Flint.

Shannon Iverson, ’95 B.S., and Scott Groves announced their engagement on May 6, 2005. Shannon is a third grade teacher at North Road Elementary School and teaches dance at Fenton School of Dance.

Rebecca Klein, ’95 B.A., and Raymond Harnack were married October 1, 2005 at Deer Lake Athletic Club in Clarkston. She is employed at Michigan Veterinary Specialists in Auburn Hills.

Tamara Lane, ’95 B.A., and Michael Smith were married April 2, 2005, in Peace Lutheran Church in Charlotte. Tamara works in the accounting department at Sam’s Club.

Sara Lajavic, ’96 B.S., with old responsibilities still at hand, has been promoted to Operations Director of Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County.

Gail Stark, ’96 B.B.A., and Albert Goehring were recently engaged. Gail works for Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed in Orlando, Florida.

Nicole Kirby, B.S. ’97 & ’04 M.B.A., works as a financial advisor for Waddell and Reed.

Chris Ringler, ’97 B.A., was the host of the Annual Hunger Banquet. Hundreds of area middle school students were in attendance.

He also has received an honorable mention regarding the Year’s Best Fantasy and Horror Association.

Jennifer Urick, ’97 B.A., and Dan Digmann announced their engagement on August 13, 2005.

Renee West, ’97 B.A., and Ken Titus Jr. were married July 9, 2005, in Glen Gables in Flushing.

Stacey Abraham, ’98 B.S., and Steven Dunk were married August 13, 2005 in First Baptist Church of Swartz Creek. Both are employed at Bendle School District.

Jonathan E. Hohn, ’98 B.B.A., was hired as portfolio manager for Flint-based Citizens Bank’s wealth management division. He also received a master’s degree in business administration from Wayne State University.

Michael Ingersoll, ’98 B.S., and Chandra Thomas announced their engagement on April 15, 2006. Michael is a programmer analyst at Hurley Medical Center.

Jonathan Leinonen, ’98 M.B.A., is working as Program Manager at MTEC SmartZone.

Dan Sullivan, ’98 B.S., graduated from Michigan State University with a Ph.D. in chemistry in May ’04 and currently works at Brewer Science Inc. He and his wife Sarah are excited to announce the birth of their first son, Garrett Daniel Sullivan on March 2, 2005.

Melissa Lea, ’99 B.S., has completed her Ph.D. in Psychology from Miami University (Oxford, OH).

Megan Lewis, ’99 B.A., and Andrew Fisher announced their engagement on February 11, 2006. Megan is a substitute teacher.

Shadi Manzari, ’99 B.S. & ’00 M.P.T., has received her doctorate in physical therapy from Columbia University. She also had a baby girl in April ’06.

Shannon Ostby-Myatt, ’99 B.S., completed her M.B.A. degree from Walsh College in August ’05 and is currently working in pharmaceutical sales for Johnson & Johnson.

Lisa Perkins, ’99 B.S.N., completed her C.R.N.A. degree in ’05 and is working as a nurse anesthetist in Port Huron.

Michael Younkman, ’99 M.B.A., has successfully transitioned from the automotive industry into healthcare. He has enjoyed two promotions reaching his current position as project director.

2000s Laura Green, ’00 B.A., and Steve Rose announced their engagement July 1, 2005.

She teaches at Hamilton Jr. High in Parkesburg, WV. Nancy Hanflik, ’00 M.L.S., co-authored with Nora Faires Jewish Life in the Industrial Promised Land.

Amanda Letavis, ’00 B.S., and Ryan Obert announced their engagement on June 3, 2006. She is a teacher at Bendle Schools.

Sean M. Welch, ’00 B.A., has written over 30 plays that have been produced. His plays have been produced in theaters from New York to California.

Brandon Abraham, ’01 B.B.A., and Jessica Haight announced their engagement on February 18, 2006. Brandon works at Grand Blanc Metal Fabricating Plant.

Angela J. Blackmer, ’01 B.B.A., works at Oxford Bank and was recently appointed as Assistant Vice President and Senior Credit Analyst.

Stacie Cooper, ’01 B.B.A., and Jason Tello were married October 15, 2005 in First Church of the Nazarene in Jackson. Stacie is employed as an accountant at Consumers Energy.

Anthony Morgan, ’01 M.B.A., has gone from a process engineer to change system team leader, to business unit manager, to C.O.O, to a published author selling books at UM-Flint, Dearborn, and several bookstores in Michigan, Atlanta, and Amazon.com.

Currently he is the General Manager overseeing a $50 million enterprise.

Nichole Smith, ’01 B.A., and Rick McDaniel announced their engagement on June 3, 2006. Nichole is a teacher at Grand Blanc Academy.

