Shipherd's Record Summer 2023

visionary caring inspired

SUMMER

THE ALUMNI MAGAZINE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF OLIVET

inclusive kind community value

acorns the oaks upon the hill red and white Haley

Family. Belonging. Home.

Impactful. Scholars. Inclusive. Connected. Authentic.

This is Olivet. . .

welcoming traditions comets opportunities dedicated Advantage RECORD

visionary caring inspired And this is Olivet. . .

welcoming traditions comets opportunities dedicated Advantage

acorns the oaks upon the hill red and white Haley

Forward-thinking.

Empowered.

Influential.

Enlightened.

relationship-based liberal arts

inclusive kind community value

Collaborative.

Innovative.

Determined. Life-changing.

Stronger. Bolder. Onward.

THE UNIVERSITY of OLIVET THE UNIVERSITY of OLIVET

It's time for something MORE!

Welcome to

A special message from President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D.

In 1844, a group of men and women, led by Rev. “Father” John J. Shipherd, stood firm in their belief that Olivet College should be open and welcome to all, regardless of gender, race or socioeconomic status. Throughout its history, Olivet has persisted in staying true to its mission by being daring, bold and forward-looking.

When the legislature told founder Ruben Hatch in 1844 that “…so long as Olivet had anything to do with the propagation of anti-slavery views,” there would be no college charter, the founders decided to persist and become the Olivet Institute. When, in 1859, the State of Michigan was ready to accept the Olivet vision and mission for a more just society, we evolved and became Olivet College. The Olivet persistence and resolve to carry out its mission paid off.

Today, Olivet College is again demonstrating its tenacity. Like Father Shipherd, Ruben Hatch and our other founders, we are pioneers, forging new paths and opportunities for the next generation of students and beyond who seek the relationship-based education that has defined Olivet for 179 years.

The Olivet College 2030: Vision for a Prosperous Future strategic plan details building “a sustainable future as a thriving, financially secure, comprehensive institution while remaining firmly Olivet.” Olivet will become a more comprehensive institution, serving not only the undergraduate residential students engaged in a deeply immersive experience that we have done for 179 years, but also expanding our mission by delivering a distinctively Olivet education to adult learners and graduate students in Michigan, across the country and around the world.

We have begun to unveil an array of new academic programs relevant to today’s world, including plans to launch a baccalaureate program in social work and a master’s in mental health counseling in the 2023-24 academic year. We will also be enrolling and serving

new categories of students over the next decade. The College is evolving and progressing onward. And, with the change of a single word, our new identity reflects the more comprehensive institution we are: Olivet College is The University of Olivet.

Becoming The University of Olivet

Many ask what it means to be a university. The terms “university” and “college” are generally considered to be interchangeable in the United States. With that said, the common understanding and perception are that colleges are smaller and predominantly, if not exclusively, undergraduate (as Olivet has been for 179 years). Universities are generally larger, although there are many more smaller universities than most people realize. Universities also tend to have more graduate and professional programs and, thus, are more “comprehensive” in their academic programs, degrees offered and students served. When polled, most prospective students and the general public report a more positive perception of universities. This is especially true for adult professional, graduate and international students.

Recent research on colleges that have changed to university status demonstrates increased undergraduate enrollment, increased bachelor’s degree production, increased revenues and a negative impact (i.e., competitive advantage) on the competition. Alumni also saw increased earnings over those of “colleges,” indicating an employer preference for “university” alumni. Not surprisingly, these institutions also grew graduate programs, graduate enrollments and graduate-related revenues. The research supports our assessment that the change to university will not only create mission clarity, but support the attainment of our strategic goals and provide The University of Olivet with a distinctive and competitive position in the marketplace.

Remaining Committed to Our Liberal Arts Tradition

We asked ourselves, just as I’m sure those of you who have come to love Olivet College will ask too, “Will we remain committed to our liberal arts tradition?” Absolutely.

As stated explicitly in our strategic plan, becoming a university will not change our commitment to a liberal arts core as part of every baccalaureate degree program. The University of Olivet will continue this commitment and tradition for years. You may be surprised to learn that, of the over 700 institutions commonly referred to as “liberal arts colleges,” 379 (54% ) are actually “universities.” In fact, here in Michigan, eight of our colleague liberal arts institutions are universities, including the most recent college-touniversity conversion, Calvin University, which made the switch in 2022.

As pledged in our 2030 strategic plan, the evolving Olivet will be fully committed to “remaining firmly Olivet.” Whether for traditional residential students or any of the new, emerging categories of students, we will continue to embody the best of the distinctive Olivet experience: a commitment to relationship-based education; diversity, inclusion and a sense of belonging for all; socioeconomic diversity and an educational opportunity for all; and education grounded in a liberal arts core.

Forever Olivet

The University of Olivet: proud of its Olivet College tradition and legacy, but evolving to extend the Olivet mission to new types of students and communities as a more prosperous, thriving, financially secure, comprehensive institution. We are forever Olivet.

CHANGING THE LANDSCAPE

Dr. Sarah Peterson, assistant dean for distance learning, and Dr. Paul Burkhardt, provost, are building relationship-based learning into Olivet's online campus.

Colleges and universities thriving today have been visionaries willing to adapt to a changing world. Instead of looking back, these institutions focus on the future. The University of Olivet is looking straight ahead. But that doesn't mean Olivet will uproot itself from its mission of providing an education that enriches lives. "The mission of Olivet should guide the future practice of Olivet," said Dr. Paul Burkhardt, provost.

The Next Generation College Student

Enrollment today is impacted by demographics, including a notably sharp decline in the traditional-age college students, emerging career fields, imperatives of racial and social justice, economic development and globalization. "The socio-ecological crisis that we're living in, and the anxieties that cause it, are affecting people's decision to have kids. That alongside other demographic changes and economic challenges are impacting college enrollment," said Dr. Burkhardt. Enrollment of adult learners, however, is increasing. "Adult learners are returning to school to finish their degrees, gain more knowledge, get credentials for job advancement, change careers and more," said Dr. Daniel Green, vice president of enrollment management. "They also want to complete programs in a reasonable amount of time, especially because most are concurrently working while returning to college. And, they want to be at a college where they feel cared for and have few barriers to learning."

Olivet is reimagining its liberal arts experience. The University of Olivet remains grounded in its approach to relationship-based education. And, it remains a residential, undergraduate, immersive campus. What is changing is the way the Olivet experience is delivered so more students can benefit from Olivet’s mission.

"Traditional undergraduate students can still complete their programs as residential students, allowing the opportunity to play sports, sing in the choir and experience all of the wonderful, enriching and engaging activities on campus,” Dr. Burkhardt said. “Other students may choose to learn at a distance.”

The New Classroom

Distance learning works when done well, taking the best of synchronous and asynchronous learning, combining with real-time virtual class seminars, discussion boards, asynchronous individual and team assignments, video recordings of faculty and more. Dr. Burkhardt said, "It's in how you construct your activities and assignments to build the relationships between students and between the instructor and each student. The case studies, authors and experts represent diverse experiences so, diverse learners know they belong in that course. Then, you've got something distinctive that continues the tradition of Olivet."

Olivet's successful online MBA program is the model for new online programs. The MBA includes an accelerated pathway between the bachelor's degree and the MBA.

