Homecoming 2015 Gary Peters

FALL 2015 | ISSUE 2

INSIDE: Homecoming 2015 Gary Peters: Serving in the halls of Congress The paperless classroom Fall 2015 | Issue 2 MISSION Alma College’s mission is to editor prepare graduates who think Mike Silverthorn critically, serve generously, designer lead purposefully and live Rachel Salazar responsibly as stewards of photographer the world they bequeath to Ben Tigner future generations. contributors Jeff Abernathy Mike Hanson Matt vandenBerg ’02 Erica Shekell alumni notes compiled by Shelly Buschle Cory Embrey

printing McKay Press

board of trustees D. Michael Sherman ’74, Chair Eric P. Blackhurst ’83, Vice Chair Darryl Schimeck ’82, Secretary Thomas K. Andison Larry R. Andrus ‘72 Erika K. Powers Appelt ‘90 Karen M. Asner ‘89 Brian E Bartes ‘87 David E. Bowen ‘73 Patrick G. Byrne ‘85 David K. Chapoton ’57 Charles A. Deacon ‘80 David A. Devine ‘90 Candace Croucher Dugan Nancy E. Gallagher ’80 Glenn D. Granger ’83 Douglas B. Gross ‘77 Greg Hatcher ‘83 Thomas J. Haverbush Cardell Johnson ‘02 David P. Larsen ’84 John McCormack James T. McIntyre ’69 Stephen F. Meyer ’80 Roger L. Myers Marcia J. Nunn ’73 Elizabeth Parkinson ‘84 Carolyn E. Schultz ‘84 Bryan K. Segedi ‘81 Ron R. Sexton ‘68 Lynne Sherwood Kirk L. Smith ‘81 Matthew E. Steinmetz ‘84 Danette C. Taylor ‘84

<< The Alma College volleyball team on its annual service trip to Mackinac Island, where the players host a volleyball camp for area youth. Check us out on Flickr! flickr.com/almacollege

2 accents is published in spring and fall for alumni, parents, students and other friends of the college. This issue also can be found online at: features alma.edu/accents Comments may be sent to Mike Silverthorn, Accents Plaid Returns editor, Alma College, 614 The roster of professional leaders lined up to mentor Alma students 6 W. Superior St., Alma, MI in last May’s Strategic Leadership class came from a variety of back- 48801-1599, or via e-mail: grounds representing different leadership styles and life experiences. [email protected]. But they had one thing in common: All were Alma Scots.

The paperless classroom 14 Gwyneth Beagley has used textbooks to teach physiological psychology at Alma College for nearly 30 years, but no more. She now teaches the class totally paperless, using iPads. And she loves it.

Career milestone: 800 wins 18 Coach Denny Griffin ranks second all-time in Division III softball history. “When I first started, I was just happy to have a winning season,” he says. “I was a green coach who knew very little about softball and the art of coaching women.”

Gary Peters: Serving in the halls of Congress 20 The Alma College Alumni Association has a voting member in the U.S. Senate. “I often say that being in the U.S. Congress is like the ultimate liberal arts job because every day is different, and you are dealing with a whole range of subjects,” says Gary Peters ’80.

Scots you should know 22 This year’s Alumni Awards recipients reveal their Alma College pride and accomplishments.

Exploring life’s great questions 32 Alma College allowed Rev. Amjad Samuel ’92 to pursue his intellectual curiosities — an opportunity that he didn’t have in his home country of Pakistan.

Check us out on Flickr! flickr.com/almacollege

www.alma.edu 3 WELCOME

GREAT LEADERS WEAR PLAID

When I think about the challenges for Participating alumni included CEOs, liberal arts colleges today, I am keenly presidents, executive directors and vice aware that Alma College will need to use presidents of organizations from a variety all of the resources we have in order to of business fields. While many of our thrive. No resource is more important to speakers traveled to Alma to participate in us than our alumni. And while alumni the class, we also took trips to Chicago and support the college in all sorts of critical Detroit to allow students to interact with PRESIDENT ABERNATHY CAN BE REACHED ways — financial support, recommend- successful alumni in metropolitan areas. SEVERAL WAYS: ing the college to prospective students — Darryl hosted us at his company in Chica- none may be as important as the creative go, and Talmer Bank CEO David Provost [email protected] ideas alumni bring to the college. ’76 hosted us at his.