Kristen Brooks, ’02 B.A., and Brian Crumm were recently engaged. Kristen is a teacher at Linden Middle School.

Laura Harmon, ’02 B.A., has completed her History degree at UM-Flint.

Colleen Johnson, ’02 N.U.R., is currently working at Crittenden Medical Center in Rochester. She works in the Cardiac Step-down Unit as a nurse.

Jodi Kennedy, ’02 B.B.A., and James Dinnan were recently engaged. Jodi works for EQ-The Environmental Quality Co. Tiffany Kolbe, ’02 B.S.N., and Gregory Wood were married May 14, 2005, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Burton.

Tiffany works as an RN at Genesys Regional Medical Center.

Casey Olson, ’02 B.B.A., has recently been appointed commercial relationship manager of Citizen’s Bank.

Parul Patel, ’02 B.S., and Mark Minaudo announced their engagement on April 15, 2006. Parul is a registered nurse at Genesys Regional Medical Center.

Jennifer Richardson, ’02 B.A., and John Vidican were married October 1, 2005, in Holy Family Church in Grand Blanc. She is employed as a medical assistant.

Brandon Smith, ’02 B.B.A., has relocated to Raleigh, North Carolina and has been promoted to Operations Manager for an Industrial Building company, Hughes Supply.

Lorraine C. Sprague, ’02 B.S., was recently hired as an Environmental Scientist at G2 Consulting Group, LLC, headquartered in Troy. G2 currently offers a range of environmental consulting services to private entities and various public institutions.

Katie Stebbins, ’02 B.S., and Andrew Jordan were married August 18, 2005, in Las Vegas. Katie is employed as a teacher in the Clarkston School District.

Jennifer Swank, ’02 B.B.A., has joined the Office of Admissions with many responsibilities from freshmen recruitment to outreach to the surrounding communities.

Toyia Terry, ’02 B.A.S., was appointed assistant vice president and office manager of Security Federal Credit Union’s Burton office.

Matt Bohlen, ’03 B.B.A., has moved to Carrollton, Ga. to attend West Georgia University. He is enrolled in the Master of Education program with aspirations to teach high school business.

Leslie Brisbin, ’04 B.S.N., and Brian Grappin were married on October 15, 2005 in St. Robert Catholic Church in Flushing.

Leslie is a registered nurse at McLaren Regional Medical Center.

McKenzie Domerese, ’03 B.S., & ’05 D.P.T., and Curtis Hedrick were married June 17, 2005, in Emmanuel Baptist Church in Flint.

McKenzie works as a nanny.

Sarah Clements, ’04 B.A., and Corey Lougheed were recently engaged.

Staci Gilbert, ’03 B.A., and Michael Ross were married on May 7, 2005, at Palmbrook Country Club in Sun City, Arizona and currently live in Glendale, Arizona. She works for JPMorgan Chase as a sales and service associate.

Michelle Hynes, ’03 B.A., and Steven Faist were recently engaged. Michelle is a case manager for Big Brothers Big Sisters in Saginaw.

Lisa Jones, ’03 B.A., and Jeb Fetters announced their engagement on September 24, 2005. Lisa is a teacher in the Mt. Morris School District.

Kristina Killinger, ’03 B.S.N., and James Rigdon announced their engagement on May 6, 2006. Kristina is a registered nurse at Genesys Healthpark.

SaVille Lorick, ’03 B.A., and LaJuan Gibson announced their engagement on May 13, 2006. Saville is a provider relations coordinator at Genesee Health Plan.

Marissa Pierce, ’03 B.A., has been selected to represent the Flint area in the Miss Michigan USA Pageant.

Gina Lince, ’04 B.A., and Jason Hodgins were recently engaged. Gina is a teacher in the Flushing School District.

Simon Morton, ’04 B.A., is now in the New York City Staff Band of the Salvation Army.

Lisa L. Raman, ’04 B.A., currently resides in England.

Jason Rogers, ’04 B.A., is one of eight members of a local fraternity helping bring a halt to hunger. They recently helped raise nonperishable food items to benefit a local Salvation Army.

Dustin Weist, ’04 B.B.A., and Shannon Bailey, ’03 B.A., were married May 15, 2004 in First Baptist Church in Davison. She is employed by Catholic Charities.

Rachael Worley, ’04 B.A., and Derek Hodges were married July 16, 2005 at Glen Gables. She is an English teacher at Clio High School and is pursuing her master’s degree at Marygrove College.

Gary Ashley, ’05 B.A., has recently accepted a job at UM-Flint in the Office of Alumni Relations. He and his wife are excited to announce the birth of their first born, Benjamin Walter Ashley in May ’06.