Advanced juniors or seniors take online master's level coursework, accelerating their progress to a graduate degree. Similarly, students completing bachelor’s degrees in psychology may accelerate into the forthcoming online Master’s of Arts in Counseling. An online Bachelor's in Social Work will eventually roll into an online master's program. Accelerated master’s programs decrease the time to degree completion and the cost of the two degrees, two critical influences for prospective students today, particularly in the adult market.

Olivet is offering online bachelor's degree completion coursework in business, psychology, criminal justice and the individualized major, with more being considered.

Going the Distance with Liberal Arts and Relationship-Based Learning

Olivet's online campus is designed as another branch of the campus tree connected through identity and relationships. Dr. Sarah Peterson, assistant dean for distance education, said, "Relationship-based learning creates those connections and helps students relate their identities to others. One of the main reasons students love our campus is the close relationships they build with each other, their professors and the campus community. That is done through relationshipbased learning, and we want to ensure that identity is present in our online campus.”

Academic program directors, department chairs and leadership developed a set of online learning guidelines and criteria to ensure relationship-based learning outcomes and success. Success includes how students respond to questions about the ease of connecting with other students, their relationships with instructors and faculty advisor and how well students know one another as human beings.

Olivet is also intentionally building diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) into its online curriculum, which more typical approaches to online education don’t do very well. “We can leverage our long history and expertise in DEIB and social justice education to make sure we’re serving that population in a way that is welcoming, accessible, affordable and effective,” Dr. Burkhardt said.

Meeting the Students Where They Are

At Olivet, distance learning makes education attainable, affordable and forges human connections. “It allows students to develop their life prospects while still residing and making a living where they are. It radically expands access, and that’s why you’re seeing the growth in adult learners,” said Dr. Burkhardt. “They see online as a way to access the education they would otherwise find difficult.”

The landscape is changing, but Olivet’s roots remain firmly planted.

Strategic Partnerships HELP GROW THE TREE

Strategic partnerships are becoming common in higher education. Strategically-aligned collaborations can help accelerate an institution’s expansion and improve outcomes by enhancing student learning, saving on resources and offering new opportunities for faculty and staff. When done right, partnerships can strengthen an institution’s mission, identity and brand.

The University of Olivet is exploring more partnership opportunities that align with our vision and mission.

TEACH-OUTS

Teach-out plans are developed by closing institutions to ensure students are treated fairly and able to finish their programs of study. “We have an obligation to help institutions facing closure. Teach-outs are an honorable activity that provides students and, as much as you can, the staff and faculty a place to carry on their work, complete their degrees and achieve their goals,” said Dr. Paul Burkhardt, provost. “We can do that in a way that helps The University of Olivet in the short term by growing our enrollments. More importantly, it helps those students and faculty and staff from the closing institution at a very stressful time.”

Presently, Olivet has teach-out or transfer-friendly options with the following closing institutions: Cardinal Stritch University (Wisconsin), Finlandia University (Michigan), Iowa Wesleyan University, Presentation College (South Dakota), Quest University (British Columbia, Canada) and Trinity International University (Illinois).

PROGRAM ACQUISITIONS

Acquiring a closing institution’s academic program is another collaboration Olivet is exploring. “You can grow more quickly by adding a new program through acquisition than if you built that program and recruited students yourself,” Dr. Burkhardt explained. “Acquiring programs is a more powerful approach to a teach-out. You can hire some of the closing institution’s faculty, adopt and adapt their curriculum and then serve their students in your new program while you recruit future new students.”

SHARING PROGRAMS BETWEEN INSTITUTIONS

Dual enrollment is another type of strategic partnership. Usually an institution offers college credit toward an associate or bachelor's degree while the student is still in high school. This accelerates the student toward an undergraduate education, decreasing the cost and time of degree completion.

Dr. Burkhardt added, “As a bachelor’s and graduate degree granting institution, we can partner with community colleges and build better pathways and deeper collaborations that seamlessly take community college students into our on-campus or online programs. This grows enrollment and increases the opportunities for community college students to complete their bachelor’s degree and transition into an accelerated master’s degree program at Olivet.”

Similarly, institutions are partnering with one another. Dr. Burkhardt asked, “What if we have on-campus Olivet students working toward a math degree who are also interested in engineering, and we could partner with an institution that offers an online engineering degree? Olivet students would be able to get the liberal arts experience, play sports, play in the band and work toward completing a bachelor’s in math and an online bachelor’s in engineering simultaneously.” Such joint ventures would serve the students who want to attend Olivet but want a degree in a program not offered by Olivet.

INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS

Today’s connected world allows small institutions to develop international partnerships. Presently, Olivet has partnered with Christ Academy Institute for Advanced Studies and St. Bede’s College, both based in India. Olivet’s current international online program enables

students to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in insurance or enterprise risk management. A summer program at The University of Olivet is also offered, allowing students to learn directly from faculty and network with students and industry professionals.

“Olivet’s distinctive model of relationship-based education is at the base of learning for online international courses and programs. Understanding and appreciating the students' cultures is crucial in any classroom setting or educational encounter,” said Dr. Daniel Green, vice president of enrollment management. “We pay attention to differences in time, learning styles, languages and services needed for the students to be successful.”

PARTNERSHIPS WITH PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Olivet’s expertise in the insurance and risk management and criminal justice fields lends itself to collaboration with professional organizations. “Olivet is an active participant/ member of The Institutes CPCU Society, the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police, the Police Officers Association of Michigan and the National Fraternal Order of Police University (NFOPU). This provides the opportunity for Olivet to market our programs by serving as guest speakers and writers or attending conferences,” said Mike Lazusky,

director of graduate, transfer and adult professional admissions. “Our criminal justice expertise has also opened doors for us to talk with local municipalities about providing professional development and training to its police officers.”

BUILDING CAPACITY THROUGH SHARED SERVICES

Olivet is looking for partnership opportunities with organizations to share services. “This type of partnership helps us build our capacity more quickly than we could if we had to hire each person and build the team more slowly, particularly when trying to enter new markets,” Dr. Burkhardt said. One partnership already underway is with Acadeum Course Share, which provides an online college course exchange that transfers back to Olivet. No institution can be all things to all students. However, there is value in building alliances as a strength for sustainability and growth. “We have expertise in certain areas, and the same is true of other colleges, businesses, government agencies and community organizations,” said Dr. Green. “As collaborators and through the sharing of professional strengths, partnerships can thrive.”

BELONGING at

Merriam-Webster defines belonging as a “close or intimate relationship.” You want more than an invitation to a meeting or party; you want to feel seen, heard and valued as a human being when you arrive. Being invited isn’t the same as being welcome.

“Belonging is a basic emotional need. When someone has a sense of belonging, they feel they have a social and emotional connection and engagement with others in the work environment, greater than familiarity or acquaintance,” said Dr. Linda Logan, vice president and chief inclusion officer. “Belonging is the outcome of diversity, equity and inclusion.”

In 2022, the University conducted a diversity and equity climate survey of students, faculty and staff. Administered by the Higher Education Data Sharing Consortium (HEDS), the survey revealed that the campus community is satisfied overall with the sense and feeling of belonging. Compared to similar national, four-year, private institutions that completed the survey, the data reports much higher levels of inclusivity and belonging among Olivet students, faculty and staff than at other institutions. Yet, there’s always room for improvement.

