2014 | Issue 1

INSIDE:

SCOTTY MAKEOVER Who is that mustachioed man?

SCOTS IN THE MILITARY

FLIPPING THE CLASSROOM MISSION Alma College’s mission is to prepare graduates who think critically, serve gener- ously, lead purposefully and live responsibly as stewards 2014 | Issue 1 is published in October, of the world they bequeath February and June for alumni, to future generations. editor features parents, students and other Mike Silverthorn friends of the college. This is- sue can also be found online at: designer alma.edu/alumni/accents Aimee Brasseur The changing sphere of student life Comments may be sent to photographer Mike Silverthorn, Accents Katlyn Chitwood ’14 05 “One of our primary interests is student success, and that trans- editor, Alma College, 614 Justin Garant lates into students achieving their educational goals and stay- W. Superior St., Alma, MI ing here until they graduate,” says Nick Piccolo, who recently contributors 48801-1599, or via e-mail: observed his 10-year anniversary as Alma’s vice president for [email protected]. Deb Dougherty student life. Lou Ecken ’95 Nan Freed Susan Heimburger The Manhattan Project Stephen F. Meyer ’80 Elizabeth Money ’94 12 In his new book, physicist Cameron Reed documents the history Daniel Tack and science of the top-secret wartime project that produced the first atomic bombs. “The story of the Manhattan Project has a alumni notes compiled by liberal arts flavor to it,” he says. Mike Silverthorn printing Flipping the classroom McKay Press 14 There’s a lot of buzz these days about “flipping the classroom,” board of trustees highlighted most recently in a controversial article published in Stephen F. Meyer ’80, Chair USA Today. So what is a “flipped classroom?” And are there any at D. Michael Sherman ’74, Vice Chair Alma College? Marcia J. Nunn ’73, Secretary Thomas K. Andison Merrill H. Armstrong ’57 Preparing math teachers using Karen Asner ’89 Eric Blackhurst ’83 15 reasoning and engagement Patrick G. Byrne ’85 Jessie Store’s education classes are hands-on, collaborative and C. David Campbell ’75 David K. Chapoton ’57 “flipped.” “I believe those who want to become good teachers Charles A. Deacon ’80 must have the courage to learn in and through unfamiliar cul- Candace Croucher Dugan tures,” she says. Gary W. Fenchuk ’68 Nancy E. Gallagher ’80 Glenn D. Granger ’83 Great Scots Douglas B. Gross ’77 Greg Hatcher ’83 20 In this continuing series, alumni and friends such as Joanne Thomas J. Haverbush Olson Finnorn ’85, James Hogan, Josh Brehm ’06, Theresa Richard P. Heuschele ’59 Morris ’93, Judy Maze and others tell how their Alma Experi- David R. Hubbard ’60 ence impacted their professional success. Cardell Johnson ’02 David P. Larsen ’84 John McCormack Thomas J. McDowell ‘There’s a bigger world out there’ James T. McIntyre ’69 28 Navy diver Daniel Seals ’10 doesn’t shy away from extreme situ- Roger L. Myers ations, whether diving 100 feet underwater to repair a nuclear Erika Powers Appelt ’90 Carolyn E. Schultz ’84 submarine or flying a Cessna aircraft 1,000 feet in the air. “Alma Ron R. Sexton ’68 gave me the desire and passion to shoot higher,” he says. Lynne Sherwood Kirk Smith ’81 Matthew E. Steinmetz ’84 << Above: Think Spring! This photo, actually shot in early autumn, is making us yearn for green grass and sunshine.

2 accents www.alma.edu 3 CAMPUS NEWS WELCOME

How do you balance a parent’s students better than we possibly ENCOURAGING need to be involved in their can. And so when we put those student’s life with the student’s things together, at its best, we’re YOUR need for independence? able to nudge that student to- ward independence, whether it’s A difference from 10 years ago helping them figure something is the role parents play in the ENGAGEMENT out, or making sure they’re lives of their students. Social empowered to assert themselves media and cell phones and the to find an answer to a challenge. Alma College is alive and capacity to instantly connect Giving them that self-reliance is feed a part of that changing role. well and looking for your STUDENT NEWS important. • I’ve seen firsthand the genuine ded- To acknowledge this, we begin engagement. with the basic premise that we ication to Alma’s mission of Alma’s Q&A: NICK PICCOLO all — the parent, the student How does Alma College help Board of Trustees. While all deserve students to grow? Whether it's reading this column or the and the college — want the recognition, this issue highlights VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT LIFE same thing — that when stu- One of the things we try to do articles herein, staying in touch with col- a couple of former trustees whose dents leave Alma College they is to help students achieve a lege friends, or paying the school a visit at Community, student growth and involvement are among the contributions were exemplary: Judy themes in part two of this far-ranging interview with Nick Pic- will be more fully functioning sense of resiliency. Their real homecoming or another time when you colo, vice president of student life (Part One was featured in the adults and more independent strength comes not only from Maze and Mart Johnson. than when they started. Our are passing through the area, we need you President’s Report magazine). Piccolo, who recently observed his their successes, but also from challenge is how we go about to remain a part of this great endeavor. • Alma’s dedicated faculty are not 10th anniversary at Alma College, oversees housing and residence the understanding that they can it. We would like to think we overcome things that didn’t go afraid to explore new ways of life; student activities; the Stone Recreation Center; chaplain’s of- Your college also needs your help as we know an awful lot about stu- the way they wanted. We try thinking about how we teach fice; diversity and inclusion; and counseling, health and wellness; move to impact the lives of our students dents and student development. and how students learn. Deborah and provides joint administrative leadership for athletics. (continued on page 7) in the future. This has never been more I also believe parents know their Dougherty, who has taught Span- important than it is today. ish at Alma since 1996, discusses As our alumni and friends continue a new teaching approach that is to leave their mark in communities in gaining traction in education: “flip- which we live and work, these impacts ping the classroom.” need to be shared and expressed right For many of us, Alma College was back here in the "Alma Crucible." Ex- a life-altering experience, one which amples are numerous: we will cherish forever. Our time • Many alumni have achieved distinction to become a bigger part of this is

<< in the military. Two of them are high- NEW WEBSITE: From top: Steve Meyer ’80 and his wife now. Consider how your talents can Susan Meyer ’83 as Alma students. The lighted in this issue: Jon Hawley, who impact the lives of Alma students in dynamic content, responsive design Meyers at the 2013 Tribute event. has more than 6,800 flying hours in the the years ahead. Air Force, and Navy diver Daniel Seals, I'm certain that the articles within Alma College has launched a new today’s best practices in web design,” to the college for site who told us, “At Alma, we were taught this issue of Alma Accents will inspire website that features more visual and he says. “It utilizes a rebuilt back-end visitors,” says Ann that being good was not good enough, you to engage; Alma’s future, in no interactive content, easier access to the content management system that Hall, vice president for that you can always do better. There’s small part, depends on it. academic information that students gives us enhanced ability to manage communication and marketing. << always something bigger to pursue. are seeking and a responsive design our content and site architecture.” “We have worked closely with our Don’t just settle.” that adapts to mobile devices. faculty to identify compelling stories Above: The college contracted with the firm Just a sneak “Our web team has worked White Whale Web Services to assist about student growth and highlight the distinctive opportunities offered peek! The new extremely hard this past year on a with the design and development site went live comprehensive redesign of the col- of the website. A team, consisting by each academic program. in December. Steve Meyer ’80 lege website, with a format that relies of representatives from the college’s “Our two main goals have been to See the bigger Chair, Board of Trustees more heavily on photos, video and communication and marketing, in- assure that those visiting the site will picture at dynamic content and less on walls of formation technology, admissions and learn about the wonderful work of www.alma.edu. text,” says Mike Silverthorn, director advancement offices and faculty, has our students, faculty and staff, and of communications. overseen the website development. that they can easily find the informa- “The look and functionality of the “The college’s website is one of our tion they seek,” says Hall. “We invite new site is dramatically different most important communication tools everyone to visit www.alma.edu and let us know if we met those goals.” PRESIDENT JEFF ABERNATHY CAN BE REACHED SEVERAL WAYS: from the previous site, making use of and often serves as the introduction [email protected] • facebook.com/almapresident • twitter.com/jeffabernathy www.alma.edu/offices/president • (989) 463-7146 4 accents www.alma.edu 5 CAMPUS NEWS CAMPUS NEWS STUDENT NEWS Illustrating Scotty Q&A: With the challenge of designing NICK PICCOLO a new mascot costume behind them, the Communication and VICE PRESIDENT Marketing Office set forth to update Scotty's illustrated image. FOR STUDENT LIFE The team worked with Petoskey- based illustrator Josh Skeel, who to help students figure out that if they get started by designing concepts a bad grade, or face a disappointment, they based on the costume. Sketches can get through it. There’s real strength were presented to a commit- and confidence that comes out of that. tee consisting of administrators (some alumni), coaches and What is the value of campus organizations students who offered feedback to and student involvement? help refine the concepts. The pro- cess incorporated several rounds Every person has multiple identities, so of reviews before the team was to speak. For example, I am a husband, able to identify a final Scotty. a father, an employee, a church member. That’s also true for students; they may be an “You don’t realize how much athlete, a dancer, a member of the band, an thought goes into something like this,” says Aimee Brasseur, officer of the Multicultural Student Union graphic designer. “We found or other organization. The capacity to be ourselves asking questions such involved in multiple activities is part of as ‘how old should Scotty look?’ the mosaic that makes up community and ‘how should he be standing?’ helps us make connections. and ‘what face would Scotty That sense of community comes from two make?’ It was really interesting things: purpose and affiliation. My purpose to see how each member of the is what I share with someone, on a team or committee defined Scotty. He’s social organization. Affiliation is how I’m more than just a mascot – he’s connected or a part of something. These are become a beloved member of our campus community.” related. The more I have a sense of purpose, the deeper the affiliations. That’s part of the residential experience. << Left: Redesigning a mascot is already a fun job but the Communication and Marketing team had even more fun with the project by creating a video about Scotty’s makeover Hamilton Commons received a major adventure. The video can be found online at: http://bit.ly/1cWzM8n transformation over the summer. Why was this project important? To say that Hamilton Commons was somewhat dated is, obviously, a big under- statement. The new facility goes back to composed of students and representa- and maintain, and more functional. CAMPUS NEWS that notion of community and connection; An old friend tives from the Athletics, Admissions Among its features is a cooling vest there are smaller tables and different zones and Advancement offices. Working to keep whomever is wearing the in terms of where you eat. It was a very gets a new look with preliminary sketches of a new costume comfortable. State Board grants initial intentional effort to enhance Hamilton as a community-building facility. costume by Olympus, a mascot com- Scotty’s new look debuted at home- Homecoming 2013 From the standpoint of the dining experi- pany, the team discussed what Scotty coming. Following an intro video approval for nursing degree means to the college and the image ence, imagine eating at the same restaurant included a Scotty surprise at halftime of the football game, Alma College has passed a critical hurdle in launching an innovative four- for 200 days of the year. What we are trying Scotty should convey about Alma. Scotty marched into Bahlke Stadium Scotty, Alma’s familiar mascot, was tired. Considerable thought was put into year nursing degree program that emphasizes the development of creative to do is make Hamilton an exciting place, escorted by Alma’s cheerleaders. problem-solving and interpersonal skills in addition to nursing fundamentals. with display cooking and a more interest- After 11 years, his costume was in disre- Scotty’s features, including his face, “We would like Scotty to have a The Michigan State Board of Nursing granted initial approval to Alma for ing dining experience. Even more basic, the pair, his winking eye impaired the costume hair, mustache, muscles and outfit. dining experience allows for fresher, better greater presence on campus, in the a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. The decision on final approval wearer’s vision (and made him look threaten- food. Nutritionally, we have a sounder The result? A new and improved community, and at alumni and admis- will follow a site visit to ensure that the college has the necessary facilities and ing to some young children), and he was not product, and students have more choices Scotty that has both eyes open and is sions events,” says Beth Pellerito, clinical partners. wearing the official Alma College tartan. wearing the correct tartan. His glen- and more control of what they consume. marketing director. “Our Scotty is Pending final state approval, the first class of up to 32 nursing students will A Mascot Makeover Team, led by the garry (hat), shoes and socks match the very distinctive; he should be out and enter in fall 2014. Admission requirements include a minimum ACT score (continued on page 8) Communication and Marketing Office, was marching band. The mascot costume visible every chance we get!” of 25, minimum high school grade point average of 3.0, a goal statement and is much improved, easier to put on satisfactory interview with a selection team.

