2013 | Issue 2

INSIDE:

PUTTING PLAID TO WORK

GREAT SCOTS

A NEW SAGA In need of some Alma College apparel? Explore the bookstore Web site: accents http://bookstore.alma.edu/ Spring 2013

editor COMMUNICATING Mike Silverthorn designer THE ALMA STORY Aimee Bentley features photographer Justin Garant contributors 08 Putting plaid to work Jeff Abernathy Alma College introduces a new branding initiative that takes greater advantage of its distinctive registered have learned quickly that communication is a Other news and notes: Ellen Doepke tartan and capitalizes on the many ways the English language uses the word “work.” We ask the question: primary responsibility for a college president. I’m Lou Ecken ’95 What will you work for? • If you have not yet toured the Center continually communicating with alumni about Cory Embrey for Student Opportunity, I encourage Nan Freed Alma’s mission when traveling around the country. Monthly I you to stop in to see this wonderful new Ann Hall 12 Connecting with youth through music updates to faculty and staff on campus are carefully crafted. Tyler-Van Dusen space that we have I welcome students and faculty to the house to share col- Mike Hanson Michelle Andrews Oesterle ’76 directs the Manhattan Girls Chorus in New York City. Since its founding, created for students. Several offices have lege news and initiatives. And, of course, I reach out to our Beth Pellerito the chorus has performed at a variety of venues, including a recent concert with the Israel Philharmonic come together in this collaborative new alumni and friends with messages like this one. Orchestra at Carnegie Hall. center: Academic and Career Planning, alumni notes compiled by Communication, too, is important for advancing to a broader Center for Responsible Leadership, In- Ellen Doepke audience the story of Alma College. Of late, national media tegrated Health Institute, Multicultural printing 14 Great Scots have been paying attention to some of our initiatives. Last Affairs including the Opportunities McKay Press Since its founding in 1886, Alma College has influenced students’ values, priorities, career paths and life year the Associated Press featured the success of our Model and Connections Program, and Service choices. Alma alumni tell how the Alma Experience impacted their professional successes and commitment UN team. In January, the Detroit Free Press described the Learning. In addition, the CSO will to engaged citizenship, service and leadership. Alma Commitment in a front-page story. A similar story implement and oversee the Alma Com- board of trustees about Alma’s new four-year plan appeared in the Wall Street mitment, our new four-year plan. Stephen F. Meyer ’80, Chair Journal and other national publications in March. D. Michael Sherman ’74, Vice Chair • Spring is the time of year when we cel- Marcia J. Nunn ’73, Secretary 20 The toymaker Along with our communication efforts, we have accom- ebrate the good work of our students. Bruce T. Alton Remember the Spirograph? The classic children’s toy is back on the market, thanks to Brent Oeschger ’96. Larry R. Andrus ’72 plished much in the area of marketing. In this issue of We congratulate the Model UN team Gus Armstrong ’57 “The world of toys is a fun place to be,” says Oeschger, who has enjoyed a successful career in the toy and Accents, we announce Alma’s new branding initiative — our for its amazing winning streak — 17 Eric Blackhurst ’83 children’s consumer product industry. effort to update, enhance and bolster our visibility in a way years and counting. Kudos to Ful- Patrick Byrne ’85 that is true to our values and strengths. (See story page 8). bright Scholarship recipients Chelsea C. David Campbell ’75 David K. Chapoton ’57 22 Memoir: ‘Growing Up Black in White’ After months of research and market testing with one of the Duff and Andrea Bouwhuis. We also Candace Croucher Dugan leading brand agencies in the nation, the communication and congratulate the wrestling team; in Gary W. Fenchuk ’68 Kevin Hofmann ’89 uses his personal background to change lives every day. Born to a white mother and marketing team introduced the new concepts to the campus addition to its success on the mat, the John C. Foster ’67 black father, today he helps educate foster/adoptive parents in the areas of transcultural parenting, cultural community in March. We saw the excitement for our new Nancy E. Gallagher ’80 team ranked fourth in the nation in Glenn D. Granger ’83 diversity and search and reunion. brand in the demand for plaid items; the plaid sunglasses Division III in academic performance. Greg Hatcher ’83 were especially popular with our students, I’m told! You can read about these successes in Richard P. Heuschele ’59 the pages of this magazine. David R. Hubbard ’60 28 A new Saga As part of the branding initiative, we have “tweaked” the Cardell Johnson ’02 look and masthead of Accents. The new look is not drastically • Many thanks to our engaged alumni Kevin R. Johnson Major renovations to Hamilton Commons, including a 6,000-square-foot addition, will provide a new cam- different but is fresher and aligns the magazine more closely — alumni who identify and create David P. Larsen ’84 pus dining experience for Alma College students beginning this fall. The changes will reflect current trends Donald A. Lindow to the brand. internships for our students; alumni John McCormack in college food service. Accents debuted in 1981 during President Oscar Remick’s who support the ALMA Fund and Thomas J. McDowell other fund-raising goals; alumni who James T. McIntyre ’69 first year as president. In one of his first communications Roger L. Myers with alumni, he wrote, “It has been an exciting transition actively assist with the recruitment Antje Newhagen ’67 from one era to another, a new time with new accents.” of students; alumni who hire our David T. Provost ’76 Thus, Accents was born. More than 30 years later, we have graduates; alumni who proudly display Carolyn Schultz ’84 their Alma swag; and alumni who Ron R. Sexton ’68 multiple avenues for telling the Alma story, including on Lynne Sherwood demonstrate our brand values of effort, social media. But Accents continues to be a primary means Matthew Steinmetz ’84 accents is published in October, February of communication to our alumni and friends; we hope you joy, passion and perseverance. enjoy this and every issue. and June for alumni, parents, students and oth- mission er friends of Alma College. Send comments to Alma College’s mission is to Mike Silverthorn, Accents editor, Alma College, prepare graduates who think Jeff Abernathy 614 W. Superior St., Alma, MI 48801-1599, or critically, serve generously, lead President TYPE: [email protected] President e-mail: [email protected]. purposefully and live responsibly Abernathy can MESSAGE: facebook.com/almapresident TWEET: twitter.com/jeffabernathy as stewards of the world they be reached CLICK: www.alma.edu/about/offices/president bequeath to future generations. alumni.alma.edu/accents several ways: RING: (989) 463-7146

www.alma.edu 3 CAMPUS NEWS

STUDENT NEWS Fulbright Scholars: Barlow Trophy: Chelsea Duff, Andrea Bouwhuis Chelsea Duff Two students from the 2013 Bouwhuis, who double majored in bio- Chelsea Duff was the 2013 recipi- EDUCATION PROGRAM GRANTED graduating class were awarded chemistry and Spanish, plans to enroll in ent of the Barlow Trophy, Alma’s NATIONAL ACCREDITATION Fulbright Scholarships. Andrea medical school after she returns from Spain. most prestigious award for a Bouwhuis of Grand Rapids Duff, an elementary education major, plans graduating senior. During her Alma College’s teacher certification pro- will teach English and work to attend graduate school following her four years at Alma, Duff pro- gram has received national accreditation in a medical facility in Spain, yearlong Fulbright experience. moted local adoption as an officer by the Teacher Education Accreditation with the student organization while Chelsea Duff of Marlette “Winning a Fulbright Scholarship is such Council for a period of seven years. All Forgotten Children of Eastern will teach English to elemen- an honor, and I can’t wait to have this programs in Michigan are required by the Europe, promoted reading at area tary students in South Korea. amazing experience,” says Duff. “It is Michigan Department of Education to schools, participated in chapel They are Alma’s 23rd and 24th truly a once in a lifetime opportunity and a become nationally accredited by Decem- activities and assisted with the Fulbright scholars. dream come true.” ber 2013, says Nicola Findley, associate planning of the Alma Fall Festi- professor of education. val as a participant in the Center “This puts Alma on the national stage for Responsible Leadership. with institutions from across the country,” says Findley. As part of the accreditation process, changes were made to both the elemen- tary education and secondary education programs, says Peggy Thelen, associate professor of education. “Accreditation keeps us accountable,” says Thelen. “It also shows that we are up Chelsea Duff ’13 Andrea Bouwhuis ’13 to date on what’s changing with educa- tion as well as the expectations of families STUDENT NEWS and students.” National Model UN Winning Streak Reaches 17 Years

For the 17th consecutive year, Alma College has won 32 “out- ALMA COLLEGE MAKES Alma College students cap- standing delegation” awards NATIONAL SERVICE HONOR ROLL tured the highest awards at the — the most of any college or National Model United Nations university in the 90-year history For the sixth straight year, the Corpora- Conference in New York City of the conference. tion for National and Community Service CAMPUS NEWS last March. Alma College teams honored Alma College for its commitment “Our students performed bril- to volunteerism and service. Alma Col- representing the countries of liantly,” says Derick Hulme, Papua New Guinea and Sierra lege was admitted to the 2013 President’s Class of 2013 Alma’s Model UN faculty Higher Education Community Service Leone received “outstanding adviser. “We had outstanding delegation” recognition, the Honor Roll for engaging its students, fac- President Jeff Abernathy, left, and Board of Trustees leadership by our seven seniors ulty and staff in meaningful service. Chair Stephen Meyer ’80, right, present an honorary highest award at the confer- and exceptional performances ence. It is the 17th consecutive Alma College offers nearly 40 academic degree to John Dau. A genocide survivor and former by our younger students. This “Lost Boy of Sudan,” Dau now leads efforts to year in which Alma College year’s conference was extremely service learning courses. Alma data reflects teams have received one or that 84 percent of the 2012 graduating se- provide medical assistance to people in Sudan. He is competitive, and I couldn’t be founder and president of the John Dau Foundation. more of the top awards. more proud of our students.” niors enrolled in academic service learning, with 68 percent of the class completing two About 285 graduation candidates participated in the or more service learning courses during commencement ceremony. See page 26 for more im- their undergraduate education. ages from the day.

4 accents www.alma.edu 5 CAMPUS NEWS

Like

Resonance ’13: the Scots take over DeVos Hall in Grand Rapids!

YOU SAID: Nicki King ’11: A truly mag- nificent, highly entertaining show! I’m so proud of everyone involved, and so blessed to be able to call myself a True Scot. ♥ Diane Tilmann ’77: I didn’t know any of the performing students, but I couldn’t be any prouder of them and their RESONANCE 2013 IN PICTURES gifted abilities to bring their More than 250 guest high school performers music, song and dance to a joined 100 Alma College students on the DeVos Performance Hall stage in Grand Rapids during very appreciative audience! “Resonance: A Celebration of the Performing Truly blessed to be a part of Arts” on March 3. Featuring the Alma College this today. Thank you. Choir, Percussion Ensemble, Pipe Band, Kiltie Dancers and Dance Company, “Resonance” Chris Sargent ’97: The Reaso- delighted prospective students and alumni in nance performance today was attendance from the west Michigan area. outstanding!

1- The combined choirs take over the stage.

2- The Alma College Dance Company partici- pates in its first Resonance performance.

3- Specially built stage platforms allowed multiple performance groups on stage simultaneously. a celebration of the performing arts 4- The Alma College Pipe Band and Kiltie Danc- ers proudly display the tartan.