facebook.com/almapresident A few years ago, alumnus Darryl The primary learning objective for the Schimeck ’82 suggested a course he class was for students to better understand twitter.com/jeffabernathy called “Plaid Returns” in which alumni the challenges of strategic leadership in www.alma.edu/offices/president in business would return to campus, both profit and non-profit organizations. demonstrating to today’s students the To assess learning, students worked in (989) 463-7146 many paths to successful careers. Dar- small groups to analyze the strategic plans ryl’s certainty was that successful alumni and related data from Alma College and realize that Alma College shaped their from Darryl’s company, Optimer Brands. lives — and formed a foundation for the Students were asked to propose win- success they achieved later in life. Darryl ning strategies that addressed the major also knew that those leaders were eager to challenges each organization is facing in share with the next generation of leaders. today’s difficult market conditions and that demonstrated the students’ increased This past May, Darryl and I taught the awareness of strategic leadership. course he envisioned in this year’s spring term along with business administra- What an incredible opportunity the class tion professor Greg Baleja. Nearly three became for these 18 students. dozen professional leaders lined up to mentor Alma students in the class. The They heard Dave Chapoton ’57, retired course had two anticipated outcomes: to CEO of Tastee-Freez International, talk introduce Alma students to leaders who about the importance of risk-taking to have achieved professional success and to entrepreneurs. Greg Hatcher ’83, CEO allow alumni to share their experiences of The Hatcher Agency, discussed the and meet young leaders who are prepar- importance of doing the small things right ing for life after Alma. (“and only keep track of the victories”).

4 accents Larry Andrus ’72, CEO of Trivalent Group Inc., quoted Einstein — ‘We can’t solve problems using the same thinking we used to create the problem” — and described the need for leaders to learn first to follow. Meredith Bronk ’92, CEO/president of Open Systems Technologies, talked about what she learned of leadership at Alma College. Playing on Alma’s softball team taught her “not only how to win but, impor- tantly, how to lose: failure has value to the ultimate goal.”

The course offered these alumni and other friends of the college an opportunity to reflect on their careers, meet some impressive Alma students, and serve Alma.

With the assistance of these “great Scots,” we are preparing our students to solve the challenges they will encounter after they graduate. That’s how “Plaid Works”! We hope to build on this model in the years to come with similar class offerings in other disciplines across campus. I would love to talk with you about the creative ideas you might have that will help to ensure that Alma College will continue to thrive for our « next 130 years! Spending spring term in paradise

Alma students scuba diving in Hawaii as part of a spring term course on “Ecology and Biodiversity of a Hawaiian Coral Reef” taught by John Rowe. The students studied Jeff Abernathy oceanography, geology, environmental issues and the ecology of marine fishes. They President also visited Kauai and the Big Island, the oldest and youngest islands of the main Hawaiian archipelago, and learned about the history of humans in Hawaii.

www.alma.edu 5 Alma alumni reflect on strategic leadership PLAID RETURNS

Alma College alumni presenters to BUS 380: Strategic Leadership included the following:

• Larry Andrus ’72, CEO, Trivalent Group, a computer technology firm, Grandville

• Meredith Bronk ’92, CEO and president, Open Systems Technologies, Grand Rapids

• David Chapoton ’57, retired CEO, Tastee-Freez International, Rochester

DARRYL • William Evans ’81, executive director, SCHIMECK Australia and New Zealand Banking Group, New York

• Todd Friesner ’79, vice president for finance and administration, Alma College

• Glenn Granger ’83, president and CEO, Granger Construction MEREDITH Company, Lansing BRONK • Douglas Gross ’77, financial advisor, owner, Raymond James Financial Services, Ann Arbor

• Greg Hatcher ’83, CEO, The Hatcher ELIZABETH Agency, Little Rock, Arkansas PARKINSON • Richard Lievense ’75, president and CEO, Lake Michigan Financial Corporation, Grand Rapids

• Tom MacFarlane ’83, attorney, Clark Hill, entrepreneurial law firm, Birmingham

6 accents Darryl Schimeck ’82, after several years in various executive positions with Waste Management, is now president and chief executive officer of Optimer Brands, a high performance textile business that makes flame resistance clothing for the military, motor sports and industry. He also has a more than 20-year affiliation with Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, a residency care facility for troubled youth in Chica- go. He was elected to the Alma College Board of Trustees in 2014.