6 accents www.alma.edu 7 Since the national Food Recovery Network began STUDENT NEWS STUDENT/FACULTY RESEARCH MOUNTAIN LIVING working with Q&A: college campuses Alma study: High-altitude natives adapt to their environment in September 2011, NICK PICCOLO People who live at high altitude are well live at low altitude had a much harder time,” VICE PRESIDENT adapted physically to their environment but he says. “Our data suggests that high-altitude more than 96,000 FOR STUDENT LIFE may suffer deficits in cognitive function, residence, more than ethnicity, influences according to recent research findings by an cardiovascular responses to orthostatic stress. meals have been Alma College professor and his students. “In a nutshell, high-altitude natives are well For the first time, Alma is building a John Davis conducts ongoing research on adapted to their environment,” he says. recovered. fraternity house, reflecting a change in the effects of high altitude exposure on the small housing philosophy at Alma. Davis and his co-authors, Alma College humans. He and a team of students recently Why is this necessary? graduates Jessica Thorington ’13 and Cory tested climbers at Mt. Chimborazo, located Schall ’11, along with Utah State University There are a couple of things. Just like you near the equator in Ecuador. The summit is collaborator Dale Wagner, published their have a curriculum that has multiple choices 20,700-feet above sea level. and courses for students to select, we also research in a recent issue of High Altitude are creating options for their housing The research took place on the mountain Medicine and Biology, a peer-reviewed experience. Some students will come in base at the Carrel Refugio, a stopping-off academic journal. It is the first published and say that the traditional residence hall facility for individuals seeking to climb to study to use a single ethnic group to evaluate experience with hallways and a common the mountain’s summit and tourists from high-altitude adaptation. bath turned out to be a good thing that Ecuador and throughout the world. The “This is a research finding that anyone first year because it compelled them to get primitive building, located at 16,000-feet might assume, but we have demonstrated to know other students and build a strong above sea level, offers bunks and water and is it with solid research,” says Davis. “Plus, social base. There are times when students reachable by car. the Carrel Refugio is at 16,000 feet, which feel they are growing away from that. So, “For the past four years we have studied is approaching the highest altitude at which what kind of inventory helps that? how people who live permanently at high people can live permanently. We were at altitude adapt to high altitude differently the precipice for this research — at the We have more options now for apart- ments and more independent style living, from people who live at sea level,” says limits for people to live. which support our students’ journey Davis, Alma’s Charles A. Dana Professor “The students were very helpful,” adds toward independence. The TKE House of Integrative Physiology and Health Sci- Davis. “We lived for nearly two weeks in a is a forerunner for what we hope happens ence. “We do a variety of tests that examine difficult environment — cold, windy, inside for a lot of the Greek and theme houses. respiratory function, exercise response and four walls and a roof. They adapted to the cognitive ability.” STUDENT WORKS to expand their food recovery efforts to Since the national Food Recovery We hope to develop an inventory of small environment, spoke Spanish fluently and the greater Alma area. Network began working with college scholar houses, close to campus, for groups Davis’ most recent study looks at human helped with the data collection.” campuses in September 2011, more of students with common interests. If you cardiovascular FeedingFEEDING the THE “I was watching MTV’s Do Something look at the overall housing community as While high-altitude Awards, and the president of the Food than 96,000 meals have been recovered. adaptation to living natives are well adapted a mosaic, then within the community are at high altitude. Recovery Network was highlighted,” “I continue to be impressed by these smaller micro-communities, whether physically, Davis sees hungryHUNGRY The researchers says Bangsi. “I was looking to get in- Christelle’s willingness to give so it’s a Greek organization, the Barrister evidence of cognitive Students spark food volved in something philanthropically, much of her time, energy and effort Society or Model UN. conducted a well- deficits in related studies so I found out more about the organi- for such a great cause,” says Steve validated clinical recently completed in recovery program test called the stand One of the changes in our small housing high-altitude environ- zation and reached out.” Watkins, Sodexo general manager at test, in which sub- philosophy is the concept of the AIRs — ments. Inspired by MTV’s Do Something Working with staff from Sodexo, Alma College. administrators-in-residence — who will jects stand rapidly Awards, two Alma College students from a lying-down “We do simple tests that Alma College’s food service provider, Bangsi plans to explore additional live as staff people in the new houses. The have spearheaded a local food project, Bangsi brings left-over cooked food recovery opportunities in Alma’s concept of AIRs came about as a happy position. measure verbal fluency, muscle movement recovering surplus perishable foods and task recognition and response,” says from Hamilton Food Commons to downtown area for the Food Recov- marriage of a couple of things. First, how “At sea level, most people adjust easily,” says that would otherwise go to waste and Community Café at First Presbyte- ery Network. do we provide limited oversight of the Davis. “We’ve found that people who live at donating it to people in need. Davis. “But at high altitude, this can be a high altitude tend to have lower responses to rian Church every Thursday. Pasta, house and a staff resource for the residents? challenge to the heart and blood vessels. “We’re looking to expand; there’s a lot Second, how do we find living space and these cognitive challenges. There is specula- Christelle Bangsi, a junior from South- pork loins, stuffed and mashed pota- of room to take this to the next level additional work hours for some of our “We found that heart rate increases and tion in the research literature that exposure field, with help from sorority sister toes, desserts and soup are among the and help people,” says Bangsi. “It’s tax part-time employees? So, we invite some blood pressure reductions were minimal for to hypoxia, or low oxygen, might have some Giselle Castillo, a junior from Stock- donations. deductable, so there are big opportu- people who live at high altitude, while people effect on the size of the brain, especially if of our part-time employees to go through ton, Calif., implemented their program “The support we’ve received has been nities here.” the AIR interview process and learn the of any ethnic background who permanently exposed as children.” on Alma’s campus last fall. They hope incredible,” says Bangsi. expectations for the AIR position. n — DANIEL TACK — MIKE SILVERTHORN

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COLLEGE

HOMECOMING 2013 IN PICTURES Football action (1, 2, 8), parade (3), bagpipe pro- cession for the 50-year reunion class of 1963 (4), the revealing of a new Scotty (5), pipe band (6), alumni choir rehearsal (7), the Matt Reinke 5K Scot Trot (9), Career Explo (10), homecoming court (11) and Kiltie Dancers (12). 10

WANT TO SEE MORE PHOTOS? Check us out on Flickr! 11 www.flickr.com/photos/ 12 almacollege/sets/

10 accents www.alma.edu 11 PUBLISHED WORKS CAMPUS NEWS

STUDENT NEWS

RAINFOREST << Left: A shoulder patch design used by the A BRIEF HISTORY RESEARCH U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Manhattan The development of atomic weapons Observing mantled District. This group was began with the accidental discovery in originally assigned with howler monkeys in the managing the construc- 1938 that the element of uranium could Nicaraguan rainforest tion work as much of be split — a process called fission that the early research was releases energy. being conducted at Chelsea Bennett’s interest in animal Columbia University in “A few people began to realize that if behavior took her deep into a Cen- Manhattan. The code you gather enough of these elements in tral American jungle last summer. name “Manhattan one place, it could start a chain reac- Project” was eventually tion,” says Reed. “These people, includ- The Alma College junior from adopted to refer to re- Rockford spent four weeks in the search work that would ing immigrant scientists fleeing from Nicaraguan rainforest observing and eventually extend across Germany, began to wonder about the documenting monkey behavior. Her the country. potential of fission and wanted to warn specific target was the mantled howl- the government. They wrote a letter to er monkey — a primate about the President Roosevelt, who formed the size of a large cat — found primarily Uranium Committee to look into it.” in Central and South America. The The government built three large facto- “They live in the rainforest, eat ries in a remote location in Tennessee to plants, rest and hang around in Manhattan purify the uranium. More than 50,000 the trees about 15 feet above the people — most unaware of the true ground,” says Bennett. “I watched nature of their employment — worked them mate, feed, jump and move Project in the factories. At the same time, it was around in the forest canopy. They discovered that the element plutonium spanned much longer — a career Reed, the Charles A. Dana Profes- were, for the most part, gentle but In his new book, physicist Cameron Reed documents could be used to create a chain reaction — during which he has published sor of Physics and a fellow of the curious. I learned so much from in the same way as uranium. the history and the science of the top-secret wartime numerous articles on topics related American Physical Society, wrote watching them; it was such a great to both the history and science of his 450-page book while teaching “Uranium is a naturally-occurring ele- experience.” project that produced the first atomic bombs nuclear weapons. at Alma College — a school where ment,” says Reed. “But not so pluto- Bennett was enrolled in a primate nium; you need to create it in a nuclear Before World War II, there was the documents, what impresses He describes his book as a “hybrid” science is taught in a liberal arts behavior and ecology field course at reactor. So the government acquired an little U.S. government investment you is how the scientists and policy of the history of the project with environment. the Madera Rainforest Conservancy. area in the state of Washington and built in science and research. Then along leaders accounted for every penny. passages that explain the science be- “When I teach, I’m not just teach- She conducted her research at the reactors along the shores of the Colum- came the Manhattan Project — and Nothing was squandered. Adding hind the work. Early chapters focus ing physics,” he says. “This is the Ometepe Biological Field Station, bia River and a village for the workers everything changed. 5 percent inflation every year for on background discoveries related life that is out there. The story of located on the island of Ometepe in to synthesize plutonium.” The top-secret wartime project 75 years, the equivalent cost today to radioactivity and nuclear fission. the Manhattan Project has a liberal Lake Nicaragua — the largest fresh- that produced the first atomic would be $60 billion.” More descriptive chapters focus on arts flavor to it. It involves political Both methods produced enough water volcanic island in the world. bombs served as a model for sub- Students of the Manhattan Project the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bomb- science, social science, ethics, eco- material by August 1945. Three bombs “I have always wanted to travel, but sequent taxpayer-funded science are surprised at the vastness of the ing missions. nomics, physics, chemistry, more. were made, two using plutonium and I never expected this kind of experi- one using uranium. One was tested in research, leading to advances in project, says Reed. “I tried to delve deeper than some “In my course about the Manhattan ence,” says Bennett. “It was so much New Mexico, while the other two were the country’s space program and “More than 100,000 people were other books,” says Reed, who ana- Project, I ask students at the end of fun. I want to study animal behavior, dropped, on President Truman’s orders, other initiatives, says Cameron involved,” he says. “It was not just lyzed National Archives microfilms, class: If you had the options facing do field research and see animals in on Japan, ultimately ending the war. Reed, the author of The History a few guys sitting around the coffee research papers and technical jour- President Truman, ranging to both their natural habitat.” and Science of The Manhattan Proj- pot figuring out how to make an nals. “It’s an undergraduate textbook extremes, would you determine The legacy of the Manhattan Project is Bennett received Alma College ect, a new book released last fall atomic bomb. It was estimated, with some appeal to a broader audi- that using the bomb to end the war reflected in the current world stockpiles credit in anthropology for her sum- by Springer Publishing. however, that only a few dozen in ence with a limited science back- was a justified action or a moral of nuclear weapons, says Reed. Since the mer experience. “The cost in 1945 dollars for the the top levels of government had a ground. Ultimately, I try to answer abomination? Many students are end of World War II, more than 125,000 Manhattan Project was $2 billion,” real sense of the whole project.” the question: Why did the scientists overwhelmed by the magnitude of nuclear warheads have been developed. — MIKE SILVERTHORN says Reed, an Alma College physics Reed began writing his book two involved with the Manhattan Project the project and the decisions that professor. “When you read through years ago, though his research has do what they did?” our leaders faced,” he says. — MIKE SILVERTHORN