6 accents www.alma.edu 7 NEW BRANDING

school colors of maroon and cream. We agree; it adds a beautiful element to our communication pieces. Mindpower developed a series of mar- keting concepts for consideration. The next seven months of the process can be summarized as follows: review, test, refine, repeat. In total, we conducted 31 focus groups with prospective and cur- rent students, faculty, staff and alumni, speaking with more than 250 people. There were several recurring themes that came out in the discovery ses- sions. The participants spoke passion- ately and eloquently about what the college does well. Our Mindpower consultants were impressed with the enthusiasm people showed not only for their own achievements but also for the dedication and work of their NEW BRANDING INITIATIVE You can see how this could get campus peers and our alumni. They complicated. It was time to bring in learned that we place a high value AIMS TO BOOST ALMA’S the big guns. After a comprehensive on collaboration between students, MARKETING IMPACT search, the college selected market- faculty and staff. Although we work ing powerhouse Mindpower, Inc. as hard, we also have a good time. The its agency partner to help refresh the BY ANN HALL AND BETH PELLERITO Mindpower team found an apprecia- college brand. tion for fun and humor and a desire It is no secret that the higher education market has Mindpower has produced highly for balance in the curricular and become increasingly competitive. effective work for colleges and non-curricular aspects of residential college life. Starting in their sophomore year (and sometimes universities across the country. The before), today’s high school students are inundated consultants began their analysis with The consultants summarized our with materials from colleges and universities, a three-day on-campus visit conduct- brand values as effort, joy, passion through direct mail, email and social media, as well ing feedback sessions with students, and perseverance. as other advertising channels. Alma College, like alumni, faculty and staff to listen to most other schools, is constantly seeking oppor- what key constituents said about their tunities to stand out in the flood of messages that Alma College experience. They also REACHING OUT TO qualified students receive. reviewed recent marketing materials, academic catalogs, and information PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS Increased competition, however, is only one of about our history and strategic plans. We had a few reality checks along several factors that impact higher education mar- Another significant component was the way. While we thought we knew keting. Emerging media, new technologies and an environmental scan to evaluate the exactly what appeals to high school the importance of telling Alma’s story to multiple messaging of several peer and aspirant students, it turns out we were only audiences — including alumni — also are essential colleges and universities. half right. to broadening the college’s visibility and “brand.” There’s plenty of data out there about Recognizing this, the college’s strategic initiatives THE ALMA TARTAN: best practices when marketing to teen- identified the need to evaluate and refresh Alma’s agers. They prefer electronic communi- marketing strategy. We began the project with A DISTINCTIVE TRAIT cation (but they don’t read email). They this premise: a good brand relies upon a consistent One of the early observations the are constantly on social media (but don’t and authentic approach that is interesting and consultants made was that we were try to interact with them on Facebook). memorable to the target audiences. Our goal was not taking full advantage of the col- Texting is king (but they don’t really to increase awareness of the core values and ben- lege’s registered tartan. Visually, it is want colleges to text them). They want efits of an Alma education and enhance our ability our most distinctive trait, and they felt personalized information from colleges to share those great stories. Certainly prospective that greater use of it would help to (but don’t pretend to know them better students are a major target audience, but a com- unify our branding efforts. than you actually do). prehensive branding initiative must also consider other equally important constituencies, including The tartan also pays homage to our We took several of the new ad con- current students, alumni, donors, faculty and staff. Scottish heritage and complements the cepts into high schools to ask college- (continued on following page) 8 accents 9 NEW BRANDING

NEW BRANDING

bound students what captures Alma’s Official Tartan their attention from the hun- Tartan is a woven fabric composed of a variety of thread dreds of messages they receive colors that are intertwined into stripes of various widths from colleges and universities as to produce a multicolored-checkered result. This art and to get their reactions to form developed to its present state in Scotland where some of these new concepts. We it was nicknamed the tartan. Since then, the tartan has were delighted that the long-es- been called “the fabric of Scotland’s heritage.” tablished values of an Alma College Like education such as close student-faculty To celebrate its Scottish heritage, Alma College developed interaction, an emphasis on using a tartan of its own, which was made in Scotland in early out-of-class experience to supplement 1996 and was officially registered on Sept. 28, 1999, with classroom learning, opportunities for the U.S. Patent and Trademark office. Since then it has educational travel, and a supportive been entered in the International Registry of Tartans — an WE ASKED: residential community are also things arm of the International Association of Tartan Studies (an that most students look for in consider- affiliate with the Scottish Tartans Authority). How does ing different colleges. However, there were some concepts Plaid Work for you? that our staff thought were clever and fun that just didn’t work with this au- dience. (Take note: Do not ever joke YOU SAID: about students losing sleep because of all the amazing Alma College op- Amanda Cruickshank ’11: Plaid works for portunities. Teenagers take sleeping VERY seriously!) me in all facets of my life. First in my fam- Launching the Brand ily to get a degree, first graduate from my high school to ever attend; Plaid follows EXPRESSING THE BRAND Alma’s “brand launch” was a Then we began sharing the multi-step process that began brand expressions through me everywhere I go! In fact, I discovered a The decision was made early on to with a presentation to the our social media channels. PLAID holiday! Plaidurday!!!! keep Alma’s existing logo intact, but Alma College Board of Trust- In late March, we posted to retire the “Only One Alma.” tag ees in February. a question on the college’s Crystal Jacob Weir ’05: Plaid works for me line that had been in place since 2005. Facebook page: “How does because Plaid introduced me to the love Our new brand platform takes a fresh The new brand expressions were introduced to faculty plaid work for you?” Within of my life, adventurous world travel, and approach: instead of a single tag line, eight hours, more than 110 we’re employing a family of versatile and staff on March 11 during to the greatest teaching job I could ever President Abernathy’s annual Facebook responses were ask for. brand expressions. These expressions received from alumni, students capitalize on the many ways that “state-of-the-college” address. initial reaction, but research showed us and parents about the value of the English language uses the word The campus rollout included Kevin Metz ’01: My Plaid kilt drives my that the words can be used interchange- an Alma education. Some of “work,” including careers, the concept a video that declared: “Alma students at Albion College crazy! ably. Thank goodness, because “Tartan those responses are sprinkled of working toward one’s goals, and ef- College graduates are the Works” just doesn’t have the same ring to throughout this issue. Many fectiveness (i.e. it works). The four new proof of this simple proposi- Emalee Sutherland Rose ’04: Plaid it, especially for students. And the testing tion: Plaid Works. The world spoke passionately about their brand expressions are: love for Alma. worked for me because my Alma College showed that increased use of the plaid was will be better for it.” (Check education was so much richer than that of • Plaid Works a big hit with students, alumni, faculty out the video on the Alma Col- The final step is being fulfilled my friends and co-workers who attended • Great Scots at Work and staff. However, you may rest assured lege YouTube Channel). with this issue of Accents — • What Will You Work For? that we will often call it tartan when com- introducing the brand to larger universities. The life experiences A week later, the brand was • Get to Work municating with our “true Scot” alumni. Alma’s alumni. and broader understanding of the world presented to students with the that I gained are unmatched. I don’t know Each of these expressions had champi- We are excited about sharing this new video and giveaways of newly ons among the focus group participants approach to elevating the Alma College any group of people prouder of their alma branded items, including sun- with many individuals quickly identify- brand. We believe it makes a powerful glasses, knit caps, travel mugs, mater than Scots! ing a personal favorite. With this family statement about our academic tradi- mobile phone covers, USB

of related expressions, we have a com- tion, culture and outcomes. We hope bracelets and pens. It turns << mon theme with flexibility. that you love it as much as we do. out that students love plaid! Above: One of the new brand expressions, a swatch of tartan joins Alma’s official colors of maroon and cream, and a couple examples of At this point some of you may be feeling our new brand platform in action. Ann Hall is vice president for communica- conflicted about the use of the word tion and marketing at Alma College, and “plaid” versus “tartan.” We had the same Beth Pellerito is director of marketing.

10 accents www.alma.edu 11 ALUMNI NEWS

whole person, as well as personal excel- lence, one exceeds expectations. “The beauty of a small school is that you feel like you matter and have something unique to offer,” says Oesterle. “Ulti- mately, this experience and others in my life led to the founding of the Manhat- tan Girls Chorus a little over a year ago. I want every girl in the chorus to think about the beauty and potential she alone brings to the world.” Participation in the chorus is free to en- sure that there are no artificial barriers among the girls relating to their family’s economic condition. This has contrib- uted to the sense of community among this incredibly diverse group of talented young women, says Oesterle.

Maestro Mehta said, “Under the in- spired direction of Michelle Oesterle, the Manhattan Girls Chorus sang like angels with exquisite sound and precision. Their eyes reflected a deep understanding and respect for the profoundly spiritual choral symphony CONNECTING ‘Mechaye Hametim.’” “New York is a very large city, and we have discovered that it is filled with WITH YOUTH Oesterle’s career in music is extensive. young women who will thrive in a Prior to the Manhattan Girls Chorus, safe place as they find their voice,” says she was the founder and director of Oesterle. “Music unites hearts and souls, the Federated Church choir in Cleve- allowing people to celebrate, serve and THROUGH land, Ohio for over a decade. She also Director of Manhattan Girls Chorus credits reach beyond themselves.” served as a public music educator Since their founding, the chorus has had and toured internationally as both a her Alma College experience the opportunity to perform at a variety conductor and professional singer. of venues, ranging from nursing homes As an Alma College student, Oesterle Michelle Andrews Oesterle ’76 is the artistic director and founder of to the opening of The Omega Institute MUSIC was a member of the choir and Alma Singers, an experience the Manhattan Girls Chorus in New York City, where she resides. It is “Women and Power” conference, to that she fondly remembers. the only all-girls’ chorus in the greater New York area. recent performances with the Israel “It was astounding to have to learn very complex Philharmonic Orchestra with Maestro music so quickly, but I knew if I pushed them to “There’s a real depth to the relationships you make at a Oesterle grew up in Flint. She says she feels blessed to have belonged to school like Alma and a real intimacy to the instruction a vibrant community of young women who were fortunate to be part of Zubin Mehta at Carnegie Hall and their limit, we could meet the challenge,” says Oes- The American Symphony Orchestra at terle. “It’s something that I learned at Alma: Expec- you receive,” she says. “I believe that I would not be doing something greater — a thriving music program focused on excellence what I do today had I gone to a larger university. and commitment that provided a safe haven for personal growth and Carnegie Hall. tations may be high, but they’re within grasp. self confidence. With the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra “I also reminded them that Carnegie Hall is simply “Life is about nurturing relationships,” she says. “At concert, the girls’ music was added to bricks and mortar,” she says. “At the core, where you Alma, I was embraced and made to feel safe to be myself. When deciding on a college to further her interests in music, she looked Others helped me discover the beauty inside myself. I for a similar environment, and found it at Alma. the program very late, and despite only sing isn’t what music is about. The girls sang with heart, having three weeks to learn the music passion and confidence. That is what’s most important.” hope to do the same for these girls.” “I learned many valuable lessons during my formative years while and understand the emotions behind it, attending Alma College,” she says. “In a small nurturing environment The New York Times agreed, describing the chorus Oesterle was confident her girls could as “affectingly precise” in a review of the performance. rich with meaningful relationships, focused on the development of the handle the challenge.

12 accents www.alma.edu 13 These stories were captured by Alma College photog- GREAT SCOTS rapher Skip Traynor, who retired in 2012 after more than 20 years as a staff mem- ber. In his final assignment, Skip traveled around the state and nation to document the professional successes, engaged citizenship and service-driven leadership of Alma College alumni via interviews and photos.

