Shipherd's Record spring 2008

SPRING 2008

The Best Medicine

From dentistry to surgery, Olivet College alumni doctors excel in their professions.

President’s

REPORT

Dear Olivet College Alumni and Friends: As we wrap up another great academic year, I want to thank all those alumni, friends, churches, foundations and corporations who have supported Olivet. Your gifts directly enable us to provide an excellent education at an affordable price.

One of the most exciting developments currently taking place is the review of academic departments. The faculty is developing new majors and creating better ways to recruit, retain and graduate students. This latest strategic planning process, made possible by a generous gift from Dave Cutler ’65, will ensure Olivet is focused on the future while preserving the best of our history.

There has been much excitement this year due to our fund-raising success. We have built and renovated several facilities on campus, including:

Donald L. Tuski ’85, Ph.D.

The Cutler Events Center – The 45,500-squarefoot facility is being funded by a $4.3 million gift from Dave Cutler ’65.

Ruth Rawlings Mott Auditorium – The Mott Auditorium was completely renovated thanks to a $750,000 grant from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation.

Track and Visitors’ Stands – A new track, visitors’ stands and equipment were installed at The Cutler Athletic Complex, thanks to an $885,000 gift from Tom Kolassa ’69.

Gillette Student Village – New apartment-style student housing, which will open in the fall, was built thanks to the support of J. Robert Gillette ’63.

Dr. Paul H. and Ruth B. Engle Chemistry Laboratory – The Engle Lab in Mott Academic Center was completed thanks to a $250,000 gift from Bob ’57 and Sarah (Engle) ’56 Lawrence.

M. Gorton Riethmiller Art Building – We have a $1.5 million pledge from Charles ’46, Ph.D., and the Rev., Dr. Peggy Riethmiller Blackman for a new art building.

Frederick S. Upton Center Natatorium – A $150,000 grant from the Frederick S. Upton Foundation has supported our pool renovations.

Mott Academic Center Classroom – Classroom improvements have been made thanks to a $50,000 grant from The Harry A. and Margaret D. Towsley Foundation.

A major part of being fiscally responsible also includes a strong Annual Fund and endowment. Olivet needs to improve in these two areas and you will read more about this further in Shipherd’s Record, as well as throughout next year. Alumni giving is up to 24 percent, but we hope to increase this to more than 30 percent in the next few years.

This is a very exciting time for the college and we hope that you will continue to help us make Olivet even stronger. I thank you for being a part of the Olivet legacy.

Sincerely,

Donald L. Tuski ’85, Ph.D. President

BOARD OF TRUSTEES OFFICERS David T. Hayhow, Chair, Okemos The Hon. Judge Denise Page Hood, Vice Chair, Detroit William Middlebrooks, Vice Chair, West Bloomfield Robert M. Lawrence ’57, Secretary, Grosse Ile Stanley Dole, Treasurer, Grand Rapids MEMBERS G. Asenath Andrews ’72, Detroit Sandy Aranyos ’68, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. Thomas Burke ’82, Carmel, Ind. James W. Butler III, East Lansing Priscilla Upton Byrns, St. Joseph Dennis Daugherty ’70, Mattawan Robert Ewigleben, Albion Jamey T. Fitzpatrick ’86, Grand Ledge George F. Francis III, Southfield Rich Hamann ’85, Kalamazoo David E. Hathaway, J.D., Ada Rod Hathaway ’81, Wayland William N. Healy ’79, Brighton Barbara Hill, Southfield Sharon R. Hobbs, Ph.D., East Lansing Timothy Hodge ’83, D.O., Holt Thomas Hoisington, Lansing Jeff Koch ’90, New York, N.Y. Thomas E. Kolassa ’69, Battle Creek Dean Lewis ’55, J.D., Kalamazoo Jeff Mathie ’88, Olivet Martin L. Mitchell ’73, Ed.D., Coldwater Tom Nesbitt ’63, White Lake The Rev. Don Olsen, Ph.D., Waukegan, Ill. George Pyne III ’65, Milford, Mass.

The Rev. Nancy Barto Rohde ’65, Petoskey Samuel H. Thomas, Ann Arbor Karen Van Hentenryck ’81, South Lyon TRUSTEE SPOTLIGHT - SHARON HOBBS, PH.D. Hometown: New York, NY Now lives in: East Lansing Education: Bachelor’s and master’s degrees from City College in New York: doctorate from New York University.

Occupation: Clinical psychologist Responsibilities: Sharon has many responsibilities, but her main focus is as clinical director for Abbott Road Center for the Family.

She is also a psychologist for individuals and families and does some forensic work for the court system.

Community Involvement: Sharon works with couples who are divorcing and often their children.

She is also a board member for the YWCA. Hobbies: Travel, music and sometimes singing

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Shipherd’s Record is named in memory of “Father” John J. Shipherd, who established Olivet College in 1844. The magazine is published twice annually for Olivet alumni and friends.

MAGAZINE STAFF

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Vice President for Institutional Advancement Mark Veich Managing Editor Molly (Reed) Goaley ’05 Graphic Design/Art Direction Bruce Snyder

Features

Director of Alumni Relations Marty (Mason) Jennings ’67

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The Best Medicine

Sports Information Director Geoff Henson

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Work Hard, Play Hard

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Straight Path to a Lifelong Goal

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A Medical Student For Life

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A Great Love

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What Olivet has Meant to Me

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Molding Medical Minds

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Community Connection Grant

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Middle Ground: Past, Present and Future

Director of Foundation Relations and Special Events Shannon Tiernan Editorial: Jackie Bounds Melissa (Sobie) Casarez ’02 Andrew Homer Christine Moulton Elizabeth Putney Pam Rutyna Linda Jo Scott Cailin Wilson Send change of address notices to: Olivet College Development Office Olivet, MI 49076 (269) 749-7625 pfrayer@olivetcollege.edu

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CAMPUS ADMINISTRATION President Donald L. Tuski ’85, Ph.D. Executive Assistant to the President Barb Spencer Vice President for Administration Larry Colvin Vice President and Dean for Academic Affairs Norma Curtis Vice President and CFO Mark DeRuiter Director of Athletics Dominic Livedoti ’65 Vice President and Dean for Student Life Linda Logan, Ph.D. Vice President for Enrollment Management Larry Vallar ’84 Vice President for Institutional Advancement Mark Veich

Departments 2 Around the Square 5 Faculty and Staff News 27 Development 30 Comet Athletics 34 Class Notes

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On the cover: Richard Rasmussen ’35, M.D. SPRING

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Around

THE SQUARE

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebrated Olivet College celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day by highlighting King’s work in the areas of non-violent protest and peace. On Monday, Jan. 21, a program took place in the Olivet

From left: Rev. Mike Fales ’75, Ann Varghese, Maxie C. Jackson Jr., Linda Logan Ph.D., and Jason Meadows ’03

Congregational Church United Church of Christ featuring a tribute to King’s work in peace by Maxie C. Jackson Jr., Ph.D., former assistant dean and associate professor, Urban Affairs Programs; and director of the Affirmative Action Graduate Financial Assistance Programs at Michigan State University. Jackson is the former administrator of the King Center for Non-violent Social Change in Atlanta.

During the program, there was also a presentation by Ann Varghese, field organizer for Amnesty International-USA Midwest in Chicago. The event concluded with a tribute to the life of Kula Samba, a 1973 Olivet College graduate, who was executed in Sierra Leone in October 1998.

Samba was the former minister for social welfare, children and gender in Sierra Leone. Much of her work in that country concerned disarming children through a United Nations-funded program. After serving in the administration of President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah, a military junta took control of the government, which invited her to continue her work in social welfare. Later, Kabbah regained control of the government and had Samba and 23 others executed for treason. His actions were condemned by many human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, as a serious violation of international human rights covenants.

After the program, there was a ribbon cutting and dedication of the new Kula Samba Theatre in the college’s Burrage Library.

Echo Student Newspaper Earns Honors The Olivet College student newspaper, The Echo, placed in four categories for Division III schools in the Michigan Press Association’s College Newspaper Contest.

Among the students honored were Katelyn Harmon, a sophomore from Augusta, who was the top finisher for spot color display ads with a Tim’s Pizza advertisement she created. Maggie Gustafson, a sophomore from Sparta, placed second in sports photos for her picture of basketball player Audrey Graham. Brandon Walters, a senior from Olivet, received honorable mention for his feature story on Shipherd Hall’s faith-based wing. The Echo was also named honorable mention for news page design. Prominent layout staff includes 2

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Harmon and Igor Rasula, a senior from Belgrade, Serbia.

The contest was open to student newspaper members of the Michigan Press Association (MPA), and was cosponsored by the Michigan Collegiate Press Association, an association composed of advisers to the MPA student newspaper members. The newspapers competed in one of three divisions, including: Division I (papers publishing more than weekly); Division II (papers publishing weekly); and Division III (two-year college publications or schools publishing less than weekly). Entries included editorial content, design, photos, general excellence, advertising sections and online editions.

Founders’ Day Celebrated Olivet College commemorated its 164th year by celebrating Founders’ Day Wednesday, Feb. 20 at the Olivet Congregational Church United Church of Christ. The program featured a presentation by Al Swain, a 1978 Olivet graduate.

Swain, who is blind and a wheelchair user, spoke about living a responsible life and accepting everything that comes one’s way. “I have an idea of a community,” he said. “We need to have respect for all people and include all people. Just because they are different doesn’t make them any less important.”

After earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Olivet, Swain began a career that is truly reflective of the college’s academic vision, Education for

From left: Rev. Mike Fales ’75, Al Swain ’78 and Olivet President Donald L. Tuski ’85, Ph.D.

Individual and Social Responsibility.

Immediately following graduation, he began working for the Capital Area Community Services Job Club, teaching disadvantaged youth job readiness skills.

He then returned to his high school alma mater, the Michigan School for the Blind, to be a Kurzweil Reading Machine instructor.

In 1981, Swain joined the Capital Area Center for Independent Living, most recently serving as their associate director. Swain speaks internationally on disability awareness, diversity and having a positive self-image.

Olivet was founded in 1844 by congregational missionaries led by “Father” John J. Shipherd and was one of the first colleges in the United States to admit women and minorities. In 1859, a state charter was granted, and in 1863, Olivet graduated its first class, which consisted of three women.

More than 200 Graduates Recognized at Commencement More than 200 graduates were recognized during Olivet College’s commencement Saturday, May 17 at The Cutler Athletic Complex.

The commencement speaker was Don Lubbers, president of Grand Valley State University (GVSU) from 1969 to 2001. During Lubbers’ presidency, GVSU grew from a small college on a single campus into a comprehensive regional university with three campuses that provide educational programs and services throughout West Michigan.

Throughout his tenure, Lubbers established undergraduate engineering,

physical therapy and physician assistant programs, as well as schools in nursing and health sciences. He was also involved in planning, designing and fund-raising for 30 major construction projects at the university.

Josh Hart of Gaylord was the senior class speaker. Speaking at baccalaureate were seniors Amber Fifelski, from Olivet; Melanie Hoyt, from Lansing; and Kelli Roe, from Galesburg. Todd Hibbs, head wrestling coach and assistant professor of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Sport, was chosen by the senior class to speak at Baccalaureate.

Don Lubbers

Olivet Receives CASBMA Special Commendation

Women’s Resource Center Celebrates 10th Anniversary

In April, Olivet College was selected as the 2008 recipient of the Calhoun Area School Board Members Association Special Commendation.

The college was selected based on its many initiatives to support the learning of students in the Calhoun Intermediate School District (ISD), including: hosting conferences for the Calhoun ISD, providing a temporary home to Hurricane Katrina victims, inviting area high schools to its Lecture and Symposium Series, providing consultants for community organizations, and encouraging Olivet students to tutor area youth. The college was also commended for implementing the Community Connection Grant, which covers part of the cost of tuition for new and non-traditional students who are graduates or residents of Bellevue, Charlotte, Marshall or Olivet, (see related article pg. 20) and for upholding the principles of its academic vision, Education for Individual and Social Responsibility.

The Betsy Dole Women’s Resource Center (BDWRC) celebrated its 10th anniversary Wednesday, Jan. 30 with a presentation by author and businesswoman Allegra Bennett.

Bennett is founder of the home repair magazine Renovating Woman: A Guide to Home Repair, and author of two books, “How to Hire a Contractor” and “When a Woman Takes an Ax to a Wall.”

She claims to be “a writer, observer, former journalist and curious soul whom circumstances turned into a serial home improver and accidental repair maven.”

She shares her insights on home improvement in how-to segments on television, in books, at home improvement seminars and through her Renovating Woman magazine.

“This was a chance to be informed and entertained from a woman who has done so much with so little,” said Dianne Thomas, interim director of the BDWRC, of the presentation. “I believe all students benefited from her lecture.”

Established in 1997, the center strives to support, educate and empower women and men. The BDWRC provides resources and education for students and employees, as well as referrals to counselors if an individual requests further guidance.

Community Playground Last year, the Olivet community created a playground committee and the Lions Club began fund-raising efforts to build a community playground at Memorial Park. Their goal is to raise $105,000 by the fall of 2008. The playground committee is seeking grant opportunities and individual contributions, as they must raise an additional $30,000 to complete the project.

If you would like to contribute to the community playground project, you may purchase a fence picket or brick etched with your name. For individuals or businesses wishing to contribute a larger amount, there are still pieces of playground equipment available for naming opportunities.

The playground will be a welcome addition for the children and families of Olivet. Olivet College students will be helping with the construction of the playground in September.

If you would like to contribute to the project, please contact Mindy LaFay at (269) 749-9102.

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Students IN THE NEWS Jean Paul Cortes, a junior from Mexico, released a bald eagle for freeflight during the Indianapolis Colts versus San Diego Chargers National Football League game Jan. 13 in Indianapolis.

Cortes, who volunteers for the American Eagle Foundation in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., let the eagle fly from the stands during the national anthem.

Management Society (RIMS) Inc.’s Anita Benedetti Student Involvement Program.

Ryan Coburn, a junior from Wayland, and Joshua Hart, a senior from Gaylord, were among 30 students chosen nationally to participate in the program, which included attending the RIMS 2008 Annual Conference & Exhibition in San Diego in April.

Jean Paul Cortes

Seven students enrolled in the 400-level English course, Philosophical Literature, participated in a poster session which showcased their research on comedy.

Abigail Hammond, a senior from Olivet; Melanie Hoyt, a senior from Lansing; Jenna Hurd, a senior from Marshall; Michael Manning, a senior from Charlotte; Sean McMahon, a senior from White Lake; Joanne Osborn, a senior from Homer; and Jessica Petkus, a senior from Milford, presented posters and discussions on topics such as Shakespearean comedy and the conversion of British comedies for American audiences. Several guest auditors, including Karen Van Hentenryck ’81, an Olivet College Board of Trustees member; Linda Jo Scott, professor emeritus of English; and Charles Graessle, professor of psychology, were on hand to speak with students about their work.

Brad Francis, a senior from Bellevue, recently published nine scripts on www.dramaministry.com, which features plays and productions available for incorporation in church worship services.

Francis’ contributions include titles such as “Oh My Bob,” “Cooking with Solomon,” “Mattress Heaven,” “Goat” and “Questions.”

In December, Anabel Montalvo, a senior from Detroit, presented a video and lecture on her summer internship in China, where she taught English to school children.

Montalvo, who received the opportunity through the US-CHINA Anabel Montalvo Education and Culture Exchange Center, spent seven weeks teaching, studying Chinese and touring Beijing and other parts of the country. Annie Bahling, a senior from Lachine, also participated in the program.

Two students majoring in insurance and risk management were selected to participate in the Risk and Insurance

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In December, eight members of the Adelphic Alpha Pi fraternity helped build a playground for Crossroad, a not-forprofit treatment center for emotionally troubled and abused youth in Fort Wayne, Ind. Students who helped build the playground are Michael Birdsley, a junior from Owosso; Tim DeMenter, a junior from Gladstone; Tony Hall, a senior from Middleville; Justin Lewis, a sophomore from Middleville; Sean McMahon, a senior from White Lake; Travis Patterson, a junior from Flint; Levi Stegeman, a junior from Hazel Park; and Christopher VanDalsen, a senior from Jenison. Mike Fales ’75, director of service learning and campus ministries and Adelphic adviser, also attended.

Five students were recognized for demonstrating outstanding dedication to service throughout their educational career at the Michigan Campus Compact Outstanding Student Service Awards banquet in April. Sarah Klepinger, a junior from Onondaga; Sara Miller, a junior from Casnovia; Travis Patterson, a senior from Flint; Elizabeth Putney, a senior from Grand Ledge; and Shyam Shrestha, a junior from Nepal, were among the 159 college students recognized at the statewide event.

Seven students and one staff member traveled to Nashville, Tenn. to perform service work during the college’s Spring Break. The group worked with the Center for Student Missions and partnered with ministries in the area to serve in soup kitchens, food banks and churches. They also visited with senior citizens, cleaned the home of a chronically ill woman, picked up trash and shared meals with several homeless people. Pictured above with a worker from the mission (fourth from left), students who participated are (from left): Maurice Lewis, a freshman from Oak Park; Abigail Hammond, a senior from Olivet; Anna Hammond, a freshman from Olivet; Jessica Petkus, a senior from Milford; Natalie Cavett, a junior from Swartz Creek; Stephanie Marzec, a freshman from Grass Lake; and Judith Tellez-Gonzalez, a freshman from Mexico. Justin Smelter ’07 (right), an admissions representative for the college, organized the trip.

Faculty AND STAFF Rev. Jack Brown, Olivet Congregational Church minister and adjunct instructor of religion, was featured in The Congregationalist for his work with Mission Mazahua, a program that serves the indigenous people of Central Mexico.

He also wrote a benediction featured in the magazine, titled “Now as We Pray.”

In addition, he serves on the publication’s editorial advisory committee.

Wayne Buletza, Ed.D., assistant professor of education, was honored as a Key Partner by Michigan State University Extension in October in East Lansing. He was recognized for his work as the immediate past associate superintendent of the Eaton Intermediate School District (EISD) in Early Childhood Education.

Buletza was one of the primary leaders in Eaton County who helped create a task force to identify services for newborn to five-year-old children across a continuum of care. This led to a countywide community service plan for young children, which secured a $1.6 million All Student Achieve Program-Parent Involvement and Education state grant for EISD for early childhood and parent education.

Timothy Flynn, Ph.D., chair of the Performing Arts Department and associate professor of music, recently presented a paper at the Chicago meeting of the American Musicological Society titled “Newly Discovered Works by Charles Gounod.” In addition, he presented a lecture Timothy Flynn on Camille SaintSaëns’ opera, “Samson et Dalila,” for the San Francisco Opera in September, as well as a series of lectures in Sonoma, San Francisco, San Jose, Stanford, and Oakland, Calif. He also published several works, including introductory essays of Jules Massenet’s “Esclarmonde Suite” and Charle-Marie Widor’s ballet, “Korrigane,” which appeared in the German publication Musikproduktion Jürgen Höflich, and his monograph,

“Charles Gounod: A Guide to Research.” In June, Flynn presented a paper on Gounod’s newly discovered work, “Symphonie Sacrée,” at the 15th Biennial International Conference on 19th Century Music at University College in Dublin, Ireland.

Mike Hubbel, professor of insurance and risk management and director of the insurance program, presented a two-day seminar on the insurance business for the Colony Group in Richmond, Va., in September and conducted two workshops at Gamma Iota Sigma’s Annual Management Conference in Washington, D.C., Mike Hubbel in October.

Hubbel also spoke on topics in insurance education at the Derek Hughes/National Association of Professional Surplus Lines Offices (NAPSLO) Educational Foundation luncheon during the NAPSLO annual convention in New Orleans and at the Saginaw Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors in October.

In addition, Hubbel recently designed two online insurance seminars titled “The Impact of the Insurance Cycle on Underwriting” and “Insurance Company Accounting and Finance” for the Rhoads Online Institute.

Dominic Livedoti ’65 has been promoted from assistant athletic director to athletic director at Olivet. He will also continue his duties as head football coach for the Comets.

This past season, under Livedoti, the football team received the Dominic Livedoti ’65 Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association’s (MIAA) automatic berth to the playoffs. The Comets shared the league title with Hope College, as both teams finished the regular season

with a 6-1 MIAA record. However, Olivet secured its first-ever bid to the playoffs by virtue of a 28-25 win over the Flying Dutchmen. Overall, Livedoti has a 38-35-3 record in his eight years as head coach.

Livedoti earned a bachelor’s degree from Olivet in 1965 and a master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University in 1970.

Bruce Snyder, director of publications and Web services, was recently recognized by the Central Michigan Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (CMPRSA) for his creation of the college’s Capital Campaign kit.

Snyder won the Bruce Snyder Pinnacle Award, the society’s top honor, in the chapter’s 2008 PACE Awards creative tactics category.