A Q&A with Darryl Schimeck ’82&

PLAID RETURNS How did your Alma Experience impact your career? I came to Alma College with the notion that I was going to be an attorney. Attorneys • Marcia Nunn ’73, retired general looked great on television, and I knew I could speak, write and read. In my Spring counsel, Automotive Components Term class between my junior and senior year, I had the opportunity to work with Bill Goggin, a local attorney, and found out that being an attorney was nothing like it Holdings, LLC, Northville. Q was portrayed on television. I received this realization, this gift, that I probably should • Elizabeth Parkinson ’84, senior not spend the next three years of my life in law school. Without that Spring Term class, I don’t know what I would be doing now; it’s part of the debt I owe to Alma. vice president for marketing and A partnerships, Detroit Lions Who influenced your career? • Dave Provost ’76, Chairman, I’m where I am because of my Alma College experience. It began with incredible President and CEO of Talmer Bank teachers — M.J.J. Smith, Jim Schmidtke, Frank Jackson, Joe Sutfin, and a relationship I had with our president at the time, Oscar Remick. Through President and Trust, Birmingham Remick, I got to know one of the trustees, Larry Beck, who was one of the founding • Darryl Schimeck ’82, president and members of Waste Management, Inc. I went on to work at Waste Management fresh out of Alma College because of the relationship I developed with him. CEO, Optimer Brands, Chicago

• Mike Sherman ’74, CEO, Dawson After several successful years at Waste Management, how were you able to transition to your current role as president and CEO of Optimer Brands? Companies, Rocky River, Ohio I knew nothing about textiles, but among the key foundations to a liberal arts educa- • Russ Youngdahl Jr. ’75, president tion are the ability to ask the right questions, to learn quickly the key drivers of the and CEO, Shane Group Capital business, and to relate to people at every level of the organization — from the sales Corporation, Jackson force to fabric engineers to the accountants to the supply chain experts. Why would an economics major from Alma College run a textile business? Because he can! Non-alumni presenters affiliated Because he learned how to learn at Alma College. A liberal arts education provides with Alma College included Candace that foundation of how to learn meaningfully and quickly. Dugan, Lynn Sherwood and Kurt You have climbed many mountains in your career — including real physical Wassenaar. mountains. How did that come about? The following Chicago-area alumni A fraternity brother invited me on this adventure of climbing Mt. Ranier. It was 1999, also mentored Alma students: Holly and I was 39 years old. It sounded like fun. It was the most challenging thing I have ever Bailey ’98, Mark Baker ’85, William done, more challenging than running a marathon. The experience of climbing a real mountain, when you are above the clouds and the sun is shining, is incredible. I fell in Deeds ’97, David Devine ’90, Doug love with mountain climbing. Since then, I have climbed mountains all over the world. Dome ’82, Mike Evangelides ’84, Steve Falk ’72, Julie Hubbard ’87, Thomas In addition to your role at Optimer Brands, you have a rewarding “second job.” McGuire ’08, Bill Moss ’69, Suresh One of most important things in my career has been my work with Mercy Home Rajagopal ’89, Andy Sexton ’97, Matt for Boys and Girls, a residency care facility for troubled kids in Chicago. I’ve been on Steinmetz ’84, Bryan Segedi ’81, Dan the board for over 20 years and had the good fortune to be chair of the board for four Schmittdiel ’82. years. Doug Dome, another fraternity brother, introduced me to Mercy Home. I have had the unique opportunity to meet the children of children we cared for at Mercy Home, children who are now living in solid family units with both parents and realizing that, ‘Wow, I have done something with my life.’