Aaron Wiens, ’03 B.A., was hired in the fall of 2005 as an 8th grade English teacher for Atherton Middle School.

Adam Bastien, ’05 B.A., currently resides in Nashville, TN.

Bishr Aldabagh, ’04 B.A., has received a full ride to Case Western Reserve.

Matthew Cherry, ’05 B.A., and Amy Anderson were recently engaged. Matthew works for Samuels Diamonds.

Katie Bolen, ’04 B.B.A., and Larry Irwin were married October 1, 2005, at the St. Joseph Hall in Burton.

Amy Crawford, ’05 B.S., and White were recently engaged.

Shawn

Carrie Fisher, ’05 B.S., and Nathan Clemons were married in June 2006. Carrie works for Federal Express and CarmanAinsworth School District.

Amanda Green, ’05 B.S., and Nicholas Lang were married October 16, 2004 in Mayfair Bible Church in Flushing. Amanda is a substitute teacher.

Jennifer Hayes, ’05 B.S., has recently been employed with the Grand Blanc Middle School as an art teacher.

Kasey McLean-Heusted, ’05 D.P.T. & ’03 B.S., is currently working at Advanced Physical Therapy in Grand Blanc Amy Hobson, ’05 B.S., and Steven Fritz were married September 30, 2005, in Grand Blanc United Methodist Church. She is a substitute teacher in Genesee County.

Tiffany Koepke, ’05 B.S., and Kyle Fender announced their engagement on April 22, 2006.

Karla LeGrand, ’05 B.A., and Ronnie Davis were married September 24, 2005, in the Little White Chapel in Las Vegas. She is employed at UM-Flint.

Stephanie Sherwood, ’05 B.S., and Richard Miller were married August 6, 2005, in South Haven. She is employed at Clarkston Union in Clarkston.

Gina Tuft, ’05 B.A., currently resides in San Francisco, California and is pursuing an event planning career.

Robin Wheeler, ’05 B.S., and Benjamin Brock announced their engagement on March 11, 2006. Robin works at Lil’ People’s Place in Davison.

Jennifer Luke, ’06 B.S.N., and Robert Burchell announced their engagement on March 25, 2006. Jennifer is a nurse extern at Hurley Medical Center.

Jodie Strom, ’06 B.A., and Erik Johnson were married August 13, 2005, in Faith Lutheran Church of Grand Blanc.

Andrea M. Yinger, ’06 B.A., and Jonathon D. Nicholas Yinger, ’04 B.S., were married on September 9, 2005 in Hartland. Andrea is the Assistant Marketing Manager at UM-Flint and co-owns Your Perfect Pair, LLC, a wedding and event planning company. Nick is an Adjunct Lecturer for the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department at UM-Flint.

Andrea M. Yinger, ’06 B.A., and Alaina D. Goodman, ’02 B.A., launched Your Perfect Pair, LLC, a wedding and event planning company.

In Memoriam

William Wolski, ’52 B.A., ’53 M.A. & ’62 D.P., passed away on September 28, 2005.

Genevieve Sanberg, ’60 B.A., passed away on September 11, 2005.

Mavis Gutscher, ’64 B.A., passed away on April 28, 2006.

Mildred Aldridge, ’67 B.A., passed away on September 22, 2005.

Marie Gibson, ’70 M.A., passed away on January 12, 2005.

Janet Beyer, ’72 B.A., passed away on September 28, 2005.

Mercedes Kump, ’72 B.A. & ’76 M.A., passed away on September 27, 2005.

Michael Elasivich, ’77 B.A., passed away on June 25, 2005.

David Keller, ’77 B.A., passed away on September 19, 2005.

Eugene Debolt, Jr., ’79 B.B.A., passed away on June 1, 2005.

Daniel Weld, ’83 B.S. & ’90 ‘M.B.A., passed away February 5, 2006.

Laurie D. Lee, ’87 B.S., passed away on February 20, 2006.

Andrea Smith, ’89 B.S., passed away on February 12, 2006.

Donald Johnson, ’90 B.S., passed away on June 7, 2005.

Alan Dalton, ’92 B.A.S., passed away on at August 13, 2005.

James Stanick, ’93 B.A., passed away on October 3, 2005.

Julie Macksood, ’95 B.S., passed away on March 15, 2006.

Robert Grant, ’96 B.B.A. & ’04 M.B.A., passed away on November 25, 2005.

Cornelia Pagel, ’96 B.S., passed away on June 7, 2005.

Bruce Culps, ’98 B.A., passed away on September 10, 2005.

Mark Freeman, ’99 B.A., passed away on October 16, 2005.

Brian Hardenburg, ’02 B.A., passed away on October 20, 2005.

Dorothy Scott, ’05 B.A., passed away February 3, 2006.

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