Gary Wertheimer, Visual and Performing Arts Department chair and visual arts program director, was chosen as the selection and awards juror for the 2008 Ella Sharp Museum of Art and History Statewide Fine Arts Competition, which took place January through March.

In addition, Wertheimer won a People’s Choice Award in November for the year-long sculpture exhibition, Art in the Eye, in Marshall. His marble carving of a dog, appropriately titled “Dog,” earned him $500.

Joanne Williams, assistant professor of journalism and mass communication ( JMC), helped judge more than 4,500 high school journalism entries through the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association, representing the state’s high school journalism programs. Entries in print, broadcast and yearbook were judged March 1 by dozens of state JMC educators and professionals at Michigan State University. Williams assisted in the news category, covering features and editorials.

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Richard Rasmussen ’35, M.D.

From dentistry to sur When students graduate from Olivet College, they often have several options to choose from when deciding their career path. Many coeds will choose to find a job and begin making money, while others continue on and earn their master’s degree.

Yet others pursue another path – medical school.

Several alumni have chosen this route and have gone on to achieve greatness in their fields.

And while they have continued their medical studies at various schools around the country, they still remember how it all began and look back fondly on Olivet College.

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BY MOLLY (REED) GOALEY ’05

R

rgery, Olivet College alumni doctors excel in their professions Richard Rasmussen ’35, M.D., leads the life of a medical pioneer. A former cardiothoracic surgeon, his career has included years of innovative research; operating on wounded soldiers during World War II; crusading against tobacco use on a political level; and even performing the first open heart surgery in West Michigan.

At 95, he is a leader in his specialty, contributing greatly over several decades to the advances of cardiothoracic surgery. But for Rasmussen, who retired from surgery in 1983, it was a long road to the operating table – one that began at Olivet College in 1931.

“We were in the middle of the Great Depression – no one had any money,” said Rasmussen, recalling his first year on campus. “I met with one of my old family doctors and thought he was doing a great job. I thought that would be something I might like to do, and determined that I’d go to school if I had the opportunity.”

Soon after, he received a scholarship to Olivet, and along with steady work in the school’s cafeteria, was able to pay the $125 per semester for tuition. “At the time, people emphasized the opportunity to work and earn a little money – that was high on my list,” Rasmussen said. “But Olivet also provided an environment in which I could study and concentrate on the necessary classes required at that time for medical school. We developed a discipline at Olivet that carried us on through.”

Along the way, Rasmussen met Dorothy (Shively) ’33, his first wife, with whom he had four children. He also met Harold (Hal) Reames ’35, Ph.D., M.D., his roommate and Phi Alpha Pi brother, who would eventually become his colleague in medicine. “I had a good roommate,” Rasmussen said. “We worked together and we worked independently, but we moved in the same direction. Together we worked

our way through Olivet College and both of us later went on to medical school at the University of Chicago.”

After graduating from the U of C, Rasmussen completed an internship in Grand Rapids, returned to Chicago to finish his surgical training and research activities, and in 1942, joined the United States Navy in the midst of World War II. After spending 21 months on a base in the western Aleutian Islands with a Navy construction battalion, he was sent to the Great Lakes Naval Hospital in Illinois, where he performed chest surgeries on injured soldiers.

“There were 9,000 beds in that hospital,” he said, “and most of those people did not return to duty.

Most of them were severely injured.”

Though conditions were often grim, operating Richard ’35, M.D., and Lee Rasmussen on the wounded opened Rasmussen’s eyes to heart surgery’s possibilities, and he would soon become one of the first to cultivate its use.

In 1946, after four and a half years of service, Rasmussen transferred from active duty to fleet reserve status and returned to West Michigan. “I was determined to go to Grand Rapids alone to start my work in chest surgery,” he said. “A lot of that involved cancer of the lungs and esophagus, infections of the chest and so on, but my real intention was to get into heart work.

I had done research back at the university and cardiac work on animals – I wanted to do that again.” continued on pg. 8

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Dr. Rasmussen

continued from pg. 7

That same year, Rasmussen founded what is now West Michigan Cardiothoracic Surgeons PLC, a practice that is currently home to eight physicians who now perform open heart surgery and other chest operations on a daily basis. In 1946, however, those procedures were in their infancy, and Rasmussen was just beginning to pave the way for the others.

During the time he formed his private practice, Rasmussen also served on the consulting staff at Blodgett Memorial, Butterworth (now both operating under Spectrum Health) and St. Mary’s hospitals. Provided with a grant for the development of a diagnostic facility and research laboratory, the staff at Blodgett was preparing to perform one of the first open heart surgeries in the nation.

Rasmussen and his team designed a heart-lung machine, which is necessary for oxygenating and circulating patients’ blood, assembling parts of it in his basement. After further refinements, Rasmussen and colleagues used the

“We were in the middle of the Great Depression – no one had any money,” said Rasmussen, recalling his first year on campus. “I met with one of my old family doctors and thought he was doing a great job. I thought that would be something I might like to do, and determined that I’d go to school if I had the opportunity.”

Richard Rasmussen ’35, M.D.

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Scholarship, in memory of Reames, who machine on Nov. 11, 1958 during the died in 1995. He also continues to attend first open heart surgery in West board meetings whenever possible. In Michigan. addition, he supported past renovations of In the years that followed, Burrage Library and the reprinting of cardiothoracic surgery volumes continued “Upon This Hill,” a book by former Olivet to increase and additional physicians president M. Gorton Riethmiller ’28, Ph.D., joined Rasmussen’s practice. During this on the college’s history. time he also became an advocate against Even at 95, Rasmussen values his busy tobacco use, an effort he continues even lifestyle. “If you don’t use your time well, now. “I’ve always been very active in the state and political area trying to get rid of tobacco and get it out of public places,” Rasmussen said. “Now we have efforts to get it out of the work place. Even in the past few years I’ve worked with a group of retired physicians, talking to young students about the health hazards of smoking.”

His work doesn’t stop there. Though he hasn’t operated on a patient in nearly 25 years, Rasmussen remains active in the medical community – hardly letting his age slow him down. “I’ve maintained my connections with a number of professional medical organizations,” A pioneer in his field, Rasmussen and his colleagues performed he said. An avid the first open heart surgery in West Michigan in 1958. reader, he also stays up-to-date on issues when you get to be older you will have such as stem cell research, excess missed so much, and you’ll begin to population, education and death from realize that the most important things we automobile accidents. “I maintain have are time and health,” he said. “We interest in what’s going on, the changes have to live carefully and live. Don’t forget that are occurring and how we do things.” my four words – live carefully and live.

Over the years, he has also remained I tell young people that, and if they’re connected to Olivet. As a trustee mindful of it, they may succeed in living emeritus for the college, he established to be an old age.” the Rasmussen-Reames Pre-Medical

Lloyd Holm ’75, D.O.

Work Hard, Play Hard

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BY PAM RUTYNA

In 1971, Lloyd Holm ’75, D.O., came to Olivet for a visit. It was his first, and last, college visit. “I immediately loved the place,” said the Rochester native. “It was the first school I came to, and I fell in love.”

From a young age, Holm knew that he wanted to attend medical school after college, so it wasn’t unusual that he soon became a student of science professors Ed Speare, Ph.D., Richard Fleming, Ph.D., and Fred Gruen, Ph.D. Holm especially enjoyed Speare’s embryology class. “It taught me how to conceptualize the human body in three-dimensional form,” he said. “I still use it today.”

After graduating from Olivet in 1975, Holm attended the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine and earned a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine in 1980.

He then went into general practice for seven years until he decided to complete his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) in Omaha from 1988 to 1992. From there, he had his own private practice for 10 years in Indiana before returning to the UNMC in 2002, where he is now the student clerkship director and an associate professor in the department of obstetrics and gynecology. In March, Holm was bestowed with the university’s highest teaching honor when he was awarded the College of Medicine Excellence in Clinical Teaching Award. He was also chosen by students to receive the Hirschmann Prize for Teaching Excellence.

While Holm loves medicine, he loves teaching just as much and says it’s something he’s been doing ever since Olivet, when he was a chemistry laboratory assistant for Gruen.

“Throughout my career, I’ve taught in every place I’ve lived,” said Holm.

“Whether I was mentoring students in my private practice or helping them during my

Lloyd Holm, ’75, D.O., (right) instructs two of his medical students during an exam.

own residency – I’ve been teaching. When I was in Indiana, I had students come to a four-week course that I taught, but when I moved back to Omaha, I wanted to actively teach.”

He still has his own practice, where he works during the week, but he also oversees the residents at the hospital and is on call three to four nights a month to help them. As their superior, the young doctors run all their decisions by him to see if their course of action is correct. Much of how he teaches his residents is reminiscent of how he was taught at Olivet.

“The professors I had at Olivet had a strong influence on me in regard to teaching,” he continued. “I picked up little

things from them that I still use, such as Dr. Speare’s phrase, ‘work hard, play hard.’ In fact, I quote Dr. Speare a lot in my classes. He taught me how to analyze a problem without giving up, which is something I like to teach.

“The hardest part of a cesarean is not how to do it, because you learn that in the first six months of residency, but it’s analyzing the problem and knowing when to do it,” Holm added. “I try to use Dr. Speare’s philosophy to teach my students. It is a valuable tool in my field and I’m extremely grateful to have learned it at Olivet.”

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Straight

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Randall Root ’71, D.D.S.

Path to a Lifelong Goal

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BY MARTY (MASON) JENNINGS ’67

From a young age, orthodontics intrigued Randall “Randy” Root ’71, D.D.S. After he had his teeth straightened as a child, he was so pleased with the outcome that he decided he would become an orthodontist. “I had braces when I was a youngster – my teeth were crooked and I was selfconscious about it,” he said. “Getting them straightened was one of the greatest moments of my early life. It changed my appearance and attitude, and gave me self-confidence. I wanted to do for others what my orthodontist had done for me.”

Root’s “quest to become an orthodontist” soon brought him to Olivet, after his high school Latin teacher, George Drew ’62, suggested he apply to the college.

Root says that his “claim to fame” is that he helped establish and was the first to take advantage of Olivet’s combined degree program. “The prerequisites for dental school at the time required at least two years of undergraduate school,” he said. “I had taken all the science classes I could at Olivet, and that gave me a very adequate start for dental school.”

He left the college in 1970 after three years to attend the University of Michigan’s School of Dentistry. With the help of Fritz Lewis, Olivet’s registrar at the time, he was able to transfer his first year’s gross anatomy and biochemistry credits back to Olivet, thus making it possible for him to earn a bachelor’s degree and graduate with his class in 1971. He earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1974 and a Master of Science in Orthodontics three years later.

After practicing in Chicago for four years, Root returned to Michigan in 1982, where he joined the practice of Jay Richman, D.D.S., in Waterford. He is currently practicing as a specialist in orthodontics, sharing responsibilities with his partner, James Delaney III, D.D.S., a specialist in pediatric dentistry. Though Root’s patients are all ages, he primarily treats children and adolescents, dealing with malocclusions, crooked teeth, problems with jaw structure and other issues on a daily basis.

With most of his patients falling between the ages of seven and 14, Root says he has dedicated his career to treating young people. “My goal is to make them more secure about their appearance,” he said. “The smile is the gateway to the personality. When we see people for the first time, we focus on the teeth and sometimes subconsciously make judgments based on them. Having straight, white teeth is a benefit.”

Root also said that he is now at the point in his practice where he’s treating the children of former patients who have now grown into adulthood. “It’s rewarding,” he said. “I have the opportunity to know these patients when they’re young and see them grow into adults. I can see the results of my work and see how I’ve affected their personalities. They become part of my orthodontic family, and it’s so flattering when they come back with their own families.”

Root is proud to say that three of his former patients have become his protégés, having entered the dental field as a direct result of their experiences with him. He even attended each of their

graduations. During his time at Olivet, Root had his own mentor in professor Fred Gruen, Ph.D., whom he says took him under his wing. He also held a special appreciation for professors Ed Speare, Ph.D., Mark Becker and Rebecca Neuman. “They were dedicated teachers who truly cared about each of their students, and that is what has always made Olivet special,” he said.

Olivet became a big part of Root’s life during his time as a student, but he says the college becomes even more important to him as time passes. “In the early years of my career, my D.D. S. and master’s degrees were the most important to me,” he said. “But as the years go by that bachelor’s degree in liberal arts becomes more and more important. It has helped me become a well rounded individual.”

“I have the opportunity to know these patients when they’re young and see them grow into adults. I can see the results of my work and see how I’ve affected their personalities. They become part of my orthodontic family, and it’s so flattering when they come back with their own families.”

Randall Root ’71, D.D.S.

Randall Root ’71, D.D.S.

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Lloyd Damon ’78, M.D.

A Medical Student for Life

BY JACKIE BOUNDS Lloyd Damon ’78, M.D., followed his older sister Cynthia (Damon) Crooks ’76, to Olivet College. They both enjoyed music, and Olivet was a renowned music

Lloyd Damon ’78, M.D., is a leading expert in hematology-oncology.

school in the 1970s. Damon was also an athlete and thought Olivet was the only place he could prepare for a medical career while pursuing both of his hobbies – running and playing the bassoon.

“My high school principal told me not to go to Olivet because it wasn’t big enough,” Damon said. “I took that as a challenge, pursued my degrees in biology and chemistry, played in the college orchestra and ran on both the track and cross country teams.”

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Though music and athletics kept him busy, Damon was determined to follow his family’s footsteps to a career in medicine.

His mother was an Army nurse in World War II and his father worked in public health. “With my parents’ background, I was drawn to the medical field,” he said. “I remember being blown away looking at pictures of a heart transplant in Life magazine. I wasn’t out to save the world, but I wanted to do something helpful and interesting.”

The Mount Clemens native knew he had to start at the bottom and work his way up. In high school, he served as an orderly in a nursing home and later took positions in hospitals.

After graduating first in his class at Olivet, Damon earned a medical degree at the University of Michigan. He completed an internal medicine residency and hematology-oncology fellowship at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) Medical Center, where he later joined the faculty in 1988. “I realized that oncology was making rocketing advancements,” he said, “This science was forging the way for other disciplines of medicine to get at the heart of cancer, and that’s where I wanted to be.”

Damon is now a leading expert in hematology-oncology. He is the director of the UCSF Therapeutic Apheresis and Stem Cell Collection Unit, chief of the

UCSF Hematology Clinic and Faculty Practice and director of UCSF Hematology Clinical Operations. Damon specializes in leukemia and lymphoma disorders, malignant hematology and stem cell (bone marrow) transplantation. He was designated a UCSF “Master Clinician” in 2007, a distinction bestowed upon 11 other physicians.

Damon works with a healthcare team at UCSF and he enjoys the progress they make together. “We decide if a patient can use their own stem cells that were collected and frozen before treatments, or if they need to find tissue-matched stem cells from a donor in the event of a transplant,” he said.

Stem cell donation is vital to this procedure. “Many donors are patients’ siblings, but we also collect from people around the world,” he said. “We have a lot of international need because of our location in San Francisco. We receive cells from Australia, Asia, Africa and other continents. But it works both ways, we

“My high school principal told me not to go to Olivet because it wasn’t big enough,” Damon said.

“I took that as a challenge, pursued my degrees in biology and chemistry, played in the college orchestra and ran on both the track and cross country teams.”

Lloyd Damon ’78, M.D.

Linda Gyomory ’77, D.V.M.

A Great Love also collect from local donors and send them abroad.”

“The UCSF Medical Center has more than 40 patients with hematologic malignancies in the hospital on any given day,” Damon said. “I was involved at the start of the stem cell transplantation center at UCSF, and it has really grown over the past two decades. Currently, we conduct an average of 120 stem cell transplants per year.”

Damon admits not every day is joyous because he sees extremely sick patients who may die. “As a Christian, I’m personally not afraid of dying, it will eventually happen to all of us,” he said.

“I’m okay with the living and dying process. It can be sad, but it’s not depressing. I can still be a doctor and take care of people. Most patients stay about four weeks through their treatments, so I get to know them very well. I have a lot of respect for oncology nurses; they have a special talent for helping patients through their fears.”

He is also a professor of clinical medicine and the discipline chief of the hematology course at UCSF. Damon delivers medical lectures about leukemias, lymphomas and stem cell transplantation. “The interns and residents do their real learning while caring for patients, not just listening to lectures,” he said. “I help them look at blood smears to see what’s happening in the patient’s body; we wait for evidence of healthy white blood cells recovering or see leukemia cells returning. Students learn how to diagnose leukemia through normal and abnormal blood smears.”

Damon believes every physician is a student for life. “Medical advances evolve so quickly, you can’t stop learning, you have to keep up,” he said.

BY MOLLY (REED) GOALEY ’05 Linda Gyomory ’77, D.V.M., had two loves while a student at Olivet – art and biology. Instead of choosing to study one subject over the other, the North

Linda Gyomory ’77, D.V.M., and her Border Collie, Bettina.

Branch resident split her time between the two. As an art student, she interned at Kingman Museum and the Art Center of Battle Creek, and took art history courses with Professor Bill Whitney every semester. As a biology student, she worked as an assistant to Ed Speare, Ph.D., who was one of her favorite professors. Though Gyomory ultimately obtained a degree in biology, she was offered a job at the Art Center upon graduation.

“I worked there for four years, and around the three-and-a-half year period I realized I liked what I did, but I wasn’t really getting by financially,” Gyomory said. “I reevaluated the interests and talents I had and decided to apply to veterinary school.”

Now a doctor at South Sanilac Veterinary Hospital in Peck, Gyomory has a new love – the four-legged kind.

Dealing with companion animals, she cares mostly for cats and dogs, performing check-ups, vaccinations and surgeries on a daily basis. Tending to sick creatures, though, is never routine. “I wear a lot of hats being a vet,” she said, noting the level of observation involved with caring for animals. “You have to listen to the clients to find out what their pet’s symptoms are, perform blood work, check for fevers, swollen glands and belly aches – there is a lot of different testing involved.”

Though coming up with diagnoses for animals can be challenging, Gyomory has never questioned her role in the medical field. “I had lots of friends who went into human medicine when I was at Olivet but that really wasn’t my interest,” she said. “I grew up on a farm with a lot of cats and dogs and I always had a great love for them. When I decided to go into medicine, that’s what I thought of.”

Though she didn’t know her destined career path at the time, Gyomory said her education at Olivet prepared her immensely for veterinary medicine.

“Olivet provided very good basics for the higher-level classes I needed to take,” she said. “Dr. Joe Fleming had a way of teaching physics where, all of a sudden, the light bulb would go on, and he helped me see things in a way that is helpful for veterinary medicine. And Dr. Richard Fleming and Dr. Speare, would push me to go the extra mile. I really appreciated all those professors.”

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Yong J. Kim ’58, M.D.

What Olivet has Meant to me

O

BY YONG J. KIM ’58, M.D.

A stranger in a foreign land, Yong J. Kim ’58, Ph.D., arrived at Olivet with apprehension. But it wasn’t long before he found friendships and made memories to last a lifetime.

On a sunny afternoon in January 1955, after a five-day journey from my home in the war-torn city of Seoul, South Korea, I stepped off a Greyhound bus from Chicago to be greeted by the sparkling, snow-white, serene beauty of the Olivet College campus, and began my life in the United States.

From that day until the day I walked out of the Olivet Congregational Church in my cap and gown with my diploma in hand, the college gave me the best days of my life, with memories I cherish still. Kind and personal attention given by school officials and faculty members lessened my

anxiety and apprehension in a totally alien environment. My roommate and other friends welcomed me into their homes almost every holiday, lest I be left all alone in the dorm. There were dinners at President Raymond Blakney’s home, where we would chat about his days as a missionary in China, as well as musical evenings at the homes of Edward and Patricia Speare and George Hanson, with Mrs. Speare at the cello and Mr. Hanson at the piano. My biggest accomplishment was winning first prize at the Grand Rapids Symphony Competition, after which fellow students and teachers came to see me perform a violin solo during the winners’ concert.

I remember an impulsive take-off by five of us one Saturday evening, all the way to South Chicago, where we stumbled into a club featuring the great Duke Ellington and his band. Our drive back to Olivet in the wee hours of the next morning was saved with my last few bucks – everyone else was out of money for gas. These and other youthful forays, on top of my studies and violin practice, helped to spare me not a lonely or dull moment.

My Olivet connection continued well past my graduation in 1958, with several of my classmates visiting my home, to the delight of my family, during their travels far east. Bob ’57 and Sarah (Engle) Lawrence ’56 visited me some 10 years ago while I was working for a period in Seoul. Just this past January, I received the most welcome and unprecedented visit by Yong J. Kim ’58, M.D.

President Tuski and Mark Veich, vice president for institutional advancement, here in Los Angeles. There have also been many e-mail exchanges and personal visits with old classmates just in the last year, all of which have made Olivet more than a mere school for me.