www.alma.edu 7 CAMPUS NEWS

Barlow Trophy: Caroline Asiala MJJ Smith scholar: Neil Youngdahl Caroline Asiala Neil Youngdahl ’15 was awarded the M.J.J. Smith of Bay City Society Scholarship, which is awarded to the college’s was the 2015 most outstanding graduating history major. The recipient of the scholarship carries a $20,000 award to use toward Barlow Trophy, post-graduate study. Youngdahl is attending law Alma College’s school at the University of Michigan. most prestigious award for a graduating senior. Asiala participated in numerous service and extracurricular activities while pursuing a degree in environmental studies. She was Fulbright scholar: Maggie Peacock a three-year member of the Model United Nations team and participated in Alterna- Maggie Peacock of Batavia, Ill., was awarded the tive Break service trips. prestigious post-graduate Fulbright Scholarship to teach and study in Malaysia. A political science major In experiences funded by Alma’s Posey with an emphasis in international relations, Peacock Global Fellowship Program, Asiala was a became Alma’s 25th Fulbright Scholar since 2003. volunteer at a community hospital in Sierra Following her Fulbright experience, Peacock plans to Leone, and she interviewed natives in the pursue a graduate degree in non-profit management Ecuadorian Amazon Forest about their tra- or public policy. ditional medicines made from local flora.

Hamilton wins design award Hamilton Dining Commons, designed by the architectural firm The Collaborative, last spring was awarded the highest honor by the Toledo chapter of the American Institute of Architects for design excellence and distinction. The 22,000-square-foot building was renovated in 2014 to expand the dining capacity, improve accessibility and transform the existing facility into a recruiting showpiece. A juror described the design as “a successful transformation of an existing student facility with the goal of improving the campus’s ability to attract students by creating informal learning spaces and strengthening the identity of the centre.”

8 accents National honors in service: Lauren Engels

Lauren Engels ’15 received the Campus STEM camps Compact Newman Civic Fellows Award, which honors inspiring student leaders Below: Second through fifth grade students were excited to learn who have demonstrated an investment at the Science & Math Explorers camp this past June. in finding solutions for challenges facing

« communities throughout the country. Engels was among 201 student leaders from colleges nationwide selected to receive the national award.

Engels also was the recipient of the Active Citizen of the Year, an award by Break Away, the national nonprofit organization that pro- motes alternative breaks. Engels was selected for the award based on her “commitment to lifelong active citizenship. Engels, Alma’s Stu- dent Congress president in 2014-15, participated in several alternative breaks during her four-year Alma Experience.

Right: Science Olympiad day campers

competed in teams to engineer the most efficient and strongest bridge out of popsicle sticks. «

www.alma.edu 9 CAMPUS NEWS

Highland champions KILTIE DANCERS, PIPE BAND RECEIVE HONORS

Kiltie dancers Katie Ochs ’16 and Maty were invited to apply. Only 10 to 15 “I started when I was three, so Highland Ennis ’18 recently performed in the Royal applicants from the U.S. were accepted. dance has been a big part of my life,” Edinburgh Military Tattoo, the most well- says Ennis. “I definitely plan on continu- known cultural performance in Scotland. “I am most excited to get to perform for ing with dancing and hopefully teaching the royal family and spend time with and possibly judging.” “Getting into the Military tattoo is a the girls I do know and get to know the major accomplishment — but I can’t dancers I don’t know,” says Ochs, who is At the 2015 Alma Highland Festival and say I’m surprised,” says Kate DeGood majoring in accounting. Games held in May, the Alma College ’07, the director of Highland Dance and Pipe Band was placed first by all four the co-coordinator of Alma’s Highland While pipes and drums are the high- judges (in Grade IV) and, as a result, Arts program. lights, the shows have an “international won its fourth consecutive U.S. Pipe flavor,” showcasing music and dances Band Championship. The band also In the past, only British Common- from all over the world. The shows take received the best drum corps and best wealth countries were eligible; 2015 is place at Edinburgh Castle throughout bass section awards. the first year that American dancers the month of August. — ERICA SHEKELL