“It’s not enough just to have a certain percentage of socioeconomic, racial or ethnic diversity in our classroom or our employee body. We need to make sure that it’s in our curriculum and it’s in our practice so that it comes to define our approach

Olivet

towards relationships and relationship-based learning,” said Dr. Paul Burkhardt, provost.

“The key phrase is relationship-based education,” said Dr. Logan. “Building relationships is a part of belonging and making a person feel valued and part of a community.”

BELONGING IN THE CLASSROOM

Education provides knowledge, critical thinking, ideas, skills and more needed to sustain and advance industry, communities and the world. However, academic programs and curricula must evolve alongside societal changes.

For example, the climate science curriculum has been, historically, male and white. “If you look at something like geology, you’ll see that the faculty have mostly been white males. Because of that, the experts students will be reading are white males. Students drawn to that graduate program will be white males. Professors will be white males,” Dr. Burkhardt said. “So, how do you diversify the curriculum? How do you bring in a more diverse faculty? How do you bring in a more diverse set of students?” If you refocus climate science curricula to include current global movements for environmental justice or climate justice, the curriculum centers communities who have experienced and are creating the solutions to address the systemic harms of pollution or climate change.

Problem-based and solution-oriented curricula can attract different students, graduate students, professors, researchers and experts, resulting in more diversity. “You have a curriculum that calls, welcomes and requires the expertise of people that have been historically marginalized,” Dr. Burkhardt said. “Now you’ve got a learning environment that is not just one of diversity and equity, but one of inclusiveness and belonging, centering the voices of those historically disadvantaged.”

The coming Master of Arts in Counseling and Bachelor of Social Work also center on diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB). Dr. Logan shared, “Olivet’s new programs center on social justice and specific DEIB requirements. That’s the very mission of Olivet. It’s only natural that programs such as counseling and social work focus on ways graduates can apply their dedication to social justice and diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging to their own businesses or counseling practices.”

Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging is also embedded in Olivet’s online learning environment.

“Our online students are Comets, they represent our campus and identity, and each student brings their understanding of their world through experiences. Sharing and connecting these experiences online is essential for the online learning environment to be effective,” said Dr. Sarah Peterson, assistant dean for distance education. “Despite what some may think, online learning should not be an isolated environment. To be successful, students need to connect and learn from each other through their diversity, experiences and ideas.”

BELONGING ON CAMPUS

Outside of the classroom, the Office for Student Development plays a crucial role in helping foster a positive sense of belonging for residential students.

“Faculty and staff across campus have participated in courageous, educational conversations around gender identity and expression and attended virtual webinars around neurodivergence and mental health and wellness to learn how to interact with people different than themselves,” said Dr. KayDee Perry, associate provost. “We are also creating a sense of belonging at scale. For example, the expansion of Comets' Cupboard, the revitalization of the Women's Leadership and KBB Scholars Program, and student programming through co-curricular organizations, such as Queers and Allies (Q&A), Black Student Union and Hiram Archer Student Success Academy (H.A.S.S.A.), are all intentional and educational experiences centered on the student.” Key staff members also nurture a sense of belonging through first-year student transitions and academic success assistance, academic accommodations and student support.

BELONGING IN THE FUTURE

The University of Olivet is firmly rooted in DEIB. “Without DEIB, we could begin to see limits to academic freedom and create a disadvantageous and inequitable situation for underrepresented students,” Dr. Logan concluded. “Without DEIB, students will not be prepared to work, learn and live in a diverse world, which we’re already living in and will only become more diverse in the years ahead.”

OF OAKS UPON THIS HILL

Rev. “Father” John Shipherd looked upon a hill blanketed in oak trees and declared it the perfect place for a new college that would be named Olivet. Nearly 180 years later, Olivet and many of the same oaks remain firmly rooted on that hill. And like the acorns that scatter across campus each fall, so have generations of eager, resilient young people from all walks of life, determined to grow and prosper.

The remarkable history of Olivet Institute, Olivet College and now, The University of Olivet, is intertwined with the extraordinary endurance of the towering oak trees on campus.

The name of Olivet has changed, but it’s rich legacy remains. That is why the new Olivet logo incorporates oak leaves and acorns.

• Oak trees have long been a symbol of wisdom, stability, honor, commitment and protection. So has Olivet. Our mission enriches lives intellectually, morally and spiritually to a diverse campus community.

• Oak leaves represent knowledge, strength and endurance, just like Olivet. Faculty and staff value the individual student. We make strides to ensure each student builds long-lasting relationships with professors and peers, experiences rewarding opportunities and gains the knowledge needed to be successful in any future career.

• Acorns symbolize potential strength, honor and longevity, as do our Olivet students. Graduates leave with a moral compass and a sense of responsibility to improve the world, carrying forth Olivet’s commitment to individual and social responsibility.

• The shield is another element of the new official word mark and logo. The shield represents tradition, solidity, boldness and confidence.

Like the oak trees upon our hill, Olivet has prospered and is now stronger and bolder, reaching beyond the boundaries of the campus.

Our legacy began with Father Shipherd and the generations of hopeful students, faculty and staff that followed and accepted the challenge of being socially and individually responsible. Our future is the students yet to burst forth from their shells. And, when they do, Olivet will be here, standing strong and firmly rooted.

“Thus it was that the venerable Father Shipherd found himself time after time not at his anticipated destination, but in an oak forest atop a rise in the landscape. As far as he was concerned, it must have been God’s will that had led to this spot so frequently. This place would be his Olivet.”

– "Upon This Hill,” M. Gorton Riethmiller, Olivet College president, 1957-1970.

Trees in the Square today have stood since Olivet College was founded on Feb. 24, 1844. According to Dr. Maria Davis, professor of biology, some trees are at least 286 years old. The cross-section of the tree in the photos on page 10 is from a campus oak that fell in 2006. It is estimated to have been 164 years old when it fell.

Shipherd’s

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

MAGAZINE STAFF

Lisa Collins

Graphic Designer & Brand Manager

Connor Gilbert

Website & Digital Media Coordinator

Audrey Helfrich Content Specialist

Michele McCauley Executive Director of Communications & Marketing

Lori Otto Director of Alumni Engagement

Vicki J. Stouffer, CFRE Vice President for Advancement

EDITORIAL

Geoff Henson

Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Information and Communcations

GUEST CONTRIBUTOR

Maria G. Davis, Ph.D. Professor of Biology

SEND CHANGE OF ADDRESS NOTICES TO:

Office of Advancement

Becoming The University of Olivet reflects the tremendous growth, innovation and comprehensive educational environment we offer, transforming the perception of our institution as a leading hub for academic excellence and unlimited possibilities. As an alum, I am thrilled to witness the institution’s evolution to The University of Olivet.”

THE UNIVERSITYof OLIVET

320 S. Main St., Olivet, MI 49076 269-749-7630

advancement@olivetcollege.edu

THE UNIVERSITY of OLIVET

The University of Olivet’s mission is to provide an education that enriches lives intellectually, morally and spiritually to a diverse campus community. Having attained these qualities through their educational experiences at Olivet, our hope is that our graduates will embody the “divine art and science of doing good to others,” as stated by the University’s founding fathers in 1844.