12 accents www.alma.edu 13 FACULTY CREATIVITY FACULTY CREATIVITY

demonstrations to supple- UNDERSTANDING ment and enhance traditional reading assignments. In fact, HOW CHILDREN many textbook companies, THINK ABOUT MATH recognizing that students learn through a variety of media- Jessie Store’s elementary enhanced experiences, now education classes are offer interactive websites with hands-on, collaborative online exercises in addition to and “flipped” traditional texts. Jessie Store researches ways Many at Alma College have to improve the teaching of shown interest in the pos- mathematics. She studies how sibilities “flipping” has to elementary students reason offer. Last year’s Honors Day and think about mathematical speaker, Ed Burger, known concepts, and she finds ways for his innovations in teaching to engage their participation mathematics via interactive in class. Her research is ap- web-based materials, was plicable to both practicing and enthusiastically received by prospective teachers. the faculty who continue to discuss and pilot “flipping” Store, an associate professor techniques in their classrooms. of education who joined the Alma faculty in 2012, employs Those who are implement- research-based pedagogies to ing “flipped” components in her classroom environments. their courses are quick to point Her Mathematics 202 course out, however, that the objec- is “flipped” — she provides tive is not simply to record students with videos, Pow- a traditional lecture and ask erPoints, texts and other re- students to view it outside of sources to solve problems that class. “Flipping” is most valu- she assigns. During a typical able when the instructor is able class, they work together to FLIPPING THE CLASSROOM to determine what content is redo concepts that the students best presented or practiced in may have difficulty with. New ways of thinking about how we teach and how students learn a face-to-face environment and what can effectively be ad- Her Education 262 math- dressed virtually. ematical and thinking class also is hands-on, incorporat- Faculty at Alma College show interest in The “flipped classroom” simply inverts the process. Content Additionally, the goal is not ing mathematics portfolios to delivery takes place outside of the classroom, and the meet- simply to present more mate- ensure that prospective teach- the possibilities “flipping” has to offer ing time is used for more student-centered activities such as rial, but to jumpstart a deeper ers get a chance to experience There’s a lot of buzz these days about “flipping the class- guided practice or discussion and debate, designed to deepen engagement on the part of the that as well. room,” highlighted most recently in a controversial article a student’s understanding through interactive group work. student. The value of “flip- ping,” or any other pedagogical “I also am collaborating with “What is changing are the published in USA Today. So what is a “flipped classroom?” Although the label is trendy, the core methodology is noth- teachers at Pine Avenue El- And are there any at Alma College? innovation, lies not in the bells ways in which content is ing new at Alma College. We have long prided ourselves and whistles of what technolo- ementary School,” says Store. “Flipping” is a tag-phrase used to describe a teaching on creating an engaged learning environment where stu- gy allows us to do, but rather in “My students are learning being delivered outside of approach intended to capitalize on classroom meetings to dents are encouraged to be active participants in the learn- the space and time it can open about children’s mathemati- more directly engage students in the learning process. In a ing process and not simply “empty vessels” to be passively up for increased opportunities cal thinking and learning the classroom.” traditional classroom, much of the meeting time is dedi- filled with knowledge. to coach students through the from the children themselves cated to content delivery. The instructor delivers a lecture, What is changing are the ways in which content is be- sometimes difficult and messy through journal writing. Before and after: Deb Dougherty’s classes at Alma still explains a concept or demonstrates a procedure to a group ing delivered outside of the classroom. Not so long ago, process of learning — and that “For my Children’s Literature look the same, it’s her approach to teaching and how she of students who listen, observe and take notes. The class preparing for class typically meant completing an assigned will always be at the heart of an class, we hold debates about dif- engages with her students that is changing. meeting is generally followed with an assignment designed reading in preparation for a lecture, class discussion or a Alma education. ferent issues in literature — this to allow the practice of the procedure, an application of the possible quiz. Today, new technologies allow professors to — DEBORAH DOUGHERTY, is very engaging! — and we concept or some demonstration of understanding on the pre-record brief lectures, slide presentations and laboratory part of the students. Professor of Spanish (continued on page 16)

14 accents 15 A Political Distinction Index map of Spain shows FACULTY CREATIVITY regions of low, moderate and high distinctiveness based on voting patterns. “Note that the most po- litically distinctive regions are places where there have been significant protests against the Spanish MAPPING POLITICAL government,” says Cartrite. DISTINCTIVENESS

<< Above: Jessie Store, an associate professor of education at Alma, meets with several students.

(STORE: continued from previous page) collaborate with schools so our students and a college that encourages such “I believe those can get a practical experience about teaching-learning context,” she says what we discuss in class,” she says. “It is very rare to find such a place who want Store is in the final stages of a research as most institutions provide a very study on “constructivist grounded the- narrow education that does not to become ory for teaching algebraic thinking” prepare students to productively change as their world changes.” based on longitudinal research with POLITICAL SCIENTIST DEVELOPS A FORMULA extensive fieldwork that may you’d get a political distinctive- good teachers several schools. She also is conducting Alma’s size often comes up in casual require significant resources. ness map. All the data is there; a mixed methods study, attempting to conversation, but Store points out THAT ASSESSES VOTING PATTERNS, ETHNICITY it is about implementation.” must have “Votes are distinctive, but there understand notions regarding engage- the advantages that a smaller college AND GEOGRAPHY TO MEASURE DISTINCTIVENESS Cartrite plans to involve ment in the mathematics classroom can offer students and teachers. It may be other variables to con- sider as well, such as economic students in the process. He is the courage and how that can be applied to math- comes down to providing the best What if you could predict vote for that political party in over- or under-development teaching a first-time course ematics education. possible learning experience. events based on ethnicity and all regions,” he says. “We do or distance from the capital titled “Making and Break- to learn in Store believes that Alma’s teacher educa- “The size allows people and depart- political distinctiveness? this for all political parties that or region,” says Cartrite. ing Nations,” during which “Ultimately, I’m interested in students will collect data on tion program develops life-long learners. ments to know each other,” she says. Britt Cartrite, an associate contest elections. We’re looking and through how ethnicity explains political different countries, generate “The liberal arts nature provides professor of political science at for an average level of distinc- “The desire to develop extraordinary tiveness, and we do this over a distinctiveness compared to maps and make observations. citizens and an understanding that opportunities to borrow ideas and Alma College, has developed unfamiliar number of elections and then other variables.” “It’s scalable, and we can bring education goes beyond classroom ex- use them to create experiences that map models that can be used to wouldn’t otherwise be possible. The explain and potentially predict use this data to generate maps.” The maps that are generated undergraduates in and use cultures.” periences is clearly reflected at Alma,” real world data,” says Cartrite. she says. “This sets Alma College apart ongoing faculty discussions about political disruption and unrest. Cartrite’s map models add are an intuitive way to concep- pedagogy and the commitment to tualize data, he says. “Too often in social science we from other colleges and universities. “We’ve developed a formula a critical visual element to a provide the best learning experi- can be abstract. We’re doing — Jessie Store that takes the number of votes topic that can be unwieldy to “They resonate with people,” “When teaching at Alma College, ences are also important strengths.” convey with raw data. One real world stuff, so this is a way you are teaching students who are for a political party — for he says. “I’d like to develop a to get students involved in real example, the Communist Party of the interesting aspects of website where people could willing to cross those cultural bound- — DANIEL TACK world data and applications.” — in a specific region, and this type of research is that it generate these maps — punch aries for an in-depth understanding involves connecting many data compares that to the average in the country, the year, and — DANIEL TACK points instead of conducting

16 accents www.alma.edu 17 GREAT SCOTS AT WORK “I absolutely loved it,” she says. “I thought to myself, ‘If I don’t pursue dance after college, this is something I want to be a part of.’ Ken Tabacsko convinced me to look for an internship during the summer, so during my junior year I interned at Gemini Publi- cations, and it was a great experi- ence. That’s when I decided this From is what I want to do.” Dysinger took advantage of some specific Alma offerings, includ- ing a flexible class structure that offered an opportunity for a spe- little cific learning experience tailored Alma toward her new focus. Former Almanian editor “We ended up doing an in- to finds journalism success dependent study, two-person advanced features writing class the in the big city with Ken,” she says. “You’ll never find that kind of oppor- tunity at a bigger school. As a matter of fact, my old classmate BIG is now my intern at Woman’s Day! She was a year under me and interested in the program, so when an opportunity came up she was perfect for the role. “Getting a salaried position with benefits in journalism can Apple be a real challenge in this job market,” she adds. “Many friends of mine in similar programs at larger schools are still shifting Former Almanian editor Anna Dysinger’s school, my English teacher had incredible things around unpaid internships. Alma road to journalism success has taken her to say about Alma, so we decided to make the trip. definitely gave me the tools I to New York City, where she works as Everyone at Alma was so friendly and nice, that it needed to get here. Anything you the editorial assistant for Woman’s Day wasn’t hard to make a decision after that.” think you want to do here, you can make it happen.” magazine. Half of the job is assisting the While dance was one of Dysinger’s early passions, editor-in-chief with tasks, and the other opportunities at Alma allowed her to branch out — DANIEL TACK half is working in the features department. and experiment in other fields. It wasn’t long “It’s nothing like The Devil Wears Prada,” before she discovered an interest in journalism. says Dysinger, a 2011 Alma College grad. “I’m “I was an English and dance double major,” she Scots helping Scots: kind of the go-to person. We’re doing a lot of says. “Dr. Aspinall was my English professor, new things to position the magazine to be more Dysinger returned to campus in and I really looked up to him. He guided me into September to speak to current accessible while still remaining relevant to our my selection of a major. I got involved with the students about her experiences after older audience.” Almanian during my freshman year and eventually Alma. One of the many ways alumni How did Dysinger’s path take her to New York became editor-in-chief.” can give back to Alma – sharing your time and knowledge with current << and Woman’s Day? Clockwise from top: Anna Dysinger visits with Professor of Theatre and Dance, Carol Fike, who retired Dysinger enrolled in Ken Tabacsko’s journalism students further enhances their Alma in December. Dysinger’s desk at Woman’s Day — complete with a copy of Emily Post’s Etiquette. Anna “To tell you the truth, I actually wasn’t even class, which was instrumental in launching her experience. Contact the Alumni Of- took some time out of her schedule to meet with current Alma students at the Center for Student Oppor- planning on going to college,” she says. “In high into the field. fice at 1-800-291-1312 (ext. 2) to see tunity and during class (directly above). Anna meets with a colleague to review upcoming projects. how you could play a part.

18 accents www.alma.edu 19 Most of these stories were captured by Alma College GREAT SCOTS photographer Skip Traynor, who retired in 2012 after more than 20 years as a staff member. In his final assign- • ment, Skip traveled around Professor of French, Alma College the state and nation to docu- • Majors: French and English ment the professional suc- • Graduated summa cum laude cesses, engaged citizenship and service-driven leadership • Ph.D., French Language and Literature, of Alma College alumni via Michigan State University interviews and photos. • M.A., French, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign • Joined the Alma faculty in 1981

Julie WEGNER ARNOLD ’79 “Few would ever suspect that a tiny liberal arts college far from large urban centers could possibly inspire students to broaden their perspectives, examine their assump- tions about their beliefs and culture, and fashion meaningful lives. Nonetheless, that is what Alma College did for me. I am deeply grateful for my professors’ commit- SCOTS ment to my intellectual and emotional growth, for the time they shared in and out- side of class discussing complex social issues, and for their modeling of a balanced life that included work, play and service. Choir trips to the western United States, Since its founding in 1886, Alma Russia and Poland and my year of study abroad with Alma’s Paris French language program gave me enormous respect and admiration for diverse people and their moral and ethical values. These opportunities also provided insights, some welcome College has influenced students’ values, and others disturbing, into my own culture. Now that I teach at Alma College, I hope that I have honored my former professors and advisors by mentoring my own priorities, career paths and life choices. students with equal dedication.” << These Alma alumni and friends tell how Clockwise from above: Julie Arnold working with students in one of her French classes. Arnold entertains students by playing the Alma has impacted their professional hammered dulcimer. Enjoying a snack while traveling abroad as a student. successes and commitment to engaged citizenship, service and leadership.