10 accents ALMAALMA COLLEGECOLLEGE HOMECOMINGHOMECOMING 20152015 SCHEDULESCHEDULE /// FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2 3:00–5:00 p.m. CAREER EXPLO Register online at alma.edu/career-explo 4:00 p.m. 50-YEAR CLASS REUNION (1965) 6:00 p.m. PIZZA NIGHT 8:00 p.m. PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE CONCERT /// SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 9:00 a.m. MATT REINKE 5K SCOT TROT: Register online at alma.edu/homecoming or email Maurie Luetkemeier for more info: [email protected] 50-YEAR AND GOLDEN THISTLE BREAKFAST 10:00 a.m. LEGACY STUDENT BRUNCH: Bring high school-aged siblings, children or grandchildren to this special event that includes brunch and a campus tour. Call the Admissions Office at 1-800-321-ALMA to register. 10:30 a.m. ALUMNI MEMORIAL SERVICE 11:00 a.m. HOMECOMING PARADE ALL-ALUMNI PICNIC 11:45 a.m. 25-YEAR CLASS REUNION GRAND NOON MEN’S SOCCER VS. ALBION COLLEGE MARSHAL 1:30 p.m. FOOTBALL VS. TRINE UNIVERSITY 4:00 p.m. DEPARTMENTAL RECEPTIONS 5:00 p.m. DECADE ANNIVERSARY RECEPTION Classes of 2015, 2005, 1995, 1985, 1975 Saundra Tracy 7:00 p.m. ALUMNI AWARDS AND CHOIR CONCERT

/// SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 9:00 a.m. ALL-ALUMNI BREAKFAST 4:00 p.m. ALMA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CONCERT

Visit alma.edu/homecoming to begin planning your Homecoming weekend! You’ll find the complete schedule of events and the online registration form. You can also make reservations by calling 1-800- 291-1312, ext. 2. See you soon!

www.alma.edu 11 CAMPUS NEWS

Gelston’s makeover Board of Trustees raises funds for north-wing renovation

The renovation of Alma College’s The project included the ad- challenge to support a sec- Gelston Hall has expanded into dition of study rooms, handi- ond-phase renovation. Board the building’s north wing, with cap-accessible entry ramps and members responded to McDow- the student rooms and bathroom new common bathrooms. ell’s $250,000 challenge grant by facilities receiving upgrades in the raising an additional $400,000 same style that was completed in Following the east-wing renova- designated for updating the the east-wing renovation. tion, Alma College Trustee Tom north wing. McDowell created a fundraising The east-wing renovation was In total, $1.15 million in donor completed in summer 2014. gifts supported the $1.8 million north-wing renovation project, says Todd Friesner ’79, vice president for finance and administration.

“The Board’s willingness to support the renovation of one of our highly visible student residences reflects the trustees’ tremendous commitment to the student experience,” says Friesner. “As a result of these renovations, everything on all three floors of the Gelston Hall north wing is new — new windows, new common bathrooms with private shower stalls, new drywall, new ceilings, new flooring and new furniture.”

The project also includes the renovation of the main corridors and updated electrical, plumbing, fire suppression and wi-fi coverage. The renovation work began in April 2015 with a targeted Au- gust 2015 completion date.

12 accents The story behind the name:

According to materials found in the college Gelston submitted Gelstonlibrary archives, Mary Catherine Gelston was Hallher resignation to one of the original seven staff members of Alma the Alma College College — and the only woman — at the time Board of Trustees in of the school’s founding in 1886. She was dean of 1904, but her request was women and professor of Latin and French. denied, according to the archi- val record. The trustees “believed that Born in Albion, Mich., Mary Gelston was a gradu- her loss would be too severe a blow for the young ate of Elmira College and later received her Master College.” She remained on the faculty for two of Arts degree from the University of Michigan. more years until renewing her request to retire in Before coming to Alma, she taught at Franklin 1906. Following her retirement, she moved to Ann Academy in Prattsburgh, N.Y., and also served as Arbor, where she died in 1940. principal and Latin instructor at East Side High School in Saginaw, Mich. In the 1950s, the Committee for the Naming of the New Women’s Dormitory selected Mary Gelston The Alma Record of June 27, 1906, offered this as the woman most qualified for the honor. The description of the apparently soft-spoken Mary Gel- new residence with rooms for 200 women was ston: “No one connected with the College has such constructed in 1956 and was formally dedicated as felicity of speech as Miss Gelston. She has the grace the Mary C. Gelston Hall on April 16, 1958. of silence in several languages. She is the most perfect of listeners, but when she does speak, it is the wisest, the clearest, the most musical English.”