THE UNIVERSITY of OLIVET

The University of Olivet is committed to the principles of equal opportunity and non-discrimination. The University, in its employment, student admissions, recruitment, and personnel policies and practices, will not discriminate against any individual on the basis of age, color, sex, gender identity, disability or disability status, height, weight, marital status, national origin, political persuasion, race, religion, military or veteran status, or sexual orientation.

“As an alum and member of the Board of Trustees, I see firsthand the dedication of President Corey, the board and the faculty to our mission while understanding how access to higher education has changed. Becoming The University of Olivet will solidify us to provide high-quality and robust education rooted in Christ and humanity for the next 179 years. Becoming The University of Olivet is both timely and wise.”

– Audra Carson ’87

– Jamey Fitzpatrick ’86

“Becoming The University of Olivet doesn’t change anything from a historical perspective. Olivet will always be the place where I earned my undergraduate degree. If anything, the change provides me with inspiration and renewed energy to make an impact as an alumnus. What makes Olivet special is our ability to think globally while acting locally – bringing the right balance of high-tech plus high-touch to our portfolio.”

“As The University of Olivet, we open the door to more nontraditional students, such as working professionals needing to obtain a post-graduate degree. As an alum, I am proud to have graduated from such a well-rounded institution that laid the foundation of who I am as an adult today. To me, becoming The University of Olivet makes me even prouder to have attended Olivet. It shows me that Olivet is growing, adapting and thriving.”

I am impressed Olivet continues to expand and evolve to meet the needs of our current and future students and our alumni. The University of Olivet reflects the high quality and expanded academic and campus offerings Olivet provides for students and alumni. Olivet is an institution firmly rooted in service and community. While the name change reflects the college's growth nearly two centuries since its founding, the heart and purpose remain the same.”

– Angelique (Korstanje) Cook ’11

““Becoming The University of Olivet will benefit Olivet by changing the perspective of how people outside of Olivet look at us. In the academic and professional world, having the word university on your resume may spark more interest from an employer. And as a biology major, I know the science department faculty work hard to prepare students for their careers, and the university label will help in this process. I think the hardest thing for the student body will be breaking the habit of referring to the school as OC!”

When I think about Olivet, I think about small class sizes, collaboration with faculty and staff, and a campus community that brings together students from all backgrounds. While the transition to university signifies Olivet’s growth in graduate and professional programs, Olivet remains committed to the core residential liberal arts curriculum that has served generations of students.”

– Mauricio Palli ’07

– Barron Evans ’77

– Michael Ryan ’07

– Jennifer Mann, SGA President and Biology Student

FROM THE PAST

by Maria G. Davis, Ph.D.

Sara “Sadie” Benedict, one of the three women who comprised the entire Olivet College Class of 1863, left an inspiring personal history filled with evidence of deep curiosity, remarkable resilience and a strong passion for learning.

Through the efforts of Sara’s great-great-granddaughter, Barbara Benedict Swinton deButts, and her family, some of that history has come home to Olivet in the form of donated documents and other materials from the life of Sara Benedict. In March 2023, deButts traveled to campus from her home in North Carolina to donate a treasure trove of materials her family kept for over 150 years. The materials are now preserved in Olivet’s Lawrence Archives.

It seemed fitting these materials about the life of one of Olivet’s first women graduates arrived on campus in March, during Women’s History Month.

The donated items include some of Sara’s letters, journals, artwork and some of the essays she wrote while she was a student at Olivet. There are also antique family photographs, newspaper clippings and writings by Sara’s daughter Alma, who also attended Olivet College. All told, there were over 160 items donated to the college archives by deButts and her family. These materials are helping bring to light the amazing life of one of our first alumnae.

In a presentation to students, faculty and guests at the Hosford History Center, deButts shared portions of the story she has pieced together about her great-great-grandmother’s life. She told an

Sara Benedict

amazing tale of the remarkable person that Sara Benedict was and the influence she has had on her family and others.

“I come from a tradition that puts a huge value on education and learning and discovering and exploring,” deButts said. “What definitely is a legacy of my family is curiosity and trying to find an outlet for that.”

DeButts also shared how the materials came full circle to return to Olivet College. The 18-month effort deButts undertook to organize and document her family’s history had its roots in the pandemic. “It started out as a ‘clean out your closet’ project during the lockdown,” deButts said. “I had been selected by my family to be the keeper of boxes of materials from my family’s history. No one had opened them in a really long time and as I began reading the documents and learning more, I really got pulled in by the story that was unfolding.”

After spending time with the materials, deButts said she felt the life story of her great-great-grandmother Sara would make a great movie. “She was everything we look for now in a modern woman: she was resilient, she was independent, she was unintimidated [and] she had agency,” deButts said. She felt Sara would be at home in our world today.

According to deButts, Sara taught art at Olivet College for three years following her graduation. For the next 10 years, she moved to many different places, both studying and teaching art, and eventually opening several art studios. While her husband stayed in the U.S., Sara lived in Paris for four years with her daughter, where she studied art and became fluent in French. Eventually, she returned to live in Vermontville, Michigan, the small town where she grew up.

Simply put, Sara led an interesting and unusual life for a woman of the time.

In the hands of Olivet College archives director, Dr. Nikki Magie, and her students, these newly donated archival materials will help tell the still-evolving story of Sara Benedict. “It’s very unusual to have this many documents pertaining to a woman from the 1800s. We’ve already learned that several of Sara’s family members also attended Olivet. Imagine how much more we’ll be able to learn from this rich collection,” said Dr. Magie.

Upon receiving the materials, Dr. Magie observed that, since Sara was a contemporary of the Hosfords, she would have most certainly visited the family in the Hosford House, the very place where the materials from Sara’s life have now returned. “There is something really powerful about that,” Dr. Magie said. In one of her closing comments, deButts said, “You all know that Sara Benedict was in the first graduating class, but Olivet has every reason to be proud of the woman that they educated.” She added, “I think she would be proud that the tradition continues.”

Thanks to the generosity of Barbara Benedict Swinton deButts and her family, the stories and history of one of our very first graduates have come back home. The decisions made by the Benedict family over the course of more than 150 years to save and curate the history of Sara Benedict have given us the opportunity to know even more about this remarkable woman.

For information about how to support the work of Olivet College’s Hosford History Center and Lawrence Archives, please contact Vicki Stouffer, vice president for advancement, at vstouffer@olivetcollege.edu.

Barbara Benedict Swinton deButts shares stories about her great-great-grandmother, Sara Benedict, during her presentation to students, faculty and guests at the Hosford History Center.

Julia Mellinger ’23:

DON’T BE AFRAID TO SAY YES TO OPPORTUNITIES

Graduating from Olivet College and moving to Los Angeles was not part of senior Julia Mellinger’s original life plans. A graduate of Gull Lake High School, she transferred to Olivet after realizing a larger school was not a good fit for her. A friend of Julia’s invited her to visit Olivet. “I instantly fell in love with the campus during that short weekend,” Julia said. She spent time with the soccer team, and they convinced her to transfer to Olivet and join the team. Julia majored in media production and communication (MPC) and minored in fitness management. She was fascinated by Photoshop, creating and editing visual content and journalistic writing. “I knew immediately that this was the right fit for me,” Julia said. Professor Joanne Williams made her feel welcome. Professor Daine Pavloski taught her valuable information that’s proving helpful beyond the classroom. Dr. Nancy Van Hoozier had a way of making a challenging course seem fun and easy.