Of all the people I am grateful to, I must single out Dr. Pedro Paz, who was not only my violin teacher and mentor, but like a father caring for his own son. He once gave me his warm overcoat for the cold weather and often invited me over to his room, which was next to mine in Blair Hall, for evening chats. In addition, he let me play his valued violin during important concerts and later handed it down to me upon his passing. His ardent support for my musical interest played a major role in my staying active with it on a high level alongside medicine all my life.

I have long believed that my acceptance to Wayne State University’s medical school was helped in large measure by unsolicited and strong recommendations from Dr. Paz, President M. Gorton Riethmiller ’28 and other faculty members, for very few medical schools accepted foreign students in those days, and good grades alone may not have been enough. It has been my conviction that had I gone to a larger or more prestigious school for undergraduate study, my life may have taken a different course which I would hate to fathom. I do not hesitate to tell anyone searching for a college about what Olivet did for me, enumerating benefits and advantages that may not have been afforded in other schools.

I greatly look forward to my first ever Homecoming at Olivet and reveling in the celebration of the class of ’58’s golden anniversary. I hope to see many former classmates, as well as alumni from other classes, and perhaps play music for old time’s sake.

E-mail Kim at fiddluv@gmail.com.

Molding Medical Minds

BY MOLLY (REED) GOALEY ’05 AND PAM RUTYNA

Maria Davis, Ph.D.

F

For decades, former science professors like Fred Gruen, Ed Speare and

Richard Fleming molded the minds of thousands of Olivet College students, many who went on to become doctors, veterinarians, dentists, nurses and other medical professionals. Their passion for their work and students was well known throughout campus.

If it wasn’t for her high school biology teacher, Maria Davis may never have even thought about pursuing a degree in biology. “I had an influential high school teacher who got me interested in the field of biology and the rest is history,” she said.

Olivet’s chair of the Natural and Physical Sciences Department and associate professor of biology earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Siena Heights College, a master’s degree in biology from Bowling Green State University in Ohio and a doctorate in entomology from Michigan State University (MSU).

She taught for a while at MSU before a position opened at Olivet and she applied. That was in 1994.

Since joining the faculty, Davis says she has seen several positive changes to the department. “We’re beginning to see some major improvements with the new chemistry lab and we have new equipment such as microscopes for the students to use.”

While the department may be seeing some changes, there is one aspect that has stayed the same - the acceptance rates of Olivet students into medical schools. During the past 15 years, 73 percent of students applying to a college of human medicine have received admittance. According to data from the American Association of

Today, that passion rests in full-time faculty members Maria Davis, Leah

Knapp, Susanne Lewis and John Wilterding. Though advanced teaching

continued on pg. 16

methods, high-tech equipment and a new state-of-the-art chemistry laboratory have changed the way science is taught at Olivet, these educators are as committed to students as their predecessors, especially when preparing them for medical school.

Susanne Lewis, Ph.D., instructs senior Kelly Schulze (left) and junior Celeste Gruber (right) in the newly renovated Engle Chemistry Laboratory.

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Science Faculty Prepares Pre-M continued from pg. 15

Medical Colleges, the national average is approximately 44 percent. The acceptance rate for Olivet students to dental school in the same time period is 80 percent,

Maria Davis, Ph.D., believes medical schools take an interest in students with a liberal arts education.

veterinary school, 83 percent, and chiropractic school, 100 percent.

Central Michigan University (CMU) is also interested in working with Olivet in the hopes of recruiting physician assistant students. “CMU has a smaller program, like us, and our students fit their students’ profile,” said Davis.

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neuroscience and added a medical component to environmental science.

Some of our pre-vet students will either major or minor in this now.”

While Knapp has revamped the environmental science and medical programs, she continues to use the same Leah Knapp, D.V.M. approach to teaching she did 18 years ago.

Leah Knapp, D.V.M., knows a thing “I emphasize concepts in my classes or two about applying to medical school. instead of memorization,” she said. “I ask After all, she earned a degree in veterinary ‘why’ instead of having them remember medicine from Michigan State University. ‘what.’ I want my students to know that That’s why this professor of biology they need to apply what they learn and advises so many of the pre-med students that they need to analytically think at Olivet College. because they can’t learn every single Knapp worked as a veterinarian for thing there is to know in medicine.” two years in Battle Creek until she fell in In her classes, Knapp often plays the love with teaching. While trying to get a “patient” and gives her students a case research grant, she took a job at Olivet to study.

Using the concepts they have earn some money. “I had been teaching all learned, they must decide what tests to my life, from riding lessons at day camp to run.

They take information from Knapp being a teaching assistant in college,” she and her hypothetical lab results and said. “Looking back, I’ve always loved determine a diagnosis. teaching and helping others.”

“In my pathology and toxicology Former classes, we do a professor Richard lot of scenarios,” Fleming, Ph.D., she said. “It’s originally hired useful to put Knapp in 1990 them in a for two reasons – medical to expand both professional’s the environmental shoes. I think it science and helps to stretch medical programs. their minds. This Knapp began by also applies to adding certain real life and their medical classes future careers and gave some As a veterinarian, Leah Knapp, D.V.M., knows what and helps make other, more medical schools look for in prospective students. it fun for the general classes students.” a medical spin.

Knapp loves what she’s doing and is “We created pathology, medical happy that so many students at Olivet terminology, environmental health and decide to pursue a career in the sciences. toxicology courses,” she said. “And we She especially likes meeting with added a medical spin to genetics and prospective students interested in the microbiology. We also revived college and her department.

Davis believes the reason behind the high acceptance rates is because medical schools in general are more interested in students with people, writing and logic skills, which is exactly what students from a liberal arts college possess.

Medical Students “I think the program really sells itself,” she said. “First, the students and parents really like the medically-oriented classes and second, they like the fact that we know what we’re doing and we help our students get into medical school after college.

“We’re serious about helping them and we know what we’re doing,” she added. “The most important thing, though, is that we all love what we’re doing and I think it shows.”

Susanne Lewis, Ph.D. It’s difficult for Susanne Lewis, Ph.D., to pinpoint the moment in her life when she became interested in teaching chemistry. She just “wanted to play with chemicals.” So after a short-lived career in pharmaceuticals, Lewis decided she didn’t want an industry job. “I really liked helping other people and I liked learning,” she said. “I figured teaching was the next best thing.”

Since her arrival in 2004, the assistant professor of chemistry and chemistry program director has seen the sciences at Olivet evolve “tremendously.” Major pieces of laboratory equipment were purchased soon after she started teaching, and the newly renovated Dr. Paul H. and Ruth B. Engle Chemistry Laboratory, which provides students with gas burners, hoods and other instruments, was recently completed.

The way chemistry is taught at Olivet has evolved, as well. In her classroom, Lewis uses a method of teaching called Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning (POGIL), in which students work in groups to analyze data. “POGIL is modeled after what actual scientists do,” Lewis said. “We use this style in the organic class, as well as the general chemistry and organic chemistry laboratories. Instead of the traditional cookbook experiments where students

know what the outcome will be ahead of time, they try the experiment and come up with an answer based on certain data.”

For students preparing for careers in the medical field, such cognitive processes are critical. “They have to be able to think on their feet and come up with diagnoses for patients exhibiting certain symptoms,” Lewis said. With that in mind, she believes the way the course material is learned is often more important than the material itself. “Medical schools look at courses that require a higher level of thinking,” Lewis said. “I truly believe it’s not the content, but the way of learning the content that matters most.”

John Wilterding, Ph.D.

John Wilterding, Ph.D., uses his own experiences in the sciences to educate his students.

Significant laboratory experience and superior research skills form the ideal premedical education. John Wilterding, Ph.D., associate professor of biology and chemistry, works to provide students with these assets every day.

An instructor at Olivet since 2000, Wilterding said he has always been interested in a variety of aspects of science, from physics to ecology and everything in between. “As an undergraduate, I concentrated my studies on whole organismal biology but also took a minor in chemistry,” he said. “During graduate school I taught a great deal at the introductory level of biology, concentrating on the molecular aspects, like DNA.” While completing his doctorate, Wilterding also participated with the cystic fibrosis research group at Michigan State University. “We did a number of unique investigations on the membrane transporter that is responsible for the disease state in cystic fibrosis,” he said. “A number of papers came out of my work there and I was heading for continued post-doctoral work with the group when the teaching job at Olivet was announced.”

According to Wilterding, the upgrades to lab equipment over the last few years help create safer experiments for students and improve learning and retention in the sciences. He added that better experiences greatly improve skills for students applying to professional school. “We are keenly aware of the types of content on the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test),” he said. “I know that if students excel in the material that is taught here, they will be well prepared for the test.”

In addition to lab work, Wilterding uses his own experiences in the sciences to prepare students headed for the medical field. He currently teaches an experimental class that works with various aspects of DNA science, as well as courses in introductory chemistry, biochemistry and cell biology. Also, his extensive research work has translated well into the current science curriculum. “Much of what we do here gives students the opportunity to increase their library, writing, analysis and research skills,” he said, “which doesn’t hurt for students bound for professional school.”

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Skills

Providing

G

BY JACKIE BOUNDS

G. Asenath Andrews ’72 is the they otherwise may have quit school. founding principal of the Catherine We teach more than just the core high Ferguson Academy, Michigan’s only school curriculum – we teach critical life accredited public high school for pregnant skills.” Andrews oversees a staff of 60, plus or parenting young women.

300 students ages 13-19 and 156 babies.

“I only knew of one The Catherine Ferguson pregnant high school Academy has a capacity student when I heard for 400 girls and 200 about this program 23 babies. years ago,” said “The school is Andrews. “Through a known for its exceptional series of events, I college acceptance rate,” learned about the said Andrews. “Almost all academy and its need our students are accepted for leadership. The to two- or four-year original program started colleges after graduation.” as part of the Salvation To prepare students for Army and served as a college and motherhood, short-term hideout for the school focuses on pregnant girls. We “Skills for Living” in the turned it into a fully daily homeroom class. accredited high school.”

Students learn She praises her staff for parenting and money G. Asenath Andrews ’72 making the school a management skills, and popular alternative to they also have the other Detroit Public Schools. opportunity to help on the school farm – She’s quick to admit she would rather a large garden and big red barn full of talk about her students and their success animals. Students complete research than herself. Andrews serves as director projects about the animals’ food and water of her church choir and has written a consumption, and learn how to milk goats daily devotion and prayer book for and make cheese. They collect chicken eggs singers. When she’s away from the school, and have a vegetable sale every Thursday she finds time to serve on numerous in the fall. boards including the Michigan This year the academy offered a pilot Alternative Education Organization, course to prepare the girls for the Michigan Michigan Alliance for Arts in Education, Merit Test. “I wanted to be sure the National Black Child Development students were psychologically prepared Institute and Olivet College Board of because part of what causes girls to fail is Trustees. fear of failure,” said Andrews. “Our goal “After attending Olivet, I was was to make all 11th graders know that they are special so we brought in yoga, fitness especially conscious of equal rights for and self defense instructors. When a women,” she said. “This program allows person is physically fit, they have more girls the opportunity to succeed when

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for Living

confidence; they walk differently and exude themselves. They might think a math problem is hard, but it is not impossible.”

Another interesting part of the curriculum is summer school, when students and their babies take courses on a college campus. “The regular classes are taught on a real college campus so the girls can see it’s not so intimidating,” said Andrews.

She credits her well rounded liberal arts education for helping her succeed

“Olivet is and always was a place to be yourself, and I think that helped me learn so much from other students,” she said. “Olivet taught me to learn from others, and I can tell you I learn from my current students every day.”

G. Asenath Andrews ’72 today. The Detroit native was the first one in her family to attend college. “I learned an attitude of problem solving,” said Andrews. “It was a new way of looking at situations and thinking a little differently.

I was given tools to approach a situation and solve it, rather than sit back and wait around for something to happen.”

“Olivet is and always was a place to be yourself, and I think that helped me learn so much from other students,” she said. “Olivet taught me to learn from others, and I can tell you I learn from my current students every day.”

From Under the Oaks to the Golden Gate:

J

A Musician’s Journey

BY LINDA JO SCOTT

Jay Pierson ’81, D.M.A., feels enormous gratitude for the fine music program at Olivet College in the late ’70s and early ’80s.

“Receiving so much individual attention – that’s something that is paramount for a young musician,” he recalled. “Emily Byrens’ quiet method of teaching instilled in me a strong musical sense.

Danford Byrens’ knowledge of early music and theory remains with me to this day.”

The Byrenses, who are former music professors at Olivet, in turn, appreciated Pierson’s talent and his seriousness about music. “Jay had a good, self-taught background in piano,” Emily noted, “and that helped him learn music faster. He Jay Pierson ’81, D.M.A. always liked a challenge.”

From Olivet, Pierson went on to the University of Rochester’s Eastman School of Music. He stayed after receiving his master’s degree, and taught in the voice department through a teaching fellowship while pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts (D.M.A.) degree, which he completed in 1989.

While working on his D.M.A., Pierson took a teaching job at Bucknell University, where he not only taught a variety of courses, but also took on a church music position.

In 1989, Pierson went on to teach at East Carolina University in Greenville, N.C., which was home to a school of music that boasted 70 full-time faculty members and 350 music majors.

In 2001, Pierson recorded his first professional album, “Ah! Love, but a Day,” which is comprised of songs by American women composers, through Albany Records. The album has received critical acclaim in the United States and abroad.

While in North Carolina, Pierson met James Mark Hamilton, whom he still refers to as his “partner in life.”

Sadly, after six years together, Hamilton was diagnosed with AIDS-related brain lymphoma and died three months later. By that time, Pierson was HIV-positive, as well.

“I soon became too ill to work full time, and in a walk of faith, I flew to San Francisco, with no job, no friends. I knew at that point I needed to be in a place that had a community of HIVpositive people and provided the services and care to help them.”

Pierson soon became a paid member of the San Francisco Symphony Chorus, found a church music position, and began teaching voice; first privately, then at Santa Clara University. After a few years he became a musician at Old First Presbyterian Church, where he was

baptized, became a member and elder, and, eventually, the permanent director of music.

At Santa Clara, Pierson took harp lessons from a colleague and has since composed more than 50 pieces for harp, as well as a great deal of church music. As he explains, “Hearing the sounds in my head, putting them to paper, or computer now, and then hearing the notes become music is a true source of fulfillment for me.”

These days, Pierson not only continues teaching, singing, composing and practicing the harp, he also was recently named artistic director of the Bay Area Rainbow Symphony, the first gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender orchestra in San Francisco. Through it all, Pierson deals daily with AIDS, which as he explains, requires “constant monitoring, a regimen of medications and many doctor visits.” He has also received a great deal of support from his sister, Janine, and his partner, Paul.

Rather than succumbing to ill health, however, Pierson reflects an amazingly positive attitude. Always prominent in his memory are his years at Olivet. “It is interesting how my life at college revolved around the church on campus,” he said.

“I remember singing there with the choirs, sometimes sitting and listening to Danford Byrens play the organ – and it was the place where I performed my senior recital.

My life now revolves around another sacred space, and when I look at the stained glass windows of Old First Church, I am reminded of my years at Olivet.”

Pierson would enjoy hearing from his former classmates. His e-mail address is DrJayMark@aol.com.

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That cold December day, the Community Connection Grant (CCG) was launched. Worth $9,290, the CCG is currently available to any new freshman, transfer or non-traditional student who graduated from or resides in Bellevue, Charlotte, Marshall or Olivet.

At the start of the 2009 spring semester, the grant will be offered to 27 additional high schools in the area.

The cost for recipients of the CCG is then $9,944 prior to applicable state or federal aid. As a result, some students will attend Olivet College for a total investment of less than $2,000 per year.

Students do not have to commute to take advantage of the grant. Those who would like to reside on campus need only pay the additional cost for room and board.

The grant will be available for qualified

Connecting the Comm Grant program cuts tuition for incoming students

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Sophomore Cassandra Barnes is one of many students benefiting from the Community Connection Grant.

BY MELISSA (SOBIE) CASAREZ ’02

On Dec. 5, 2007 Olivet College President Donald L.

Tuski ’85, Ph.D., spoke to an auditorium filled with 110 seniors at Olivet High School about the opportunity to take advantage of a grant that covers nearly 50 percent of Olivet College’s annual $19,294 tuition.

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students throughout the duration of their experience at Olivet College.

From the time President Tuski made that announcement to the first day of the 2008 spring semester, 10 students made the decision to attend Olivet by utilizing the CCG. Eight of those 10 transferred from other colleges.

“The CCG is a very big reason why I transferred from Hope College to Olivet,” said Cassandra Barnes, a student who moved home to Marshall from Holland to commute to Olivet. “I was paying close to $12,000 per year for my tuition at Hope and now I am paying between $2,000 to $5,000 with grants and everything at Olivet.”

As of May 28, 2008, 47 of the seniors President Tuski addressed at Olivet High School in December had submitted applications to attend the college for the 2008 fall semester – 21 have already paid a $175 deposit, confirming that they plan on attending.

“It’s great – now the students from the community can stay in the

community,” said Cody Wilkins, an incoming student from Olivet High School.

“When I first heard about the grant I didn’t believe it,” said Paul Wilkins, Cody’s father. “Cody was already looking into Olivet before we heard about the grant but it definitely sealed the deal for him. It was like an extra bonus.”

Larry Vallar ’84, vice president for enrollment management, conceived the idea for the grant and began restructuring the way the college utilizes the $7.5 million in financial aid it distributes to students each year.

“We want to strengthen our ties to the community,” Vallar said. “And when you can graduate students with little to no debt, you’re sending them out into the work force with high earning capacity.”

munity

President Tuski agreed, adding, “Our mission has always been to make private education affordable, and we’re working extra hard to stay that way. Our recruiting footprint is expanding out-of-state, but we figured we could do a little more for potential students around here, too.”

With tuition costs rising, both in state and nationally, many students are opting not to attend college. The CCG is opening doors for more local students to attend a private college.

“The CCG gave me the ability to afford college and commute from home,” said Jonathan Lopez, of Charlotte.

“Without the CCG I probably would not have been able to go to college at all.”

According to Vallar, he and President Tuski are also looking into extending the grant to students from the eligible high schools who are already attending Olivet.

“Our current students are our number one priority,” said Vallar. “We are evaluating the success of the grant and we hope to offer it to our current students as well.”

Baseball, Biology and Beyond

BY MARTY (MASON) JENNINGS ’67

seven times the national champion in roller skating. In 2001 and 2002, he was skater of the year. A bowler since the age of five, he has bowled six perfect games.

Last year, his average score was 222.

Oginsky will soon be applying to medical school. He has always wanted to

Senior Steve Oginsky says baseball is his life. Olivet discovered Oginsky at Saginaw Valley State University, where he had been commuting for two years from his home in New Lothrop. He visited Olivet, had lunch with Head Baseball Coach Ted Mahan, and decided to transfer. “Baseball is the best part of being here,” he said.

His major is biology and his minor is organic chemistry. Because professors Maria Davis, Ph.D., Susanne Lewis, Ph.D., and John Wilterding, Ph.D., are always available to talk one-on-one, Oginsky believes that helps him to be academically successful. The required portfolio for graduation, he feels, is preparing him for the future, in putting all his accomplishments together.

On Aug. 30, 2007, Oginsky’s dad died at the age of 48, having been diagnosed with lung cancer just 10 Senior Steve Oginsky months before. Now his older brother is running the family farm, where they grow beans, corn and wheat. Scholarships and be an emergency room doctor and a grants made it possible for Oginsky to trauma surgeon, because he wants to attend college without financial worries. help people. The University of Southern He received transfer scholarships, the California, Florida State University and Alumni Council Scholarship for 2007-08 the University of Florida are his first and 2008-09, and several others. choices. On July 8, 2008, he will take the Keeping busy is important to Oginsky. medical college admissions test for his His activities include working in the entrance into school. Last summer, he biology laboratory, volunteering at hospice completed an internship at Sparrow in Charlotte and the Food Bank in Battle Health System in Lansing, where he was Creek, serving as vice president of the preable to observe Olivet alumnus and medical honor society Alpha Pi Upsilon, board of trustees member Tim Hodge ’83, and participating in the science club.

D.O., in the emergency room. He also When possible, he even goes to his helped with minor lacerations and hometown on weekends to tend to a sutures. Oginsky said, “It was the coolest cemetery which had been ignored. thing that I could have done.” This But perhaps more than anything else, summer, his internship will take him to Oginsky is an athlete – getting involved in Hurley Medical Center in Flint. every possible sport. Before he came to Olivet, he was third in the world and

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2008

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Middle Ground: Past, Present a

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BY ELIZABETH PUTNEY, SENIOR

Past

In late fall 2006, nine Olivet College psychology majors decided to team up with the Barry-Eaton County Department of Human Services (DHS) foster care system to create a program for the older foster youth.