Among the treasures of the Alma College Library She has the grace of silence in archives are letters written by Mary Gelston to “ her family during an overseas trip to England and several languages. She is the most Scotland in 1884. The hand-written letters offer perfect of listeners, but when she a fascinating account of Gelston’s 19th century does speak, it is the wisest, the observations of travel and sightseeing in Europe clearest, the most musical English. — as well as a glimpse into her personality and ” thought process.

www.alma.edu 13 CAMPUS NEWS

The paperless classroom Mobile devices, apps, online databases and active learning spaces are changing the way faculty members teach.

Gwyneth Beagley has used text- desktop computer at a podium in classes,” says Andrew Bare, assistant books to teach physiological psy- front of the room.” director for instructional technology. chology at Alma College for nearly “It has been tremendously suc- 30 years, but no more. She now The faculty’s Educational Tech- cessful. Students use their iPads to teaches the class totally paperless, nology Committee, as part of the video record their lab work to better using iPads. Andison Educational Technology understand the material and have Innovation Initiative, launched been creative in finding other app And she loves it. the pilot study on using iPads in resources to assist in their learning.” the classroom two years ago. In Advances in educational tech- addition to Beagley, Ray Riley has Alma’s faculty are implementing nology have made it possible for incorporated the use of iPads in other teaching innovations, says faculty to enhance their students’ his sound design class, and library Bare. Several have “flipped” their classroom learning experience. For faculty are using iPads for teaching, classrooms, videotaping their Beagley, providing iPads to her research and note-taking. lectures for students to view outside students instead of requiring them of class and devoting classroom to purchase textbooks has resulted “Dr. Beagley’s student scores have time to collaborative group in better learning outcomes. increased in both of her pilot work. (Editor’s note: Read Deb “There are wonderful free apps available for teaching science and medicine,” says Beagley. “I use an app called 3D Brain. It shows the interior areas of the brain and allows me to illustrate and provide visuals of the brain in a way that a traditional textbook cannot.

“The difference with using iPads versus regular laptops is size and mobility,” she says. “Apps for iPads aren’t available on desktops, and with an iPad I can move around the room to work with individual students instead of being tied to a

14 accents FACULTY NEWS Annual faculty recognition Dougherty’s piece on “Flipping and seating students so that they face Timothy Sipka, mathematics, and the Classroom” in the Winter each other instead of lined up facing Dale Sanders, health administration, 2014 issue of Accents). the front,” says Bare. “But technolo- were the 2015 recipients of the Andi- gy also plays a major role. For exam- son Excellence in Teaching Awards. The campus also is licensed ple, you can have television monitors for Lynda.com — a free online Established in 2010 and supported at every student table connected to a by a gift from Thomas Andison, resource offering thousands of projection system, with microphones video courses in software, creative these awards recognize excellence in at each table and a sound system the classroom through pedagogical and business skills. Need to learn in the room. Students can work in PhotoShop? There’s a video for innovation, creative activities with groups and share their work with students and superior teaching. it. Need a refresher on Excel? the rest of the class using advanced Students can search the database presentation technology. Julie Arnold, modern languages, and for video training. Carrie Anne Parks-Kirby, art and “With the instructor located cen- design, were the 2015 recipients of the “As part of our licensing agree- trally, the ‘middle’ of the classroom ment, students have free access Barlow Faculty Awards. Established is now the ‘front’ of the room, with in 1982 by the late Dr. Joel Barlow to Lynda.com for a year after students facing each other and more they graduate,” says Bare. “That ’29, this annual cash stipend recogniz- engaged in group projects,” says es high levels of faculty contributions has proven extremely helpful to Bare. “In one study, 90 percent of students who need to brush up on “to furthering the educational mission the students who took an ALC class of the College.” Teaching, scholar- software programs that they will indicated that they were more likely use in their first jobs after Alma.” ship, creativity or performance, and to take another ALC class than a college and community service are traditional class.” Many faculty also have expressed acknowledged. interest in ALCs, or active Bare cautions that it’s not technology learning classrooms. ALCs are In addition, the Board of Trustee has or the device alone that guarantees granted emeritus rank to the follow- described as interactive, interdis- improved learning. ciplinary spaces where informa- ing retired faculty: tion and technology are combined “Faculty still must teach,” says • Carol Bender, professor of English, to facilitate learning. Discussions Bare. “But Alma’s faculty have been 1986-2015 are taking place to convert two extremely open to investigating classrooms in the Swanson Aca- advances in educational technology • George Choksy, associate professor demic Center into ALCs. and incorporating advances into of economics, 1989-2015 their syllabi. I’m very excited about “The main physical ingredients the future possibilities.” • Melvin Nyman, professor of of ALCs are lots of white board mathematics and computer science, space for group brainstorming, — MIKE SILVERTHORN 1981-2015