An ephiany came Julia’s way when she helped a fellow MPC student edit a film and assisted with post-production aspects. This experience made her realize what she wanted to do with her career. “It was cool working on that film. It was a way to be involved and pursue my interests,” Julia said. She now spends much of her time in the editing suites in the media production center.

Opportunity struck again in Julia’s junior year when she had a summer internship with Heart of Sun, a swimsuit company in Miami. The company traveled to Mexico to gather content for its website. While there, she met Madison Wyborny, a model, actress and social media influencer. “Madison and I were instant friends and enjoyed our time together. We just clicked,” said Julia. After the trip, Julia followed her on Instagram and she saw a post that Madison needed someone to help organize her social media content. Julia offered, and Madison accepted.

Julia is moving to LA after she graduates to work as a content assistant for Madison, and she’s already creating audio and remixing for Madison. Her career goal is to own a company that provides editing services for social media influencers. Julia knows transitioning from Olivet’s close-knit community to LA will be tough. She’s helping to prepare and ease this move by making as many connections as possible, including with Olivet alum Paige Sedgewick ’12, a freelance producer. “I have talked with Paige and appreciate her advice on how to prepare for my move. I look forward to connecting with her again in LA,” Julia said.

Julia is ready to make history. Her advice for students with big dreams? “When you have an opportunity, just do it! The worst that can happen is realizing you don’t enjoy something you thought you would. Try everything!”

EAGER TO MAKE HIS MARK BY BEING MORE AND DOING GOOD

Rising junior Landen Cooley is a criminal justice major with a concentration in corrections and social work. His career goal is to be a parole officer, and he hopes to instill in his parolees what it means to “Be More. Do Good.” He’s also confident that the family atmosphere he’s experiencing at Olivet is helping to prepare him to be a caring and compassionate law enforcement officer.

In his two years as a student, Landen has immersed himself in campus life. He is a part of eight student organizations: Gospel Choir, Kappa Sigma Alpha, Black Student Union, Drama Club, Criminal Justice Honors Society, President's Leadership Institute, Resident Advisors and Intersociety Council. Being so involved on campus, Landen has built many relationships, which he thinks will benefit him in the future. "I do think that the family atmosphere on campus can help ensure I become a good parole officer because of the type of relationships that I have here at this college and within my major. The instructors in my major help me learn within the classroom and teach me outside of the classroom. Their willingness and love to teach us have inspired me to be more caring and compassionate towards my community, by wanting to work in the field where people can get a second chance," he said.

After graduation, Landen plans to move to Colorado to become a probation officer and work toward a master's and doctorate in probation. He also looks forward to pursuing his gospel choir career.

Landen plans to take Olivet's "Be More. Do Good." to Colorado. "I want to implement it by striving to be more and do good myself and by teaching it to others, whether they are children, young people like myself or older people who just don't get it yet. As a probation officer, I will be working with a wide range of people, so helping them and employing this attitude might help them be more and do good within their communities and societies," Landen explained.

He's already practicing that attitude as a student. "Being more is not just being there. Being more is being active. It’s being aware of what you and your body language say. It’s being present to all. Doing good is not just opening the door or picking up something after someone drops it; rather, taking that person to the grocery store if needed. It’s taking that person to the hospital if they need it. It’s talking to that person at three in the morning if they're crying and being a shoulder to lean on. It's not just the small things. It's the big things," said Landen.

Landen is getting ready to make his mark on the world. He knows having his family in Grand Rapids and his family at Olivet will provide him with the support he needs to succeed. "Family is there for you when you don't even know you need it,” he said. “So, it's comforting to know although my immediate family isn't always with me, I still have my Olivet family.”

Landen Cooley ’25:

CUTLER STUDENT CENTER

The Cutler Student Center is taking shape and is scheduled to open January 2024. The Olivet community celebrated when the last and highest beam was set in the structure in February. Roofing and exterior walls will be completed over the summer. The mechanical phase, which is also underway, includes HVAC systems, ventilation, lighting, water and waste pipes, gas lines and more.

BLOCK HOUSE

Scheduled to open in the early fall, Block House is an esports competition space, casual restaurant and bar for gamers, spectators and dining-only crowds. Renovations are underway to convert the former Lamplighter into a community gathering space that will also serve as the home base for Olivet's new competitive esports team.

VISION 2030: An Unparalleled Opportunity

Last year, President Corey introduced the Olivet College 2030: Vision for a Prosperous Future strategic plan. Traveling the country, he shared the plan’s significance with our alumni and community members, inviting their feedback and partnership to ensure Olivet’s prosperous future. Now, faculty and staff are working to ensure the strategic outcomes of the multi-year plan are a reality. The four priorities will preserve what makes The University of Olivet experience desirable. We will seize new opportunities to expand access to a high-quality education that prepares all students with the skills they need to participate fully in the 21st-century global economy.

HOW DO WE DO THAT?

Priority: Deeply Rooted and Firmly Grounded

• Invest in our people and scholarships for students

• Invest in creating certificates and alternative credentials; enhance the online learning platform

• Invest in increased scholarship opportunities

Priority: Grow the Tree

• Invest in retention programs — apartment housing, student center, student success

• Invest in innovative marketing

• Invest in website optimization

• Invest in partnership opportunities

• Invest in new programming, people and systems

Priority: Cultivate and Change the Landscape

• Invest in Career Education

• Invest in first-year seminars, living communities, undergraduate research, service learning and community-based learning

• Create a fund for faculty and staff continuing education

• Invest in faculty, staff and student programming to achieve increased cultural competence

Engage Beyond our Hill

• Rebrand Olivet College to reflect the new status as a university, highlight stories of faculty scholarship and achievement and support faculty-student research

• Build a strong network of alumni mentors, experiential learning opportunities and internships

• Invest in building a faculty scholarship fund so all faculty can expand their knowledge base and enhance classroom learning

AN UNPARALLELED OPPORTUNITY

The new Cutler Student Center is an unparalleled opportunity to capture the resources needed to realize the many Vision 2030 priorities. The Cutler Student Center will be the outward example of how we are enhancing the student experience by placing students at the center of our mission.

Over the next 18-24 months, the advancement staff, with the help of a cadre of newly engaged volunteers, will be meeting with members of the Olivet community and discussing the opportunity to support The Vision 2030 Fund, a new initiative that will drive the capture of resources necessary to build a sustainable future as a thriving, financially-secure, comprehensive institution while remaining firmly Olivet. Generous supporters of The Vision 2023 Fund will be recognized in one of the many Cutler Student Center spaces.

LEARN MORE

Vicki Stouffer, vice president for advancement

vstouffer@olivetcollege.edu

rhinman@olivetcollege.edu elash@olivetcollege.edu 269-749-7535

CUTLER STUDENT CENTER NAMING OPPORTUNITIES

PETS WE LOVE

ARTHUR ASHE JR. SPORTS

As part of Spring Service Day, Art Alliance, a studentrun organization, created a limited-edition folio of prints available to the public for a donation of $25. This project aimed to raise $500 with all proceeds benefiting the Eaton County Humane Society. According to the Humane Society, $500 covers the cost of spaying and neutering 50 kittens.