• Radiologist for 44 years • Major: Chemistry Pre-Med • Minors: Biology, German SCOTS and French • Graduated from the University of Michigan Since its founding in 1886, Alma Medical School • Elected to the Board of College has influenced students’ values, Trustees in 2000 priorities, career paths and life choices. These Alma alumni tell how the Alma Experience impacted their professional successes and commitment to engaged Richard HEUSCHELE ’59

“Alma gave me a solid a breadth of knowledge citizenship, service and leadership. scientific background in literature and the arts, that in many ways was which is a major enjoy- superior to the training ment in life. my classmates in medi- “I think a liberal arts cal school received in background prepares undergraduate schools. departments helped to ignite in me you for a leadership role Edward KAIN ’76 Medical school was not in any career. Organized a passion for learning. Coming to as challenging for me as • Professor, University Scholar, De- Alma as a music major, I never lost medicine requires that for them because of the type of background partment of Sociology and Anthro- my love for music, but I developed depth of training I had pology; Southwestern University, interests in a number of additional and the ability to speak in biology and chemistry. in public to organize Chair of the Department fields, eventually finishing majors Because Alma is a liberal in religion and sociology. Without committees, to lead • Majors: Religion and Sociology arts institution, I was committee meetings and the support of scholarships from free to take French and • Barlow Trophy recipient generous donors, however, I would communicate well with German and I was active the people in your field, “The requirements of a liberal arts not have been able to attend Alma. in music taking both and in some cases, with education introduced me to a wide Alma transformed my life, and my organ and piano lessons. people in government.” range of disciplines and ways of appreciation of the generosity of Alma has also given me thinking. One-on-one work with those who made that education pos- caring professors in a variety of sible only grows over time.”

14 accents www.alma.edu 15 GREAT SCOTS

Rev. Dr. Jeffrey WEENINK ’77 • Pastor, First Presbyterian Church of Bay City Lindsey DALTON • Major: Religious Studies MACDONALD ’04 • Minor: Sociology • MA: Duke University • Fund Development Divinity School Manager for Girls • DDiv: Pacific Theological • Major: Foreign Service Union at San Francisco • Minors: French and Economics Theological Union • Fulbright Scholar Like • At Alma, participated in Model UN, Choir, Peace Co- alition, Amnesty International and the WQAC. WE ASKED: How does Plaid Work for you?

YOU SAID:

Lauren Shaw ’11: Plaid works for me because it got me to St. Louis, New York, Boston, Ukraine and Uganda. I’m a better global citizen because of the opportuni- ties that I had at Alma, especially working with Dr. Hulme, going on two P-Globals, “I feel like Alma taught me to be “I’m constantly amazed at how and spending four years (and now two on a strong global citizen, and that the different experiences I had staff!) at NMUN. really went way beyond the facts I in Model UN relate to the things “I’m one of those examples of the learned in the textbooks and from I do now such as knowing how raw materials that the Alma experi- Mason Starshine Warling ’14: Plaid works the professors. I learned how to to write concisely, cooperating ence can gather, mold and shape. empathize with different students with others to work as a team, for me by preparing me to enter the entre- Alma provided a true liberal arts preneurial world with a sound plan and and understand people from all learning how to do great research education, therefore a well-rounded the skills to make it work. walks of life. As a member of to become an expert in an area education. The Alma experience the Model United Nations team, that you may not have had prior cultivated a keener intellectual curi- Adrienne Winchester ’06: Plaid has given I learned about all the amazing knowledge. Above all what I osity and taught me study skills, but me irreplaceable friendships, unbeatable things being done around the gained from being a part of it also taught me learning skills. It world by non-profit organizations, Model UN is learning that you instilled in me a quest for life-long experiences, and made me the well-round- and that is what inspired me to don’t have to accept the status learning. It gave me contextualized ed individual that I’ve become. pursue a career in non-profit man- quo and that there are so many learning where there was practical agement. After Alma, I joined things you can do to help shape application. Alma taught me lead- Americorps and got my master’s the world into what you want it ership and provided ample oppor- in public affairs and now I am to be rather than what it is.” tunities for expression of leadership. working at a non-profit organiza- Once you leave Alma you carry that tion in Detroit. I attribute that to tradition of excellence with you. my experience at Alma. That’s been my experience of the Alma education.”

16 accents www.alma.edu 17 GREAT SCOTS

1991-92 NCAA Division III CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM • Only Alma national championship team Amy ELBERS BAKER ’92 • Alma College Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2005 Co-captain • Three individual members elected to Hall of Fame • Sales Department Coordinator, • Defeated Moravian College, winner of 42 straight Auto-Owners Insurance Co., Lansing games, in championship game • Major: Business Administration • Won every playoff game on opponents’ home courts • Senior captain, 1992 Women’s National Championship Team • Lives in Okemos

Bob GIGLIOTTI ’70 “I chose Alma College to play a journey that taught me hard basketball at the collegiate level work, leadership and patience; a • Managing Partner, Rehman while obtaining a liberal arts journey that taught me the im- Associates, Troy, Mich. education. It seemed like a natu- portant role that community and • Member, Alma College Athlet- ral decision since several of my friends could have in reaching ic Hall of Fame, Distinguished family members also attended your goals. Because of the close Alumnus, Class of 2005 Alma, but I did not realize then community, my professors came the great impact Alma would to our games and supported us • Major: Business Administration have on me. on and off the court. At the time “The memory that stands out the I took for granted these experi- most is winning a national cham- ences not fully understanding pionship. It wasn’t being captain the effect they would have on my future. Now, 20 years later I “I always credit the Alma College background to allow me to participate in centers my senior year or winning the realize how these valuable lessons of influence. When you are in those centers of influence you have the opportunities big game. It was the journey our have impacted every area of my to meet Presidents of the United States, foreign dignitaries, entertainment personali- team went through to get that life. For that, I will be forever ties and a lot of corporate executives. To be able to be in that group required some win; a journey that transformed grateful to Alma College.” skills and I credit Alma College with the public speaking, relationship building and us from teammates to family; the organizational side to be able to do all of that. I’ve been fortunate to have that background and skill set and resources that Alma provided.”

Larry ANDRUS ’72 • CEO, Trivalent Group • Major: Business Administration • Elected to the Board of Trustees in 2004 • Alma College Athletic Hall of Fame, Distinguished Alumnus Class of 2007 • Played baseball, basketball and football, All-MIAA in baseball and football

“When I had my entrepreneurial moment and decided to own my own business, I was prepared to do that and have the confidence in the baseline decisions that I could make as a result of my Alma education. I credit a lot to my Alma education. Most of all it makes you think critically, think for yourself and own the solution.” “I’ve never regretted that fact that I was able to play at the Division III level and get out with a quality education in four years. That really stoked my competitive fires, which I needed at that time in my life. I’m really grateful for that bridge to life and the help to become an adult.”

18 accents www.alma.edu 19 THE

t An Ann Arborymaker company brings back a classic children’s toy

Brent Oeschger ’96 has transformed “I found myself in ground zero nection at Hasbro, which owns a longtime love for doodling and launching the new toy division,” the brand name, we pitched our drawing cartoons into a success- says Oeschger. “I did design work idea for relaunch and expansion. ful career in the toy and children’s for Nickelodeon and helped create It has been gangbusters since.” consumer product industry. popular products like Gooze and Kahootz was granted the exclu- “I knew from a really early age the Blue’s Clues Handy Dandy sive license to use the Spirograph that I was interested in art,” he Notebook. The world of toys is a brand in North America, a says. “At Alma, I could talk to my fun place to be. You get to be cre- tremendous opportunity for the professors about what I wanted to ative and play and call it work.” company, which is less than a year do, which was pivotal. Through old. When Oeschger reflects on independent studies, I was able to ‘The world of milestone accomplishments like dive into my interests.” this, he thinks about the overall Oeschger grew up on the east toys is a fun liberal arts education that he coast and moved back to Michi- received at Alma, he says. gan before his senior year of high place to be. You “From logo and packaging design school. While at Alma College, he to business decisions, working in was a resident assistant and Art get to be creative the toy industry utilizes a little Department curatorial assistant. bit of all your skills,” he says. He also worked on The Almanian and play and call “I’ve hired a lot of recent college and participated in jazz band and graduates who are artists and de- Sigma Alpha Epsilon. it work.’ signers, and the graduates with a “My Alma experience was great,” — Brent Oeschger ’96 liberal arts background have a leg he says. “Campus was such up. They better understand the Over the last 17 years, Oeschger non-trade aspects of the industry. a welcoming and personable has worked at JAKKS Pacific, Me- environment. I had the opportu- lissa & Doug Elmer’s Products and “So many things at Alma laid the nity to branch out and do many Giddy Up. When Giddy Up was groundwork for me and helped different things while majoring sold last year, he and a few former me get where I am today,” he in art and design.” colleagues launched Kahootz Toys. continues. “At a bigger school, I After he graduated, Oeschger be- One of the company’s first projects wouldn’t have done things like gan working as a design manager was to bring back Spirograph, a been on a provost search commit- for Colorbök Paper Products in classic children’s toy. tee and reviewed resumes with Ann Arbor. At the time, the com- the president. The breadth of the “I love classic toys, and as a kid, Alma experience is wonderful.” pany largely focused on stationery one of my favorites was Spiro- products, but it soon branched out graph,” he says. “Through a con- — ELLEN DOEPKE to another area: toys.

20 accents www.alma.edu 21 ALUMNI NEWS

ALUMNI NEWS Excited to serve Mary Sugiyama ’10 coordinates alternative break experience in Like BLACK inner-city Milwaukee Memoir: ‘Growing Up Black in White’ WE ASKED: the classroom. There are fourth grad- Hofmann ’89 counsels in the area a deeper level, and it gave me the ability to exhale. As a men- ers who don’t even know how to use How does tor, I help children see that they’ll make it through, too.” scissors. It’s nice to be an advocate for changing that.” of transcultural parenting, cultural While Hofmann is quick to compliment the education he Plaid Work diversity and search and reunion received as an exercise physiology major at Alma College, he The interactions that the Alma Col- for you? admits that he struggled with the stark differences between lege students had with the Milwau- Kevin Hofmann ’89 uses his personal background to change his hometown and Alma. ary Sugiyama ’10 found kee youth are meaningful and im- her passion for service pactful, says Memphis, Mich., senior lives every day. “I was a cross country and track athlete recruited by Charlie at Alma College. Now, Morgan Bauman, who participated YOU SAID: Gray, who would not quit until I came to Alma,” he says. Born in Detroit to a white mother and black father, he was she wants to make in the alternative break. adopted by a white family but attended a predominantly “Growing up in Detroit, I thought the whole world was like sure Alma students have that same Mary Lesko ’07: In some dif- Detroit, so college for me was about finding my way and figur- “These children could very easily black school. Now, he helps educate foster/adoptive parents Mopportunity. ficult times in education, Plaid ing out who I was. I really learned a lot and grew as a person.” have had a chip on their shoulder, in the areas of transcultural parenting, cultural diversity and taught me to stay passionate search and reunion as a member of the Ohio Child Welfare She recently coordinated an alterna- but that wasn’t the case,” says Bau- and remember why I became Training Program. GROWING UP BLACK IN WHITE tive break for Alma students explor- man. “Each organization that we ing Milwaukee’s diverse culture by worked with was overflowing with a teacher in the first place...to “I’ve followed my passion,” he says. “I’m able to share my working with youth from multiple compassion for the population they make a difference by helping experience as a biracial transracial adopteeGrowing Up Black in White and by Kevin D. Hofmanngive is a foster/ moving and sometimes humorous look into the life nonprofit agencies. During the week- serve and a passion for the purpose of one man with a fascinating past. Born into the students! adoptive parents the resources that racially-chargedthey need Detroit of 1967 to a white have mother impor- and a black father, the author was placed into foster long break, they provided tutoring, of their organization. care and then adopted by a white minister and tant conversations about race. Therehis wife, are the parents only of three biologicala handful children. of us Hofmann’s memoir reveals the racial tensions, the participated in gym and art activities Ashley Esselink ’15: PLAID diffi culties of feeling neither black nor white, his out there doing what I am doing.” family’s loving support, and his struggles to defi ne and embrace his own identity as he grew to be a and helped beautify spaces. man. This is a story of hope and promise, and how works for me, because I have we are able to defi ne ourselves not through the racism and judgments of a challenging society, but An accomplished writer and publicthrough speaker, our own sense of self-respect Hofmann and personal first “Coordinating this experience the opportunity to go wherever identity. Kevin Hofmann came to this memoir after realized just how unique his childhooda lifetime of contemplationwas whileand self-analysis. Afterattending attending a national conference on adoption, he reminded me of just how responsible I want and to become who I am, found his voice and wove it into this emotional and an international adoption conference.often amusing When story. Hofmann he lives with spoke his wife during and two sons in Toledo, Ohio. and self-motivated Alma students with the endless support of the breakout sessions, he says the whole room would pause. are,” says Sugiyama. “They also were KEVIN D. HOFMANN most friendly, motivated, and “Because of this reaction, it occurred to me that my story so excited to serve. Before we even ISBN 9780578051505 passionate faculty and staff be- asked them to do anything, the stu- is not typical,” he says. “Most children who are adopted by hind me every step of the way. white families live in white communities and go to white9 780578 051505 KEVIN D.HOFMANN dents had already started working!” schools and white churches. It’s important for people to hear Alma students visited La Causa Tanis Rozeveld ’13: Plaid gave from someone who has had a different experience.” Hofmann’s memoir, Growing Up Black in White, is used as Charter School, where Christina me the opportunity to go to part of college social work and multiculturalism curricula. While Hofmann feels fortunate to have had exposure to Brown Steeves ’09 teaches. They also Sierra Leone and work in a hos- An active blogger for Adoption.com, he has been featured in people who looked like him growing up, some children live visited three other sites, including pital for a month. This led to my Adoptions Families Magazine, Nightline ABC and NPR. Walker’s Point Center for the Arts “It was such a testament that Mary a lonely existence, he says. This is why he is particularly pas- reached out to organize a service thesis and me discovering my “Through my work, I am able to touch lives,” he says. “I (WPCA), a neighborhood arts center sionate about the mentorship work that he does. trip after graduating,” says Bauman. true passion. really enjoy following stories and watching families get for underprivileged youth where “Growing up, I took comfort in people who looked like me “Mary has such a huge heart, and reunited. To be able to help in this way, it’s amazing. Like Sugiyama is the assistant director of because when I experienced something that I assumed was she spoke so fondly of how Alma Oprah always says, life is about having those aha moments.” education/art educator. racism, I could turn to them,” he says. “They understood on shaped the person she is today and “I love seeing kids genuinely excited — ELLEN DOEPKE the things that she works for in her to do art,” she says. “Due to budget job everyday.” cuts, over 80 percent of Milwaukee public schools no longer have art in (continued on page 27)