Joanne Olson FINNORN ’85 • Founder, CEO of Finnorn Advisory Services, which provides consulting services on start-ups, commercial transactions and consumer services “I love the liberal arts approach and and my history class and my English • Majors: History, Business Administration understanding the interchange be- studies. I could see all of the connec- • Graduated summa cum laude, with departmental tween the various disciplines of study. tions and it was the way in which these honors I remember the excitement I had when courses were taught that helped stu- • Juris Doctorate, Stanford Law School I realized how the various disciplines dents see the world in a different way. started to work together and there It wasn’t studying a specific subject, it • Barlow Trophy was overlap between my German class was understanding the world.”

20 accents www.alma.edu 21 GREAT SCOTS GREAT SCOTS My decision to honor my parents by naming the Hogan Center is born out of the experience that brought Mother and Father together and began a lifetime of dedication to each other, to their family, and to the val- ues of their beloved alma mater. My parents often told me they were who they were because of Alma. Harry M. Crooks, the college’s fourth presi- dent, took an interest in my father and made sure that he had a job and the financial assistance to complete his college education. Then, just as now, Alma took huge steps to offer an extraordinary education and pro- vide countless opportunities. “Everyone knows a college education helps students become successful, but having the Alma Experience like my parents did, results in graduates who strive for success in the context of becoming good global citizens. I want to make sure the educational Judy MAZE gifts my parents received as students “I find a liberal arts education is so important, and Alma can be returned to Alma College and has done a great job fulfilling that role. They are very aware future generations. of the fact that many of the students are from small towns “My father, R.G. Hogan, used to and need to be exposed to other lives internationally and say, ‘Never let a good opportunity outside the State of Michigan. pass you by. Remember life is not a “It’s very important for students to be involved globally and dress rehearsal.’ I believe an Alma locally. That’s a part of growing up and becoming aware of education is one of the best options people’s needs. I think it is important to endow a scholarship. to provide students with the knowl-

edge and skills they need to act on “Many students have needs for expenses and tuition and to << the world stage.” have it as a permanent endowment is particularly important rather than a one-year gift to a student. This allows you the opportunity to reach many students.” << Top to bottom: James Hogan breaking ground in memory of his parents, R.G. and Helen Hogan (right). Romain • Alma Trustee Emeritus, elected to the board in 1972, Hogan played football for Alma in the served as chair from 1994-97 1920s (far right). Mr. Hogan chats with coach Sam Hargraves in September. • Alma College Athletic Hall of Fame, Meritorious Service, Class of 1999 • Daughter of Flora Kirsch Beck, Alma Trustee from James HOGAN 1959-1972 and Trustee Emeritus from 1975-1992 • Contributed to the naming gift for the Flora Kirsch • Parents Romain and Helen met at Alma College in the 1920s Beck Gallery • Made the naming gift for the Hogan Physical Education Center • Established the Flora Kirsch Beck Endowed Scholarship • Established the Hogan Endowment Fund • Cindy Trout ’80 is Judy’s daughter • Established the James P. Hogan Endowed Scholarship • Scottsville, VA, council member • Garden and landscape consultant, including advising Martha Stewart • Former senior vice president for a New York advertising firm << Top to bottom: Judy Maze speaks to graduating classes at Alma College. Her mother, Flora Kirsch Beck. Her daughter, Cindy Trout ’80. 22 accents www.alma.edu 23 GREAT SCOTS

• Congressional assistant, U.S. House of Representatives • Major: Spanish, concentrating on Latin American literature • Retired Professor, Dine College, • Member: Kiltie Marching Band, Alpha College of the Navajo, Tsaile, AZ Gamma Delta sorority, Panhellenic Council • Major: Biology and Fellowship of Christian Athletes • Graduated magna cum laude with • Service: Boards of YWCA of Greater Toledo, departmental honors City of Toledo Youth Commission and the Arts Council Lake Erie West. Ed GARRISON ’68 • Barlow Trophy • Africa Fellow • Ph.D., Northwestern University • M.P.H., Harvard School of Public Health • M.S., Harvard School of Public Health

“The liberal arts tradition that Alma has sus- tained provided a philosophical foundation on which to build my life. Within our own society, the deterioration of respectful civil discourse, particularly in issues of policy and politics, has been especially distressing to me. I credit Alma College with providing for all of its students a liberal arts education, founded on philosophi- Theresa MORRIS ’93 cal and moral principles, that enhances the “Alma taught me to learn about life outside of the ‘bubble.’ It taught me to be disciplined, independent but always inquisi- quality of civil discourse. This is something tive. The liberal arts education allowed me to explore other areas of interest that provided me with a diverse skill set. which our country greatly needs in these frac- tious times, and which Alma College has given “I was blessed to have crossed paths with many great educators. Among them were Micheal Vickery (amazing command not only to its students, but through them, to of the subject), Murray Borrello (quick wit and amazing at engaging the students), Doug Scripps (experience and outstand- all of our country.” ing expression of music), Tracy Luke (compassion and humanitarianism) and Carlos Mentley (exposure to Latin American issues and Arabic). Dave Zerbe was our percussion line director at that time. He was the most amazing percussionist I had ever heard, next to the performer Ray Cooper. Jesse Perry was our Chaplain and a wonderful person. He provided invalu- able counsel, and he was also a great mechanic. Truthfully, I learned a lot from the day-to-day employees who were in a staff/ supportive capacity. Their dedicated spirit toward Alma’s mission, their work and students was not to go unnoticed.”

Josh BREHM ’06 “The experiences I had at • Wealth Management Banker, Merrill Lynch Alma College prepared Bank of America, Grand Blanc me for the real world and • Volunteer work: Habitat of Humanity of helped to shape me into Genesee County and Grace Centers of Hope the person I am today. in Pontiac. He also is a member of the Free- The most important thing I learned is to always find dom Center, Fenton time to give back to your • Major: Business, with emphasis in finance community. Volunteering • Graduated magna cum laude while at Alma College was very rewarding, and • 2006 Gagliardi Award (NCAA Division III I have since continued to equivalent of the Heisman Trophy for the na- give back to my com- tion's best football player) munity. Experiences and • NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship memories made while volunteering are ones I • 2006 MIAA Most Valuable Player will always cherish.” • Two-time All-MIAA

24 accents www.alma.edu 25 GREAT SCOTS

From the liberal arts to IBASIC

TRAINCELEBRATING SCOTS IN THE MILITARY: We catch upING with two alumni whose Alma training helped them to tackle the challenges of Basic Training and beyond.

SERVING HIS COUNTRY ‘Alma gave me the tools that I needed to learn Hawley achieved the rank of how to learn.’ — Jon Hawley ’68, whose mili- colonel while in the Air Force Martin “Mart” and Dottie JOHNSON tary career ranged from multiple combat tours and completed multiple Air Force to Numbered Air Force Chief of Operations. Command and Staff assignments, “We are blessed to be associated with Alma College. We were attracted to Alma by as well as joint tours of duty, its Presbyterian heritage and the strength of the church-college ties over 125 years. including Chief of Operations for Alma College is where students get an outstanding liberal arts education that Jon Hawley’s lifelong career in military and business began Twenty-first Air Force. prepares them for innumerable career choices and important jobs throughout the with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology at Alma College world. We understand the importance of giving back to students who will in turn in 1968. Hawley attributes a fair amount of his success to his Among his major awards and deco- strengthen their communities and make a difference in the world. Supporting time at Alma. rations were the Legion of Merit scholarships, academic programs, the endowment and facilities initiatives is impor- with one oak leaf cluster, Distin- tant to sustaining Alma’s mission of educating the next generation of leaders.” “There’s no better school in the world when it comes to sup- guished Flying Cross with one oak porting its students,” he says. “Things wouldn’t have been the leaf cluster, Defense Meritorious

<< same at another school. I recall being low on money and out of Clockwise from above: Mart • Mart is retired as Chairman of JSJ Corporation. Dottie is a board member of Service Medal, Meritorious Service recieves a honorary degree from the Kellogg Foundation options; the college was there to offer solutions.” Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Alma College. Mart and Dottie • served as the Homecoming Mart is an Alma Trustee Emeritus having served from 1975-2007. Dottie is a With more than 6,800 flying hours in the U.S. Air Force, two Air Medal with 12 oak leaf clusters, Grand Marshalls in 2009. The former President of the Council of Michigan Foundations combat tours in Vietnam, Operation Desert Shield and Desert Joint Staff Commendation Medal couple attend a college Tribute • Mart was the chair of the Open Windows Campaign and was awarded a Hon- and Army Commendation Medal. dinner. Storm, contributions in high levels of government and the orary Doctor of Letters in 2008 Pentagon, Hawley’s post-Alma military aspirations led to a Hawley was extremely close with • Mart and Dottie Johnson established the F. Martin Johnson International successful career in business at Lockheed Martin. his fraternity brothers at Alma, one Scholars and the Matilda Johnson Scholarship “Alma gave me the tools that I needed to learn how to learn,” of whom was killed in Vietnam. • They made a major gift to help build the Stone Recreation Center and several he says. “I received phenomenal coaching and support.” gifts to the Annual Fund (continued on following page)

26 accents www.alma.edu 27 SCOTS IN THE MILITARY

“ALMA GAVE ME THE DESIRE AND PASSION TO SHOOT HIGHER.”

‘THERE’S A BIGGER WORLD OUT THERE’ joined the Navy divers. It’s less danger- After a year and a half, Seals, whose rank aircraft and has flown Cessnas. The next (JON HAWLEY: continued) ous; I’m not away from home 250 days a was Petty Officer third class, decided it phase will be learning how to fly military Navy Diver Daniel Seals doesn’t shy away from year; and I’m not getting shot at. It’s a less was time to pursue his next goal. aircraft. His long-term goal is to pilot “It was an incredible bonding experi- extreme situations hazardous job but with an elite group of large, multi-engine commercial jets. ence, collectively, from all angles,” he “I wanted to be an officer that had an people.” says. “Alma gave me what I needed interesting job, active, and not sitting Seals credits Alma College for preparing to succeed. Someone is always there Daniel Seals ’10 works in extreme situations, whether diving 100 He received advanced training in under- behind a desk,” he says. “The program him to achieve his military training ac- to pick you up if you fall down.” feet underwater to repair a nuclear submarine or flying a Cessna water physiology, diving theory, medi- that appealed to me was being a pilot. complishments. aircraft 1,000 feet in the air. cine, salvage and demolition at Naval You have to be an officer to train to be Hawley doesn’t plan to hang things “Alma College helped me with my pur- Dive School in Panama City, Fla., and a pilot; it doesn’t take enlisted men. I up anytime soon. In addition to du- “Working in these kinds of environments requires lots of concentra- suit of excellence,” says Seals, who lives in was chosen class leader. thought, ‘If there’s anything better than ties at Lockheed Martin, he engages tion, knowing your surroundings, and being in control,” says Seals, Pensacola with his wife, Jessica, and their diving, it’s flying.’” in multiple forms of volunteer and who enlisted in the Navy after graduating from Alma College. Seals excelled at his training and was 8-month-old daughter, Mercy. “At Alma, community services. He is the adju- “Both are extreme situations that are fun to be in but dangerous at assigned as a Navy Special Operations Seals went to OCS, or Officer Candidate we were taught that being good was not tant at VFW Post 5408, president of the same time.” Diver and Ships Husbandry Specialist at School, at Newport, R.I, for 12 weeks. It good enough, that you can always do bet- the Peachtree Chapter of the Airlift Seals grew up just a few miles south of Alma in the small town the Naval Submarine Support Facility was boot camp all over again but tailored ter. That was taught not only in the math Tanker Association, an advisor to of Ithaca and attended the college where his father, Mark Seals, in Groton, Conn. He conducted mine to officers. He was named class president classroom, but also playing football under the Board of Directors of the Special teaches in the education department. Daniel majored in math- recovery missions and performed under- and regimental sub commander while Jim Cole and going to Ecuador and the Operations Forces Warrior Founda- ematics, played football and student-taught at nearby St. Louis water repair, inspections and modifica- at OCS and received awards for military Galapagos Islands for a spring term class. tion and the That Others May Live High School. tions to the weapons, propulsion, sonar leadership and achieving the highest av- There’s always something bigger to pur- Foundation, treasurer at the Knights and classified components of the Navy’s erage in academics, military training and sue. Don’t just settle. Trained to be a teacher, Seals nonetheless was committed to a mili- of Columbus Council 4599 and more. nuclear submarines. physical fitness. He also received a com- tary experience. Following eight weeks of boot camp, he decided “I came from a small town, and I learned mission from the president as an Ensign — DANIEL TACK to pursue his first goal of becoming a Navy diver. While there, he received numerous hon- there’s a bigger world out there, to open ors and recognitions, including a Navy in the U.S. Navy. your eyes and ears and reach for the “What intrigued me about the military was the honor, courage and Achievement Medal for accomplishing In September 2013, Seals began pilot train- stars,” he says. “Alma gave me the desire commitment that it stood for,” says Seals. “I wanted to be in Navy a specific task that had never been done ing at Navy Flight School in Pensacola, and passion to shoot higher.” Special Forces, but I also wanted to be a husband and father. So I previously by a Navy diver. Fla. So far, he has been trained on civilian — MIKE SILVERTHORN