Their plan was to start something that would educate and help those aging out of foster care in the upcoming years.

What was founded was Middle Ground.

Cynthia Noyes, associate professor of sociology and anthropology, remembers how it all started.

“In the fall of 2006 I began attending community partnership meetings at the Barry-Eaton County DHS,” she said. “I met Julie Wiles (Barry-Eaton District “Family to Family” supervisor) there. She introduced me to a program called ‘Family to Family,’ which focuses on trying to help families in distress remain intact. Part of the goal of the program is to help children who enter the foster care system stay in school and

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complete their education.

“One of the issues that Julie articulated was the need for children aging out of the foster system to have mentors to help them as they leave. I saw this as a wonderful opportunity for my students and, fortunately, a number of them agreed.”

Barry-Eaton District Volunteer Services Coordinator Keith Behm added, “A main issue that has been present in foster care is, ‘How do we prepare youth to be productively independent and get them information to services that help reach that goal? ’ That is where the Olivet College students come in.”

Early Months Olivet students decided to meet with the teens the first Thursday of every month, a time when all of the foster parents get together to work on their training. They focused on getting to know the students and finding out how to work with them on how to be successful after high school.

“The first few sessions were ‘getting to know you’ affairs, but as things progressed our students introduced the foster youth to programming related to many issues relevant to their needs,” said Noyes.

“In this group we gave foster youth the knowledge to succeed in life before they aged out of the program,” said junior Sara Miller, co-president of Middle Ground. “We also gave them someone to talk to when they were having a rough time in school or with the family they were placed with.”

As the Middle Ground students began to understand the foster students’ needs, the programs and information they provided became more important.

Present Middle Ground has increased in size significantly over the past few semesters.

Currently, the organization consists of freshmen Crystal Adams, Christopher Behnke, Candace Buckner, Kirk Byrens, Chelsey Smith, Colby Votava and Colleen Zeichman; sophomores Tham Doan and Samantha Warner; juniors Amy Johnson, Jennifer Martin and Sara Miller; and seniors Nicole Caravagio, Katie Kilmartin, Mitch Powers, Elizabeth Putney and Christian Rowe.

According to Warner, the group also continues to find new ways to connect to foster youth. “There is a different themebased program each month that will help each of these kids in their near future with things they may not already know about,” she said. “Any subject – from abusive relationships and drug use, to higher education and finances – can be brought to the table and discussed with these kids.”

Noyes added that with proper funding, the organization could greatly improve its programs and activities. “We are currently looking into writing a grant to get funding that would allow us to engage the youth we’re working with in some cultural exploration,” she said. “We’d like to take advantage of Michigan’s many cultural From left: Jennifer Martin, junior; Cynthia Noyes, J.D.; Elizabeth Putney, senior; and Tham Doan, sophomore.

and Future resources, museums, science centers, gardens, etc., in order to broaden all our horizons.”

Wiles said that without Noyes, the program would not be what it is today.

“Cynthia has been a key person and a lot of credit needs to go to her. She has engaged in providing community experience for the Olivet College students. In addition, the students provide a mentorship role which makes the foster kids start to think about going to college.”

Future Behm and Wiles look forward to building a stronger connection between the Barry-Eaton County DHS foster care program and Middle Ground.

“The unique relationship between Olivet College and DHS has led to internships for Olivet students, as well as many other great things,” said Behm.

Wiles added, “Middle Ground will grow to provide a unique experience for many foster care youths to come. It will also enable Olivet students to combine theories learned in class with practical applications in the real world.”

Like Wiles and Behm, Noyes is also excited about what the future of Middle Ground may hold.

“I am so impressed with the commitment and consistency our students have shown in this program.

They know that the young people they are dealing with need them and the Middle Grounders have responded to that need with care, concern and good humor. I watch my students learn as they help these young people learn. As an educator, I have to say that I am very pleased with the results. I think the students in Middle Ground find a purpose in their work that supports their education and I hope that our relationship with DHS continues for a long time.”

No Time for Distractions

BY MOLLY (REED) GOALEY ’05 Before he became a Comet, junior Alex Hill was a Briton – playing football for Albion College, one of Olivet’s biggest rivals in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA). But last year, all of that changed.

“I transferred in the spring of 2007 because Olivet’s football program was really intriguing to me,” Hill said. “The coach has really turned it around over the past few years.”

It was that same head coach, Dominic Livedoti ’65, who led the Comets to a league title last season with a 6-1 MIAA record and their first-ever bid to the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division III Playoffs.

Although the football team was defeated by Central (Iowa) College during the first round, Hill, who is a defensive back, was proud of his team’s success.

With a major in physical education, athletics have become an integral part of Hill’s life. The Berrien Springs native is also on the track and field team and is a lifeguard during the summer.

But athletics weren’t the only thing that drew Hill to Olivet. He was also attracted to the campus’s diverse makeup and small size. “Olivet has variety.

There are different cultures – it’s a different atmosphere,” he said.

“My favorite thing about the college besides the football program is the small campus.

You’re familiar with everyone, the class sizes are small. When you’re hanging out in Olivet you’re with people you know.

When you’re hanging out at big universities you might not know anyone.”

Hill was also drawn to the college’s Education Department. After he graduates, he hopes to teach and coach elementary school children.

“I enjoy helping kids with school and sports,” Hill said. “I hope to coach football, wrestling or track.”

Ambitious both on the field and in the classroom, Hill has set other goals for himself as well. “I want to graduate with high honors,” he said. “I want a good résumé so I can get a job immediately after I graduate.” Hill is very close to achieving those goals. During the fall 2007 semester, he earned a spot on the President’s List, which exclusively names all students who achieved a 4.0 grade point average for the semester.

With equal dedication to academics and athletics, Hill says budgeting his time isn’t always easy. “It’s difficult – it’s very busy, but I enjoy it,” he said. “I’m always on the go, so there’s no time for distractions.” Hill added that he’ll be thankful for the summer break, when he can “lifeguard, work out and focus on football.”

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2008

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ATeam Player

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BY PAM RUTYNA

Courtney Mich has always been a team player. Growing up in Bay City, this Olivet College senior first became involved in team sports as a ninth-grade swimmer. She expanded that beyond athletics when she became involved with her student council in high school, citing her love for teamwork as one of the reasons.

Four years later, Mich, who was now a diver on her high school swim team, decided to attend Olivet because she was given the opportunity to continue diving. But the small college also provided her ways to become involved in campus life beyond the pool. Mich has also carried on her work with student government, first serving as a representative for her sophomore class, then as president during her junior and senior years.

“I loved being involved in student government because you can make a change,” she said. “We worked together as a team to make sure campus is a better place for our peers.”

Mich also continued to swim and was named captain of the women’s swimming and diving team this past year. “The swim team has been like my family throughout college,” she said. “The team atmosphere, the camaraderie and friendships I’ve developed have really helped make my college experience worthwhile.”

For the past four years, Mich has placed sixth in the 1-meter diving competition and last year she placed sixth in the 3-meter diving competition.

While Mich has enjoyed her Olivet College experience, she was ready to move on to the next chapter in her life – graduate school. Mich has already begun classes at Central Michigan University (CMU) and plans on becoming a physician assistant, which will require two and a half years of study.

It was a choice that took Mich awhile to make, but now she knows it was the right decision. For the past few years, this biology major with a pre-med concentration had been

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focusing on a career in dentistry. However, last summer, when she was shadowing a dentist in Bay City, she had a change of heart.

“I always wanted to be a dentist,” she said. “I guess I didn’t know what else to do.

But then I started talking to people about options in the medical field, and when I began researching physician assistant programs, it was like a light bulb went on.”

Since making her decision, Mich’s professors have also noticed a difference.

“This past year, Courtney’s been more confident in her studies, and I’ve seen a glow about her,” said Maria Davis, Ph.D., chair of the Natural and Physical Sciences Department. “She’s really blossomed and I think she’s happier now that she has a goal in mind.”

Mich found the physician assistant program appealing because she wouldn’t have to specialize in a specific field, and she valued the prospect of working with a team of doctors and nurses. She also liked CMU, which seemed similar to Olivet.

“When I visited CMU, I got a sense of teamwork there and that really impressed me,” she said. “I’ll be working with a smaller group of people instead of huge classes and we’ll be aiming toward similar goals. I’ve been on a team my whole life, and I’m drawn to situations that allow me to interact in groups.”

“I’ve been blessed to have had the experiences I did at Olivet,” she said.

“The small college atmosphere has also allowed me to have close relationships with my professors,” she continued. “The faculty has helped me immensely and I wouldn’t have been able to make it through college without them. They believed in me and told me I could do anything I put my mind to. That lesson is invaluable.”

An Aid to Athletes From left: senior Breanna Bath and Maria Davis, Ph.D.

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BY CHRISTINE MOULTON, FRESHMAN

After meeting with Maria Davis, Ph.D., chair of the Natural and Physical Sciences Department, during her first campus visit, senior Breanna Bath was committed to Olivet College. “I felt if the head of the department spent that much time with a recruit, then the teachers here must be extremely invested in the students,” she said.

During her four years at Olivet, Bath was a member of the Student Athletic Advisory Committee; treasurer of Alpha Pi Upsilon, the college’s pre-medical honor society; president of the science club; a student mentor; and a volunteer at Hayes Green Beach Memorial Hospital, Ingham Regional Medical Center and Battle Creek Health System.

Bath, of Mason, was also a goalkeeper on the women’s varsity soccer team. “I loved having the opportunity to play soccer and compete at the collegiate level, but more than that, I enjoyed being a part of a program that represented our school,” she said. “It was a huge honor for me and it was an added bonus that I got to hang out with my friends while playing the sport I loved every day.”

Recalling her most memorable moment in soccer, Bath said, “My sophomore year I had a shut out in goal against Kalamazoo College and we won, 1-0. It was our first-ever victory over Kalamazoo and it was a great feeling to be a part of that game.”

Besides devoting her time to soccer and her extracurricular activities, Bath declared a double major in biochemistry and biology with a pre-medical concentration. “I love our program here at Olivet,” she said. “The teachers really care about each student succeeding. Plus, they know how to make it fun – they engage students. Some tell stories from personal experience, while others may have different activities for hands-on learning. The most important thing they do is provide different ways for each student to learn.”

After graduation, Bath will attend the Michigan State University (MSU) College of Osteopathic Medicine, where she will study orthopedic surgery and sports medicine. “I’ve always been fascinated by how the body works,” she said. “I also enjoy the opportunity to help others and have an impact on a person’s life.”

Bath wants to help others because she, too, knows what can come of injuries sustained in sports. “Helping an athlete return to the sport and activities they love is very powerful,” she said.

“Coming back from an injury is extremely difficult and can fill you with a lot of doubt. I’m really looking forward to being able to take away that doubt and help athletes not only heal 100 percent, but continue to excel in their chosen sport.”

Bath said that she has enjoyed her time at Olivet and is looking forward to her future at MSU and beyond. “While all of my professors have impacted me in one way or another, Dr. Leah Knapp (D.V.M., professor of biology) and Dr. Maria Davis have both influenced me a lot,” she said. “They helped me to keep going after my dreams, even when they seemed out of reach.”

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Following a Call

BY CAILIN WILSON Since the summer of 2007, Cailin Wilson, a volunteer with the Michigan Campus Compact AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) program, has helped Olivet College students and employees serve the community. In December, she stepped beyond those boundaries and traveled with a group of students to Biloxi, Miss., to aid in Hurricane Katrina relief, documenting her experiences along the way.

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When I began my year of service at Olivet College, I did not realize where this opportunity would take me. During the college’s winter break, I had the chance to work with the Back Bay Mission in Biloxi, Miss., on Hurricane Katrina relief with a fantastic group of Olivet students and my VISTA supervisor, Mike Fales ’75, director of service learning and campus ministries.

It was truly an unforgettable experience. The people we met and the things we saw will stay with me for a lifetime. Until then, I had no first-hand experience of what kind of destruction a natural disaster can create. Watching the events unfolding on television did not prepare me for the Cailin Wilson conditions I saw.

Before we arrived in Biloxi, our group traveled to New Orleans to see what the city was like and what progress had been made since Hurricane Katrina. The devastation in the lower ninth ward is remarkable. Houses still stand in ruin with damaged pieces in piles by the street. We stopped by the beginnings of the Make It

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to Serve

Front row (left to right): Scot Peterson, senior; Mike Fales ’75; James Boyd, junior; Justin Gargus, junior; Scott Brewster, junior; Shyam Shrestha, junior; Cailin Wilson; Karlie McManaman, sophomore; Amy Cooper, senior; Ashley Malloy, junior. Back row: Dan Simmons, junior; Matt Dolan, sophomore; Rebecca Birtles, sophomore; and Josh Norlock, sophomore.

Right Project, most notably begun by actor Brad Pitt. He started this project to rebuild safe and sustainable homes in the lower ninth ward, bringing life back to this part of New Orleans.

In addition, life on Bourbon Street had returned. These were at least some large signs of progress. However, the city is still a long way from complete recovery. Many structures are covered by large pink tarps to draw attention to the issues facing the area. As we were leaving New Orleans for Biloxi, we were shocked to see the hundreds of homeless people living under main overpasses.

Speechless as we were, many of us were thinking, “Wow, is this really America?”

We settled into the Seashore United Methodist Church dorm, the place we would call home during our work week in Biloxi. During the trip, we worked on numerous projects in the community, including plastering walls and building

cabinets and staircases. On our final day in Biloxi, we had the opportunity to demolish an entire house. It was fun working with the students as they strategically used sledgehammers to bring the dilapidated home to the ground. The construction leader told us he never expected our group to bring an entire house down in one afternoon. No matter where we were working, residents would come over to us and let us know how grateful they were for our service.

They told us to never let people forget that the gulf area still needs help.

On the way back to Olivet in the school van, we realized we each felt that we’d really accomplished something worthwhile. Junior Shyam Shrestha said, “It’s important, even though we live in Michigan, for us to not forget about our neighbors and lend a hand. Every project adds up in the larger picture of bringing life back to the coast.” I felt the same. I will always carry with me this experience and how impressed I was with each student who gave up part of his or her winter break to serve a community in need.

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The goal of planned giving is to help donors plan their estates and charitable giving in ways that benefit both the family and charity. The federal tax code allows for several trusts and gift agreements that are used in making these planned gifts to charity and that provide some tax benefits for donors. Therefore, the study and practice of planned giving is twofold. It involves knowledge of people and their needs, as well as knowledge of taxation and the gift agreements available to fill those needs.

Planned Giving Overview Your Planned Giving Options Your Gift

Your Goal

How it Works

Your Benefit

Charitable Bequest

• Maintain control of your assets during life • Make a gift to Olivet College at your death

You designate Olivet College as the beneficiary of your asset by will, trust or other instrument.

• Estate tax charitable deduction • Life ownership of your property

Charitable Gift Annuity

• Receive fixed income for life • Avoid capital gains tax on the sale of your appreciated property • Enjoy the benefit of tax savings

You transfer your cash or appreciated property to Olivet College in exchange for our promise to pay you fixed income for the rest of your life.

• • • •

Charitable tax deduction Fixed income for life Partial bypass of capital gains tax Possible tax-free payments

Charitable Remainder Trust

• Transfer your appreciated property without paying capital gains tax • Enjoy income for life or a term of years • Receive the benefit of tax savings

You transfer your cash or appreciated property to fund a charitable trust. The trust sells your property tax free and provides you with income for life or a term of years.

• • • •

Charitable tax deduction Income for life or a term of years Possible income growth over time Avoidance of capital gains tax

Charitable Lead Trust

• Give cash or property to your family • Avoid substantial gift or estate tax

You transfer your cash or property to fund a lead trust that makes a gift to us for a number of years. You receive a charitable deduction for the gift. Your family receives the remainder at substantial tax savings.

• Gift or estate tax deduction • Asset and appreciation passes to family at a reduced cost

For more information, contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at (269) 749-7630 or advancement@olivetcollege.edu.

What are the endowment earnings used for?

Earnings from the Olivet College endowment are used for many purposes, including scholarships for students, teaching and learning resources, library books and materials, and program enrichment. At Olivet, as at most colleges, it costs more to educate a student than what a student pays in tuition. The difference between what it costs and the tuition paid is provided by endowment earnings and by sources of current support, such as grants and Annual Fund gifts.

How does the endowment grow?

The endowment grows in two ways: First, donors make gifts that are held in the fund in perpetuity. Second, all earnings

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Growing Olivet College’s Endo One of the primary goals of the Office of Institutional Advancement is to increase Olivet College’s endowment.

Gifts to the endowment provide a way for you to identify with Olivet’s mission in perpetuity. Endowments make a difference in the college’s educational mission by providing scholarships, faculty support and funds to improve the learning environment at Olivet.

What is the Olivet College endowment?

The Olivet College endowment is a perpetual fund composed of donor gifts that are retained and invested by the college. Earnings from the endowment are available each year to support college programs and scholarships as designated by the donor.

How does the endowment make a difference?

A strong endowment is a key indicator of the quality and financial strength of a college. It is the gauge by which institutional stability is measured.

At Olivet, a strong endowment will enable the college to better position itself for the future. It will: Provide for continual improvement and maintenance of facilities Fund scholarships to make it possible for the most deserving students to attend Olivet Enable Olivet to attract and retain gifted professors and strengthen student learning Increase opportunities for student research and faculty/student mentoring Enhance public perception of Olivet’s reputation as an innovative, dynamic institution

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and growth of the endowment over the Olivet College Board of Trustees’ annual 5 percent spending allowance are reinvested in the fund.

How is the endowment invested for growth?

The board of trustees has established investment guidelines for acceptable levels of risk and return. Risk is controlled by diversifying the endowment into several asset classes, including equities and fixed income investments. The board itself does not engage in market-timing strategies, which attempt to anticipate upward or downward movements of the securities markets. Professional investment managers are retained by the college, and approved and monitored by the board’s investment committee.

Development What is the Olivet College endowment spending policy?

The Olivet College Board of Trustees has established a yearly spending rate of 5 percent. This means that each year 5 percent of the value of the endowment is taken from the earnings to provide scholarships, teaching support and other program enhancements. All earnings and growth of the endowment over the 5 percent spending allowance are reinvested in the endowment fund. The spending rate of 5 percent of the value of the endowment is calculated on the endowment’s 12-quarter average market value prior to July 1 of each year. This method of calculation provides for yearto-year consistency.

owment

Endowment opportunities Olivet has several endowment naming opportunities, including: Endowed Academic Dept.

Endowed Chair Endowed Professorship Endowed Lectureship Endowed Scholarships

$3,000,000 $1,500,000 $ 600,000 $ 250,000 $ 25,000

Questions?

If you have questions or would like to contribute to the Olivet College endowment, or if you would like more details about the Olivet College Board of Trustees investment strategy, please call the Office of Institutional Advancement at (269) 749-7535 or (800) 456-7189 and ask to speak with Mark Veich, vice president for institutional advancement.

NEWS

Three Recognized at Annual Leadership Awards Dinner

From left: Marshall “Larry” Hutchinson, Don Tuski ’85, Ph.D., Joe Stewart and Norman Kinney on behalf of Tom Franke.

Olivet College recognized three of Michigan’s finest leaders during the Leadership for Individual and Social Responsibility Awards dinner Thursday, May 15 in the college’s Kirk Center.

The 2008 honorees are leaders in their chosen professions and reflect the college’s academic vision of Education for Individual and Social Responsibility.

Thomas Franke holds numerous leadership positions for organizations in

Calhoun County, including the Joyce and Lucy Franke Center for the Arts, the Brass Band of Battle Creek, Marshall Community Foundation, Art in the Eye, and Battle Creek Health System/ Lifespan Hospice Home. He has also given his time, expertise and financial resources to benefit the visual and performing arts, scholarships and civic initiatives.

Marshall “Larry” Hutchinson has 22 years of experience as a bassist with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and nine years teaching at Western Michigan University. Hutchinson is a strong advocate for music education, particularly in public schools.

Joseph M. Stewart is co-founder and chief executive officer of Stewart Industries, LLC, an automotive subassembly manufacturing business based in Battle Creek. He is also chair of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, one of the largest philanthropic organizations in the United States.

Alums Fund Reconstruction of Phi Alpha Pi Porch Steps Built in 1890, the Phi Alpha Pi house is one of the oldest buildings on the Olivet College campus. After weathering more than 100 years of activity, the building’s front steps became unstable and began to show significant wear.

Several years ago, David Pywell ’69 donated $5,000 to the fraternity to replace the steps. As time went by, the cost for the project increased to $13,773.

Recognizing the need to complete the steps, Olivet College Board of Trustees member Tom Kolassa ’69 donated the additional funds necessary for the project.