22 accents www.alma.edu 23 CAMPUS NEWS

“Despite being a sacred text for many people, the Bible really does bear the terrible marks of ancient near-Eastern sexism and misogyny,” she says. “It also seems to condone horrific violence against women, so anyone who seeks to get something out of the Bible today really needs to wrestle with that reality. That said, biblical stories can sometimes be quite comical, and some of our monologues demonstrate a dark sense of humor.” Dolly Van Fossan, a 2011 Alma gradu- ate who contributed the “Eve” mono- logue to the book, says she still thinks it is incredible that this project, once a fun idea tossed around the classroom, COLLEGE has turned into a tangible reality that can be purchased on Amazon.com. “I saw this project as an opportunity not only to express my creativity and spirit as a writer, but also to protest sexism, homophobia and other op- pressions that are frequently perpetu- ated by traditional interpretations P NewRTS book explores the relationship of the Bible,” she says. “It is just one example among many of the extraor- between religion and sexual ethics dinary opportunities Kate provides to her students. She is an outstanding professor.” HOMECOMING 2013 new book by Kate Blanchard of religious studies and women’s and explores the complicated rela- gender studies majors for an indepen- Blanchard is equally as complimen- - save the dates - tionship between religion and dent study on feminist biblical interpre- tary of her former students, as well as Asexual ethics. tation. Each student wrote a research former Alma professor Jamie Smith, October 4-6 who lent her expertise in the Italian Lady Parts: Biblical Women and The paper about one biblical woman of her choice, such as Eve, Jael or Prisca. They Renaissance to one of the monologues Vagina Monologues contains written in the book. monologues by a variety of authors, in- also wrote creative monologues, which FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.alma.edu/alumni/involved/homecoming cluding six former Alma students, who were performed on “It thrills me that my imagine how women in the Bible would campus, she says. wonderful students can tell their stories if they were prompted “Since I am not a bibli- now all say that they by The Vagina Monologues. cal specialist by training, are published authors!” my contributing stu- she says. “I am bursting Blanchard, associate professor of reli- with pride at their ac- gious studies, co-edited the book with dents really impressed and inspired me with complishments, and I Jane S. Webster of Barton College in hope they’ll get a chance YOU SAID: North Carolina. their research and their creativity,” she says. to perform their mono- Like Kate Dyki ’07: Plaid works for me because it helped me land my current “When Eve Ensler, author of The Vagina “They learned a great logues again sometime Monologues, came to speak on campus in deal about the biblical for a larger audience.” position with a Class of ’78 alumna. 2008, I found her surprisingly inspiring,” characters they stud- In addition to contrib- WE ASKED: Julie Kruse Hayes ’92: My Alma College education nurtured skills, talents Blanchard says. “I was also moved by a ied, and they also put uting to readings of and abilities that I use every day whether at work or home, solo or in an en- student production of the play. Not long a lot of themselves into sacred texts that are after that, I became aware of a number the monologues. That more just and helpful How does semble, and as an adult or with a child. Plaid Works for me because it taught of Catholic colleges that had banned process wasn’t always easy, because to women, Blanchard says she hopes me to think critically, work collaboratively, build community and play earnestly. students from producing TVM on their topics like rape, incest or abuse can be Lady Parts helps further the mission Plaid Work campuses, because the view of sexuality quite emotional.” of V-Day, a nonprofit organization Mark Kirkpatrick ’92: I work at a juvenile home school, and several times during in the play was not ‘biblical.’” Another challenge of this project was founded by Eve Ensler that works to for you? the year, I wear my kilt to work to help promote diversity. It has reached the point Blanchard started thinking about what to strike a balance between personal end global violence against women where the kids ask me to wear my plaid because they know that the culture history kind of sexual ethics do appear in the authenticity and faithfulness to the text and girls. lessons always accompany the wearing of the kilt, and it is “ok” to ask questions. Bible. In 2010, she gathered a group itself, says Blanchard. — ELLEN DOEPKE

24 accents www.alma.edu 25 (continued from page 23) CAMPUS NEWS CAMPUS NEWS As an Alma student, Sugiyama, who earned degrees in both art and design and art education, volunteered with Alpha Xi Delta and Big Brothers, Big Sisters. She also worked in the service-learning office and COMMENCEMENT participated in alternative break. HIGHLIGHTS: “Through alternative break, in particular, I Degrees, celebration and hugs — had the chance to work with inner-city kids time may pass but some things in Chicago, and that sparked my desire to work with this population,” she says. “I see never change. Congratulations to children as our future.” the class of 2013! Sugiyama received a grant during her senior year that allowed her to work at WPCA. When she finished her internship, she received a job offer. For her, volunteer- ing not only expanded her worldview, it also helped her become the person – and the professional – that she is today. “My Alma journey unexpectedly took me into the world of nonprofit,” she says. “I’m so thankful for the experiences that I had at Alma, and I would love to be able to help Alma students have the same kinds of experiences.”

— ELLEN DOEPKE ConGRAD ulations

SLENSKI ’07 NAMED DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS Maintaining Alma College’s positive enroll- ment momentum is the primary goal for Amanda Slenski ’07, who began Jan. 2 as the new director of admissions. Slenski has filled multiple roles since joining the Alma College admissions staff, most recently serving as senior assistant director of admissions. She follows Bob Garcia in this A GRAND OPENING: THE CENTER FOR STUDENT OPPORTUNITY position; Garcia was appointed Alma College’s vice president for enrollment in August 2012. Students, faculty and staff enjoyed tours, music, snacks and prizes at the Center for Student Opportunity grand opening in March. Located in the “Amanda brings significant experience as former Jones Auditorium and Bookstore spaces in the Tyler-Van Dusen a recruiter and senior admissions officer at Alma College in addition to her previous Campus Center, the CSO provides a one-stop shop for services that help administrative work in higher education at students make the most of their Alma experience. CSO staff members assist other institutions,” says Garcia. “As an Alma with career planning, identify service opportunities, promote leadership de- alumnus, her knowledge of the life-changing velopment and offer disability support and first generation student services. experiences that Alma offers is something she can communicate clearly and authentically.”

26 accents www.alma.edu 27 CAMPUS NEWS

>> See what we found in the Hamilton time A NEW SAGA capsule on page 42. Major renovations to Hamilton Commons Buhl. “We are building an addition “As a residential college, our food tion of very traditional space along Two additional seating environ- that will not only address food service service impacts more than 90 with very contemporary space.” ments include a high-backed booth and a 6,000-square-foot addition will at Alma College but also provide en- percent of our students everyday,” Renovations to the traditional section and a glass area looking out hanced social space beyond traditional says Buhl. “Prospective students commons will include opening the toward the lawn and Bruske Hall, provide a new campus dining experience dining, with Wi-Fi, a fireplace and considering their college choices ceiling up to the roof, eliminating equipped with multimedia presen- for Alma College students multimedia capabilities.” look at where they will eat along large round tables and adding high- tation capabilities for students and Food service will “look cooler,” with with academics and housing. Our density tables for large groups in the faculty meeting for group functions. strategic plan addresses food service A new campus dining experience with more food options, updated more food and food delivery options, areas closest to the food. Eating areas The current lowel level of Ham- says Buhl. A gas-fired stone hearth as a key component of the quality of will be carpeted, while food prepara- ilton, which houses the Student equipment and multiple seating environments awaits Alma College student life on campus.” students when they arrive for fall classes. oven and new wok stations will tion areas will feature stone tile. Services Center, will remain un- allow students to see vegetable and The project will create four diverse The large addition will be construct- changed, though the stairway at the Hamilton Commons, Alma’s primary dining facility since 1968, will meat choices, with meals prepared in seating environments complement- main entrance will be renovated. receive major renovations and a 6,000-square-foot addition that will ed on the west side of the current front of them in a matter of minutes. ed with specific furniture and color Hamilton facility. Built at ground The project is supported by Sodexo, reflect current trends in college food service and increase seating capac- schemes, says Buhl. The overall ity by nearly 25 percent. The facility also will feature a level, the addition will have a two- Alma College’s food service partner, permanent vegetarian station with a seating capacity will increase from level seating area with stairways and which is paying half of the con- Work on the $4.5 million project began in March, with completion an- vegan overlay, a traditional grill for 350 to 450. ramps to a lower level. The addition struction costs. The remainder of ticipated by the start of the fall semester, says Dave Buhl, vice president burgers and fries, a comfort food “The different environments will will be separated from the larger the project will be funded through for business affairs. station, improved salad and dessert make the facility feel larger, with stu- group eating area and will feature the sale of bonds. “Students today ask for more fresh, organic, vegetarian and vegan food bars, more access to beverages, and dents not all jammed in one room,” primarily small tables for two to four choices, which are difficult to provide in a cafeteria-style facility,” says an improved recycling area. says Buhl. “We will have a combina- people and a fireplace area highlight- — MIKE SILVERTHORN ed by wood décor.

28 accents www.alma.edu 29 ATHLETICS NEWS HALL OF CHAMPIONS

In celebration of the 125th year of the MIAA, the NCAA is featur- ing the league at the Hall of Champions in Indianapolis through the summer. More information can be found by visiting the website at www.ncaahallofchampions.org Julie “Inga” Hoffman ’95 (student- athlete, softball) led the Scots to the nationals of the NCAA Tournament. She was a three-time All-MIAA selection (1993, ’94 and ’95) and earned MIAA Most Valuable honors after the 1995 season.