28 accents www.alma.edu 29 SCOTS INTERNATIONAL

An Ironman triathlon consists of a 2.4- mile swim, 112-mile bicycle ride and 26.2-mile marathon run, raced in that order without a break. CULTURE SHOCK McMurray recently participated in the Ironman World Championship in “I never imagined that I’d end up living and going to college Kona, Hawaii. Finishing 18th in his age in the country where my 5th grade pen pal lived.” group and 148th overall, McMurray is — Finnish-born Mari Welke ’94 taking some time off and preparing for next season. The first time Mari Ylipelkonen Welke stepped However, there was one thing Welke remem- “I’ll be focusing on some short distance foot in Michigan was when she was dropped bers experiencing with the other international races next year,” he says. “I’d like to off at Alma for her freshman orientation. and out-of-state student that wasn’t always fun. go back to Kona at some point. I still “A friend of the family recommended Alma,” “Other students went home on weekends and haven’t accomplished my goal of an age- says the Finnish-born Welke. “One of the the short holidays, and there we were — eating group podium finish.” strongest selling points at the time was Alma’s together and hanging out on an empty cam- McMurray spends around 10 hours a 95 percent acceptance rate for graduate school, pus,” she says. “It was so different back then, so week in training specifically for iron- and I had planned to go to medical school.” much more isolating. Students today can Skype man alongside other workout routines. and use other social media to stay connected. IRONMAN ATHLETE From Kauhava, Finland, to Alma, Mich., may seem like an unusual path, but Welke says it It’s not so scary to leave home anymore.” BEN McMURRAY ’09 USES HIS SCIENCE BACKGROUND worked well for her. She admits that those tough holidays away “Alma was a very good place for me because from home had a good outcome. I wasn’t yet completely fluent in English,” “You definitely miss home, but it really helped TO HIS COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE “Consistency is the key,” he says. she says. “My family moved from Finland to me grow as a person,” she says. “I don’t regret a And when he’s not running? McMur- Florida when I was 12. We spoke only Finn- moment of it. Alma was very supportive of the Ben McMurray, an ironman triathlete, ray operates B-Nuts Trail Mix, which ish at home, and my conversational English, international and out-of-state students. They has blazed an interesting trail with a evolved out of his training for triathlon American slang and cultural understanding took good care of us.” science-oriented track. events. Store-bought trail mix consisted were lagging. The move from Finland to Welke’s post-Alma experiences have led her Florida was a culture shock, but the move from A 2009 Alma College graduate with of a “bag of stale peanuts” mixed with into the pharmaceutical business. She works Florida to Michigan was equally shocking.” a major in biology and a minor in candy and other unhealthy, unnecessary for UCB BioSciences in Raleigh, N.C. She chemistry, McMurray competes against additives and just wasn’t cutting it. Alma helped Welke overcome those challeng- doesn’t regret not going to medical school and the world’s top age-group athletes in “B-Nuts uses all high quality ingre- es. She graduated in just three years. is still amazed at her own history, including her one of sports’ most grueling events. He dients, many sourced from Michi- “After my Alma experience, I definitely felt move to America. also started his own trail mix business, gan,” says McMurray. “There are no more comfortable about culture and lan- “Back when I was in elementary school in works at a kids camp specializing in preservatives, trans fats, sulfites, or high guage,” she says. “I would have gotten lost at a Klaukkala, Finland, I never imagined that I’d adventure education and recently began fructose corn syrup in it, just natural larger institution.” end up living and going to college in the coun- a hobby farm. ingredients designed for optimal nutri- try where my 5th grade pen pal lived,” she says. tion. It’s filling and convenient.” Welke credits Alma’s independent study “That’s one of my major takeaways opportunities, working closely with other stu- “I wouldn’t be where I am professionally from Alma,” says McMurray. “It’s not More information can be found at dents and professors, her sorority activity with without my Alma foundation,” she says. “I’m about what you learn but how you ap- benmcmurraytri.blogspot.com or bnut- Alpha Gamma Delta, and the personal connec- still connected to Finland; my husband and I ply it; that’s the really important thing. strailmix.com tions she made with helping her improve her go back with our three kids as often as we can, Alma gave me the tools I needed to take — DANIEL TACK language skills and giving her the foundation but Alma is my home, too. My best friends are my education wherever I wanted to go. for success. from Alma, so you know I had a good time.” The opportunities at Alma were amaz- ing, and I’m so glad I went there.” — ELIZABETH MONEY ’94

30 accents www.alma.edu 31 ALUMNI GREETINGS ALUMNI EVENTS Tartan Tuesday, December 3 UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS Alumni from the Detroit area joined us at the Steelhouse Tavern Please visit http://events.alma.edu/ for additional campus events! in Troy for an evening of memories, friends, food and fun!

From left: Kim Light ’05, Bree Brownlee ’04, Kate DeGood Cassidy ’07 Feb. 8: Crystal Mountain Ski Event – Thompsonville, MI Feb. 22-29: Gatherings with alternative breaks in AL, IN, TN, TX, VA Feb. 22: Reception with Women’s Lacrosse Game – Seattle, WA Paying it forward Feb. 24: Reception with Women’s Lacrosse Games – Portland, OR Feb. 25: Reception with Choir performance – Philadelphia, PA Feb. 26: In-City Interviews, Alumni-Student Reception – Chicago, IL Feb. 28: Reception with Choir – the National Cathedral, Washington D.C. Mar. 1: Tigers Spring Training Game – Lakeland, FL Many of you have seen the movie Pay it • Jason Economides, a former music instructor, made a rec- Mar. 15: Stomp, Fox Theatre – Detroit Forward, which sparked a wave of positive ommendation that resulted in 16 of our choir members sing- Mar. 22-23: Relay for Life at Alma actions after its entrance to our societal ing backup for Josh Groban in his two Michigan concerts. culture in 2000. The idea of making nice/ Mar. 30: Reception with Men’s Lacrosse – Milwaukee, WI • Karen Asner ’89 hosted an alumni event in New York City. kind/thoughtful gestures and then encourag- May 9-10: Service with Cass Community Social Services – Detroit ing the recipients of those actions to do the same in • An alumni group volunteered at Mreturn results in a more positive, healthy and thriv- the Chicago Marathon, giving May 24: Highland Festival Parade – Smith Alumni House Open ing atmosphere for everyone involved and, indeed, water to all athletes with a special June 17: Reception at PCUSA General Assembly – Detroit, MI even the ambiance of the surrounding community. shout-out to alumni competitors. June 21: Highland Games – Chicago, IL TARTAN TUESDAYS Join us for casual drop-in gatherings in several loca- This attitude of paying it forward is evident in • Our alumni dropped off 54 sons, tions 6:30-8:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month (Feb. 4, Mar. 4, Apr. 1, Aug. 7: Tipping Point Theater – Northville, MI the engagement of our alumni and friends. Many daughters or siblings on campus May 6, June 3). For more information on locations, check the website at: Oct. 10-12: Homecoming 2014 at Alma! of you consider the benefits you have received as first-year students, providing www. alma.edu/gateways/alumni/alumni-news-events from Alma College and then generously choose them the opportunity to have to share your time, talent and treasure both with their own Alma College experi- our students and in the community. ence (12.7 percent of our incom- ing class were legacy students). Certainly, many give financially to help provide scholarships and other funding, but there are • Thirty-five alumni (and several >>STAY many other examples as well. For example, just in more friends of the college) at- CONNECTED! the last few months: tended Career Explo at home- coming, sharing their career If you have • Gary Fenchuk ’68 donated copies of his book, knowledge with students. recently moved to Timeless Wisdom, to share with current students. a new location, had • Twenty-one alumni have hosted • Anna Dysinger ’11 returned to campus to talk a change in Tartan Tuesdays in our first four with students about her career as an editor in months, providing the opportuni- ALUMNI EVENTS employment or New York City. wish to become ty to connect/network with other • Marcus Christian ’04 provided an in-kind do- involved with alumni in their areas nation of printed materials to a group of alumni We are grateful for all of those ways November 2013 the alumni in who are working to raise funds for the medical in which you “pay it forward” to your region, treatment of the daughter of another alumnae. Members of S.P.A.R.K. hosted an simply contact the support our next generation of students, the Alma event for young alumni at Anderson Alumni Office at • Ganesa Wagienka ’94 was able to provide great community and the global community. experiences for two public health interns last and Girls Orchard on November 9. 1-800-291-1312 Thank you! summer – and one intern the summer prior. Front from left: Hannah Austin ’15, Kali or alumnihouse@ Moyer ’15, Lindsey Duddles ’14, Lizzie alma.edu for more • Andrew Pomerville ’02 and Todd Smith ’89 Heller ’14 and Robyn Carr ’04 information. hosted Alma College choirs at their respective churches this fall, allowing local alumni a chance Back from left: Jeremy Pawlowski ’16, Lou to hear them as well as serving to promote Alma Amanda (Austin) Hubbard ’11, Kelsey Lou Ecken ’95 Blades ’14, Leona Grant ’XC, Victoria to prospective students and their families. Director of Alumni Engagement Kelly ’16 and Kaylyn Funnell ’16 • Many alumni participated online in the charge to get Pizza Sam’s recognized as the [email protected] facebook.com/almacollegealumni best pizza in Michigan. www.alma.edu/gateways/alumni (989) 463-7245