Donald VanAuken, professor of art and program director of visual art talent, said, “Through this project, we wanted to give to a charity that aids our community on a local scale. This past fall semester, the student-run organization raised over $750 for The World Central Kitchen, which is a fantastic charity and aids so many people globally. This semester, we wanted to focus on a charity that directly impacts Eaton County.”

The University of Olivet annually participates in the national Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholar Awards program, sponsored by the publication “Diverse Issues in Higher Education.” Inspired by tennis legend Arthur Ashe Jr., these awards are given to students of color who have excelled in the classroom as well as on the athletic field. To be nominated, a student must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher, a demonstrated record of service to the campus or wider community and be an active member of an intercollegiate athletic team during the current academic year. This year’s recipients were SirQuarius Ball, Cooper Beard, Robert Davids, Kayin Harper, Destinee Hawkins and Robert Reynolds.

PRESIDENT’S LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE

The eleventh graduating class of the President’s Leadership Institute was comprised of 18 students: Logan Allen, criminal justice; Daniel Ballagh, insurance and risk management; Rivkie Biritz, psychology; Brielle Broderick, media production and communication; Landen Cooley, criminal justice; Alexandra DeVault, criminal justice and psychology; Bryce Gates, criminal justice; Da’Quarious Johnson, business management; Seth Kading, business marketing; Logan Kramer, computer science; Elisabeth McIntosh, music; Spencer Murphy, biology; Jenna Pagano, financial planning; Chelsea Perry, biology; Jade Smith, psychology; Liberty Tetzlaff, sports psychology; Isabela Tijerina, biology; and Karley Wheeler, biology.

(L to R) SirQuarius Ball, Cooper Beard, Destinee Hawkins, Kayin Harper and Robert Davids. Not pictured: Robert Reynolds.

PORTER SCHOLARS

ELISSA SLOTKIN HONORING HIRAM ARCHER

Four students received the Dr. John W. Porter Community Responsibility Award this spring: SirQuarius Ball, Elisabeth McIntosh, Ulrick Meighan and Jade Smith. These students were selected because of their demonstration of Individual and Social Responsibility through their involvement and service to the the University and their community. In 2001, Dr. Porter, a leader and trailblazer in education, was awarded the OC Leadership Award for his commitment to the University’s educational philosophy of Individual and Social Responsibility. In gratitude of this honor, he established an endowed scholarship for current students at The University of Olivet who demonstrate leadership and community involvement.

MEDIA STUDENTS HONORED

Rep. Elissa Slotkin (MI-7) presented The University of Olivet with a framed copy of Congressional Record Vol. 169, No. 37, which paid tribute to Hiram Archer, the first student of color to graduate from the University in 1894. Slotkin also spent time taking questions from students on various topics, including gun violence, her commitment to public service and future career plans. Slotkin said, “I gave this speech, the exact speech that is documented here. This is an official document in the Congressional Record of the People’s House of the United States of America. So forever on, Olivet students can Google and look up this historical record of Hiram Archer and can read the description that I read on the House floor. This is also for students who aren’t even born yet, ready to follow in your footsteps in doing great things. It was an honor to represent Hiram on the floor of the House and etch him into the history of the United States of America.”

TOP 5 SENIORS

During Spring Break, the Media Production and Communication major saw four students honored for their media work in a statewide competition. The Michigan Association of Broadcasters announced the awards during its Great Lakes Media Show. Congratulations to Asher Wertheimer for winning first place in the radio show category, Maggie Berner and Breanne Wilder for placing second in the on-air personality category and Sebastian O’Leary for earning an honorable mention for his story in The Echo.

Annually, the top graduating seniors are honored with the Presidential Distinguished Medalist Award, formally known as the Donald A. Morris Award. This year’s recipients included Daniel Ballagh, insurance and risk management; Erin Brady, actuarial science; Laura Fox, history; Alexis McDonald, psychology; and Allyson Sears, insurance and risk management and financial planning.

Berner and Wilder

(L to R) Dr. Maria Davis, SirQuarius Ball, Elisabeth McIntosh, Ulrick Meighan and Dr. Steven Corey. Not pictured: Jade Smith.

WRESTLING

Four members of the wrestling team — Kam Bush, Owen Guilford, Tyler Herrema and Donovan King — earned All-Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) honors. The Comets also swept the MIAA’s special awards; King was named the Most Valuable Wrestler and Zach Potter was voted the Senior Sportsman of the Year. King advanced to the 2023 NCAA Division III Championships, finishing fifth in the 285-pound bracket to earn All-American honors for a second straight year. He ended the year with a 29-5 record, including 19 pins.

MEN’S BASKETBALL

MEN’S INDOOR TRACK & FIELD

Jordon Brown won the 200- and 400-meter dashes at the 2023 MIAA Championship to earn a spot on the All-MIAA team and be named the MIAA Most Valuable Men’s Indoor Track Athlete. A week later, he broke the school record in both events — 21.95 seconds in the 200 and 48.96 seconds in the 400. Brown advanced to compete at the 2023 NCAA Division III Championships in both events.

Joining him on the All-MIAA team was the distance medley relay team of Noah Feudi, Hayden Germain, Jonathan Holloway and Chase Mendham. The quartet finished the race in 10:30.40.

WOMEN’S INDOOR TRACK & FIELD

Gabby Jolliff captured the pole vault title at the 2023 MIAA Championship. The performance landed her on the All-MIAA team as well as being selected as the MIAA Most Valuable Women’s Indoor Field Athlete. Jolliff tied the MIAA Championship record of 10 feet, 10 inches. A week later at a final qualifying meet, she broke the school record with 11 feet, 1-3/4 inches clearance.

WOMEN’S OUTDOOR TRACK & FIELD

The men’s basketball team posted a 12-15 overall record, placing fourth in the MIAA with a 7-7 record. Olivet defeated Albion College in the opening round of the MIAA Tournament before falling to top-seed Calvin University in the semifinals. In their seasonopening game, the Comets broke three single-game individual records. Noah Wiswary set the assists record with 14, and Derrick Johnson achieved records for three-pointers made (nine) and attempted (17). Johnson also tied the single-season record with 75 three-pointers made and finished his career as Olivet’s all-time leader with 157.

MEN’S OUTDOOR TRACK & FIELD

Emily Norkowski captured the league title in the triple jump at the 2023 MIAA Field Day to land a spot on the All-MIAA team for the first time in her career. Her winning mark (34 feet, 11 inches) broke the school record. She also finished second in the 100-meter hurdles (15.98) and seventh in the long jump (15 feet, 7 inches), while running legs in the 4x400-meter relay (second place) and 4x100-meter relay (fifth place). The 4x400 time (4:08.95) set a school record.

Gabby Jolliff repeated as MIAA champion in the pole vault (11 feet, 2-1/4 inches). She has now won the last three league titles in the pole vault (2022 and 2023 outdoors, and 2023 indoors), earning All-MIAA honors each time.

Jordon Brown repeated his performance from the indoors championship at the 2023 MIAA Field Day, winning the 200- and 400-meter dashes to earn All-MIAA honors. His times — 21.51 seconds in the 200 and 47.30 seconds in the 400 — were school records, while his 400 time broke the MIAA Outdoor Championship record. For his performance, Brown received the MIAA Most Valuable Men’s Outdoor Track Athlete award. He has won the 400-meter at each of the last three MIAA Field Days.