Tom Jewett ’98 (student-athlete, men’s soccer) was a three-time All-MIAA selec- tion in 1995, 1996 and 1997 after being a honorable mention as a freshman in 1994. ATHLETICS NEWS Jason Passalacqua ’98 (student- athlete, soccer) was a two-time All- MIAA First Team selection in 1997 and 1998 and was a part of the 1997 team The A Team that qualified for the school’s first-ever Wrestling team ranks 4th in nation in academic performance NCAA Tournament. << Above: Coach Denny Griffin inducts the 1994 softball team. Dana Thibault ’97 (student-athlete, A banner season for the Alma College wrestling team culminated with a women’s swimming) was a two-time No. 4 national ranking in team academic performance. The Scot wrestlers All-MIAA selection (1994 and 1995) and compiled an overall team 3.519 grade point average, which ranks fourth in also participated in the NCAA champi- the nation in Division III. onships in both 1994 and 1995. The Scots also had three individual Scholar All-Americans — sophomores Tyler THE INDUCTEES: The 1994 softball team, coached Foley, Jared Groeneveld and Casimer Strzynski all earned the prestigious honor. by Denny Griffin, finished with a 36-8 To win the award, individuals must maintain at least a 3.2 GPA and either win Chris Alexander ’00 (student-athlete, men’s soccer) en- record and a 9-3 mark in the MIAA. The 67 percent of their matches on the season or be an All-Region performer. joyed four years (1996-99) of success on the soccer field. He win total, the most in school history at was a member of the two most successful teams in school the time, is still the fourth highest today. The season included dual meet wins over Trine University and Olivet College history and played a major part in their accomplishments. The Scots were the MIAA Tournament and a first-place finish over six other teams in the Mid-States Championship. champions and the overall league cham- Jeff Bateson ’98 (student-athlete, men’s soccer) was team pions, advancing to the NCAA Tourna- captain of the 1996 (2nd place MIAA) and 1997 (MIAA ment for the first time in school history. champions) teams, the latter advancing to the NCAA The 1997 men’s soccer team, Tournament. coached by Scott Frey, finished with an Rachel Butler ’94 (student-athlete, softball) was named overall record of 15-4-1 and an 11-1 in a First Team All-American in 1994, the first Scots softball the MIAA, making them league cham- Three teams and 10 individuals were player to earn the award. The two-time All-MIAA selection pions for the first time in school history. was a Second Team All-American after the 1993 campaign. The team finished the season with a final inducted into the Alma College Athletics national ranking in the top 25, and the squad achieved the best winning percent- Hall of Fame during an April 6 ceremony Radu Danca ’95 (student-athlete, men’s diving) was a two-time All-MIAA selection (1994 and 1995) and excelled age in school history (.775). in the Hogan Center, Art Smith Arena. in both the one meter and three meter dives during his The 1999 men’s soccer team, career. He competed in the NCAA events for one-meter diving and three-meter diving in 1995. under the helm of Scott Frey, finished the season with an overall mark of 16- Bob Eldridge ’71 (distinguished alumnus) played basket- 5-2, including 11-2-1 in the MIAA. The ball for three seasons and later served as basketball coach, Scots were MIAA Champions and even- athletic director, development officer, alumni director and, in tually advanced to the NCAA Final Four his own words, the school’s “campus landscape consultant.” for the first time in school history. The team finished with a national ranking of Scott Frey (coach) led the men’s soccer team to a career 14th, and its 16 wins on the year were a win-loss record of 83-39-10 during 1993-99, including 59- school record. 23-6 in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association. — MIKE HANSON He led the team to two MIAA Championships and three NCAA appearances.

30 accents www.alma.edu 31 ALUMNI GREETINGS CAMPUS NEWS UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS Annual faculty recognition Please visit http://events.alma.edu/ for additional campus events! June 1: Klenk Open at Alma ANDISON EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING AWARDS June 5: Lansing Lugnuts Suite — Lansing June 6: Top of the Mitt Picnic — Indian River 2013 recipients: Eric Calhoun and Kay Grimnes Effort. June 17-26: Alumni Scotland Trip Established in 2010 and supported by a gift from Thomas Andison, June 27: Whitecaps game/Mitten Brewing Company — Grand Rapids these awards recognize excellence in the classroom through pedagogi- July 19: Ann Arbor Art Fair — Ann Arbor Joy. cal innovation, creative activities with students and superior teaching. July 22: Men’s Basketball Golf Outing at Alma July 24: Lansing Lugnuts Suite — Lansing Passion. BARLOW FACULTY AWARDS July 29: Central Michigan Area Picnic at Alma July 30: Northern MI Picnic — Traverse City Perseverance. 2013 recipients: Liping Bu and Dave Zerbe August 1: Metro Detroit Roundtable Picnic (Detroit area) Established in 19982 by the late Dr. Joel Barlow ’29, this annual cash August 4: Chicago Area Roundtable Picnic stipend recognizes high levels of faculty contribution “to further- August 4: Football Golf Outing at Alma ing the educational mission of the College.” Teaching, scholarship, August 5: West Michigan Roundtable Picnic — Grand Rapids August 6: Great Lakes Bay Roundtable Picnic — Midland creativity or performance, and college and community service are hile I say it jokingly at times, it when, at the end of the two minutes, she burst out with acknowledged. August 8: Lansing Roundtable Picnic — Lansing August 14: Cheeseburger in Caseville Parade — Caseville really is true that when you are in “I graduated from Alma College!” a job such as alumni director, you GRANTED EMERITUS RANK BY TRUSTEES August 20: Tigers Game — Detroit How did she make the connection just by looking at me? September 14: Community Appreciation Day at Alma are always “working.” I see (and • Richard G. Bowker, Charles A. Dana Professor of Biology, 1977-2001 approach) alumni all over the place, September 19: ArtPrize Reception — Grand Rapids It turns out that she (Dawn Ferran ’79) had seen my • Karin Grimnes, professor of biology, 1986-2013 and intentionally wear Alma College gear September 21: Parent Day at Alma W Alma College pen just as the instructor began our • Randy Jacques, professor of business administration, 1977-2012 October 4-6: Homecoming 2013: Sweet Home Alma College when I’m traveling, regardless of whether it is two-minute session. As the day went on, Dawn and I personal or work travel, so that other alumni had a great opportunity to share our passions and com- or friends might approach me. Many of you monalities. It was both a refreshing and inspirational have shared stories of neat, energizing connec- professional development experience. tions with alumni in random locations as well. Evidence of effort, joy, passion and perseverance are ap- It’s inspiring to make these connections. parent every day in my interactions with Alma alumni. >>STAY Through these encounters, I’m reminded CONNECTED! how the values in the college’s new marketing Although we had one false start, we persevered and campaign— effort, joy, passion and persever- If you have have our first alumni international trip headed off to ance — are real characteristics of our alumni. recently moved to Scotland in June. I’m certain that with continued effort, my goal of attempting alumni service trips both domes- ALMA ABROAD a new location, had A recent encounter illustrates that Alma con- tically and abroad would also be welcomed by alumni a change in nections can happen almost anywhere. Alma in Africa employment and such as Dawn. It brings me joy to help alumni connect wish to become Though it’s not required for my job, I try to with each other and to current student and faculty. I have a passion for providing alumni growth and learn- Kelsey Merz (’11) and Kerry involved with keep my social work license current, which ing opportunities as well. (Dembowski) Bryan (’09) are the alumni in means I need to get 45 hours of continuing living and teaching in Kigali, education during every three-year cycle. I pick your region, In the midst of our busy lives, it’s important to take a Rwanda at Kigali International topics solely based on my personal interests. simply contact the deep breath. Remember where we came from. Recog- Community School. This is So, there I was, on a sunny morning at the end Alumni Office at nize how much we have grown. And remember that Kerry’s third year teaching first 1-800-291-1312 of March in Ann Arbor, sitting in a seminar this place, Alma College, is always here for us. grade and Kelsey’s first year or alumnihouse@ on “Advanced Mindfulness Techniques that teaching kindergarten. They alma.edu for more Change the Brain.” both love the country, the school, information. and especially their students! Because of a lingering dry cough, I was rela- Lou The school serves primarily tively anxious as we began a workshop that Lou Ecken ’95 missionary families but also has promised to include some silent meditation Director of Alumni Engagement local students. The students are exercises. After one successful short breathing from all over the world but are meditation, I was paired with the woman next [email protected] currently living in Rwanda with to me for a silent affirmation exercise in which facebook.com/almacollegealumni www.alma.edu/alumni their families. our task was to gaze at each other for two (989) 463-7245 minutes without speaking. Imagine my shock