The new steps were completed in the fall of 2007. It was important to the brothers of Phi Alpha Pi to keep the old steps, which now surround the fire pit in the backyard of the house.

Phi Alpha Pi members gather on the new porch steps.

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Comets Capture

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BY GEOFF HENSON

The 2007 season for the Olivet College football team was one of the most memorable in school history. The season was filled with a lot of emotion, with the most thrilling moment coming Nov. 10, when the Comets clinched the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) championship for the first time since 1974 and received a bid to the NCAA Division III Playoffs for the first time in school history.

After opening the season with three consecutive non-conference losses, Olivet opened MIAA play with a 62-2 landslide win over Wisconsin Lutheran College. In the game, Olivet had a balanced offensive attack, gaining 258 yards on the ground and throwing for 251 yards. Individually, freshman Willie Jones, of River Rouge, rushed for four touchdowns and sophomore Pat Clasgens, of Livonia, had 143 rushing yards and three touchdowns.

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The next week, the Comets traveled to play Adrian College. Trailing 13-7 midway through the fourth quarter, Olivet put together a 12-play, 82-yard drive to take a 14-13 lead with 1:51 left in the game. The drive was capped off by a 23-yard touchdown pass from senior Rob White, of Caledonia, to senior Chris Smith, of Dimondale, to tie the game. Junior Kyle Zabel, of Sturgis, made the PAT kick to provide the winning margin. Adrian’s last chance to score was thwarted when sophomore Alex Hill, of Berrien Springs, intercepted a pass. Earlier in the game, Jones had an 86-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.

The Comets returned to the Cutler Athletic Complex for a game against Albion College and defeated the Britons, 24-6, to up its league record to a perfect 3-0. The only points for Albion were on a fourth quarter

touchdown when they had to go only five yards for a score.

Olivet celebrated Homecoming the next week and sent the fans home happy with a 21-14 win over Tri-State (Ind.) University. On a day where the Comet offense struggled in the first half, the Comet defense played a big role in deciding the game. Junior defensive back Michael Terranova, of Lansing, returned two first-half interceptions for touchdowns. Tri-State got on the scoreboard in the fourth quarter, but Olivet immediately answered with its own touchdown on a 69-yard run by Clasgens.

The Comets then suffered their first league loss, 38-25 at Alma, which caused them to slip into a tie for secondplace in the MIAA standings with the Scots.

Olivet played its next game at firstplace Hope College. The Dutchmen

Football Crown appeared to have control of the game, leading by a 25-13 score with 4:48 left in the game. Undaunted, the Comets rallied to score two touchdowns in 4:18 and take a 28-25 lead. The first score came when Smith hauled in a 40-yard pass from White. Senior Rod Sanders, of Detroit, caught a 17-yard pass from White for the go-ahead touchdown. Sanders was also on the receiving end of a successful two-point conversion attempt. With 30 seconds left on the clock, the Comets kicked the ball off to Hope. On the kickoff, junior Derek Stinchcomb, of Holly, knocked the ball out of the returner’s hands and recovered the loose ball. Three kneel-downs ended the game and Olivet had one of the biggest comebacks in school history.

Entering the final Saturday of the regular season, Alma, Olivet and Hope were all tied for first-place in the MIAA standings. The final week of the regular season pitted Alma at Adrian, Kalamazoo at Olivet and Hope at Wisconsin Lutheran. There were several scenarios on the table to determine who would receive the league’s automatic bid for the playoffs, but the simplest one to get the Comets in the playoffs was an Olivet win over Kalamazoo and Alma loss to Adrian.

After scoring just seven points in the first quarter, the Comets put 38 points on the scoreboard in the second quarter to take a 44-0 commanding halftime lead.

There was an announcement made to the crowd during the game that Alma was leading 21-10 in the third quarter, and the Comets’ playoff chances looked bleak.

Over in Adrian, the Bulldogs had rallied to score 20 unanswered points to defeat Alma, 30-21. Olivet scored its final touchdown in the fourth quarter to take a 51-0 lead. With the outcome of both games decided, an announcement was

made that the Comets could celebrate an MIAA championship and their first-ever berth to the playoffs.

The pairings for the NCAA Playoffs were announced the next day, and Olivet learned it would travel to play Central College in Pella, Iowa. The final result of the playoff game, a 3817 loss, was not the perfect ending to the season; however, the Comets were able to experience something that had never been done before in school history.

For their efforts during the season, 12 Olivet players were recognized with All-MIAA honors. First-team selections were Clasgens; Terranova; senior offensive center James Boyd, of St. Charles, Ill.; senior defensive back Nate Hughes, of Marshall; senior defensive lineman Marc Miller, of Sunfield; freshman punter Ryan Patten, of Charlotte; senior linebacker DeRan Thomas, of Detroit; and sophomore linebacker Hakeem Yakubu, of Kalamazoo. Miller was also selected as the Defensive Co-MVP. Second-team All-MIAA selections included Hill, Jones, Sanders, Smith and junior offensive tackle Chris VanDalsen, of Jenison.

To access final team and individual statistics from the 2007 season, visit the Olivet College Web site at: http:// www.olivetcollege.edu/athletics/ mfootball/stats.php.

2008 Football Schedule Sept. 6

Wittenberg, Ohio 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 ELMHURST, Ill. 1 p.m.

Sept. 20 Concordia, Ill. 1 p.m.

Sept. 27 NORTH CENTRAL, Ill. 6 p.m.

Oct. 4

ALBION * 2 p.m. (Homecoming)

Oct. 11

Kalamazoo * 1 p.m.

Oct. 18

Trine, Ind. * 1 p.m. (formerly Tri-State)

Oct. 25

ALMA * 1 p.m.

Nov. 1

Hope * 1 p.m.

Nov. 15

ADRIAN * 6 p.m.

* MIAA game CAPS denote home game Starting times subject to change

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Athletes Make Cross-Country

BY GEOFF HENSON

1,953 and 1,387 To most people, there is nothing significant about these two numbers.

However, to seniors Ryan Key and Andrew Lansang, they represent the

Senior Andrew

distance in miles from Olivet to their hometowns. Key came 1,953 miles to Olivet from Phoenix and was a member of the swimming and diving team for three years. Lansang came 1,387 miles to Olivet from Rock Springs, Wyo., and was a four-year letterwinner on the soccer team. In addition to being part of a varsity sport, both have also excelled in the classroom.

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Key graduated from Brophy College Preparatory, where he swam during the summer for a club team with Levi Yockey ’07. Yockey, who was then a member of the Comets’ swimming team, invited Key to come to Olivet for a recruiting visit. Key took the invitation and made the visit on a snowy day in January 2005. While at Olivet, he met then Head Coach Dave Stubbs and four swimmers (Ananta Fetters ’07 and current seniors Dustin Meisner, Mitch Powers and Koji Takahashi). After being snowed-in on campus for a couple extra days, Key went back to Arizona knowing Olivet was where he wanted to continue his education.

“The welcome that I got from everyone, especially Coach Stubbs, was great,” recalls Key. “Ananta, Dustin, Mitch and Koji all made me feel at home.

I also had a chance to sit in on a class and liked the small-school setting.”

As a member of the men’s swimming team, Key helped the Comets win the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) championship each of his first two years at Olivet. Key’s best season was 2007 when he earned AllMIAA honors and recorded most of his lifetime best times. He currently has the second-best times in school history in the 100- and 200-yard breaststroke at :58.78 and 2:08.68, respectively, and 200-yard individual medley at 1:58.47.

“I could not have asked for a better career at Olivet,” Key said. “We never lost a dual meet in high school and we did not lose a single one my first two years at Olivet. We lost a couple dual meets this year, but I still had a great time. I am going to miss being around such great teammates.”

Entering Olivet as a freshman, Key brought 11 credits from high school with him. He took a full class load each

semester and took summer classes in order to earn his bachelor’s degree in just three years.

Key also had some motivation and determination to finish early with his degree. In the summer before enrolling at Olivet, he proposed to his girlfriend of five years, Hillary Estes. Their wedding took place June 14, 2008. After the wedding, Key began working as an assistant pool manager for the city of Phoenix with aspirations of continuing his education at a medical school in Arizona and eventually becoming a pediatric physician or surgeon.

Unlike Key, Lansang never set foot on Olivet’s campus for a visit. His first time at Olivet was freshman orientation in August 2004. “I remember thinking that Olivet wasn’t the typical college campus that you might see in a movie,” says Lansang. “But the state of Wyoming has plenty of towns similar in size to Olivet, so I weirdly felt comfortable in a new home-awayfrom-home.”

On the soccer field, he saw action in 68 games, tallying two goals and five assists for nine career points. Ironically, Lansang scored his first collegiate goal in the first game of his collegiate career and it also happened to be the first goal of the 2004 season for Olivet.

The MIAA presented Lansang with the 2008 Dr. Marv Zuidema Scholar-Athlete Award. The award is presented annually to the senior men’s soccer player for his contributions to team play, leadership qualities, demonstration of ethical virtues and excellence in athletics and academics.

“I am pleased that over the four years I spent on the men’s soccer team that our team became more competitive in the MIAA,” Lansang said. “Other teams expected an automatic win

y Trek

Senior Ryan Key

when they saw Olivet on their schedule, but now things have turned for the better.

Over the years, I have seen players come and go. But our class came to Olivet as five, and we will be graduating as five.”

Off the soccer field, Lansang has been a member of Gamma Iota Sigma (GIS), Olivet’s insurance and risk management society. He has served as the vice president for portfolio for the last two years and was chair of the annual GIS golf outing in the fall of 2006. He has also earned the Associate in Insurance Services designation from the Insurance Institute of America.

Upon graduation, Lansang is looking for employment in the insurance and risk management industry in Denver, Colo., or Salt Lake City. “The job search is in motion and the wheels are turning,” said Lansang.

Key and Lansang represent the true meaning of a student-athlete. Each found opportunities to excel in and out of athletic competition. With their successes, they have also helped lay a strong foundation for the future of their respective teams.

Comet NEWS & NOTES The men’s swimming and diving team placed second at the 2008 MIAA Championships. Senior Dustin Meisner became the sixth student-athlete in school history to be a four-time All-MIAA selection.

Freshman Kellen Beckwith of Farmington represented Olivet at the 2008 NCAA Division III National Men’s Swimming and Diving Championships. He earned honorable mention All-American honors with an 11th-place finish in the 100-yard backstroke.

The wrestling team placed second at the 2008 NCAA Division III Midwest Regional Meet. Senior Daron Cruickshank, of Inkster, and juniors Jason Brew and Kyle Vanderhyde, of Sparta, won regional titles and advanced to the NCAA Division III National Championships. In the 165-pound bracket at the national championships, Brew finished in second-place to earn All-American honors for the first time in his career.

At 174 pounds, Vanderhyde placed fourth to become a two-time All-American.

The wrestlers were also the runner-up in the annual academic championship in collegiate wrestling, which is sponsored by the National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA). Olivet’s team grade point average (GPA) of 3.497 ranked second-best among 93 Division III schools. This is the third time since the inception of the award in 1998 that the Comets have placed second in the standings. Williams (Mass.) College finished as the national academic champions with a 3.528 GPA. In addition, Vanderhyde and sophomore Sean Misko, of Richmond, were named to the NWCA Scholar All-American team with GPAs of 3.81 and 3.66, respectively.

The women’s golf team placed 11th at the 2008 NCAA Division III National Championships May 13-16 at the Centennial Oaks Golf Club in Waverly, Iowa. In the third round of competition, Olivet posted a 315 team score, which is the second-best 18-hole round score in school history. In addition, junior Trisha McKim, of DeWitt, tied the individual school record for 18 holes with a 74 in the fourth round.

Senior Joe Kiss of East Leroy represented Olivet at the 2008 NCAA Division III National Men’s Golf Championships May 13-14 at the Chateau Elan Resort in Braselton, Ga. He had a two-round total of 163 strokes, and was the only golfer to have an eagle on hole No. 15.

Olivet’s 2007-08 All-MIAA selections First-team Kellen Beckwith (men’s swimming and diving) Shawn Bergman (men’s swimming and diving) James Boyd (football) Pat Clasgens (football) Amber Conrad (women’s golf) Steven Davis (men’s swimming and diving) Brock Gleadall (men’s golf) Brandon Goodman (baseball) Nate Hughes (football) Joe Kiss (men’s golf) Dustin Meisner (men’s swimming and diving) Marc Miller (football) Ryan Patten (football) Lindsay Pipkin (women’s golf) Scott Purdy (baseball) Megan Rimmel (women’s golf) Eric Ross (men’s golf) Amanda Sanders (women’s golf) Michael Terranova (football) DeRan Thomas (football) Hakeem Yakubu (football) Second-team Amy Brackenwagen (women’s basketball) Alex Hill (football) Willie Jones (football) Justin Lesansky (men’s golf) Mike May (men’s soccer) Brandon McClary (men’s basketball) Michael McClary (men’s basketball) Trisha McKim (women’s golf) Jaclyn Mummaw (women’s tennis) Kelli O’Dowd (women’s soccer) Rod Sanders (football) Chris Smith (football) Chris VanDalsen (football) ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America Andrew Lansang (third-team men’s soccer) Marc Miller (second-team football) Dustin Meisner (first-team men’s at-large) ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District IV Anna Braner (second-team softball) Shannah Fisher (second-team women’s soccer) Andrew Lansang (first-team men’s soccer) Natalie Lopez (second-team women’s soccer) Dustin Meisner (first-team men’s at-large) Marc Miller (first-team football) Lindsay Pipkin (first-team women’s at-large)

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Class Notes FROM THE OFFICE OF ALUMNI RELATIONS Since our last issue, more alumni have reconnected with Olivet College – many during alumni socials. Thanks so much to those who have hosted these events.

This will be the year to return for Homecoming, which is Oct. 4. We have had more construction on campus this year than at any other time in history at Olivet. Return to see our new Gillette Student Village apartment-style housing complex, and the newly renovated Dr. Paul H. and Ruth B. Engle Chemistry Laboratory and Mott Auditorium.

In addition, we will dedicate The Cutler Events Center to the 1961 football team that day. Be sure to mark your calendar – I guarantee a grand time!

When alumni reconnect, they usually contribute to the Annual Fund, their societies, athletic teams Marty (Mason) Jennings ’67 or field of study. We greatly appreciate the support, no matter what amount – no gift is ever too small. The percentage of giving continues to rise every year.

Let’s challenge each other in participation! The classes with the highest giving percentage, largest class gift and the largest percentage of increase in participation for 2008 will be recognized during graduation weekend in May 2009. Contact fellow alumni – be the first classes to receive plaques and recognition for your great achievements.

Please stay in touch and continue to contact me with updates on your promotions, changes in life, new addresses, phone numbers and e-mail addresses. I always enjoy hearing from you. Also, be sure to visit our Web site often for upcoming events. Go to www.olivetcollege.edu, scroll to the “Alumni” drop-down menu and click on “Events” for a complete schedule.

Your turly,

Jack Fowler ’44

1940s Jack Fowler ’44 has been named a Michiganian of the Year for 2008 by the Detroit News. In 1957, Jack founded The Fowler Center, an outdoor camping facility for youth and adults with special needs. The camp, located in Mayville, now serves more than 3,000 disabled campers each year. E-mail Jack at chhfounder@aol.com.

Carolyn (Vosburg) Hall ex’45 has been married to Cap Hall for 55 years; they have three children and many grandchildren. They have homes in Michigan and Sarasota, Fla. Carolyn has published 16 arts and crafts books and co-edited four, and wrote an art column for a newspaper for 10 years. She also wrote articles and created designs for national magazines, including Woman’s Day, Threads and Southern Living. E-mail Carolyn at cvcahall@comcast.net.

Leon Levonian ex’46 retired as senior vice president in 1992 after 27 years of service with Church Life Insurance Co. in New York. He attended Olivet for one year and, after serving with the Merchant Marines during World War II, he attended Rutgers University in New Brunswick, N.J. Leon and his wife live in New Jersey. E-mail Leon at LLevonian@verizon.net.

Mel Ketchel ’48 is semi-retired, but he does cancer research for a company that is contracted with an Army program. He also volunteers at the local library in Gaithersburg, Md. Mel earned a doctorate from Harvard, was a professor in medical school, published more than 50 scientific research articles, worked a stint at the World Health Organization in Geneva, and finished his career at the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Md. E-mail Mel at mketchel@aim.com.

Dwight Smith ’49

Dwight Smith ’49 exhibited 20 paintings at the Turner Dodge House in Lansing in February as part of an area-wide gallery walk that takes place on the first Sunday of each month. His most recent works have been in watercolor. He also exhibits with the MidMichigan Art Guild, of which he is currently vice president. E-mail Dwight at dwightrsmith@comcast.net.

1950s Stan Vallender ’50 lives in Ventura, Calif., where he devotes his time as a caregiver to his wife. E-mail Stan at vivacats@dslextreme.com.

Marty (Mason) Jennings ’67 Director of Alumni Relations (269) 749-7644 mjennings@olivetcollege.edu

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Nancy (Dine) Ruth ’51 and her late husband, Sam, moved to Toronto in 1956 where Sam was a hospital administrator and gerontologist. They raised three sons who work in the fields of hospital administration and medicine. Nancy retired in 1991 after 17 years of teaching. She keeps busy volunteering, traveling and spending time with her six grandchildren. E-mail Nancy at nancy_ruth@sympatico.ca.

Ron ’65 and Laura (Tenhopen) ’66 Bussey Jean (Merchant) ’53 and Ken ’54 Carothers spent three months in Gulf Shores, Ala. While there they played golf with Bill Jones ’54 and his wife, Pat. They are retired. E-mail Jean and Ken at kencar@ismi.net.

Suzanne Willard ’64 retired and moved to Tucson, Ariz., with her husband, Mel, to be near their son, David. She is a SAP software analyst for Raytheon.

E-mail Suzanne at suzannewillard@yahoo.com.

James F. Williams ’53 graduated in 1953, not in 1955, as listed in the 2007 fall issue of Shipherd’s Record. E-mail James at n9hhu@sbcglobal.net.

Ron ’65 and Laura (Tenhopen) ’66 Bussey enjoyed the American Motorcycle Tour of Historic Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica, Calif., on their Harley in the spring of 2007. There were 26 people on 19 bikes. E-mail Ron and Laura at randl65@hughes.net.

Henry Hamilton ’54 is treasurer of The Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences, a charter school. E-mail Henry at hamiltonassetsvcs@yahoo.com.

Dan Maroney ’54 and wife, Pat, recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with family and many friends. E-mail Dan at optimist2@embarqmail.com.

Virginia (Dohring) Adler ’65 and husband, Michael, and their daughter, Emily, recently visited both the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Horn in the same year.

With their trip to Antarctica, the three of them have now been to all seven continents. E-mail Virginia at virginiaadler@wyom.net.

Bob Moyle ’57 retired eight years ago, having worked for State Farm Insurance in California for 22 years. Prior to that, he was employed with the Upjohn Company. E-mail Bob at rpm1935@gmail.com.

Roger Tharp ’59 has completed 10 years as a science instructor aboard the D.J. Angus, an education and research ship operated by Grand Valley State University. In this job, he worked with Gus Unseld ’63. Roger previously taught biology for 32 years at Mona Shores High School in Muskegon.

E-mail Roger at junglerog@chartermi.net.

1960s Leon Guillermo ’61 is living in Caracas, Venezuela, where he is general manager of a private hospital. Leon enjoys golfing, fishing, hunting and traveling.

He has three daughters, Jennie, Gaby and Maria, and three grandchildren. E-mail Leon at gleonbonacia@cantv.net.

Charlotte Faye Seager ’61 married Joseph Fields, whom she met while living in Tennessee. They now live in Northport, where she is working as an artist and an alternative therapist. E-mail Charlotte at charlotte.seager@gmail.com.

Lee Phillips ’62 recently traveled to Thailand, visiting for the first time since 1973. In the near future, he hopes to journey back to Vietnam, as well. He is retired and living in New Mexico. E-mail Lee at HistprofL@msn.com.

Bob Hayn ’63

Bob Hayn ’63 and partner, Bob Brown, live in San Francisco. They enjoyed a two-week vacation in June 2007 in Istanbul and Athens, anchoring both ends of a cruise through the Greek Islands and up the Dalmatian Coast as far as Dubrovnik. Bob also sailed the Caribbean on the Queen Mary 2 as a guest bridge teacher and director during a 10-day voyage in January 2008.

E-mail Bob Hayn at roberthayn@comcast.net.

Larry Van Slambrook ’64 retired June 30, 2007, after 30 years in pastoral ministry. He and wife, Cora, live in Pinckney. Prior to being in the ministry, Larry taught for 12 years, finishing his teaching career at Eastern Michigan University.

E-mail Larry at lvanslam@juno.com.