King

Johnson Wiswary

Brown

Jolliff

Norkowski

ACADEMIC HONORS

ESPORTS

Olivet College announced the addition of esports (short for electronic sports) to the list of sports offered to students; Elizabeth Layton has been hired as the first director of esports.

(Top

Courtney

Justin Carnahan, Robert Davids and Julia Decker. (Second Row, L to R) Ramiro

Seth Kading, Jennifer Mann, Landon Morgan and Takato Timmerman were selected to the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District Swimming & Diving Team. Courtney Balazs, Ryan Bart, Julia Decker, Clara Shoales, Dane Vos and Noah Wiswary were named to the CSC Academic All-District Basketball Team. Erin Brady was tabbed to the CSC Academic All-District Softball team for a second straight year.

Justin Carnahan, Robert Davids, Ramiro Guerrero, Owen Guilford, Tyler Herrema, Darren McLeod and Jay Shaull are a part of the 2022-23 National Wrestling Coaches Association Scholar All-American list. Guilford became the third wrestler in school history to be a four-time honoree.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Before joining the Olivet staff in March, Layton was the esports advisor and coordinator at Nicholls State University (NSU) in Thibodaux, Louisiana. The esports program at NSU is run entirely on donations. Layton helped to raise nearly $200,000 to benefit the program. She was responsible for all aspects of the program, including researching and networking with other esports organizations, supervising students, planning practice and game schedules, coaching the team at competitions and recruiting students. Layton was Louisiana’s first female esports coordinator and is believed to be the first female director of esports in Michigan. The Olivet esports program will be based in Block House, the former Lamplighter restaurant adjacent to the Cutler Athletic Complex. Business partners Anthony Collamati and Nicholas Lux are transforming the space into a community gathering space with a restaurant, bar, entertainment and a high-level esports arena.

WOMEN’S SWIMMING & DIVING

Jennifer Mann earned All-MIAA honors for a third straight season. At the 2023 MIAA Championship, she won the MIAA title in the 200-yard breaststroke and 400-yard individual medley and finished second in the 500yard freestyle. Mann broke the school record in both the 200 breaststroke preliminaries (2:19.99) and 400 individual medley finals (4:30.11).

Layton

Row, L to R)

Balazs, Ryan Bart, Erin Brady,

Guerrero, Owen Guilford, Tyler Herrema, Seth Kading, Jennifer Mann and Darren McLeod. (Third Row, L to R) Landon Morgan, Jay Shaull, Clara Shoales, Takato Timmerman, Dane Vos and Noah Wiswary.

Rachel Swartz became Olivet’s career blocks leader with 114, breaking her original record of 54 she set in the 2021-22 season.

Swartz

Mann

HOMECOMING2023

THE UNIVERSITY OF OLIVET

SAVE THE DATE: Oct. 20-22, 2023

You’ll want to save the date and “come home” October 20-22 for the 2023 Homecoming weekend. Planning is already underway!

Friday

• Distinguished Alumni Awards & Athletic Hall of Fame CelebrationNew location! Battle Creek Country Club

Saturday

• Greek Open Houses

• Homecoming Parade

• Tailgating — food trucks, face painting, pictures with Clyde and Haley and more!

• Olivet v. Hope College Football Game at 1 p.m.

• Annual Artist Reception

• All Alumni After Parties - Block House and Schuler’s

Sunday

• President’s Circle Brunch, The Hance House - Invite only

Other events being planned include a pep rally and Alumni Gospel Choir Performance!

Events are subject to change. Watch for details, registration information and volunteer opportunities coming soon.

Letter from the Director of Alumni Engagement

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Saying “change can be scary” is an understatement, but change can also be exciting, refreshing and full of anticipation.

As a child, I remember desperately wanting to be a teenager and couldn’t wait until I became one. Teenagers were more remarkable, got to wear makeup, go on dates and drive cars, everything the younger me couldn’t wait to experience.

Then when the teenage years arrived, I was ready to ditch that moniker and become an adult. Adults didn’t have to listen to anyone telling them what to do. They made their own rules and were free to make their own choices. Adulting vastly differed from my teenage existence, and I yearned to achieve that status.

As I entered adulthood, I found all I imagined about being an adult was true. I thoroughly enjoyed this growth. However, I experienced a more thrilling change when I went from being just an adult to being a mom. Even though I welcomed this shift, it also brought the fears and anxieties of being a new mother and being responsible for another human being. Sometimes I questioned my ability to handle my new identity as a mom and how that might affect who I was as an adult. Still, I learned to adapt and excel in my role and welcome the responsibilities that came with it.

Eventually, I evolved into a grandma. Talk about having to accept a new reality!

What helped me through these life changes was knowing the kid I once was, the teenager I used to be and the adult I grew to become are all still part of who I am. Those times shaped and influenced my character and how I experience the world. So, too, will The University of Olivet be shaped and influenced by the College that came before it. And just as I am a better person because of my past and growth along the way, The University will be a better place because it has the history of Olivet College behind it.

Lori Otto Director of Alumni Engagement

RECOGNIZING 20 Years of the BILL BUCHANAN FUND

The Bill Buchanan Fund was established in 2003 to honor a tradition, incentivize an intention and remember an era, not merely an individual. Projects of the Fund include the Stevens Award that recognizes an excellent educator and the Coleman Prizes in poetry and prose in memory of Tim Boals ʼ69.

The Stevens Award recognizes educators in the tradition of Art and Charlotte. Art and Charlotte taught and lived in Olivet. Their character and devotion have influenced thousands of students while at Olivet College and the high school. Creators of content for the Garfield Lake Review and the Abbie M. Copps Poetry Competition are eligible for the Coleman Prizes.

Annually, recipients are identified and presented with certificates and checks. As the Fund grows, so do the amounts of the award and prizes. The Fund also provides a stipend for the Garfield Lake Review Advisor who oversees the integrity of the selection process. The Fund aims to support the liberal arts in perpetuity.

Eventual projects of the Fund will include the Student Integrity Prize. Contact the Olivet College Advancement Office or email advancement@olivetcollege.edu for information about contributing to the Fund.

Buchanan

Art and Charlotte Stevens Clark

2023 ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENTS

E UNIVERSI

NOT PICTURED:

Art & Charlotte Stevens Excellence in Education Award — Maria Davis, Ph.D., professor of biology

Garfield Lake Review Advisor Stipend — Meredith Dodson, Ph.D., professor of English

Lenora Belle Hazard Award — Kaliq White, sophomore

William Buchanan Award — Bray Wright, senior

Joan Johnson Wagner Scholarship — Summer Smith, sophomore

Ellyn & Lane Breidenstein Scholarship — Abigail Lahr, senior

Stu Parsell Scholarship — Spencer Murphy, junior

Marty Jennings Scholarship — Lily Rozeveld, sophomore

Rev. Grafton & Ruth Thomas Scholarship — Rearden Biritz, senior

1960s

Frank “Sugar Chile” Robinson ’60 was featured on the website BecauseofThemWeCan.com in January 2023. Frank is a selftaught pianist and was eventually labeled a prodigy, using various piano-playing techniques that helped him stand out in the industry, including playing with his elbows and fists.