32 accents www.alma.edu 33 ALUMNI NOTES notes alumni 1933 Mary Peters Hughes ’33 reports 1958 James Hampstead ’58 self-pub- and wife, Ellen, welcomed their first erations officers of Omega Optical, Inc. in est daughter, Kathleen, graduated from ALUMNI BOARD that her granddaughter Beth Hughes ’95 lished a children’s Christmas book, Come, grandchild in October 2012. • James Vermont. Tom realizes that he should have Purdue University. She married Grant President - Dana (Grant) Catania ’95 is listed in the 2013 edition of “Best Law- Journey to Bethlehem. McIntyre ’69 will celebrate his 30th year taken that advanced physics course after all! Robinson in December 2012 and teaches Vice President - Devon Anthony ’09 yers in America” and named a “rising Past President - Jeffrey Leestma ’78 on the Alma College Board of Trustees in kindergarten in Carmel, Ind. Secretary - Alisha (Majszak) Baker ’02 star” in Super Lawyers magazine. 1960 Thomas L. Vaillancour ’60 is a 2013. • Bob Perdue ’69 and Linda Olson 1971 John Gould ’71 retired af- Chris Ahn ’98 high priest in the church of Jesus Christ Perdue ’69 both retired on June 30. Bob ter 38 years in ministry. He also was a 1972 Wendy Waldron Gould ’72 Brian Bartes ’87 1942 Elizabeth Horne ’42 enjoys the of Latter Day Saints. Virginia (Cloutier) Blandford ’02 was a Presbyterian minister for Yachats licensed clinical social worker therapist practices law concentrating on family Bree Brownlee ’04 Christ Church of Longboat Key. She also Community Presbyterian Church for for 28 years. He has been married for law and collaborative practice. She en- Robyn (Paige) Carr ’04 still volunteers at Mote Marine Labora- Guy Francis ’61 and his wife, Thomas Davey ’07 1961 40 years. Linda was a consultant trainer 17 years to Debbi Tally, and they have joys her five grandchildren and travel- Dave Devine ’90 tory and recommends both places to visit Maria, moved from Iowa to the Dallas, for Online-Access of Port Huron. They three children and 13 grandchildren. ing as often as she can. • Sue Smith Duffy Duncan ’72 Barb (Loomis) Greer ’61 while in Florida. Texas area, where he established a prac- intend to enjoy life, travel and visit their He is writing book on a family member Tillotson ’72 teaches an after-school Dale Greer ’65 tice specializing in men’s health. Lisa Knowles ’94 six grandchildren. • Eddie Robertson ’69 who was WWII B-17 co-pilot. • Anne program, which is funded by the 21st Robin Lewis ’78 1944 Maryanne Bowen Mark- and Sylvia Rutledge ’69 reside in Wales- Marks-Gaertner ’71 was elected chair of Century Grant, in her hometown of Tom McGuire ’08 wick ’44 recently celebrated her 90th 1963 Charlotte Stanley Teeuwissen Bill McHenry ’83 ka, Georgia. Eddie has retired as profes- the board for the Historical Society of Ellsworth. “It’s great to get that ‘kid-fix’ Jan (Knapp) Merz ’75 birthday with her family. She is ever ’63 wants to reconnect with her Alma sor of biology at Reinhardt University Saginaw County. She and husband, Jim, after 10 years of retirement in educa- Martha (Hubbard) Miller ’90 grateful to enjoy her growing clan, friends. Please contact her at 946 Garvin Adriana (Rasche) Phelan ’92 after 27 years. Sylvia Rutledge Robertson greeted their first grandchild, Parker tion,” she says. Jesse Ramirez ’09 which is soon to number eight great- Street, Jackson, Miss., 39206. She is hop- retired in 2011. They are the authors of David Gaertner, on Christmas Day 2012. Krista (Schroeder) Ried ’94 grandchildren. She also still watches ing to return for her 50-year reunion! Kay (Ecken) Schuetter ’95 Wonderful Wednesdays: 52 Conversations She also took an extended trip to South 1973 R. Scott Bleeks ’73 and wife, Ryan Smith ’06 for news from her classmates. for Couples and are marriage enrichment Africa in 2012, including a photo safari. Frederica, finished their retirement home Gary Stano ’83 Troy Taylor ’84 1964 Marilee Gordon Nieuwsma ’64 trainers. www.eddieandsylviarobertson. • Dick Opperman ’71 and Jane Op- in Rogersville, Tenn. They are moved in, Scott Timmreck ’02 1947 Jean Sadler Bronson ’47 and celebrated her 70th birthday in the shadow Sheri Tulloch ’95 com, [email protected]. perman ’72 announce the birth of their but Scott has four more years until he can Dana (Weston) Eadah ’01 husband, Dave, celebrated their 66th of Lenin’s statue in Russia. She and her third grandchild, Vivian Lynn, born to retire. • David Sager ’73 retired after 20 Elizabeth Wheat ’02 wedding anniversary at their new address husband, Milton, have three children and Julie Williams ’95 1970 Thomas Regley ’70 and wife, son Jeremy and his wife, Amanda. They years as a fisheries biologist and administra- Robyn (Laird) Woolcock ’76 in Alma at Masonic Pathways. seven grandchildren. • Klotylda Hart- Sally, sold their chocolate business after 21 report that grandparenthood is great fun! tor with the Texas Parks and Wildlife De- Heather (Hays) Zielinski ’97 shorn Phillippi ’64 enjoys teaching at the years and have been serving as co-chief op- • Don Yehle ’71 reports that his young- partment. He enjoys traveling and wildlife 1951 Mary Jane Keith Wagstaff ’51 University of Michigan and spending time and Chester, her husband of 57 years, with her family and her Alma friends. (continued on the following page) >> Interested in getting involved? completed 2012 in their semi-rural home Alumni Board applications are open in the hills of Frederick County, Md. 1966 Molly Glennie Gray ’66 and until August 26 and available online: Their family of five has grown to four husband love retirement and being grand- www.alma.edu/alumni/about_us/ alumni_board/application in-laws, nine grandchildren and one parents. They have two grandchildren. great-grandchild. Mary Jane is grateful for her pre-med years at Alma. 1967 Kate Larsen ’67 retired from ALUMNI BRIEFS REGIONAL GROUPS: teaching in June 2011. She enjoys spend- 1954 Gene Schnelz ’54 reports that ing time with her grandchildren and West Michigan his granddaughter, Stephanie, who traveling. • Richard Osburn ’67 received Bateman ’79 named Chair - Larry Roslund ’70 is the daughter of his son, Kurt ’79, the lifetime achievement award from the passed the bar. This makes five attor- National Rural Social Workers Caucus college president Metro Detroit neys in the family. for his work on behalf of rural communi- Bradley Bateman ’79, provost at Denison College since 2007, Co-Chairs - Chris Hunter ’92 and Nancy Abney Duncan ’81 ties, families and organizations. has been named the 10th president of Randolph College, 1955 Carol Cummings Kutzner ’55 effective July 1, 2013. In the college’s news release, Bate- Lansing is still square dancing, belly dancing and 1969 John Bird ’69 announces the man was described as “a gifted teacher, brilliant scholar and Co-Chairs - Bill Arnold ’91 traveling abroad. Once she visits four publication of his new novel, Chasing natural leader.” Bateman earned his B.A. in economics from and Lisa Knowles ’94 more countries, she will hit 100 countries My Long Shadows, a tale of love, lust and Alma College and a master’s and Ph.D. in economics from the Chicago visited. • Barbara Humphries Voorhees taking the long way home. The book University of Kentucky. ’55 moved back to Waterford, Mich. after is available from Amazon, or write to In development 34 years in Florida. She enjoys great- John at [email protected]. • Keith grandchildren and good health. Camann ’69 retired in May 2012. He Photo credit: Denison College

34 accents www.alma.edu 35 ALUMNI NOTES

photography. • Jerry Wasen ’73 was named cepted a position as CEO of the Cheyenne 1985 Sunil Xavier ’85 is the super- president/CEO of Huron Community Regional Medical Center Foundation in visory East Africa regional contracting Bank in East Tawas, Mich. He really enjoys Cheyenne, Wyo. after living in Tucson, officer for the U.S. Agency for Interna- his new job and community. Ariz. for over 30 years. His daughter, tional Development in the U.S. Embassy Emma, gave birth to his first grandson, in Nairobi, Kenya. “If any Alma friends 1974 Gary Dorrien ’74 published two Arthur Stanley, on Dec. 6, 2012. want to go on a safari, please contact me books in 2012: The Obama Question: A via Facebook.” Progressive Perspective and Kantian Reason 1981 Susan Hillman ’81 returned and Hegelian Spirit. He teaches at Union from India, where she lived for over five 1986 Craig Carmichael ’86 and Mary know the next Theological Seminary and Columbia months and worked on a sabbatical project Beth still live in Baltimore, Md. Ownership University. • Gust Wuorinen ’74 and involving math curriculum development of his hospital just transferred over to the GREAT SCOT? Connie Wuorinen ’74 look forward to and comparison and professional devel- University of Maryland Medical System. ALUMNI BRIEFS We’ve all met that great high retirement and love spending time with opment with teachers of mathematics. • school student who we know their six grandchildren and families. Denise Price Leonard ’81 teaches eighth 1987 David Hajek ’87 was promoted Author Dorrien ’74 would be a great addition to Alma grade algebra for Capac Community to vice president and senior relationship College. Maybe it’s your neighbor, 1975 Cheryl Corbett ’75 retired from Schools. Her middle daughter was mar- manager at Coastal Community Bank in receives major book award your friend from church, your best The Dow Chemical Company after 30 ried in September 2012, and her youngest Everett, Wash. friend’s cousin or your nephew. Be years of service in the legal department. finishes college in March 2013. She would The Association of American Dorrien’s previous 15 books sure to let us know about them by completing our online form: • Sandra Paine Koch ’75 co-authored an love to hear from her college friends: 1991 Brad Guigar ’91 reached his Publishers awarded the include a collection of his advent study guide, I Was There...the First [email protected]. lifelong goal of becoming a full-time car- PROSE Award for the best recent lectures, Economy, https://secure.alma.edu/ Christmas, with Ray Francis, a colleague toonist. He left his job at the Philadelphia book in theology and Difference, Empire: Social alumni/refer_student religious studies for 2012 to Ethics for Social Justice at Central Michigan University. • Lynn 1982 Linda Pearl ’82 has been retired Daily News in April 2012 to concentrate on By completing the online referral Gary Dorrien ’74. (Columbia University Press), Fraser Lemin ’75 retired from Rockford from Escanaba Schools for three years. his daily comic strip, Evil Inc., and other form, you will notify the Admis- and Social Ethics in the Public Schools on Jan. 1, 2013. comics-related projects. • Melissa Weber sions Office of the prospective The book, Kantian Reason Making (Wiley-Blackwell), 1983 Laura Wonacott Asiala ’83 Kelley ’91 married Eric Kelley on Dec. 14, student and your connection to and Hegelian Spirit: The which won the Choice Award 1976 Polly Meyers Bachrouche ’76 retired from Dow Corning Corporation 2012. Eric is a nurse with four adult sons them. Any referrals will receive Idealistic Logic of Modern for the outstanding work in information about Alma College attended the 2012 Olympics in support as the director of corporate citizenship and an infant grandson. He and Melissa Theology, published by ethics of 2009. and get on our mailing list. Once of her daughter, Katya, who represented on Feb. 1, 2013. She is planning a trip to are looking for a home in the Littleton, Wiley-Blackwell, offers a they have completed their junior Lebanon in swimming. Cambodia at the invitation of the Global Colo. area. detailed argument about the He also is the author of a year of high school, they will also Alliance for Clean Cookstoves and looks impact of Kantian and post- highly acclaimed trilogy, The receive an application and will 1977 Tim Crosby ’77 and Sheryl forward to using her extensive organiza- 1996 Carrie Jeffers ’96 was appointed Kantian idealism on modern Making of American Liberal have the application fee waived Crosby ’77 report family news. Son, Brian, tional and business experiences in inter- director of enrollment services/registrar at theology and philosophy. Theology (Westminster John because of you. married Devon in August 2011 and lives esting and impactful ways. Her daughter, Macomb Community College. She looks Knox Press) and a book If the prospective student is the in Albany, N.Y. Son, Kevin, married Caroline ’15, is a sophomore at Alma forward to her new position at the college. “This is an extraordinarily on the Obama presidency, child, grandchild or sibling of an Kristin in December 2010 and lives in College. • Deana Fisher ’83 is director of fine book, a delight to read, The Obama Question: A Alma College alumnus, he or she a real page-turner, and a is eligible for our Alumni Award Upland, Ind. Daughter, Christine, attends child welfare at The Children’s Center 1997 Sondra Cox Keckley ’97 was Progressive Perspective brilliant interpretation, all of — for all four years. grad school in Indianapolis, where she is in Detroit. She is the proud parent of named Kern County Teacher of the Year (Rowman & Littlefield). which one expects of such studying public history. Samantha ’15, a fourth-generation Scot! in May 2012. She also finished her teacher- If you would like materials about an accomplished scholar Dorrien is the Reinhold Alma College to place in your • Libby Riley ’83 completed her Master librarian credentials in August. “Thank and author as Dorrien,” Niebuhr Professor of Social home, office, classroom, church, Robin Lewis ’78 in Education Administration and Super- you to Alma College for being such a great 1978 is grateful for stated Boston University Ethics at Union Theological favorite coffee house or to give to start in my education career!” the friendships that she made at Alma. • vision in November 2012. Anyone need religious philosopher Robert Seminary and Professor that next great Scot, contact Jessie Robert Smith ’78 was inducted into the a school principal? Now, she can spend Neville. “No one else I know of Religion at Columbia DeHaan at [email protected] or Cindy Miller ’98 1-800-321-ALMA. Michigan High School Cross Country time with her two grandchildren. 1998 is an assistant could have written this book, University. Coaches Hall of Fame last fall. He retired professor of counseling at South University which will be the dominant Thank you for your support! from teaching in 2010, but he continues to 1984 James Carter ’84 was named in Richmond, Va. She was featured in Coun- treatment of its subject.” coach cross country at Novi High School. president and CEO of Ernst & Young seling Today, a publication of the American — Jessie DeHaan ’07 He will coach his 33rd year of cross coun- Capital Advisors, LLC. Counseling Association (ACA), regarding try this coming fall. Stephen Stone ’78 ac- her work with incarcerated women.