1964-65 alumni got together for a mini-reunion at Schuler’s in Marshall Nov. 30, 2007. Back row: Fred Bochenek, Larry Melendy ’64, Mary Martha (Potts) Melendy ’65, Sue (Richardson) Finch ’66, Bennie Bonandrini ’65, Dick Penhallegon ’63. Seated: Karen (Ciesielski) Bochenek ’65, Nola (Jacobson) Bonandrini ’65, Karen Penhallegon.

Nancy Rivers ’65 retired in 2000 after having taught in the Fairfield School System in Fairfield, Conn., for 35 years. E-mail Nancy at NancyLRiv@aol.com.

Sue (Richardson) Finch ’66 has been retired from Detroit Public Schools for 12 years, after having taught for 30 years. Since retirement, she has been an antiques dealer in Birmingham. E-mail Sue at sukefi43@aol.com.

Bill Giles ’66 and wife, Lorain, moved to Lyme, N.H., in the winter of 2007, after having taken a nine-month trip around the world from September 2005 to June 2006. E-mail Bill at wrgiles@gmail.com.

Joanne (Foster) Lind ex’66 is semi-retired but is an adjunct professor in the community college system, teaching early childhood education courses. She also is a psychotherapist and life coach in private practice. Joanne has three children and four grandchildren. She lives in Rowley, Mass., where she grew up. E-mail Joanne at lindje@comcast.net.

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Class Notes

From left; Doug Wells ’69, John McLean ’70 and George Mobley ’69

Dan Mathews ’66 was recently promoted to executive vice president and chief operating officer for the National Automatic Merchandising Association in Chicago.

He was also awarded a distinguished alumni award from the Eli Broad College of Business at Michigan State University. E-mail Dan at Olivet66@aol.com.

George Mobley ’69 got together with Kappa Sig brothers John McLean ’70, Lee Kramer ’70 and Doug Wells ’69 in 2007. In 2006, George also reunited with Ron Fazio ’68 and Greg Snider ’70, for the first time in 40 years. E-mail George at geomob@hotmail.com.

Janet (Almstadt) Davison ’67 was named Artist of the Year by the Orion Art Center at its annual Snowflake Ball Feb. 9 in Lake Orion. Janet is a professional artist and has been teaching and lecturing for 35 years, 30 of which were at Avondale High School. Her award-winning art work is in several collections in the United States. Janet and husband, Mark Davison ’66 have been married 40 years. E-mail Janet and Mark at davisonm@ees.eesc.com.

Sid (Patton) Paradine ’69 is an adjunct instructor, teaching ceramic art at Olivet College. Sid and husband, Moe, live in Marshall, and have a daughter and son.

E-mail Sid at siducorjam@aol.com.

Jim McCloughan ’68 retired from South Haven High School after 38 years of teaching. In addition, he was the varsity football and baseball coach. During his career, Jim coached 131 teams in sports ranging from football, wrestling and baseball, including American Legion Baseball. E-mail Jim at Karastar@rocketmail.com.

Woody Wiley ’68, after working for the Boy Scouts of America for 37 years, attended his first World Scout Jamboree in Chelmsford, England, last summer. He was the staff coordinator for a group of more than 600 scouts, leaders and Woody Wiley ’68 and his wife, Sue volunteers. They joined 40,000 others in celebrating the 100th anniversary of the organization’s founding. Woody and wife, Sue, celebrated 40 years of marriage in June 2008. They have four children and nine grandchildren. E-mail Woody at lcwiley@verizon.net.

Ruth (McConnell) Benson ’69 retired from teaching special education in Alaska.

She and husband, Bruce, who is also retired, recently went on a Mediterranean cruise and visited Hawaii. Ruth and her Alpha E sisters, Nancy (Smith) Johnson ’68 and Marcia (Campbell) Sumerix ’68, met for a mini-reunion in 2007. Ruth volunteers at her church and with Love, Inc., an organization that helps churches coordinate programs to help those in need. E-mail Ruth at bruce.ruth@acsalaska.net.

1970s Lynn (Leverett) Bohi ’70 recently retired from the Vermont House of Representatives after serving 14 years. Lynn is now a community activist, serving on seven boards, groups and commissions, and travels frequently. E-mail Lynn at clbohi@sover.net.

Dave Curlin ’70 stopped his singing career in 1976, having been a member of the Camel Drivers. Dave and brother, Tom Curlin ’66, were in the trucking business. He is now retired and would enjoy hearing from old friends. E-mail Dave at davidrcurlin@msn.com.

Linda (Wilson-Huss) Maldeney ’70 is working in Indiana for Tyden Brammal, a manufacturer of bolt seals, metal strap, cable and plastic seals for cargo security.

E-mail Linda at lwilson612@mchsi.com.

Gail (Lundstedt) Rivard ’70 retired in January 2008 from teaching seventh grade social studies and life science at Glynn Middle School in Brunswick, Ga. During her 30 years she served as academic lead teacher, and grade level and school department chairperson in both social studies and life science. She has been involved in curriculum revision and textbook adoption. Gail also represented her school as the Relay for Life team captain for 13 years and the United Way representative for 24 years. Gail has a daughter and son-in-law, Jessica and Jonathan Williamson, and two grandchildren, Madison and Tyler. E-mail Gail at gailssi@comcast.net.

Jim McKee ’71 is a counselor at Walled Lake Schools and for Oakland Community College. Jim authored chapter 15 of the book, “Teaching with Love and Logic,” by Jim Fay. As a counselor and coach at Mercy High School in Farmington, he helped the girls’ basketball team win two Class A championships in 1979 and 1983. E-mail Jim at hockeymckee@yahoo.com.

Norm Irish ’69, Ph.D, retired after 34 years with General Motors and the Chrysler Corporation. He was an adjunct professor for the University of Michigan, Flint and Oakland University. Norm is now a full-time visiting professor at Kettering University. He and wife, Elizabeth, have three daughters and six grandchildren.

E-mail Norm at normancirish@aol.com.

From left: Nancy (Smith) Johnson ’68, Ruth (McConnell) Benson ’69 and Marcia (Campbell) Sumerix ’68.

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Detroit Holiday Social hosted

by J. Robert Gillette ’63, from left: Rev. Christopher Richards, Kathryn (Vogt) Koveleski 47, Martha (Koveleski) Richards.

Robert “Bobby” Glenn ’72 has retired, after 35 years, from the Detroit Board of Education. E-mail Bobby at glennresi@aol.com.

Christopher Johnson ’72, a senior international trade analyst for the U.S. International Trade Commission, led an investigation in 2007 on the effect of Japanese regulatory policies on U.S. exports of medical devices. The study was requested by the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Ways & Means.

He and wife, Janet, live in Maryland. E-mail Chris at chrjohjmisbach@netscape.net.

Michael Louisell ’72 is a registered nurse first assistant in surgery at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo. E-mail Michael at michaellouisell@sbcglobal.net.

Jeff Ash ’75, performs in the Michigan 5th Regiment Band, a Civil War band which uses authentic Civil War music, instruments and uniforms. Jeff gave a lecture, “Clinical Endodontics: Major and Minor Techniques for Predictable Therapy,” at the Michigan Dental Association conference in Traverse City in March. E-mail Debbie at deborash@umich.edu and Jeff at endodad@hotmail.com.

Patricia (Boyke) Bryan ’76 is in her 16th year of teaching Spanish and gifted/ talented classes at Grosse Ile Middle School in Grosse Ile. She and husband, Jim, have a daughter and a son. E-mail Patricia at luv2walk2000@yahoo.com.

Idali Feliciano ’73 has been the director of multicultural programs and international students at Adrian College since August 2006. E-mail Idali at ifelic@tc3net.com.

Cindi (Strebeck) Compton ’76 is working for husband, Stan, in his construction company and in her own small real estate development business, Osage Development Corporation. Her latest project is a 106-unit land lease community called Stone’s Throw, to be located in South Haven. She and her husband have three sons. E-mail Cindi at comptoni@verizon.net.

Jack Randall ’73, after spending 25 years teaching, has spent the last three years as head of chemistry research and development for Vernier Software and Technology in Beaverton, Ore. He is the author of three science laboratory books.

Jack spends over two weeks a month in Oregon, while the rest of the time is spent traveling (research, conferences, training teachers in science education) and at home in Interlochen. He and wife, Mary Pat, have three sons and a daughter. Email Jack at jrandall@vernier.com.

George Heitsch ’76 and Lisa (Mahar) ex’79 live in Commerce. George is the superintendent of Avondale Schools. Lisa works at Walled Lake Central, running the school store. They have two sons, Joshua and Cory, and a grandson. E-mail George and Lisa at glheitsch@comcast.net.

Robin (Johndrow) Liske ’74 has spent nearly 30 years at Hesburgh Library at the University of Notre Dame. For the last several years, Robin has been in the Electronics Resources Department, working with purchasing, activating and providing statistical support for Internet resources.

Robin has a son, Andrew, 19, and a daughter, Mary, 17. E-mail Robin at robin.j.lisek.2@nd.edu.

Dan Mishler ’76 retired in June 2005 after teaching chemistry at Hartland High School for 27 years. Dan and wife, Martha, also retired from teaching, live in their cottage on Lake Charlevoix. Dan recently earned his United States Coast Guard captain’s license.

E-mail Dan at danmishler@charter.net.

Sharon (O’Brien) Bitterman ’75 has been teaching band, choir and theater for 21 years, currently in the Buchanan Community Schools. E-mail Sharon at vicomptessa@aol.com.

Mike French ’75 has been involved in aerospace since 1984. He spent 14 years with Gulfstream Aerospace in Savannah, Ga., and Oklahoma City, Okla. In 1998 he joined Triumph Actuation Systems and has held various positions, including senior manager of procurement and director of operations, and is now the program manager for Airbus Mike French ’75 (Germany) and CESA (Spain), coordinating the development and delivery of hydraulic products for their aircraft. He and wife, Donna, live in North Carolina and have three adult children and four grandchildren. E-mail Mike at Andie53@roadrunner.com.

Deborah (Rebeck) Ash ’76 toured Greece in June 2007 with the International Flute Orchestra, a group of professional flutists from the United States and Canada. This is Debbie’s 26th year with the Plymouth Symphony Orchestra, where she has served as principal flutist for 18 years. When not practicing dentistry, husband,

Cheryl (Mulvaney) Aponte ’77 and Molly Stevens ’77

Howard Prielipp ’76 is a teacher in the Department of Defense Dependents Schools overseas. In January 2003, he retired from the Army after 20 years of active duty. He spent the following two years teaching English as a second language in Korea and visiting with family in Darwin, Australia, and in the United States. He taught in Naples, Italy, from 2005-06 and was transferred to Schweinfurt, Germany, in 2006-07. He then was moved to Hohenfels, Germany, where he is now teaching band and choir in grades 7-12, as well as a seventh grade fundamentals class. E-mail Howard at howard.prielipp@us.army.mil.

Jim Chapin ’76 was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in the Michigan Army National Guard Oct. 19, 2007. In March, he was deployed to Kuwait for nine months, after having trained at Ft. Hood. His wife, Diane (Clark) Chapin ’78, is working full-time as a counselor for The MPA Group in Bay City. Diane earned her master’s degree in professional counseling in March 2007. E-mail Jim at pjchapin2000@yahoo.com and Diane at dechapes@hotmail.com.

Cheryl (Mulvaney) Aponte ’77 is the director of major and planned gifts for The Nature Conservancy in Chicago. Cheryl has been active in Irish music and plays the flute at Irish pubs in Chicago. Cheryl and husband, John, enjoy traveling and recently visited Puerto Rico. E-mail Cheryl at cmulvaney55@yahoo.com.

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Class Notes Caroline “Carrie” (Selden) Barnett ’77 is the assistant to the director of sales and operations and the commissions manager for the Employee Benefits Corporation of America in McLean, Va. E-mail Carrie at t2354@aol.com.

Connie (Laube) Callahan ’77 lives in Lansing with her husband.

She is a substitute teacher and volunteers in the Lansing area. E-mail Connie at cacallahan64@yahoo.com. .

Barron (Barry) T. Evans ’77, in September 2007, was appointed to a new position with Merck & Company in Philadelphia, overseeing commercial strategic alliances and developing beyond-the-pill partnerships for physician, consumer, and health plan customers. On the side, he’s helping launch a regional performing arts center in August and doing youth mentoring through the local school system.

E-mail Barry at bevans1309@comcast.net.

Anna Margaret (Caterino) Hines ex’77 and husband, Robert, live in Minnesota.

Anna plays the violin with the Mankato Symphony and works in the pharmacy at Wal-Mart. E-mail Anna at violin.solitude@gmail.com.

Alan Parshley ’77 appeared as a soloist with the Champlain Philharmonic Orchestra at the Vergennes Opera House on May 12 and 13, 2007, performing the concert piece, “Opus 94,” by Camille Saint-Saens. From June 27 to July 8, 2007, he toured Vermont with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra. In March, he participated in the Northeast Horn Workshop at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., performing a concert of music by living composers and conducting a horn choir of all participants. E-mail Alan at maestrodicorno@aol.com.

Sandy Schoen ’77 is the owner of the Lakeshore Resort in Traverse City.

The resort features beachfront weekly rentals of cottages and condominiums.

E-mail Sandy at vacation @lakeshoreresort.info.

Teresa (Kuzinski) Wilson ’78 is an elementary general music and classroom teacher at Providence Academy, a Catholic college preparatory school in Plymouth, Minn. Teresa’s husband, Jeff Wilson ex’80, is a senior vice president for First American Mutual Funds in Minnesota. E-mail Teresa at teresa.wilson@providenceacademy.org.

Diana Dorr ’79 has been recruiting and advising graduate business students and also does job placement in the master’s of business administration career services office at the University of Central Florida. E-mail Diana at ddorr75@yahoo.com.

Susan (Larson) Hutchings ’79 and husband, Bob, celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on a Carnival cruise in December 2007 with Soronian sister, Maggie (May) Campbell ’78 and husband, Tim. E-mail Susan at mlanes@cablespeed.com.

Larry Cibulka ’80 was recently promoted to regional sales director in Michigan and northern Indiana for the Reynolds & Reynolds Company. He has been with the company for 26 years. E-mail Larry at Lawrence_cibulka@reyrey.com.

Randy Wiltse ’77 was recently promoted to senior vice president of the Business and Technology Integration Office at State Farm’s corporate headquarters in Bloomington, Ill. E-mail Randy at wilmann@prodigy.net.

Christine Arvidson ’78 is the new assistant director of the National Committee for the New River, a three-state organization that works to protect the New River and its watershed through land protections, restoration and advocacy. She and husband, Henry Doss, are enjoying their new home in Todd, N.C. E-mail Christine at chris@ncnr.org.

SHIPHERD’ S

Tina (Sandor) Bunce ’78, along with husband, Mark Bunce ’77, Emily Byrens, former music professor at Olivet, and David Jackson ’78, sang with the Canterbury Singers, a semi-professional choir made up of singers from Indiana, Michigan, New York, Ohio and Tennessee, during the group’s residency at York Minster from Dec. 28, 2007 to Jan. 1, 2008. Danford Byrens, former music professor at Olivet, provided assistance to the group’s organist for all the services.

E-mail Tina at tbunce@bgsu.edu.

1980s

Sue Topping ’77 toured Western Canada and Alaska in June 2007 with the Michigan State Dave Topping with sister Sue Topping ’77 University Alumni Touring Band. It was her sixth tour. The 65-piece band travels every third year, playing concerts in a variety of venues. E-mail Sue at ToppingSM@aol.com.

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Clint Askins ’78 is an account manager on the Sprint Account Team for HewlettPackard in Kansas. He returned for Homecoming 2007 for the first time in 27 years. Clint and wife, Jennifer, live in Missouri. E-mail Clint at Clint.askins@hp.com.

RECORD

Jill (Sours) Daniel ’80 and husband, Darrin, celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on June 8, 2008. They have two sons, Ryan, 23, and Jeff, 20.

Jill has owned her own catering service, Daniel Menu & Party Consulting, for 13 years. E-mail Jill at jdmenu@embarqmail.com.

Debra (Staines) Black ’81 was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa, an international honor society for two year colleges. Deb is attending Lansing Community College, pursuing a degree in early childhood education. E-mail Deb at Dblack5278@aol.com.

Karen (Wilson) Van Hentenryck ’81 and Miles Vieau ’74 met by chance when their sons, Sean Van Hentenryck and Connor Vieau, combined their musical talents to earn top marks at a local solo and ensemble festival on Dec. 10, 2007.

Sean, a string bassist, and Connor, a bassoonist, are both seventh graders at the Scranton Middle School in Brighton. E-mail Karen at Karenvan@HL7.org and Miles at kmvieau@comcast.net.

(Photo to left from left): Tina (Sandor) Bunce ’78, Emily Byrens, Danford Byrens, David Jackson ’78 and Mark Bunce ’77 in front of the stone choir screen at York Minster in York, England.

Christy Klein ’82 was honored recently for working at Starr Commonwealth in Albion for the past 20 years as a teacher and a teacher consultant. She lives with daughters, Amelia and Natalie. E-mail Christy at bannistc@calhounisd.org.

Steven La Joie ’82 is currently the assistant principal at Eaton Academy and expects to complete the requirements of his doctoral degree in educational leadership in 2009. E-mail Steven at slajoie@sbcglobal.net.

Lesley (Gilbert) Schinbeckler ’82 added an associate to her dental practice in Indiana, after she had a bike accident in March 2007. Lesley is now working three days a week. She and husband, Gary, have one son, Grant, 11. E-mail Lesley at lkgilbert@sbcglobal.net Sarah (Deuel) Shembarger ’82 teaches fifth grade at Sylvester Elementary School in Berrien Springs. Husband, Mike, is the principal for Sylvester and Mars Elementary Schools. Sarah has a daughter, Emily, and two stepsons, Matt and Scott. E-mail Sarah at sarahshembarger@att.net.

Jackie Bradley ’83 is working for Foliage Design Systems, based in Grand Rapids, which specialize in “green” interiors and plant-scapes.

She also volunteers with Earthwatch, specializing in sea turtles. Jackie has one son.

E-mail Jackie at jackiebradley61@aol.com.

Jackie Bradley ’83

Susan Jones ’83 is in her fourth year of coaching her son, Benjamin, 9, and his friends in soccer and summer baseball in Tekonsha. E-mail Susan at mm_jones@peoplepc.com.

Orlando Alumni Social hosted by Sandy ’68 and Winifred Aranyos, from left: Norma (Foltz) Rogers ’67, Dominic Livedoti ’65, Beth Fleming-Brown ’75, Walt ’58 and Theresa Parker.

Karla Harding ’85 is working in Coldwater, in a customer support and information technology support position. She met with her Sigma sisters, Kim Hancock ’85 and Sue Felter ’86, during Homecoming 2007. E-mail Karla at karla.harding@mchsi.com.

Susan Larson ’86 is finishing her third year of teaching kindergarten at Jennings Elementary School in Quincy. E-mail Susan at sel63larson@aol.com.

Lisa Ogren ’87 has worked in mental health and rehabilitation counseling for 20 years. In 1992 she earned her master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from Michigan State University. E-mail Lisa at bubbadella@yahoo.com.

Roger Weise ’87 is a personal lines underwriting supervisor for Foremost Insurance Group in Grand Rapids. Roger and wife, Cathy, live in Caledonia with 17-year-old twins, Jenna and Jordan. They enjoy vacationing, attending sporting events, gardening, exercising and spending time with family and friends. E-mail Roger at roger.weise@foremost.com.

Annie (Chetcuti) Albanice ’88 is executive assistant and part owner of a familyowned auto supply company, Quality Metalcraft, Inc. in Livonia. She and husband, James, have two sons, Alex, 6, and Dylan, 4. E-mail Annie at chetalb@comcast.net. .

Marianne (Stavale) Benkoski ’88 is an independent certified post rehabilitation therapist and personal trainer. After college, she worked at the Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan in Detroit for 10 years, was then transferred and worked in many hospitals and fitness clubs. She also was a traveling therapist in Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. She and husband, Dave, have lived in northern Virginia for nearly 11 years and have three daughters, Brooke Anya, 4, Morgan Sophia, 2, and Emerson Marie, 6 months. E-mail Marianne at mariannestavale@comcast.net.

Perry LaHaie ’83 moved to Phoenix, Ariz., in August 2007, to join a faith-based organization called Frontiers.

They work to build bridges of trust with Muslims in more than 40 countries. Perry is using radio and music to recruit people to join in this peace-making venture around the world. E-mail Perry at perry.lahaie@gracetogo.org.

Theresa (Baley) Nocchi ’83 is a manager at a JoAnn Fabrics in New Jersey, where she and husband, Stefano, have lived for 20 years. They have two daughters, Elissa, 24, and Paige, 4, and a granddaughter. E-mail Theresa at TNocchi@optonline.net.