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ALUMNI BOARD notes President - Dana (Grant) Catania ’95 Vice President - Devon Anthony ’09 Secretary - Alisha (Majszak) Baker ’02 alumni Chris Ahn ’98 1954 Marilyn Gordon Drumm ’54 1967 Sue Miller Anderson ’67 an- 1971 Michael Delp ’71 reports that marriage of their son, Charles Aaron, to Schools. Her youngest son was married Andria Baker ’12 Matt Gwyndolin Stickney on Sept. 22 in Port in October, and her oldest son separated Virginia (Cloutier) Blandford ’02 is looking forward to next year’s 60-year nounces a new grandson, Eli, born to his most recent writing is featured in Bree Brownlee ’04 reunion. She loves church, her exercise ’98 and Cassie Anderson. Eli joins his a hand-set letterpress broadside from Gamble, Wash. from the Air Force and is now attending Raymond Cochenour III ’99 Norma (Bender) Curtis ’69 group and traveling and recently pur- cousins Maverick and McKale. Deepwood Press. the University of Michigan for a doctorate Thomas Davey ’07 chased a bright red Ford Escape. 1973 Bonnie Outman ’73 retired from in outer space weather. • Maetta Bolen Dave Devine ’90 Marilyn (Gordon) Drumm ’54 1968 Marlianne Mauch Warmbold 1972 Michael D. MacDonald ’72 and Pfizer in August 2013. • Gayle Stevens Henry ’75 is a community manager at Dana (Weston) Eadah ’01 1958 George F. Carter ’58 reports Midyette ’68 works with petfinder.com, his wife, Carolyn, are enjoying retire- Sparks ’73 reports that her son, Kenny Cascade Engineering in Grand Rapids. Barb (Loomis) Greer ’61 Dale Greer ’65 that granddaughter Genevieve M. Carter which gives her enjoyment in retirement ment, three grandchildren, fishing and Sparks ’13, graduated from Alma in 2013 She and her husband, Tim, visited Paris Lisa Knowles ’94 graduated from Davidson College. George from teaching. She has placed more than eating conch sandwiches in Key Largo, and is now a graduate student at the and London in May. Tim retired this year Robin Lewis ’78 Kimberly Light ’05 and Judy celebrated their 54th anniversary 3,000 animals in homes. • Richard and Fla. • Connie VanSchelven ’72 reports University of Michigan. He is pursuing but has traveled to Thailand twice on Tom McGuire ’08 a master’s degree in social work with a contract and is working in another role Bill McHenry ’83 on Aug. 15 at The Villages, Fla. This will Beth Winslow ’68 are moving to Seal that although she retired from teaching, Jan (Knapp) Merz ’75 be their 13th year in Naples, Fla. for the Beach, Calif., to be closer to their children she is back at Grand Haven High School focus on gerontology, with the ultimate for three more months. • Dale Nowlin ’75 Martha (Hubbard) Miller ’90 Josh Morgan ’06 winter season. • Jean Choate ’58 is retired and granddaughters. Richard is in the working in Student Services overseeing all goal of becoming a hospice social worker. was appointed by Arne Duncan, Secretary Adriana (Rasche) Phelan ’92 (professor emeritus) but teaches a class or process of closing down his law practice. standardized testing, college applications, His campus job is driving a U of M bus. of Education, to serve as the 12th grade Krista (Schroeder) Ried ’94 John Ruggles ’89 two each semester at the College of Coastal transcripts and scheduling college rep • Betty Allison Wright ’73 retired from teacher representative to the National Scott Timmreck ’02 Georgia and is researching and writing a Howard J. Anderson ’69 visits. • Linda Wells ’72 and Gary Wells SLSD in November 2012. Granddaughter Assessment Governing Board. He also is Elizabeth Wheat ’02 1969 Robyn (Laird) Woolcock ’76 book on Women & Children of the Geor- retired in 2013 as vice president and senior ’72 are delighted to report the marriage of Morgan is attending Ball State. the mathematics chair of Columbus North Heather (Hays) Zielinski ’97 gia Coast during the Civil War. • Darwin trust advisor from United Bank, W.V. • daughter McKenzie in Mt. Laurel, N.J. High School, Columbus, Ind. • Benita ’58 and Kay ’61 Johnson are pleased that Helen Reber Keupper ’69 reports that her in October 2013. She and husband Mike 1975 James and Teresa Barnhart ’75 Prussner Spruit ’75 reports that son Aaron their granddaughter, Erica Sutherland, is daughter is married and living in Wayne will reside in southern New Jersey, as she celebrate many things: 60th birthdays, 38 lives in Australia and son Jason has moved TARTAN TASK FORCES: REGIONAL PLANNING GROUPS going to Alma. She is in the choir. and working in Ann Arbor, and her son commutes to Philly daily. Gary and Linda years of marriage, seven grandchildren to California in the Lake Tahoe area. If you are interested in helping us plan is in the U.S. Army stationed at Fort remain in northern Virginia, where they and 32 years of serving at their West events in one of our major areas of 1963 Danielle Dyer Vachow ’63 Bragg, N.C. She would love to hear from run their woodworking machinery im- Branch Eyecare practice. • Lynn Evans 1978 Carolyn Fisher Lynett ’78 works alumni concentration, please join us at one of our planning meetings. Each wrote, "What a wonderful 50th reunion others who graduated around 1969; e-mail port/distribution business. • Craig Wesley Haiducek ’75 works as a reading interven- at a yarn shop in Berkley, Mich., while planning group will meet three times we had, seeing friends and renewing old [email protected]. • Charles Rich- ’72 and Maria are pleased to announce the tion paraprofessional for Midland Public raising her 14-year-old niece. Her two sons a year, and we will work to have the meetings scheduled well in advance friendships. Thank you, Alma College." ard (Rick) Mills ’69 celebrated his 40th so they can be published in Accents. anniversary of ordination as a Presbyte- For updates in between meetings, please join the appropriate group on 1964 Richard Hastings ’64 enjoys the rian minister on Sept. 30. He has served LinkedIn.com! For specific time and locations, please watch your monthly retired life in Hawaii. • Nancy Howell ’64 churches in California, Minnesota, Illinois alumni email and/or contact the is a member of the board of directors and and Oklahoma and is currently the pastor Alumni Office at (989) 463-7245. head of costumes for Flagler Playhouse. at Island Presbyterian Church on Padre Chicago She also is a lay assistant minister for Island, Corpus Christi, Texas. March 31, 2014 Christ Lutheran Church. 1970 Timothy Lutes ’70 and Kath- ALUMNI INVOLVEMENT West Michigan April 1, 2014 1965 Dave Landers ’65 is the author leen welcomed their fifth grandchild into of I Wish He’d Taught Me How To Shave, a the world. Lydia Joy White was born in Northern Michigan A Career Explosion April 4, 2014 compilation of Dave’s Men and Masculin- January 2013 to Tricia and Matt White. ity class essays on How My Father Influ- Tim and Kathleen celebrated Lydia’s Alma's Career Explo helps connect students to alumni and Southeast Michigan enced My View of What A Man Is, available birth with a trip to England to visit their friends of the college interested in sharing their career April 8, 2014 through windridgebooksofvt.com daughter Kelly, followed by a Rick Steve’s knowledge with students. The fourth annual Explo wel- Great Lakes Bay Region tour of Scotland. • Janet Cook Shetlar ’70 comed 35 alumni (and several more friends of the college) (Midland, Bay City, Saginaw, Thumb) to campus during Homecoming 2013 to offer internship April 9, 2014 1966 Robert R. von Oeyen Jr. ’66 reports that her son, Dave Schumm ’01, had the pleasure of both walking his who works for Danaher in Southfield, re- opportunities, network and inspire students. Lansing April 10, 2014 daughter Hannah down the aisle and ceived an Excellence in Innovation Award Left: Alma Trustee Cardell Johnson ’02 discusses his experi- tying the knot as pastor, and dancing and earned a trip to California. Son Tom ence working for the EPA as a senior policy analyst with a with his wife and daughter at her wed- Schumm works for Google, and daughter current student. ding, just before a serious operation from Sarah Schumm works for Tesla. which he is recovering quite nicely.

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graduated from MSU and are working. in late 2012. Lauri and her daughters are 1991 William Arnold ’91 continues to Mick), on Oct. 7. He weighed 10 pounds, 3 grandparents Bruce Plackowski ’74 and Her daughter is at WMU in the nursing adjusting to this new normal. Isha gradu- teach at MSU and was recently promoted ounces and was 22 inches long! Three big Ellyn Beery Plackowski ’75, along with program. She is married to Peter, who ated from DePaul University in June, and to program coordinator for the H.A.L.E. sisters and one big brother welcomed him aunt Emily Plackowski ’12. • Matthew celebrated his 35th year at Chrysler. Sara recently completed the first year of department. • Martin Stack ’91 has ac- home. Staci is busy teaching their fourth vandenBerg ’02 joined the Albion College her master’s program at Adler School of cepted a post as an associate professor year of homeschooling as well as working Office of Institutional Advancement as 1979 Kim Lawrence Breuer ’79 Professional Psychology. She continues at the University of Shiga Prefecture in as a part-time acute care doctor. • Rainy associate vice president of development in joined Alma alumni Elke Martin Popiel teaching piano, entering her 18th year. She Hikone, Shiga, Japan. Inman Shorey ’97 and husband Jacob were January 2014. He previously was assistant ’80 and Cheryl Addington Voglesong ’79 would enjoy reconnecting with old Alma planning to move to Poland in October dean for development and alumni rela- at the cottage of Rita Walker Kennedy ’79 friends on Facebook. 1992 Sarah Braunreiter Ryan ’92 2013 for their jobs with Caterpillar Inc. tions at the Indiana University School for a mini-Alma College reunion. has moved to Holly Springs, N.C., and of Informatics and Computing. 1989 Karen Asner ’89 announces the works full-time as a pediatrician with 1999 Anastacia Clapper ’99 and Greg 1983 Janet Allison ’83 is proud that opening of her own law office, Asner LLC, Rex Pediatrics. Vosburg announce the birth of Katiah 2003 Aaron Bell ’03 and Angela her niece, Emily Jane Allison, is a fresh- in New York City after more than 10 years Leigh Vosburg on Feb. 27, 2013. She Banet ’03 welcomed their first little Scot, ALUMNI BRIEFS man in the Kiltie Marching Band. Jane as a partner of White & Case. Her firm’s 1993 Amy Joseph Hovey ’93 accepted weighed 4 pounds, 11 ounces and was 17.5 Sophia Marjorie Bell, into the world on also is pleased to have been elected to the focus will be principally on commercial liti- a new job as district chief of staff for Con- inches long. • Joel Sandersen ’99 was mar- Feb. 19, 2013. They live in South Bend, Alumni inducted into Board of Directors of the Michigan Retail gation and arbitration. "Please be in touch gressman Dan Kildee. ried four years ago in October, and he and Ind. • Joseph Phillips ’03 and Mary Hak- Hardware Association. and let me know if there is anything I can his wife had a daughter in July 2012. Joel ken-Phillips ’03 and their two dachshunds Coaches Hall of Fame do to be of service." • Derek Dittenber 1994 Lisa Knowles ’94 started is entering his 14th year with the energy plan to relocate to Ann Arbor in June Intentional Dental Consulting in 2013, a Robert Hill ’58 and James 1985 Polly Vedder Rapp ’85 has ’89 reports that his parents, Ann Reavey efficiency company that has employed upon Joe’s completion of a general surgery Plutschuck ’60 were inducted business devoted to helping people change. moved with her family to Green Isle, Dittenber ’58 and Arthur Dittenber ’59, him since he finished grad school. • Sarah residency at Northwestern University in into the Macomb County Minn., where her husband, Eric, has been celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary She also has started a blog site, Beyon- Lefke Townsend ’99 is the new director Chicago. Joe begins a fellowship in car- Coaches Hall of Fame on May called to be pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran on Sept. 14, 2013. Members of the wed- d32Teeth.com, and blending her commu- of student life (assistant principal) at St. diothoracic surgery at The University of 2, 2013 at the Sterling Heights Church and Zion Lutheran Church. ding party included sister Sue Reavey nication degree into a science field. Patrick School in Portland, Mich. She has Michigan beginning in July 2014. Entertainment Center. McLaughlin ’53, maid of honor; and Gary spent the last 12 years teaching 5th and 6th Hill, who died July 19, 2013, 1986 Laurie St. Clair Hamdani ’86 Clark ’59, best man. His parents reside in 1997 Staci Hill McKeon ’97 and her grade at St. Mary School in Westphalia. 2004 Matthew Baleja ’04 married coached football, volleyball and reports that her husband of 27 years, Qua- Midland County and still make the occa- husband, Mark, announce the birth of Elizabeth Cantwil on July 27, 2013. The softball for 28 years at Sterling sim Hamdani, passed away unexpectedly sional trip to campus for a concert. their fifth child, Michael Patrick (a.k.a. 2000 Mitzi Janukaitis Diesing ’00, wedding party included Mitch DeYoung Heights Stevenson High School husband James Diesing and big sister ’04 and Jon Davenport ’03. • Jessica and retired from teaching in 1988. He also officiated high Leighton age 4, welcomed Greyson James Karbowski ’04 married Neil Weare on school games for 60 years. to the family on May 19, 2013. They pur- Sept. 28, 2013 in Solomons, Md. Janine chased a house in Chelsea in June. Karbowski Kwapis ’06, Matt Kwapis ’05, Plutschuck coached varsity bas- ketball for 25 years in Macomb Ashley High ’04 and Kate Kohler ’05 were County. He started at Roseville 2001 Amy MacLellan ’01 and her in the wedding party. Professor Sandy Sacred Heart High School in husband, Richard Mazzone, have a son, Hulme, Shabnam Mirsaeedi Glossner ’05, 1961 as varsity basketball and Cameron Anthony Mazzone, born Mar. 8, Lindsey Dalton MacDonald ’04 and Ian baseball coach and then moved ALUMNI BRIEFS 2012. All are doing great! MacDonald ’04 also attended the celebra- to Utica High School, where he tion. The couple resides in Washington, coached varsity basketball from Tom McGuire ’08 crosses the finish line in style 2002 Andrew Oleszkowicz ’02 and D.C. with their handsome dog, Charlie. 1966 to 1987. He retired from teaching in 1996 and continues Mariah ’02 with big sister Emily welcome • Christina Leonard ’04 completed her Inspired to run a marathon last fall while recovering from his second ACL surgery, Tom McGuire’s to referee basketball, softball and journey has covered 450+ training miles since mid-June and 601.53 miles since January. the birth of Natalie Clare. Andrew has residency at The Ohio State University in baseball games. While at Alma, “The surgery reminded me that our ability to move and run is a gift and not something that we should been promoted to associate residency 2012 and recently became a Board Certi- he was a member of the varsity take for granted,” says McGuire, manager of clearing services at Chicago Mercantile Exchange. director at Troy Beaumont’s Family Medi- fied Internist. She is halfway through her baseball team for three seasons infectious diseases specialty training at Starting with consistent 2-mile runs in January, he began marathon training in June 2013 with a cine Residency. • Amy Plackowski ’02 (1958-60). Chicago-based running group. “Running with a group really helps to keep your pace consistent and and her husband, Jake Lewis, announce Wayne State University and will com- also is fun – you meet a lot of positive people, many of whom are doing their first marathon!” the birth of their twins, Asher Sebastian plete the program in June 2014. • Megan After finishing at the top half of his division at the 36th annual Detroit Free Press/Talmer Bank Lewis and Myka Lynnette Lewis, on June Richards ’04 relocated to San Francisco in Marathon, he is now aiming for a 50k race in Chicago this spring. 20, 2013. The babies were welcomed by August 2013. She transferred to continue