36 accents www.alma.edu 37 ALUMNI NOTES

2000 Christopher Hales ’00 and Em- husband, Jeff, welcomed a baby girl, Eden ily Seman Hales ’01 announce the birth Adele, into the world on July 20, 2012 in of their twin boys, Jacob Christopher and Toronto, Canada. Charles James, in December 2012. They CELEBRATING THE LIVES OF OUR FRIENDS reside in Chicago, where Chris is an attor- 2006 Kellie Nugent Kuipers ’06 In memoriam ney for Burke Burns & Pinelli, and Emily married Joshua Kuipers on May 27, 2012. is an elementary librarian. • Jeremiah • Josh Morgan ’06 was named news Lee ’00 published a second tabletop game, director at WREX-TV, an NBC affiliate, Zombie House Blitz, in March 2013. His in Rockford, Ill. August “Augy” Orvis ’32 of Alma died Warnaar, and they were married in l942. he was a co-founder of the Manistique first game won Game of the Year from Nov. 16, 2012 at age 101. Born in Hayburn, Together they obtained master’s degrees in Medical and Dental Center as well as the BoardGameGeek.com. • Laura Camann 2007 Kelsee Krull Adams ’07 mar- Idaho, the family moved to Alma in 1921. music at MSU in the early 1950s. She is sur- Schoolcraft County Mental Health Program. Lewis ’00 and husband, Brad, announce ried Jimmy Adams on Sept. 29, 2012. Active in sports at Alma High School, he vived by a daughter and two sons including He also served on the Board of Trustees for the birth of their first child, Jackson The wedding party included Sarah was the quarterback and defensive line- Dr. Lee Warnaar ’77 of Grawn, four grand- Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital. In October Camann Lewis. He was born Oct. 13, Ellsworth ’07 (maid of honor), Mandy backer on the AHS 1927 football team, children and a niece and nephew. 1974, he became a member of the Board which won the Michigan Class B State of Directors for the State Savings Bank. 2012, weighed 8 pounds, 11 ounces, and Risch Martin ’07 (matron of honor), Championship. He worked at the Alma Thelma V. (Hahn) Copeland ’41, of Adrian He was active in the community action measured 22 inches long. Emily Zimostrad ’07 (bridesmaid), City Dry Cleaners most of his adult life and died Jan. 11, 2013. On Sept. 6, 1940, she group regarding the EPA’s clean-up of the Ben Queen ’08 (groomsman) and Abby was a member of the St. John’s Episcopal married Donald Copeland in Alma. She Manistique River and harbor area. After 45 Lerner ’13 Laura (Kendrick) 2001 Julie Hintz Kavanagh ’01 (hostess). • Church in Alma. He is survived by his was a member of the First United Methodist years, he retired from his medical practice was promoted to community operations Godwin ’07 and Nick Godwin announce three children, a nephew, his sister, six Church, PEO Chapter EI, the Adrian in July 1999. In retirement, he continued to coordinator with the Macomb County the birth of their first son, Luke Robert, grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Garden Club and the Bixby Auxiliary. She consult at the Hiawatha Behavioral Health Community Services Agency, where she on Feb. 24, 2013. Ann Randall-Kendrick was the director of volunteers at Bixby Center, assisted North Woods Home Health has worked since 2001. • Megan Thurber ’78 is a proud grandmother. • Ben Work- Mary Louise (Peters) Hughes ’33 died Medical Center for 17 years, retiring in 1985. and Hospice, and became medical director Newman ’01 welcomed her second child, man ’07 and Cassie Schwab ’10 married March 6, 2013 in Linden at 101 years She is survived by one son, three daughters, of the Schoolcraft Medical Care Facility. a baby boy named Morgan Andrew, on on Aug. 11, 2012. Ben is a dermatology old. She was born in Oxford, Mich., nine grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, Preceded in death by his sister Aileen Brink raised in Rochester, Mich. and gradu- and a brother and sister-in-law. Jan. 18, 2013. The family is doing great! • resident with Wayne State University, ’34, he is survived by his wife, a daughter ated as valedictorian of the class of 1929 and two sons and his grandchildren. Mark Williams ’01 and Elizabeth Weber and Cassie is a Spanish teacher in Lake at Rochester High School. She taught Dr. Duane L. Waters ’44 of Manistique died Williams ’01 welcomed their daughter, Orion, Mich. The couple resides in Royal high school English and Latin and was Jan. 9, 2013. He attended Alma College Martha “Jean” (Rosendale) Brundage ’48 Laura Susan, on June 16, 2012. Laura joins Oak with their dog, Stanley. married to Halley C. Hughes on June 22, for five semesters until called to active of Crystal died Nov. 12, 2012 at age 86. She DO YOU big sister Grace, who is 4. They live in Fort 1936. She left teaching to raise her family duty in the U.S. Air Force in December grew up in Lansing area and later moved LOVE ALMA Collins, Colo., where Elizabeth is an assis- 2010 Jennifer Geisenhaver ’10 grad- then returned to school to earn a master’s 1942. Commissioned as a second lieuten- to Crystal before attending Alma College. uated from Indiana University’s School ant in September 1943, he was sent to the She was married to Robert Brundage COLLEGE? tant professor at Colorado State University, degree from the University of Michigan and Mark works for Cincinnati Insurance. of Public and Environmental Affairs in in elementary education. She taught in European Theater during World War on Jul. 13, 1946 after he was discharged 2012 with a Master of Public Affairs. She Otisville, Columbiaville and for a number II. After the war, he pursued his medical from the Navy following WWII. Jean and degree at the University of Michigan. Upon Ken Carver ’02 and Jennifer is employed at the Indiana Department of of years was the third grade teacher at Hill Bob worked together at LaDu-Brundage 2002 graduation from the U of M medical school Koch Carver ’05 announce the birth of Environmental Management’s Office of Elementary School in Davison before retir- Insurance Agency for many years. A in 1951, he completed a one-year internship Sunday school teacher and member of their second child, Annabelle Margaret, Air Quality in Indianapolis, Ind. ing in 1969. Mary is survived by two sons, six grandchildren, nine great-grandchil- and a two-year residency program in pedi- Crystal Congregational Church, Jean DO YOU USE born on Nov. 4, 2012. Big sister, Alexan- dren, a daughter-in-law and sister-in-law atrics before moving to Manistique in 1954 was a trustee at Montcalm Community 2011 Noelle Evans ’11 married Devin FACEBOOK? dria, enjoys having a little sister. along with four nieces and two nephews. where he entered into private practice. In College for 25 years and the current chair Polaski on Aug. 11, 2012. April 1964, Dr. Waters was appointed to the of Heritage Village. Mrs. Brundage is sur- 2003 Shelly Ulfig Klein ’03 and hus- Marjory (Sutton) Warnaar ’40, formerly of Michigan Corrections Commission by Gov. If the answer is yes to vived by her four children; 12 grandchil- band, Nathon, announce the birth of their Flint, died Jan. 14, 2013. She loved music, George Romney. Working with the com- dren, including Grant ’97 and Jennifer ’97 both, you can now show first child, Isabella Rae, on Dec. 28, 2012. ALUMNI SECTION SUBMISSIONS playing piano and organ professionally, mission for 25 years and making monthly (Arnold) Woodman, and Griff Woodman your support on your Wall! and clarinet with the Flint and Saginaw trips to Lansing, he helped to modernize the Alumni notes can be submitted one of three ways: ’99, eight great-grandchildren; her brother, Amber Nash-Guilford ’04 symphony orchestras. She taught music and prison health care delivery system, imple- Roger Rosendale ’50; and a sister. Get your Donor Badge at 2004 • online at: www.alma.edu/alumni/notes and Brendan Guilford ’05 welcomed new • by returning the postage paid envelope in this issue math at Longfellow Junior High in Flint ment a drug testing program in conjunction www.alma.edu/donate additions to their family this past October • by regular post to: until her retirement in l976. A devoted with the FDA, and build and staff a new Marion Elizabeth (Spalsbury) Widger ’48 Director of Alumni Engagement, Alumni Notes, Christian, she practiced her faith for many hospital at Jackson Prison. This medical of Palm Valley, Tex., died Feb. 5, 2013. with the birth of their twin boys, Lucas and 614 W. Superior St., Alma, MI 48801-1599. years at the Court Street United Methodist complex was named the Duane Leonard She grew up in Kalamazoo and, after Caleb. • Elizabeth Kunkle Poynter ’04 and Photos can be sent electronically to [email protected]. Church in Flint. At Alma, she met Stuart Waters Hospital in his honor. Locally, graduation from Alma, went on to earn