Melody Askew ex’84 has been the assistant director of finance for more than 10 years for Harper Creek Community Schools in Battle Creek. Melody earned her master’s in business administration from Spring Arbor University in 2004. Since 2005, Melody has served as board secretary to His Hand Compassionate Ministries, Inc., a non-profit company that offers assistance to residents of Emmett and Leroy Townships. E-mail Melody at askewm@harpercreek.net.

Kappa Sigs from the ’80s gathered recently, (from left): Robert Kubiak ’82, Robert Sipka ’84, Lynn Johnson ’86, Mark Maurer ’84, Andy Tinsley ’84, Mike Bohnet ’84, Mike Hescott ’87, Ed Heator ’80, Rocky Johnson ’85 and Tim Whalen ’84.

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Class Notes Leonard Kaigler ’88 has worked at State Farm Insurance for 19 years and has been an agency field executive since 2006. Leonard and wife, Suzanne, live in Illinois. E-mail Leonard at Leonard.l.kaigler.cimt@statefarm.com.

Mark Raczkowski ’88 is the assistant football coach at Jackson High School.

Mark is making improvements to his Cooperstown Sports Complex in Jackson and renovating the concession stand to have more of a bar-like setting. E-mail Mark at mraczkowski@ejs.k12.mi.us.

Elaine (Adkinson) ’88 and John ’88 Ross both teach at the University of Minnesota-Morris (UM-M). Elaine teaches music theory, composition, saxophone and music history. She earned her doctorate in music theory/composition in 2005 at Texas Tech University. John is the director of bands and professor of conducting and clarinet. E-mail John at johnstanleyross@hometownsolutions.net.

Gregory Wrench ’88 has been living in New York City for 10 years. Before taking a sabbatical three years ago, Gregory was working as a quality control manager for the department of environmental protection. He now volunteers for various organizations and is taking classes at New York University. E-mail Gregory at Gregory_wrench@hotmail.com.

1990s Dan Davis ’90 was recently named the head football coach at Mansfield University in Mansfield, Pa. Mansfield plays sprint football, which means everyone has to weigh 172 pounds or less, including linemen. It is a unique game, played by only six teams in the country. The rest of Mansfield’s athletic programs are Division II. Wife, Michelle (Ceasar) ’90, owns Evart Country Stop, a small deli and soup restaurant in Evart, near Cadillac. E-mail Dan at dddavis@usa.com and Michelle at michelle40768@yahoo.com.

James “Jimmer” Bosch ’91 is employed by the National Bioenergy Center and the Pubic Relations Department at the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colo. NREL is the only national laboratory dedicated to renewable energy research and development.

Jimmer and wife, Lynsey, have two sons, Timothy, 4, and Nicholas, 9 months.

E-mail Jimmer at JamesBosch@msn.com.

Lennie Morgan ’89 is a senior vice president for Willis of Michigan, Inc., an insurance company. Lennie is a single dad, living in South Lyon, with his two children, Leonard Jr., 9, and Gabbriella, 6. E-mail Lennie at lennie.morgan@willis.com.

Arthur McCabe ’91 is the co-chief technology officer for Voice-over Internet Protocol (VolP), a leading provider of communications solutions. Since Front row from left: Mary (Kelly) Sherwood ’91, ’00 November 2003, MAT; Kim (Baker) Richardson ’91; Kelly (Fuller) Arthur has been Roe ’90. Back row: Lisa (Tornai) Williams ex’92, director of engineering/ Esther (Dykstra) Lastacy ’98, Georgina (Fry) Hill ’91, software development Laura (Oestreich) Schrader ’92. at VoIP, where he has been in charge of a team of engineers and programmers responsible for software development and maintenance of the company’s database servers.

STAY CONNECTED WITH OLIVET COLLEGE

E-NEWSLETTER

Scott Lukowski ’89 manages the Bay City/Saginaw office for Bankers Life and Gregory Wrench ’88 Casualty, his employer for more than 15 years. Wife, Tracy (Oswald) ’90, is a corporate controller in Clare. Their daughters are Kylie, 7, and Meagan, 4.

E-mail Scott at salukowski@msn.com and Tracy at tracylukowski@msn.com.

CLASS NOTES

Turn yourself in for Shipherd’s Record Class Notes. Send your notes to the Office of Alumni Relations, 320 S. Main St., Olivet, MI 49076. You may also e-mail your information to alumnirelations@olivetcollege.edu.

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You don’t have to wait for Shipherd’s Record to stay up-to-date on what’s happening at Olivet College. Subscribe to Olivet’s free monthly E-newsletter. Developed with alumni and friends in mind, the E-newsletter contains news and notes about Olivet’s students, faculty, staff and alumni. This service is only available to those alumni and friends who subscribe, so sign up today by sending an e-mail to collegerelations@olivetcollege.edu.

From left: Julie (Eastman) Smith ’94, Jamie (Culver) Tatman ’93, Andrea (Clegg) Recor ’94, Shantel (Dietrich) Launstein ’93, Jen Bagrowski ’93, and Lisa (Minix) Wester ’93.

Scott Sigler ’91 saw his first major hardcover novel, “INFECTED,” published

by Crown Publishing on April 1, 2008. The book has been optioned for a movie by Rogue Pictures and will be printed in Belgian, Dutch, English, Japanese and Russian. Scott lives in San Francisco, with wife, Jody. He keeps a Web site (www.scottsigler.net), where he offers free audio versions of all his novels.

E-mail Scott at scott@taxicommunications.com.

Laura (Oestreich) Schrader ’92 and the rest of her 1989 Sigma Beta pledge class got together recently, celebrating pledging 19 years ago. E-mail Laura at laj052@hotmail.com.

Rich Capitan ’93 moved to Alaska immediately following graduation to work seasonally in wildlife biology studies before deciding to go back to school. He met his wife while working at the Alaska Sea Life Center in Seward. He is now an environmental educator, working at the Imaginarium Science Museum in Anchorage. E-mail Rich at richcapitan@aol.com.

Kiki (Cook) Gleneski ’93, after having stayed home with her three children for several years, was recently hired as the director of Christian Education at the First Congregational Church in Wayne. E-mail Kiki at kgleneski@yahoo.com.

Roman Stansberry ’93

Roman Stansberry ’93 recently finished his 10th year working at Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill. He is the coordinator of the visual media collection of slides and digital images, which professors and students use in their classes to aid in teaching. Roman also has a photography business. He shoots artwork as well as headshots for aspiring models. E-mail Roman at voltarus@gmail.com.

Andrea (Clegg) Recor ’94 is a realtor for Snyder, Kinney, Bennett and Keating Sotheby’s International Realty in Birmingham. Every year she and her Sigma Beta sisters get together at Torch Lake for an annual “girls” weekend. E-mail Andrea at andgirl4@hotmail.com.

John Pratt ’96 is a special education teacher in Hawaii. E-mail John at spedpratt@aol.com.

Barbara (Markowski) Banyai ’97 is finishing her ninth year as an eighth grade language arts teacher at Lincoln Park Middle School in Lincoln Park. Barbara and husband, Brian, have a daughter, Brighton, 7. E-mail Barbara at banyaib @lpark.k12.mi.us.

From left: Marci (Ritchie) Fonti ’97, Sherri (Polk) ’94, Sarah (Walsworth) Carpenter ’97 and Tonya (Neithamer) Sandborn ’98.

Pamela (Croft) Crowe ’97 is in her fourth year as a Department of Defense Dependent Schools teacher in Osan, Republic of Korea. Osan American High School is located on the Osan Air Base and is a 712 grade school with 390 students. Pamela and husband, Patrick, were married July 11, 2003. E-mail Pamela at prae4crowe@yahoo.com.

Sarah (Walsworth) Carpenter ’97, married to Bryan Carpenter ’98, walked in the Breast Cancer Three Day Walk Sept. 27 to 29, 2007 and will do the same in 2008. E-mail Sarah at sarah.carpenter@eds.com.

Carrie (Chalik) Crandall ’97 is a marketing specialist at Borgess Health Medical Center in Kalamazoo. She and husband, Roger, have two children, Kylee, 5, and Alyssa, 8. E-mail Carrie at carriecrandall@borgess.com.

Beth (Williams) Rogers ’98 is a special education teacher in the Ferguson-Florissant School District near St. Louis, Mo. She and husband, David, have been married 10 years. E-mail Beth at poeticpenpal@hotmail.com.

Karri (Anderson) Shankel ’95 is an eighth grade reading teacher and basketball coach at Girard Middle School in Dothan, Ala. Karri and husband, Douglas, have been married for 10 years and have two sons, Hunter, 8, and Paul, 4. E-mail Karri at dkshankel@centurytel.net.

Tracie Baiz-Adams ’96, is a chartered retirement planning counselor and started her own company, Baiz-Adams Retirement Planning, in 2003. She does corporate 401k plans and personal retirement planning. She lives in Sacramento, Calif., and has two daughters, Tiffany, 19, and Madison, 5. E-mail Tracie at Tracie@BaizAdams.com.

Caryl Fittro ’96, ’00 MAT, is teaching fourth grade in Colon. Caryl was a stay-athome mother for her six children before earning her bachelor’s and Master of Arts in Teaching degrees at Olivet. She enjoys writing children’s literature and educational materials. E-mail Caryl at sassyclassylady@hotmail.com.

Tracie Baiz-Adams ’96

Bobbi (Topp) ’99 and Landon Casey ’99 have been married for seven years. Bobbi, who earned her master’s in social work from Michigan State University in 2004, is a co-occurring wraparound coordinator and adventure group leader at Kalamazoo County Community Mental Health Services. Landon is working for Precision Framing in Eaton Rapids, and finishing his architecture degree from Lansing Community College. They built their own home in Bellevue. E-mail Bobbi at BCasey@kazoocmh.org.

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Class Notes Christina “Chots” Chateauvert ’99 graduated with a master’s in training and development from Oakland University in May 2007. “Chots” was promoted to a level-three corporate trainer at Flagstar Bank. She also moved into her first house and adopted a puppy. E-mail Christina at Christina.M.Chateauvert@flagstar.com.

2000s Mitch Lawens ’00 was recently promoted to the underwriting branch manager position for Auto-Owners Insurance Co. in Lakeland, Fla. E-mail Mitch at mlawens@hotmail.com.

Samantha (Wood) Schultz ’02 earned her master’s in student affairs administration from Western Michigan University in April 2007. She is the assistant dean of student services and registrar at the Robert B. Miller College in Battle Creek.

Gail (Hoag) Lakatos ’01 is the junior varsity girls’ soccer coach at Tecumseh High School in Tecumseh. E-mail Gail at gailhoag@hotmail.com.

Jason Creager ’03 is a member of the Savannah Shamrocks Rugby team in Savannah, Ga. E-mail Jason at jasoncreager 22@yahoo.com.

Erika Hinga-Smith ’01 helped organize and runs a program at Three Rivers High School for students with emotional impairments and behavior disorders. She also works for Portage Public Schools as a behavioral specialist for the Curious Kids Daycare Program. She officiates basketball, volleyball and softball games. E-mail Erika at ehinga@trschools.org.

Jason Creager ’03 Hector Plahar ’03 is a software engineer for Cataphora, the world’s authority on the implications of personal and organizational behavior as evidenced by the use of electronic media. He is currently living in the San Francisco Bay area. E-mail Hector at hector.plahar@gmail.com.

Jeena (Bowers) Smith ’01 was promoted to district manager at Western and Southern Financial Group in South Bend, Ind. Jeena is married to Jeffrey Smith ’02. E-mail Jeena at jeena.smith@wslife.com.

Nancy Rentz ’03 is in graduate school at Michigan State University, working on her master’s in food safety with a concentration in food-borne diseases. E-mail Nancy at rentznk@yahoo.com.

Eric Thompson ’01 and wife, Meredith, live in Houston, Texas. Eric is the head wrestling coach and assistant football coach, and is teaching social studies at Clear Creek High School. He started the wrestling program in the fall of 2006.

In his second year, his team placed first in districts, second in a 16-team tournament, second in Houston’s Team Duals and third in the Elite 8 Tournament, and three of his students qualified for the state championship.

Before going to Clear Creek, Eric taught at Lemar High School in Houston. E-mail Eric at ethompso@ccisd.net.

Candice Wilson ’03 recently made the dean’s list in her third year at Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing. E-mail Candice at cdub_33@hotmail.com.

Annie (Deschoff) Eggleston ’02, ’07 MAT, is working at Northeast Eaton Consortium Alternative High School in Lansing as a health and Allison Choike ’05 personal conditioning teacher and also coaches volleyball at Charlotte High School with Alana Fox ’02. Annie ran the Grand Rapids Marathon with a time of 4:12.50 in the fall. She has a daughter, Chloe, 3, and a son, Kyle, 1. Email Annie at deschoff237@hotmail.com.

Marna Miller ’02 left the United States in January 2008 to be a missionary in Botswana. Visit Marna at www.myspace.com/marnamiller.

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Rebecca Wright-Somsel ’03 teaches children with visual impairments in the Hillsdale Intermediate School District. E-mail Rebecca at nickywright49068@yahoo.com.

Allison Choike ’05 was named the Moss-Holland Civilian Journalist of the Year for the U.S. Army Installation Management Command West Region. Allison also won first-place for photojournalism in the Maj. Gen. Keith L. Ware Journalism Competition for her photos and story of the Military Police Warfighter Challenge.

Her newspaper, the Guidon, won first place in both the metro newspaper category and special publications. E-mail Allison at Allison.choike@us.army.mil.

McKinsey Golfin ’05 was a guest speaker for the college’s criminal justice program on Feb. 27, 2008. McKinsey is a corrections officer at Macomb County Correctional Institute in Detroit. E-mail McKinsey at hitmeup1tyme@yahoo.com.

Wade Nichols ’05 is the education coordinator for the American Red Cross Great Lakes Region Blood Services. E-mail Wade at w_nichols@prodigy.net.

Christopher Onze ’05 is a first year music teacher in Bridgeport, Conn. He and wife, Beth, have been married six years and have two children, Layla, 5, and Matthew, 4. E-mail Chris at sirchriseducator@hotmail.com.

Amy Jo Parish ’05 is the technical director at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center in Charlotte. E-mail Amy Jo at parishamyjo@hotmail.com.

Bonita Beach Alumni Social hosted by Fred ’70 and Jill Parker and Roger ’68 and Peggy Piddington, from left: “Camel Drivers” reunite, Tom Curlin ’66 and Terry Connon ’65

Rev. Jeffery Lang ’86 Jeffery Lang graduated from Olivet in 1986 with a communications degree, marking the beginning of his educational and professional endeavors. In addition to earning a master’s degree in adult and continuing education from Michigan State University (MSU) in 1999, Lang is currently working on his doctorate in agricultural and extension education at MSU. Lang is the senior pastor of Southside Church in Jackson. “I became involved with ministry while on campus at Olivet,” he said. “I struggled with some spiritual challenges and eventually answered my call to preach, delivering my sermon at Olivet Congregational Church.”

He is a certified New and Old Testament instructor for the National Rev. Jeffery Lang ’86 Baptist Convention USA, Inc., and has served as a youth pastor, educator and public speaker throughout his career. He has also served as a chaplain at Sparrow Health System in Lansing, the Ionia Maximum Correctional Facility and the MSU Department of Police and Public Safety (DPPS).

In addition to his current duties as pastor, Lang is chief executive officer of The Nehemiah Group, a faith-based agency in Lansing, which provides consulting to non-profit and private organizations. “I primarily do mission outreach through Nehemiah, working with international groups and training others in the area of short-term missions,” he said. “One of our primary projects is Project Y.O.U.T.H. (Youth Outreach and Understanding that Touches Hearts). My children are a part of this as well.”

An advocate for health awareness in the African-American community, Lang is a certified HIV/AIDS counselor in the state of Michigan and in 2006 was appointed by Gov. Jennifer Granholm to the Michigan Commission for Disability Concerns.

He has received many awards and honors, including the Outstanding Young Men of America and Who’s Who of Rising Young Americans awards, and a unit citation for Excellence in Crisis Intervention Work from the MSU DPPS. Lang speaks at colleges and specialized conferences, and in various church groups, covering topics such as the Christian church’s role in the lives of African-American males and success through spirituality. Presently, he is working with ministries in Liberia and Kenya and developing three book projects through Lift Every Voice Publications. He resides with his wife, Sonya Ren’a, and their children, Jeffery Arnez II and Joy Denise, in Lansing.

E-mail Jeffery at pastorlang@excite.com

Hiram Archer Hiram Archer, Olivet’s first documented African-American alumnus, is the epitome of the type of student Olivet pursues.

Upon graduating from Olivet in the 1890s, he earned a doctorate from Yale University. He went on to serve as president of an allblack college in Selma, Alabama. Following, he finished his career with the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C., as a nationally-recognized scientist. Archer passed away in 1945, having served Olivet College proud. His life’s work is the essence of Olivet College’s academic vision, Education for Individual and Social Responsibility.

Washington D.C. Alumni Social hosted

by Rick ’80 and Cindy Beyer

From bottom to top: 1st row: Jim Brunger ’71, Elsie (Erlich) Ilgner ex’51 2nd row: Rick Beyer ’80, Dan Pantaleo ’85, Jackie Pantaleo, Mark Veich 3rd row: Bill Bouie, Andrea Rutledge, President Don Tuski ’85 4th row: Marty (Mason) Jennings ’67, Sue (Gillespie) Kessler, Jim Miller, Larry Murphy ’75 5th row: Nicole Chestang, Cindy Beyer, Sandy Overbey 6th row: Carolyn Morse ex’62, Mike Morse ’61, Janet (Stamm) Zeaiter ’07, Ahmad Zeaiter ’05 SPRING

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Class Notes Steffen Cornell ’06 is part of the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) team in the asset management division of the Michigan Department of Transportation in Lansing. E-mail Steffen at cornels@michigan.gov.

Marie Gouba ’06 has been accepted into the musical theatre program at the Central School of Speech and Drama at the University of London in England.

She is currently living in New Hampshire, where she has sung with the Handel Society, and has been involved in several local and New York City productions.

She works in the Music Library of Dartmouth University and has established a private studio of voice students. E-mail Marie at Marie.Gouba @Dartmouth.edu.

Marie Gouba ’06 and Eunice Oladele ’07

Stephanie Green ’06 was recently promoted to general ledger accountant at the Van Andel Institute in Grand Rapids. E-mail Stephanie at Stephanie.green@vai.org.

Lindsey (Cord) Locker ’06 earned her master’s in social work from Western Michigan University in April 2008. She is working part-time as a case manager, traveling to adult foster care homes throughout Michigan. She and husband, Beau ’04, celebrated their fifth anniversary in June 2008.

Simone McSparran ’06 embarked on a six-month trip to Africa as a volunteer for a grassroots Ethiopian organization, called the Rainbow Humanitarian Caretaker Foundation, in March 2007. She was their first volunteer to assist them with rural project development, mainly dealing with research, and proposal and grant writing.

She also developed basic marketing tools for fund-raising. E-mail Simone at violettrees@hotmail.com.

Brad O’Bright ’06 worked in Utah for seven months, interning with a forest service through the Student Conservation Association. He then moved to Prince George, British Columbia, where he is working for the Timberline Natural Resources Group, a forest inventory and consulting firm. Brad is in the forest operations department, doing timber cruising, which involves performing field work before a logging company comes in and cuts desired areas. E-mail Brad at odark@hotmail.com.

Katherine “Kat” Roesch ’06 is taking two classes at the School of Public Health and Topical Medicine at Tulane University in New Orleans. Her interest is international health and development with a focus on nutrition and food security and, possibly, infectious diseases and HIV/AIDS. E-mail Kat at bkat2u@yahoo.com.

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New England Alumni Social, from left: Keith Parker ’66, Marty (Mason) Jennings ’67 and Mel Simms ex’65.

Josh Beischer ’07 was inducted into the Capac Sports Hall of Fame at Capac High School in October 2007. Josh, a two-time all-stater in wrestling at Capac, also participated in football and track in high school. He wrestled and played football at Olivet.

Angel Betz ’07, Leon Hilaski ’07 and Stephanie Nicolai ’07 are commercialtransportation underwriters for J.M. Wilson in Portage. E-mail Angel at abetz@jmwilson.com and Stephanie at olivetgolf@yahoo.com.

Tracey Fix ’07 is the office manager for a new company in Florida, Wilks QC Inc., which develops a quality control product for the beverage industry.

She is in charge of advertising, publicity, graphic design and marketing.

E-mail Tracey at t.a.fix@hotmail.com.

Darren Hamman ’07 has been promoted to energy resources specialty underwriter, dealing with the mining, petroleum and power industries for Chubb Insurance in Chicago. E-mail Darren at dhamman@chubb.com.

Danielle Kapral ’07 is a reporter for LA View, one of two newspapers in Lapeer.