Marcia (Simonds) Thatcher ’66 was featured in the Local Lives section of Oceana’s HeraldJournal . She is the director of the Oceana Singers, a group of 25-30 people from Pentwater, Montague, Shelby, Hart and Silver Lake that perform several concerts annually.

James McCloughan ’68 sang “God Bless America” before the Military Bowl at NavyMarine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Maryland in December 2022. He also performed the national anthem at the National Rodeo Finals, the Tampa Bay Lighting Hockey Stadium, the Atlanta Falcons Stadium and the American Legion World Series. James earned the Medal of Honor as an Army medic for saving the lives of his fellow soldiers during action in Vietnam.

1970s

Alhasan Ceesay ’71 is a retired medical doctor turned writer and book publisher. Proceeds from his books, which can be found on Amazon, support the Manding Medical Centre that he started in the Njawara Village in Gambia, West Africa.

Suzy (Eick) Wera ’75 was inducted into the Northern Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame. Suzy broke many barriers as an athlete — she played all four women’s sports offered at Olivet College. She was one of the groundbreaking women coaches of male teams in the Beechwood Independent School District in Kentucky (as the golf and tennis coach) and served as the high school’s first female athletic director.

1980s

Michael Chartrand ’84 joined Lovelace Medical Group in primary care. He completed his bachelor’s in biochemistry, mathematics and Spanish at Olivet College. Michael earned his doctorate at the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine.

Cloyce Dickerson ’87 was interviewed by the US Times in January 2023 about his 25+ years in the healthcare industry. His professional accomplishments include being the first president of Baxter Healthcare’s Black Professional Alliance and the recipient of President’s Club Awards, Division of the Year Awards and the Harlem YMCA’s National Black Achievers in Industry Award.

1990s

Chris Turner ’90 is the Washoe County School District Chief Information Officer in Reno, Nevada. He is a married father of four and is tremendously grateful for his time at Olivet College. Chris is proud to say that his stepson is now a Comet, too!

John Gossett, ’91 MSW, LCSW, was hired to be on the faculty at Grand Canyon University. John currently serves as clinical director at Gallus Medical Detox. He is also a clinical consultant with the White Mountain Apache Tribe of White River, Arizona. John has also served as a consultant for multiple programs that provide mental health treatment to veterans.

Maggie (Coats) Andreau ’94 retired from Charlotte Public Schools after teaching for 30 years. She is now pursuing a career as a UKC Agility Judge, traveling with her husband, Alex, and competing at agility trials with her dogs.

Thatcher

McCloughan

Wera

Chartrand Turner Gossett Andreau

2000s

Heather Staniszewski ’94 was named Teacher of the Year 2022 at T.W. Josey High School in Augusta, Georgia. She was also recognized as the 2022 High School Art Teacher of the Year by the Richmond County Board of Education.

Brad Sobczynski ’95 accepted a position with Roush Racing as a performance parts specialist. He lives in Canton with his wife, Kelly, and their two sons, Daniel and Jacob. In his spare time, Brad enjoys racing cars, golfing and traveling with his wife.

Jason Conkin ’97 was recognized in the eighth annual class of the Insurance Business America Hot 100. This list represents the top insurance leaders in the United States, featuring the best in the industry across all specialties and markets.

Bill Polk ’97 celebrated his 500th career win as head coach of the Westland John Glenn High School Rockets wrestling team. Bill was a three-time NCAA tournament qualifier in college and has been coaching wrestling for 25 years.

Mackenzie Heator ’09 was inducted into the Union City High School Athletic Hall of Fame, where she excelled in basketball, volleyball and track. Mackenzie was a member of the Olivet College volleyball team.

2010s

Jacob Richards ’18 became a full-time pastorate for the First Congregational Church of Portland in June 2023. Jacob previously served as the Olivet College Community Service Coordinator and led the intramural club, Christian Comets Connect. Richards

2020s

Stephanie Byerson ’22 is a kin/ physio assistant at Talbot Trail Physiotherapy. She hopes to continue her education at a physio school in Ontario and will be exploring different specialization options.

MARRIAGES

Staniszewski

Conkin Polk

Sobczynski

Alexis Barroso ’13 married her best friend, Sean Wilcox, on Nov. 12, 2022.

Stover

Vahns

Joylyn Stover ’02 married Ryan Hovater on Oct. 23, 2022.

Barroso

Ponja Vahs ’03 married Stephen Dye on Dec. 20, 2022, in Ocala, Florida

Jedediah Berry ’02 and his wife, Beth, welcomed a son, Beauregard Andrew, on Nov. 5, 2022.

Michael Ryan ’07 and his wife, Martina, welcomed a daughter, Magdalena Ella, on Feb. 10, 2023.

Jaclyn (Mummaw) Kadlec ’09 and her husband, Mason, welcomed a son, Milo Lee, on Jan. 9, 2023. The pair also have a three-year-old son named Colton.

Mark ’12 and Angie (Owens) ’16 Gouba welcomed a baby girl, Gwendolynn, on Feb, 18, 2023.

Kody ’19 and Ashely (Curtis) ’16 Garcia welcomed a son, Michael, on Oct. 20, 2022

Justin ’16 & Ashlynn (Grubb) ’17 Madar welcomed a daughter, Remi Lynn, on Oct. 30, 2022.

Berry

Ryan

Kadlec

Gouba Garcia

Madar

IN MEMORIAM

We are saddened to share the passing of the following alums and friends of the College:

1940s

George Nez ’41

1950s

John London ’52

James Rogers ’56

Richard Hacker ’59

1960s

Raymond Lecture ’61

Russell Gibbs ’62

Robert Beckwith ’63

David Gebhart ’63

Gordon Matheson ’64

Morton Zylstra ’64

Paul Zane ’65

Diane Dymond ’65

Rev. Reuel Lanphier (Lanny) Howe ’66

Dennis Mackinder ’68

Karl Hollander ’69

1970s

Michael Clark ’70

Linda Dean ’72

Jay Kitson ’73

Arlene (Wykrentowicz) Lawrence ’73

Mary Christopherson ’74

Richard Dobie ’74

Lynn Macri ’75

Walter “Walt” Tresenriter ’76

Mary Jo Ramsey ’78

1990s

Mark Smith ’91

2000s

Tyler Blakslee ’06

Friends & Faculty

Stephen Upton, trustee emeriti

Dennis Baker, former faculty

Marcia Klein, friend of the college

WE ARE STILL

THE UNIVERSITY OF OLIVET

Travel with President Steven and Kelly Corey on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi!

December 8-18, 2023

This experience is part of the Religion 290: Study Abroad – Culture and Religion in the U.A.E course led by Professor Rev. Mike Fales ’75.

Trip highlights:

• Marina Dhow Dinner Cruise

• Tour of Old Dubai

• Guru Nanak Darbar Sikh Temple

• Camel Riding

• Special alumni receptions hosted by President Steven and Kelly Corey

• And more!

$2,170 U.S. per person, based on double occupancy. (Single rooms are available for an additional fee.)

• Nine nights at a four-star hotel in Dubai

• Breakfast each day, plus six additional meals

• All entrance fees for activities

• English-speaking guides

Airfare not included. Visit

Office of Alumni Engagement