38 accents www.alma.edu 39 In memoriam

her Master of Social Work degree from Company in Saginaw for many years. He 1971. While in law school he helped start the University of Detroit Dental School. ball three times and all-conference honors in Dorothy Jean Nugent of Weidman and the University of Michigan in 1952. She and his family attended Peace Lutheran a civil rights program in Brooklyn, N.Y., Beginning his practice in 1972, he returned basketball once. She was inducted into the friend of Alma College died on Dec. 25, was married to Douglas Widger in 1954 Church in Saginaw and later attended and after graduation was hired into the to teach in the dental schools at U of D Alma College Hall of Fame April 9, 2011. 2012 at age 87. She was a member of the and had two sons. They lived in Detroit Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Cadillac. honors program at the Justice Department. and the University of Michigan. He loved After attending Michigan State University Bad Axe Presbyterian Church and later the and Redford Township before moving to He had a great passion for woodworking He went on to become a trial lawyer in the spending time with friends and family, and Central Michigan University, she Mount Pleasant First Presbyterian Church. Lake Somerset after retirement. As winter and also enjoyed photography, camping, Civil Rights Division’s employment sec- U of M athletics and Tigers baseball. He graduated with a degree in teacher educa- She is survived by her two sons, a daughter, Texans for several years, visiting south golfing, traveling with his wife and spend- tion and tried cases involving allegations of is survived by his wife, a sister and sev- tion, then went on to earn a master’s degree one son-in-law, 11 grandchildren and 17 Texas, they moved to Palm Valley, Tex., ing time with his grandchildren and family. racial discrimination. In 1976, Mr. Ferrand eral extended family members. Memorial in secondary education administration from great-grandchildren. She was preceded in permanently in 1988. For several years, she He is survived by his wife, three children continued his civil rights legal career at the gifts may be directed to the Dr. Richard Grand Valley State University. She worked death by her grandson, Jonathan Nugent and her husband were active members of and 12 grandchildren, and his brother Dr. Department of Labor. He helped spearhead L. Jeruzal Endowed Scholarship Fund of for the Lansing school district for 25 years ’03. Memorial gifts may be made to the All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church William Slack ’51. a litigation unit that focused on discrimi- Alma College. and was the athletic director at Everett High Jonathan W. Nugent Memorial Endowed in Brownsville, Tex. She is survived by her nation in employment by federal govern- School. She is survived by her mother, two Scholarship Fund. husband, two sons and their families. John W. “Bill” Boles ’57 of Pine Knoll ment contractors, especially discrimination Matthew R. Gover ’83, of Harrisburg, Pa., sisters and her brother. Shores, N.C., died Jan. 4, 2013 at the age based on sex. During his 12 years at the died Nov. 27, 2012 at age 52. He gradu- Betty Jean Smith of Burlington, N.C., for- Glenn “Gene” Teeter ’50 of Mt. Carroll, Ill., of 77. After graduating from Alma, he Labor Department, he became its deputy ated from the Dickinson School of Law Margaret A. Fellows of Howell and friend merly of Alma, died on Dec. 8, 2012 at age died Dec. 11, 2012 at age 87. During high worked with General Motors for a few associate solicitor for civil rights and then in 1986 and then began a clerkship for the of Alma College died Dec. 28, 2012 at the 84. She lived with her family in Alma for school, he was a talented saxophone player months in Detroit and then was promoted deputy associate solicitor for mine safety Honorable Warren G. Morgan, who was age of 96. She taught school in Centerville more than 35 years, caring for her husband and entertained many with his dance band. to Chevrolet Sales Wilmington, N.C. In and health. He was a past secretary-general president judge of the Dauphin County and Athens, was a member of the Allen of 53 years, Dr. M.J.J. Smith, professor He joined the Army during WWII and time, he was promoted to district man- of the Inter-American Bar Association and Court (PA) of Common Pleas. He was later Park Presbyterian Church and served of history, 1965-1997. She worked with was stationed in Germany serving under ager for the Parts and Services Division in served on its executive committee. He was a deputy district attorney from 1987-89 in in many leadership roles for community handicapped children as a secretary in the General George Patton. After attending Raleigh, N.C. where he finished his 42-year a founder and past president of the Federal Dauphin County before joining the firm groups and organizations. Surviving are Intermediate School District in Alma for Alma College and Northwestern University, career. He was an active member of the American Inn of Court in Washington, a of Caldwell and Kearns. He built a crimi- her son, John C. Fellows ’64, one grandson, many years. She is survived by her three he and his wife moved to Chicago where White Memorial Presbyterian Church in professional organization for lawyers. He nal defense practice for a number of years a great-granddaughter and other extended children: Scott Smith ’89 of Washington he owned and operated Frontier Heating. Raleigh where he worked with youth pro- joined the Organization of American States and served as a managing partner before family members. Margaret provided for Township, Mich.; Carolyn Smith of High In 1967, they returned to Mt. Carroll where grams and coaching baseball. He was an in 1990 and for several years was direc- becoming a founding member in 1996 of Alma College in her estate plans. Point, N.C.; and Eileen Church ’76 of Gene worked at The Mt. Carroll National avid golfer and enjoyed many years playing tor of the office of general legal services. the firm now known as Gover, Perry & Gibsonville, N.C. Bank, retiring as president and director. at Raleigh Country Club, where he made Among other duties, he was a primary Shore. His practice concentrated on white Marion K. Greening of Alma and friend of James H. “Jim” Thoe He then embarked on a sales career in spe- many long-lasting friends. He and his wife negotiator on matters involving representa- collar and state criminal defense and he Alma College died Dec 31, 2012. A lifelong of Alma and friend cialty advertising with Vernon Company Jo Anne retired to Pine Knoll Shores and tives of governments and agencies of OAS represented individuals and corporations resident of Gratiot County, she appreciated of Alma College died Sept. 26, 2012 at age until 2010. He was active in many clubs in resided on the beach. He is survived by member countries. A member of the Alma at the state and federal levels and in grand farm life, country life and small-town liv- 84. For many years he worked for General the Mt. Carroll area and philanthropically his wife, two daughters, two sons and two College Alumni Board, he retired in 2007 jury investigations. He was certified as a ing. After high school and during WWII Electric and Hitachi Magnetics retiring as aided many organizations and entities. He grandchildren. as legal adviser to the secretary-general. He criminal defense advocate by the National she worked at Guthrie’s Department Store, vice president of engineering. An active is survived by his nieces and nephews, and is survived by his wife, three children, two Board of Trial Advocacy and in 2004 was Farmer’s State Bank and Greening Auto member of the Alma Presbyterian Church, Margaret A. “Margie” (Sim) Crispien ’60 two sisters-in-law. He provided for Alma sisters, Nancy Boxall ’61 and Katherine named a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer in Company. She also worked as an IronRite he also was a member of the Alma Masonic of Bay City died Jan. 28, 2013 at age 75. College in his estate plans. Cranney ’66, a brother and four grandsons. the field of criminal law. Recently, he was demonstrator, teaching women how to use Lodge # 244. He is survived by his wife, She taught dance classes and worked with named a Top 100 Lawyer by the National this new appliance in their homes. She was four children and eight grandchildren. Martha H. (Butterfield) Wendt ’50 of various doctors in the area. An avid Detroit Susanne K. (Mitchell) Johnstone ’67 of Trial Lawyers organization. He was admit- proud of her Scottish heritage and was a Eunice (Rooks) Toller of Port Orange, Essexville died Dec. 29, 2012 at age 84. She Tigers fan, she also enjoyed watching Walled Lake died Jun. 12, 2012 at age 67. ted to practice before the U.S. District member of the Clan Mackenzie Society in Fla., formerly of Alma, died Feb. 22, 2012 and her husband, William, owned and football (even the Detroit Lions), working An accomplished and classically trained Court, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, the Americas. For over 20 years she hosted at the age of 86. Eunice lived in Alma for operated the family business, Utermalen in the garden and loved her cats. She is pianist with a solo-quality soprano voice, and the U.S. Supreme Court as well as the the Clan Mackenzie tent at the Alma many years and was the widow of Dr. Furniture, in Bay City until Martha’s survived by her husband, two sons and one Susanne was also known for her outstanding Pennsylvania Superior Court of Appeals, Highland Festival. She is survived by her Louis Toller, professor of physics, 1959- retirement. A member of Immanuel granddaughter. culinary skills. She went on to earn a Master Commonwealth Court and the Supreme four daughters, her daughter-in-law, four 1978. She is survived by her three daugh- Lutheran Church, she enjoyed traveling of Social Work degree from Wayne State Court. In addition to his extensive law grandchildren and one great-granddaugh- Mary S. (Coleman) Broadwell ’64 of ters, Pamela Toller-Clark ’74 Trisha Webb and playing golf. Summers at the family University and worked at Sinai Hospital for career, he enjoyed golf, traveling to the ter. Marion was preceded in death by her Farmington Hills died Oct. 25, 2012 at age ’76 and Linda Dammer ’79; three grand- cabin on Neebish Island and many years at many years. This was followed by several shore, the company of good friends and husband, and son Jon Greening ’71. 69. She is survived by her husband Edward children; and three siblings. their retirement home on the Rifle River years in private practice and, more recently, especially spending time with his sons. He ’63, three children, and her grandchildren. Rev. Charles McCloskey of Livonia and were very special to her. She is survived by as an interior designer for Ethan Allen until is survived by wife, two sons, his parents, her four children, including Susan Lesch friend of Alma College died Jun. 16, 2012 Louis G. Ferrand Jr. ’64 of Alexandria, retirement. She is survived by her husband, two sisters and his brother. CORRECTION: ’77 and Lois Larson ’77, nine grandchildren at age 83. He served the Presbyterian Va., died Dec. 29, 2012 at the age of 70. two children and three step-children, nine Robert E. Wegner, professor emeritus of and six great-grandchildren. Cynthia S. “Cindy” Short ’85, of Mason died Church in various ways for 39 years. He From 1966 to 1968, he was a Peace Corps grandchildren and two brothers. English, died Sept. 12, 2012 at his home. Feb. 17, 2013 at age 49. A 1981 graduate of is survived by his beloved wife Alice of volunteer in the Dominican Republic He was mistakenly identified in the Winter Walter M. Slack ’51 of Lake City died Oct. Dr. Richard L. “Dick” Jeruzal ’68, Ogemaw Heights High School, she broke 59 years, five children, Catharine (Mark) and helped start agricultural marketing 2013 Accents. The Accents staff apologizes 24, 2012 at age 85. A veteran of the Korean of Rockford died Jan. 18, 2013 at 66. the girl’s career basketball scoring in 1981, Turner, Mark (Kathy), Stephen (Kathy), cooperatives for grapes and coffee. Then for the error. War, serving in the U.S. Navy, Walter Following graduation from Alma, he pur- a record that stood for more than 30 years. Timothy (Jean), Jonathan (Denise) and it was on to the University of Michigan was the sales manager for Michigan Sugar sued his dream of becoming a dentist at She played both basketball and softball at ten grandchildren. He provided for Alma Law School, from where he graduated in Alma and earned all-league honors in soft- College in his estate plans.

40 accents www.alma.edu 41 The survey says… You may remember our recent alumni in- formation update and survey that led to the creation of the latest alumni directory. The information was collected from November 2011 until June 2012, and then the directories came out last fall. The survey resulted in a helpful database update that will make it much easier to connect with alumni effec- tively, including:

• Home addresses: 5045 verified, 630 up- dated, 12 new • Home phone: 3818 verified, 562 updated and 650 new • Email addresses: 2242 verified, 700 up- dated and 1461 new

for keeping us updated! Thank you The Supplemental Survey questions also IF YOU COULD TURN BACK TIME... In 1967 the cornerstone ceremony of Hamilton Dining Commons was held. The inside of that cornerstone elicited responses from alumni indicating held a secret. Nearly 50 years later, construction crews unearthed a sealed copper box from the chiseled 1966 cornerstone while working on the that they would like to help with internship Hamilton time capsule addition and renovations to SAGA. Just slightly larger than a shoebox and requiring some assistance from our facilities team to open, the box con- development (260), student recruitment tained a collection of items from 1967 including a copy of the alma mater, The Almanian, the May 12-18 menus for SAGA (which included some- (373), events (524), fundraising (261), service thing called Yum Yum Salad), a flexible 33 1/3 RPM vinyl recording of The Sounds of Alma that was glued inside of the 1967 viewbook, a copy of opportunities (251), board involvement the 1966-67 catalog, an issue of the local newspaper The Record dated May 4, the Presidents Club report that included building plans for Hogan (170) and marketing the college (260). and Hamilton, and a copy of the Alma College Perspective, as well as a cigar, a half-used book of matches, a Canadian penny and a single Rolaid.

for your willingness to Thankbe involved! you We also received some great memories and comments about the Alma Experi- ence, including: Alma Accents and your friends would like to know what you are doing these days. • “My education at Alma was the spring- Please use this form to send your news about promotions, honors, appointments, board for ensuing decades of foreign Like language study, travel, international Letgraduations, us marriages,hear births, from travels and hobbies.you! We will consider running photos, such as pictures of mini-reunions and old friendships and career.” Alma College photographs, but due to limited space, we are not able to run baby or wedding photos. If you would like former class- • “There are probably not enough char- mates to contact you, include your contact information. The content of Alumni News is the responsibility of the editor. acters to write all that I would like to WE ASKED: share... I have a most interesting career Name: ______Class Year: ______Maiden Name: ______history and my ability to continuously Any guesses at what’s inside? reinvent myself is embedded in my Address: ______Telephone: ______Alma College roots.” • “This is too long of a story to write out YOU SAID: City: ______State: ______Zip: ______E-mail: ______here. I will say this, Alma College is con- Kathy Barber Kurz-Crowe: A 45 of Elvis’ “Don’t be cruel.” Please include my: ___ Address ___ Phone ___E-mail nected to all the good things in my life.” Joe Moscheck ’09: Highland Chicken? Alumni notes: ______for sharing these com- Colin Hale ’14: Jimmy Hoffa. ______Thankments and stories!you Gary Stano ’83: Jim Northrup’s mitt, MJJ’s hair and the secret recipe ______for SAGA’s Chili Fritos!!! Lou Kate Blanchard: 8-track tape? ______Lou Ecken ’95 Scott B. Campbell ’94: A draft card.... ______Director of Alumni Engagement Julie Johnston ’96: Sam’s pizza, still edible! Return to: Director of Alumni Engagement, Alumni Notes, Alma College, 614 W. Superior St., Alma, MI 48801-1599 Alumni notes can also be submitted online at

42 accents www.alma.edu 43 614 W. Superior St. Alma, MI 48801-1599 (989) 463-7111 published for alumni, parents and friends of alma college. please recycle accents and pass it on to a prospective student. change service requested

EVERY SINGLE TERM THAT I SPENT AT ALMA WAS MADE June 30th is fast approaching! POSSIBLE BY SCHOLARSHIPS... MAKE A RIPPLE. AND IT’S WHY EFFECT CHANGE. I GIVE TO ALMA BE COUNTED! EVERY YEAR. YOUR GIFT IS TAX-DEDUCTIBLE AND CAN BE MADE A COUPLE OF EASY WAYS: CALL: 1-800-291-1312, ext. 1 CLICK: www.alma.edu/donate RYAN WEBB ’00 West Bloomfield, MI