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her career with Segal in Health Ben- • Clint Barton ’05 and Taylor Erwin Bar- through an open domestic adoption. Their Wellman ’08 is now the head women’s efits Consulting after nearly six years in ton ’08 celebrated their second wedding daughter’s adoption was finalized on Sept. basketball coach at Lawrence University Chicago working as an actuarial analyst anniversary on Aug. 2 in their new home 9, 2013. • Abby Leigh Grabitz Manthey in Appleton, Wis. in their retirement practice. • Leighton in Brighton. ’07 received a master’s degree and Ph.D. Thomas ’04 has been appointed as Chief from the University of Delaware. Married 2010 Andrea Herzog Byrne ’10 and Strategy Officer for the Wyoming Depart- 2006 Kenneth Dood ’06 graduated on Nov. 4, 2011, she and her husband are Bill Byrne ’10 were married Oct. 19 in Tra- ment of Education. She recently relocated from Kirksville College of Osteopathic currently living in Hong Kong. verse City where they now reside. Hilary know to Cheyenne from the D.C. area. Medicine last May with a Doctorate of Miller ’14 was the maid of honor, and Ryan Osteopathic medicine. He is currently 2008 Jane Macdonald Weir ’08 and Herzog ’13 was in the wedding party. the next 2005 Melissa Tavidian Flierl ’05 completing a family medicine residency Alec Weir ’08 relocated to Dallas last sum- married Michael Flierl on Oct. 12, 2013. in Grand Rapids. • Rosemary Dutka ’06 mer after Alec graduated from the Wayne In attendance were Crystal Jacob Weir recently completed her master’s degree State University School of Medicine. Alec ALUMNI SECTION SUBMISSIONS GREAT ’05 (matron of honor), Jared Weir ’05, in computer science at Michigan State is starting his intern year in Parkland Hos- Alumni notes can be submitted one of three ways: Elizabeth Kunkle Poynter ’04 and Megan University. She joined Plex Systems as a pital’s emergency medicine residency. Alec • online at: www.alma.edu/alumni-notes Colligan ’06. • Erin Wicker Sager ’05 and and Jane reunited with old AC roommates • by returning the postage-paid envelope in this issue SCOT? software engineer in September. • by regular post to: her husband, Andrew, announce the birth Carlie and Charlie Rockwell ’08 upon Director of Alumni Engagement, Alumni Notes, of their son, Henry Phillip Sager, on Oct. 2007 Alicia Collins Essenmacher ’07 arriving in Dallas. • Tyler Wellman ’08 is 614 W. Superior St., Alma, MI 48801-1599. Photos can be sent electronically to What convinced you to become a Scot? • For six consecutive years, Alma College 6, 2013. All three are happy and healthy. and husband Dan welcomed their first the offensive coordinator at Lakeland Col- [email protected]. It may have been the opportunities on has been selected to the President’s The family resides in the metro D.C. area. daughter into the world on June 1, 2013, lege in Sheboygan, Wis. Ashley Matuzak Bahlke Field, in Presbyterian Hall, or Higher Education Community Service during Spring Term. Whatever it was, Honor Roll. More than 85% of students you made the decision to begin your life’s participate in service learning dur- work at Alma College. ing their time at Alma, and we rank third in the nation in the percentage of We would love for you to help share the students who participate in alternative Alma experience with prospective stu- break service trips. dents, their families, or anyone who wants to learn more about Alma. You can help • An Alma education works! Ninety- spread the word about how Plaid Works two percent of Alma College’s 2012 2012 by sharing some of our most distinctive graduates reported working in full-time points of pride: positions or attending graduate school CALL TO ALUMNI within six months of graduation. 1929 • The new Alma Commitment offers a four-year graduation promise and a If you know of any high school students Alpha Theta/Gamma Phi Beta pledge that each interested student can who are committed to service, have a participate in a high impact experien- passion for music, are dedicated student- Attention all Alpha Theta and Gamma Phi Beta tial learning opportunity, such as an in- athletes, participate in Model UN, or are alumni: Next year, 2015, marks our chapter’s 125th ternship, research fellowship, or study looking forward to continuing their edu- anniversary. I am looking for a few people from abroad, backed by $2,500 in Alma cation after high school, we would love every decade possible to help with the celebration Venture funding from the College. to have the opportunity to share more planning. If you would like to help, contact me about Alma. You can refer a student by through e-mail at [email protected] or • Alma College boasts a 12-to-1 student- completing the online referral form at: to-teacher ratio which enables students 1901 send me a friend invitation on Facebook. to work closely with faculty to explore www.alma.edu/gateways/alumni/ 1980 I will need your help locating people, gathering over 40 programs of study or a self- refer-a-student.php pictures, coordinating logistics and planning the designed program of emphasis weekend, which will take place during homecom- • Alma offers an intensive Spring Term ing 2015. Although the DGT/SAE set a high mark that provides opportunities for inno- for reunions a couple of years ago, I’m sure Theta’s vative courses, travel classes, research and Gamma Phi’s can top their event. (Yes, Gary and internships Anneliese Fox Stano ’83, we will) So the challenge is on. I’m look- Senior Assistant Director of Admissions ing forward to hearing from you. 1950 — Carolyn Schultz ‘84