E-mail Danielle at kaprald@gmail.com.

Hristo Kozhuharov ’07 is working on his master’s degree in organizational leadership and administration at Concordia University in Ann Arbor. Hristo is also working in the policy processing and audit departments at CoverX Corporation in Southfield. E-mail Hristo at hkozhuharov@yahoo.com.

James Lile ’07 has been promoted to underwriter for AIG Risk Management Commercial Accounts in San Francisco. E-mail James at james.lile@aig.com.

Todd Stafford ’07 is the ninth grade physical science teacher and assistant varsity football coach at a high school in Greenville, South Carolina. E-mail Todd at tstafford55@hotmail.com.

Upcoming Alumni Events July 18 Olivet College Golf Classic sponsored by the Comet Athletic Department July 19 Phi Alpha Pi Annual Golf Fund-raiser Alwyn Downs Golf Club Sept. 5 Traverse City Area Alumni Social Hosted by Bob ’67 and Pat (Roach) ’69 Lewallen Sept. 26 Insurance Program Golf Outing Michigan State University’s Forest Akers West Course Oct. 3-4 Homecoming (see back panel for more information) Football game vs. Albion, 2 p.m.

Dec. 18 Detroit Holiday Gathering Hosted by Bob Gillette ’63

Donald A. Morris Award Recipients aim High The Donald A. Morris Awards are presented annually to the graduating seniors with the highest grade point averages in their class. Each recipient, profiled below, is asked to select a professor whom they deemed most influential in their academic achievement.

BY ANDREW HOMER, FRESHMAN With a major in biology and a pre-medical concentration, Annie Bahling, from Alpena, has formed a strong skill set during her time at Olivet. Bahling has held membership with clubs and organizations including Alpha Psi Omega, Earthbound, and Alpha Pi Upsilon, Olivet’s pre-medical honors society.

Bahling said Susanne Lewis, Ph.D., chemistry program director and assistant professor of chemistry, had the greatest influence on her academic career. “Susanne believed in us and didn’t let us slack off,” she said.

Regarding Bahling, Lewis said, “I am looking forward to following Annie’s career as she moves on from Olivet.”

Hailing from Mason, Breanna Bath majored in biology and biochemistry with a pre-medical concentration at Olivet. She will be attending medical school at Michigan State University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Bath chose Leah Knapp, D.V.M., professor of biology and biology program director, as the professor who had the most profound effect on her academic career. “Leah is the type of person who goes the extra mile for her students,” Bath said. “She’ll sit down and help you through whatever it is you’re facing, whether it be with advising or applying to medical school.”

Knapp replied, “Aside from Bre’s obvious intelligence and academic ability, she is passionate about learning and has tremendous intellectual curiosity.”

Melanie Engels, from Battle Creek, majored in biochemistry and biology with a pre-medical/pre-pharmacy concentration at Olivet. Involving herself in many campus activities, including Alpha Pi Upsilon, she has strived to make the most of her college career.

Engels recognized John Wilterding, Ph.D., associate professor of biology and chemistry, for the Morris Award. “He was very helpful,” she said. “I would always go to him for help with things like honors courses.”

Engels is headed to the University of Michigan to continue her studies and reach her goal of immersing herself in a medical career.

Andrew Lansang, from Rock Springs, Wyo., majored in insurance and risk management with a minor in financial management. He has participated in various campus organizations, including Gamma Iota Sigma, the insurance and risk management society, where he was the vice president of portfolio for two years.

Lansang chose Mike Hubbel, insurance program director and professor of insurance and risk management, as the professor who had the greatest impact on him while at Olivet. “Professor Hubbel’s work outside the classroom goes above and beyond the typical duties of an instructor,” Lansang said.

With a major in insurance and risk management and a minor in business management, Jackie Lydy, from Kalamazoo, will soon be off to put her knowledge and abilities to good use. She chose Hubbel and Carol Breed, J.D., associate professor of insurance, as the professors who were most influential in her academic career.

“Both professors have been a great aid, both in the classroom and in Gamma Iota Sigma,” Lydy said.

Breed added, “Any venture Jackie takes on results in excellence. It is just like her to obtain her college education in three years instead of four and to earn honors in the process.”

With a double major in visual arts and biology, Dustin Meisner, from Erie, leaves Olivet as an accomplished graduate. His positions in campus organizations, such as treasurer of the Society

From left: Annie Bahling; Dustin Meisner; Breanna Bath; President Donald L. Tuski ’85; Ph.D., Jackie Lydy; Andrew Lansang; Melanie Engels and Amber Terberg.

of Hosford Scholars, have involved him with countless people, laying groundwork for professional relationships after college.

Assisting him along his way was Cynthia Eller, adjunct instructor of art. “Cynthia has helped me develop many different skills,” Meisner said. He added that Eller helped secure him an internship last summer with Medmovie.com, a medical illustration and animation company in Lexington, Ky. Amber Terberg, from Vermontville, pursued a double major in mathematics and business administration/financial management.

An active member of many organizations, including the business oriented Phi Beta Lambda; she has heavily involved herself in campus activities.

Throughout her time at Olivet, she has come to recognize how people have affected her for the better. Namely, she pointed out Susan Houston, professor of business. “Susan is always willing to assist me with anything from school work, to my portfolio, to job and interview preparation.” Terberg said.

Overflowing with ambition, Terberg accumulated enough credits to graduate in three years.

SPRING

2008

45

Class Notes

William Massey ’95 and Marija Krha ’01

MARRIAGES

Because of you...

Olivet Students Achieve

Rod Hathaway ’81 and Amy Wiljanen, July 7, 2007, in Wayland.

Wednesday Lee (Gunder) Friday ’92 and Hollingsworth Webster, Oct. 19, 2007.

Dave Cowen ’93 and Cheryl Hendrickson, Oct. 27, 2007, St. Gregory of Nyssa Episcopal Church in San Francisco. Josh Hosler ’94 was the best man. Sherri Termolen ’94 attended the wedding.

William Massey ’95 and Marija Krha ’01, April 28, 2007, officiated by Shayla Blankenship ’98. In the bridal party were Bryant Filter ’93, best man, Harry Quardokus ’00, groomsman, Dorothy (Copado) Hatch ’00, maid of honor, and Loretta Cox ’98, bridesmaid.

Carrie Chalik ’97 and Roger Crandall, Oct. 30, 2007, in Battle Creek.

Erika Hinga ’01 and Jason Smith, July 7, 2007, at Fisher Lake in Three Rivers.

Jeena (Bowers) Smith ’01 and Jeff Smith ’02, Jason’s twin brother, were their attendants.

Kristi Barker ’03 and Jeff Koenig, Aug. 11, 2007. Olivetians in the wedding included Louisa Grill ’03, Jamie (Hinkle) Pafford ’04 and Melissa Chovance ’05.

Rebecca Wright ’03 and Neil Somsel, Sept. 7, 2007, in Marshall.

Support the Alumni Council Scholarship Fund

W

With nearly every student receiving some sort of internal financial aid, Olivet College is dedicated to providing scholarships for its future graduates.

In order to adequately fund an education at Olivet, many of these scholarships depend on contributions from alumni and friends of the college.

The David C. Pywell ’69 Endowed Memorial and Alumni Council scholarships are awarded annually to students who most exemplify Education for Individual and Social Responsibility. They are given to young men and women who are not only academically talented, but dedicated to service and leaders in their communities.

Members of the Alumni Council wish to provide more of these scholarships to deserving students. All alumni have the opportunity to recognize these individuals by making a contribution to the Alumni Council Scholarship Fund.

If you are interested in making a donation, please contact Marty (Mason) Jennings ’67, director of alumni relations, at (269) 749-7644 or via e-mail at alumnirelations@olivetcollege.edu.

46

SHIPHERD’ S

RECORD

Amanda Adams ’05 and Steve Keinath, July 14, 2007, at Hidden Lake Gardens in Tipton. Attendants were Courtney Clift ’06 and Coleen Dziurlikowsi ’06.

Heather Boultinghouse ’05 and Pete Finney, Dec. 29, 2007, in Greenville.

Laura Fitch ’03, Libby Gibbons ’04 and Ashleigh Sutton ’05 were attendants.

Christopher Furlong ’05 and Karyn Bell, April 19, 2008, at Gull Lake Area Community Church.

Ashleigh Sutton ’05 and John Lochner, March 29, 2008, Waldenwoods in Hartland. Olivetians in the wedding were Libby Gibbons ’04 and Heather (Boultinghouse) Finney ’05. The couple went to London, England on their honeymoon.

Gabe Pringle ’06 and Natalie Barnes, July 7, 2007. Craig Carpenter ’07, Jason Shinabarger ’05 and Michael Storer ’04 were in the wedding.

Gabe Pringle ’06 and Natalie Barnes Russ Fried ’08 and Sarah Himm, July 21, 2007, at Grand Valley State University. Mike Fales ’75 officiated the ceremony.

Ryan Fried ’04, brother of the groom, was the best man. Russ is the general manager for Jimmy John’s in Grand Rapids, and Sarah is a certified nursing assistant.

In Memoriam Florence (Efty) Richardson ’38, April 25, 2008.

Barbara (Thomas) Broberg ’39, Nov. 6, 2007. She is survived by brother, Rev. Grafton “Mac” Thomas ’37, and his wife, Ruth (Yotter) Thomas ’38.

Ann Louise Pfister Klute ex’39, Sept. 19, 2007.

Michael Francis Bachmann

Arthur MacAdams Jr. ’39, Nov. 6, 2007.

BIRTHS

William T. Orr ’40, May 9, 2007. He is survived by daughter, Kathy (Orr) Alberts ’65 and son, Steve Orr ’69.

Lisa (Barroso) Bachmann ’91, and husband, Jeffrey, a son, Michael Francis, Dec. 10, 2007. He joins Isabella, 3, Olivia, 2, and Dominic, 1.

Rev. Virgil Allard ’41, Aug. 29, 2007.

Rich Capitan ’93 and wife, Alison, a son, Ethan, March 2, 2007.

William ’95 and Marija (Krha) ’01 Massey, a son, Luka Parker, Dec. 20, 2007. He joins sister, Julia Marie.

Laura Clifford-Podolsky ’97 and husband, Adam, twins, son and daughter, Benjamin William and Katherine Mindy, Dec. 31, 2007.

Jason Conkin ’97 and wife, Jeanne, a son, Jay Mac, Aug. 3, 2007.

Jay Mac Conkin

Tonya (Niethamer) Sandborn ’97 and husband, Josh, a daughter, Lily Lynn, Aug. 29, 2007. She joins sisters, Abby, 6, and Chloe, 4.

Shayla ’98 and Erin (Western) ’98 Blankenship, a son, Griffin Elliott, Dec. 10, 2007.

Michelle (Sadley) Buchanan ’99 and husband, Eric, a son, Connor Mason, July 2, 2007. He joins brother, Derek Reece, 1.

Dr. Manu Chatterjee ’41, Nov. 19, 2007.

Mark Norris III ’42, Feb. 15, 2007.

Dr. Robert “Bobbo” Carson ’43, Jan. 19, 2008.

Elizabeth “Betty” Rathbun ’44, Feb. 29, 2008.

Dorothy (Gifford) Humphreys ’48, Nov. 24, 2007.

John Ray ’50, Nov. 14, 2007.

Noel N. Vore ’51, May 2, 2008.

Miles Cooperman ex’53, Nov. 20, 2006.

James Craigie ’54, Feb. 18, 2005.

Doss Park ’55, Dec. 20, 2007.

Clifford House ’58, Jan. 7, 2008.

William Geddes ’60, Sept. 28, 2007.

Camilo Quesdada ’61, Sept. 2007.

J. Gilbert Purse ’63, Feb. 1, 2008. He is survived by sister Marilyn (Purse) Dean ’60.

Ray Woods ’66, Dec. 11, 2007.

Tom Anderson ’00 and wife, Andrea, a daughter, Ava Irene, July 10, 2007.

She joins Ethan Quay, 5, and Peyton Ann, 3.

Nancy Whistler ’67, July 2, 2007.

Dorothy (Copado) Hatch ’00 and husband, Joseph, a daughter, Sidney, Aug. 7, 2007.

Ann (Travis) Pedler ’73, Nov. 30, 2007.

Mitch Lawens ’00 and wife, Kim, a son, Cooper Jay. He joins sister, Amelia Susan, 2.

Erika Hinga-Smith ’01 and husband, Jason, a son, Jaxon James, Oct. 17, 2007. He joins brother, Javon, 4.

Andy Wood ’02 and wife, Monique, a daughter, Elianna Victoria, March 15, 2008. She joins brother, Oskar, 2, sister, Deanna, 2, and sister, Zoie, 1.

James Michael Hay ex’72, Nov. 8, 2007.

Ron Hobday ex’74, June 17, 2007. He is survived by brother, John Hobday ’72 and sister, Marcia (Hobday) Brown ’76.

James “Jim” Kelly ’74, April 1, 2008.

Jerry Otero ’78 and wife, Kelli, May 1, 2008.

Rick Vedder ’83, May 14, 2008.He is survived by his parents Dick ex’54 and Annette Vedder and sisters Laura Vedder ’82 and Polly Rapp.

Teresa Marie (Fritz) Fowler ’96, March 22, 2008.

FORMER EMPLOYEES AND FRIENDS

Sarah (Griswold) ’04 and Michael ’05 Hall, a son, Logan Andrew, July 8, 2007.

Jessie Boxwell, Nov. 8, 2007, wife of Dan Boxwell, former minister of Olivet Congregational Church.

Steffen Cornell ’06 and wife, Renae, a daughter, Louella Pearl, Oct. 8, 2007.

Albert Deal, Feb. 14, 2008, presented with an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Olivet College in 1987. Albert was the commissioner of the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) for 20 years.

Jeffrey ’07 and Katrina (Williams) ex’07 Thigpen, a son, Adam Jeremiah, Oct. 5, 2007.

Madge Collins, Feb. 29, 2008, Olivet College custodian for 20 years.

Steffen Cornell ’06 with daughter, Louella Pearl

Mel Larimer, March 27, 2008, former music professor from August 1970 to December 1975. He is survived by wife, Joan (Crabil) ’77.

Charles Mefford, Dec. 8, 2007, father of Chuck Mefford, Jr. ’76. Charles donated funds to completely renovate WOCR, Olivet College’s radio station.

Richard Mulvaine, Nov. 7 2007, Olivet College cook for 22 years.

Wilma Hutchens Saums, Oct. 21, 2007, secretary to the dean in the 1970s.

SPRING

2008

47

REMEMBERING

1935-2008

T

Donald A. Morris

BY MOLLY (REED) GOALEY ’05

Throughout his life, Donald Morris, Ph.D., filled many positions as an administrator and journalist and served on numerous boards. His career found him reporting for the Detroit Times, serving as an executive vice president at Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, N.Y., and acting as a trustee for several colleges and associations. But at Olivet, Morris, who passed away April 16, 2008 after a long illness, is most remembered for serving 15 years as the college’s 22nd president.

“He had a very distinguished career,” said Kathy Hoag, who was Morris’ administrative assistant during his tenure at Olivet. “But the bottom line, from my perspective, is that he was genuine. He was good with people – he cared about them and took time to get to know them – he loved them.”

Morris served as president of the college from 1977 to 1992. During that time, Hoag, who is now administrative assistant to the president of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Michigan, says his first priority was always the students.

“Dr. Morris was very dedicated to and loved Olivet – the students came first for him,” she said. “He had a heartfelt compassion for them. He always felt the college was there to serve students and, ultimately, that was what he was there for.”

Hoag recalls a program Morris created where every graduating senior was invited to meet with him to discuss their time at the college.

“The seniors weren’t required to do this, but they were invited to come by his office to discuss their Olivet experience,” she said. “Dr. Morris would ask them questions like, ‘Why did you choose to come to Olivet? Would you do it again? What did you like and dislike about the college? What should we do differently?’ And a lot of things came out of that because

students are on campus 24/7 for nine months out of the year.

A lot of students took him up on that and ended up meeting with him.

“He always wished students the best as they left and began to commence their careers in life,” she added. “He encouraged them to keep in touch with their alma mater and return often. He wanted them to know, at the place they called home for four years, the door was still open.”

In honor of Morris’ commitment to students, the college established an award in his name. The Donald A. Morris Award is presented every year to the top graduating seniors with the highest grade point average, as well as the professors they have chosen as the most influential in their academic achievement. (See pg. 45 for the 2007-08 Donald A. Morris Award recipients.)

Morris encouraged his employees to always put students first, as well. “He led with a steady but gentle grace,” Hoag said.

“We’d all go home feeling very good about what we did that made a difference in the lives of the students that we served at Olivet.”

In addition, Hoag said Morris took the time to get to know every staff and faculty member on a first-name basis. “It didn’t matter what position the person held on campus – he knew everyone,” she said. “And while all of us referred to him as ‘Dr. Morris’ or ‘President Morris,’ he always made it very clear to us that he was ‘Don.’ He would say, ‘You don’t work for me – we work together at Olivet College.’”

Hoag, a resident of Olivet, remained close to Morris up until his death and stays in contact with his family, including wife, Zella, and children, Dwight ’82 and Julie. “We miss him terribly,” she said. “It was a privilege to work 12 wonderful, exciting years with him. It’s hard to put into words, but I have memories that will last the rest of my life.”

Deyan ’08 and Hristo ’07 Kozhuharov

At the beginning, Hristo, Deyan and the rest of the team created a list of employers who they thought would benefit from meeting Olivet College students and sent an initial mailing to them announcing the fair.

They also advertised to Olivet students via e-mails, brochures and flyers distributed throughout campus. They even invited students from across the state to attend for a $10 admission fee.

As a result, the Kozhuharov brothers had such employers attend as U.S. Customs and Border Protection; school districts from Battle Creek, Charlotte and Lansing; Starr Commonwealth; and several major insurance companies throughout Michigan, including Amerisure Insurance Company, Auto-Owners Insurance Company, and AIG.

Brothers with a Mission

M

BY PAM RUTYNA

More than six years ago, Olivet College began an employers’ fair for students interested in pursuing a job or internship after leaving school. The Kozhuharov brothers became involved with the project in 2005 and made it their mission to improve the fair.

Hristo ’06 and senior Deyan Kozhuharov, from Bulgaria, took on the project when Deyan was a sophomore and Hristo a junior. Both insurance and risk management majors, the two became involved when Hristo was vice president of career services for Gamma Iota Sigma (GIS), Olivet’s insurance and risk management student organization. Although the Career Services Network sponsors the event every year, GIS helps to coordinate it.

For two years, Deyan was his brother’s assistant and together they greatly increased the number of company representatives attending the event. At the 2006 fair they had 25 attendees (twice the number during previous years) and in 2007 they doubled the number of employers again to 50. This year, with Deyan at the helm, 52 employers registered.

The reason for the initial increase, says Deyan, was because his brother brought a lot of ideas to his role as vice president of career services and revamped the entire process of inviting employers.

According to Hristo, he wanted to help reorganize the employers’ fair because he saw it as a challenge. “We had a team of six students who coordinated the fair and many GIS members who assisted us the day it took place,” he said. This was an opportunity to manage, organize and lead fellow students to create something from which everyone on campus would benefit.”

“We try our best to get a wide range of employers that fit the majors we have on campus,” said Deyan. “We try to be as diverse as we can.”

Under Deyan’s leadership this past year, the employers’ fair was moved from the original site in the Mott Academic Center’s second-floor hallway to the Upton Center, where there is more room. Deyan and his team, which included junior Anna Braner, his assistant, also sent invitations to approximately 30 colleges’ career services departments announcing the fair. Like his brother before him, Deyan and his group put in countless hours making the fair as successful as possible.

However, since it is at the end of January every year, sometimes the weather plays a role in how many employers and students attend. Due to a snow storm this year, only 35 employers showed up. But that didn’t discourage Deyan. Nor did it discourage Hristo from making an appearance at the fair, driving from his suburban Detroit home.

“This project takes a lot of work and dedication,” said Deyan. “It’s a labor of love. We began working in September to make this as successful as possible and I wasn’t going to let anything discourage me.”

Both Kozhuharov brothers have enjoyed their role in the employers’ fair and agree that it has been good practice for the real world. “It’s allowed us to hone our skills in team work, organizing, communicating and leadership,” said Deyan. “It’s been a valuable experience for us and we are grateful for being a part of it.”

Join the excitement in dedicating The Cutler Events Center to the 1961 football team

Friday, Oct. 3, 2008

Saturday, Oct. 4, 2008

Board of trustees meeting Alumni golf outings Reunions for classes of ’40s and ’50s Reunions at Schuler’s for classes of ’60s and ’70s

“Red and White” Luncheon Football game vs. Albion College, 2 p.m.

The Cutler Events Center ribbon cutting ceremony Alumni reunions

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Complete Homecoming information will be mailed at a later date.

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