38 accents www.alma.edu 39 In memoriam

Joyce (Fischer) Grinage ’49, age 85, died as well as a baseball umpire. His dedica- tors. He was a loving, generous and caring James R. Moore ’68 of Elwell, Mich., Oct. 5, 2013, in Blissfield, Mich. After tion to coaching and teaching earned man who will forever be remembered. died Sept. 19, 2013, in Alma at age 67. her Alma education, she received her him induction into the Michigan High Surviving Bill are his wife of 46 years, He played football at Alma and was a master’s degree in reading from Eastern School Coaches Hall of Fame in 1994. He Barbara; two sons; a sister; and brother member of Tau Kappa Epsilon frater- CELEBRATING THE LIVES OF OUR FRIENDS Michigan University. In 1949, she mar- retired in 1987 after 36 years of teaching and sister-in-law, Richard Stuckey ’53 and nity. He enlisted in the Air Force before In memoriam ried James Grinage, and they enjoyed 62 and coaching, and moved to Mesa, Ariz., Peggy Smith Stuckey ’54. graduating, and spent four years stationed years of marriage prior to his death in where he continued to enjoy sports. He is at Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda, 2011. Mrs. Grinage taught elementary, survived by his wife, Gerry; two sons and a A. Henry Bova ’58, age 77, died Aug. Mich., with the Strategic Air Command. middle and high school for Blissfield daughter; a brother; and many friends and 23, 2013, in Cooksville, Wis. Dr. Bova After his honorable discharge in 1972, Frieda C. Volpel ’42 died Feb. 23, 2013, Award given each year by Alma College. Community Schools for 30 years, retir- former students who have richer lives for was a Barlow Trophy recipient at Alma he returned to Alma College and with in Chicago, Ill., at the age of 93. She was He lost his wife, Norene, to cancer in 1977 ing in 1988. She was a faithful member the time spent with him. College and winner of the Woodrow a Bachelor of Arts degree, worked for a retired marketing research analyst for at the young age of 50. In 1982, he married of the Blissfield First United Methodist Wilson Fellowship to UW-Madison. In Morbark Industries in Winn, retiring Quaker Oats Foundation in Chicago, Mary Ellen Davis of Alma, and they joined Church where she directed the choir for Raymond F. Vernier ’54 died in Lake 1959 he received his M.A. in French lit- in 2005. Mr. Moore served as a longtime retiring in 1985. She was an active mem- the Alma Presbyterian Church and worked 40 years. She also was a member of the Worth, Fla., on Sept. 24, 2013, at age erature. He spent 1960 at the Universite Advisory Board member for the TKE ber of the Fourth Presbyterian Church together in many charitable events in the United Methodist Women, the Lenawee 83. His education at Alma College was de Clermont-Ferrand and as a French chapter at Alma College, was an avid since 1968. In earlier years, she taught county. He served his church in many lead- County Retired School Personnel and interrupted by his U.S. Army experience government teaching assistant at golfer and a longtime member of Pine school in Ionia, and during WWII she ing positions, while serving on the Boards the Michigan Retired Teachers organi- as a medic during the Korean War in the College Amedee Gasquet, Ecole River Country Club where he recorded a worked in airplane aviation research in of Habitat for Humanity, FEMA and Red zations. Among her survivors are four 1952. Following his release from service, Hoteliere du Centre de la France. Dr. hole-in-one on #17. He also was an ardent Dayton, Ohio. During a campus visit, Cross in Gratiot County. He retired in daughters, including Janet Flores ’72; a he returned to Alma where he earned Bova received his Ph.D. in French litera- American history buff and enjoyed travel- Miss Volpel recalled working in Old his late 70s, but continued book-writing foster daughter; 10 grandchildren; five his B.A. degree. After choosing an early ture with a minor in Italian in 1968. He ing with his wife, visiting all 48 states in Main, living in the first Wright Hall, until his death. Among his survivors are great-grandchildren and two brothers. retirement from Ford Motor Company began teaching at Beloit College in 1965 the continental U.S. Among his survivors skating on the Pine River, playing tennis, his wife, brother, two daughters, a son, six as a chemist, Mr. Vernier moved to Lake and traveled for the college to France, are his wife, Carole Brand Moore ’69; son, and being the very first class to graduate grandchildren and 10 grandchildren. Marilyn (Mason) DeVries ’50, age Worth, Fla., in 1970 where he owned and Germany, Switzerland, Morocco, Tahiti, Scott Moore ’92; a daughter; five grand- in the Chapel. Her brother, Marvin, was 84, died Oct. 4, 2013, in Pinellas Park, operated a coin laundry service. His inter- Brazil and Chile. He was a resident of sons and a sister. Memorials may be given Norma (Hass) Collon ’45 died Sept. 25, a mathematics instructor at Alma 1939- Fla. Mrs. DeVries was born in Detroit, ests included a love of United States and Cooksville from 1967 to the present and to Alma College Football. 42; he married the chaplain’s daughter, 2013, in Bad Axe, Mich., at the age of 90. lived in Gaylord, and then moved to world travel, having visited all continents was active in the restoration of the vil- Margaret Roberts ’29. Miss Volpel was a She taught school at Elkton Elementary Florida in 1985. She was an educator in except Antarctica, making many friends lage, including his home. Dr. Bova was Dennis “Denny” McCullough ’69 died member of the Heritage Society, remem- and George E. Greene Elementary Michigan and was a member of the First along the way. He was an avid and talent- a member of the Alma College Heritage Aug. 28, 2013, in Petoskey, Mich., at age bering Alma College in her estate plans. School for 23 years. Among her survivors Presbyterian Church of St. Petersburg. ed sportsman who enjoyed bowling, ten- Society providing for Alma College in 72. He taught history and English at are two sons, Bill Collon ’75 and Tom Among her survivors are four children, nis, golf and ocean fishing. He also enjoyed his estate plans. St. Charles High School following his Carl Louis Wickman ’44 of Alma, Mich., Collon ’75. She was predeceased by sister, six grandchildren and five great-grand- playing and entertaining with his organ graduation from Alma College. Moving died Sept. 10, 2013, at age 92. He lived Marion Huston ’42, and her husband, children. Her husband, Willard DeVries, music at his homes in both Michigan Robert L. Hill ’58, of Armada, Mich., to Petoskey in 1972, he worked for the all his life in Alma, except for the four William Collon. predeceased her. and Florida. Among his survivors are died July 19, 2013, at age 79. After his Michigan Department of MESC as a years he was in the Army/Air Corps dur- three brothers, sister-in-law Marjorie graduation from Alma, he received counselor. He was a self-proclaimed his- Jean Ann (Winship) Taylor ’47 died Oct. ing WWII. After the war, Carl and his Ray E. Mohre ’51, formerly of Charlotte, Wunderlich Vernier ’46, and his partner of his Master of Education degree from tory buff and enjoyed the research facili- 9, 2013, in St. Louis, Mich., at age 88. A brother, Earl, joined their father’s large Chesaning and Jackson, all in Michigan, many years. Per his request, burial at sea Eastern Michigan University. He was ties at the Petoskey Public Library. He high school salutatorian, she majored plumbing and heating business, and it died Sept. 8, 2013, in Mesa, Ariz., at was carried out by the Neptune Society. a teacher at Carson City, Armada and loved skiing, camping, boating and his big in music at Alma was very active in continued to grow for 37 years. He mar- age 87. Mr. Mohre was a high school the Utica School District. He coached black 110-pound Newfoundland “Toby.” the Kiltie Band, Choir and Kappa Iota ried, had three children and became an teacher and coach. After graduating from Suzanne (Mary Suzanne) Rudesill '55 football and softball at Stevenson High Among his survivors are his cousins. active member of the Alma Methodist Sorority. She taught music at St. Louis Charlotte High School, he served two died June 15, 2013 in Richmond, Va., School and volleyball at Macomb Church. The Wickman family opened Public Schools for two years and was years in the Army, stationed in Panama. where she had lived for the last eight Community College. He was inducted Jane L. (Klein) Morley ’69 of Northville, a new business called Alma Plumbing the organist for the St. Louis Methodist After his graduation from Alma, he mar- years. She left behind four daughters and into the Macomb County Athletic Mich., died Sept. 27, 2013, at age 65. She Heating and Electrical Company at the Church for over 40 years. She and her ried and moved to Chesaning where he 10 grandchildren. Directors Association Hall of Fame and and her husband Mark Morley ’69 had time color TV was expanding in America. husband raised five children while she coached, taught, started golf and cross was a Michigan High School Athletic just celebrated 43 years together. A reli- They pioneered color TV in mid-Michigan was a substitute teacher and gave piano country and served as athletic director. In William M. “Bill” Stuckey ’56 died Oct. Association Referee for 55 years. He gious studies major and sociology minor, and quickly became one of the largest lessons in her home. She also was very 1964, he accepted a teaching and coach- 17, 2013, in Alma, Mich., at age 79. Mr. was involved in many organizations Jane was an active student on campus dealers. He was recognized nationally and active in her church and community ing position at Jackson High where he Stuckey, born in Alma, was city clerk/ and served in various positions for the from 1965-69. She was a member of Phi appointed to the Board of Directors of organizations. Among her survivors are instructed boys’ golf and started a girls’ treasurer for the City of Alma for 35 Armada Amvets, the Armada Lions Sigma Pi, which later became the Phi the National Appliance and TV Dealers one son; four daughters, including Julie golf program. It was a treasured memory years. He was a member and Past Master Club, Lions of Michigan and Our Savior Beta Kappa chapter at Alma, a member of America that had over 6,000 members. Shimunek ’72 and Patricia Pyle ’81; eight in the fall of 1998 when his former golf- of Alma Masonic Lodge #244. He loved Lutheran Church. Among his survivors of community government and a member Carl also served on the board of the Alma grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren ers arranged a reunion for him. For more family gatherings, his church, sports and are his wife, four daughters, five grand- of the Alpha Sigma Tau sorority. Both College Alumni Association, and in 1973 and a brother. She was predeceased by than 20 years Mr. Mohre was an active his dachshund, Clifford. He also enjoyed children and a brother. He was prede- she and her husband were recipients he received the Distinguished Service her husband and a brother. high school basketball and football referee farming and riding his John Deere trac- ceased by three brothers and a sister. of the Hebert award in 1990. Over the

40 accents www.alma.edu 41 In memoriam

years, Jane was active in serving the col- Carol “Sue” Metzger ’87 of Alma, Mich., Steven A. Draheim, Alma College lege as Alumni Board president from former administrator at Alma College Theatre and Dance instructor of light- 1992-93 and was a member of the Board and well-known writer, died Sept. 5, ing design 1996-2000, died Aug. 3, of Trustees from 1991-99, serving on 2013, in Chelsea, Mich., at age 71. She 2013 in Norman, Okla., at age 49 after STUDENT NEWS the Executive Committee. Mrs. Morley and husband, Don, raised five children a long battle with cancer. His love of also was a member of the Alma College and welcomed 13 foster children into the theater arts led to his pursuit of a Homecoming royalty Heritage Society, providing for the college their home. After moving to Alma in B.F.A. degree in theatrical design at in her estate plans. She is survived by her 1984, Sue wrote a weekly column for the University of Minnesota Duluth fol- Lisle, Ill., senior Michael Reeves and Marshall senior Jil- husband, her daughter Laura (Morley) Morning Sun while earning her degree. lowed by his M.F.A. at the University lian Thompson were crowned Alma College homecom- Zuidema ’96, her son-in-law, grand- She began working at the college in 1992 of Minnesota, Twin Cities. He spent ing king and queen. daughter, and in-laws Harry Morley ’45 as media relations and typesetting assis- several summers at the Interlochen Arts Reeves, son of Laura (Polovich) and Mark Reeves ’83, is and Betty (Elliott) Morley ’46; along with tant, collaborating with the director of Camp in Michigan serving as a resident an elementary education major with minors in math- sister-in-law Connie Morley ’72. public relations and an assistant profes- designer. In addition to Alma College, ematics and language arts, and participates in Phi Mu sor of art and design in the creation of he also taught at Augsburg College, Alpha and Alma Choir. After graduation, he intends to Dean Williams ’70 of Dickinson, publications for the new Heritage Center Montclair State University (N.J.) and secure an elementary teaching position. N.D., died Sept. 4, 2013, at his home for the Performing Arts, which opened Bucknell University (Penn.) before Thompson, an integrative physiology and health science at age 64. Following his Alma educa- in 1993. From public relations, she went joining the School of Drama faculty at major with emphasis on pre-physical therapy, is president tion, he received an assistantship for on to become the alumni director from the University of Oklahoma in 2003. of the Integrative Physiology and Health Science honor- his master’s degree from North Dakota 1994-97. Retired from writing her col- Subsequently, he served on the techni- ary and is an executive council member of Gamma Phi State University and then moved to umn in 2010, she continued to enjoy cal support staff of the Oklahoma Arts Beta. She plans to pursue a doctorate of physical therapy. Fargo. After attending NDSU, he and playing the piano, gardening, being with Institute located at Quartz Mountain, his wife moved to Dickinson in 1974 her grandchildren and playing competi- Okla. He also was a member of Alpha where he worked for NDSU-Dickinson tive games. Among her survivors are Psi Omega, the national honorary theatre Experiment Station and received his her husband, two sons, two daughters, fraternity. He is survived by his wife, Master of Science degree in botany. He 11 grandchildren and a brother. Sue was daughter, mother and three siblings. also worked as a correctional officer for preceded in death by a son in 2003. the SWMCC and was currently working James W. Leister, Sr., retired U.S. at the U.S. Forest Service as a rangeland Paul John Masnjak ’89 died Sept. 1, Army Colonel, friend and supporter management specialist. Mr. Williams 2013, in Stambaugh Township, near of Alma College, died Sept. 22, 2013, enjoyed spending time in the Badlands Iron Mountain, Mich., at age 45. Born in Alma at age 88. He graduated from and collecting guns and knives. He was in Chicago, he majored in international Princeton High School, attended Indiana Let us hear from you! Alma Accents and your friends would like to know what you are doing these days. fun loving and enjoyed telling stories of business administration at Alma and University and graduated from the Please use this form to send your news about promotions, honors, appointments, graduations, marriages, births, travels and hobbies. We will consider running photos, such as pictures of mini-reunions and old Alma College photographs, but due to limited space, we his younger days including his motor- studied abroad at Goethe Institute in University of Illinois. His career in the are not able to run baby or wedding photos. If you would like former classmates to contact you, include your contact information. cycle travels to Sturgis, N.D. Among his Kassel, Germany, where he mastered U.S. Army began prior to his college The content of Alumni News is the responsibility of the editor. survivors are his wife of 41 years, Connie, the German language and spoke it flu- graduation and culminated in achieving his brother, a niece and a nephew. ently. He received his master’s degree the rank of colonel. During this time he Name: ______Class Year: ______Maiden Name: ______in 1991 from the American Graduate served in both the Korean War, where Lynn Stevens Olson Gareau ’76 died School of International Management he was awarded the Silver Star, and two Address: ______Telephone: ______Aug. 1, 2013, in Lansing, Mich., at the (Thunderbird). He lived and worked tours during the Vietnam Conflict. Upon City: ______State: ______Zip: ______E-mail: ______age of 70. She earned her degree in visual in the Chicago area for several years retirement from the Army, he served as art from Alma College, where she also and was the comptroller of St. Anthony campaign manager for the Honorable Please include my: ___ Address ___ Phone ___E-mail studied ballet. She was an accomplished Bank. Later he moved to Stambaugh Congressman Ron Marlenee of Montana. Michigan visual artist who was featured Township and was an instructor at Bay He also was the managing coordina- Alumni notes: ______in local and regional shows and galleries College in Iron Mountain. He played tor for the Sparklers Organization ______from the late 1960s to the present. Her soccer with Alma College and was a promoting tourism in Corpus Christi, work was produced in several mediums. certified high school soccer and hockey Texas. He is survived by his wife of 65 ______Most were works in paper, including referee in both Michigan and Wisconsin. years, Patricia; two sons, including John ______collage, drawing, pastels and photogra- He enjoyed Croatian folklore and was Leister, Alma College athletic director; phy. She and her husband, James, lived an excellent Tambura (Prim) player and daughter-in-law, Michelle (Olds) Leister ______for many years in Alma and Lansing. dancer. He is survived by his father and ’97; six grandchildren; two great-grand- Return to: Among her survivors are a son and two brothers. children and his faithful dog Andy. Director of Alumni Engagement, Alumni Notes, Alma College, 614 W. Superior St., Alma, MI 48801-1599 daughter-in-law and two grandchildren. Alumni notes can also be submitted online at: She was predeceased by her husband. www.alma.edu/alumni-notes

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