www.alma.edu 15 CAMPUS NEWS

varying levels of light. Plant-soil feedback, or PSF, is the scientific term that refers to the changes in soil that are caused by plants, which in turn influence the growth and health of plants. Microbial activity and tree composition are the major drivers of PSF effects.

For the study, Neumann and her students will transplant 7,000 seedlings from eight tree species in a series of fenced-in plots at the Alma College Ecological Field Station. The seedlings will be planted in sealed mesh fungal enclosure bags, which are designed to prevent roots and fungi from passing in or out of the soil but does not affect Basic research: What influences tree survival? water or nutrient flows. They ECOLOGIST SARAH McCARTHY NEUMANN AND HER STUDENTS WILL will plant the seedlings in eight TRANSPLANT 7,000 SEEDLINGS AT THE “BOG” AS PART OF A $500,000 different soil types in locations of NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION-SUPPORTED RESEARCH PROJECT varying light availability.

Undergraduate students will collect The National Science Foundation prevalence and severity of disease data during the duration of the has awarded $500,000 to Alma in young tree seedlings. experiment, documenting the prog- College faculty biologist Sarah ress and growth of the seedlings at McCarthy Neumann for research “This is basic research that ad- monthly intervals. As part of their that could provide new information dresses a question that ecologists analysis, they will investigate how for increasing tree survival and have long investigated: How can environmental conditions such enhancing the effective conservation so many competing species coexist as temperature, soil moisture and and management of forests. in a forest?” says Neumann. “The information we gather from our light combine with soil type and The three-year research grant research will be useful for helping fungal community to affect seed- through the NSF’s Division of forest ecologists better understand ling performance. Environmental Biology and the role of soil pathogens and light “This is a study that extensively Population and Community requirements for natural seedling involves undergraduate students,” Ecology Program will involve regeneration and how natural says Neumann. “They will be both faculty and undergraduate systems work.” engaged in all aspects of data students in the study that examines collection, and they will gain expe- how environmental conditions, The study focuses on how plant- rience in laboratory work in their soil-related bacteria and fungi, and soil feedback affects the survival analysis of the data.” light availability interact on the and growth of tree seedlings in

16 accents WHAT ARE PEOPLE SAYING ABOUT ALMA COLLEGE?

ON FACEBOOK

In addition to the scientific KELLY (HADDOCK) HALE ’94 research, the seedling and Grateful for my liberal arts education at Alma College, which started me on the path environmental sensor data from to critical thinking. It was a great preparation for the clinical reasoning skills that were the project will be stored in the required in graduate school, my career and life!! Dow Digital Science Center at BRIAN CORRIGAN ’96 REVIEWED ALMA COLLEGE: Alma College and made available Alma enriched my life and prepared me for my legal career. for high school and undergraduate use in teaching and research RACHEL PAPPAS ’02 projects, adds Neumann. Thank you, AC, for offering the free math and science camp this week! My daughter came home from her first day talking about becoming a biologist and going to Alma College The NSF grant will provide (she is in fourth grade). It makes me proud to know that her first experience with college is funding for materials, supplies coming from Alma!! This momma/alum is thrilled to see her so excited about camp! and stipends for faculty and the undergraduate students. ON TWITTER Neumann, who joined the Alma College faculty in fall 2014, says NICK MANGUTZ ’17 she has always had a passion Year 2 R Wouldn’t trade a second of it! Beyond blessed to have spent it with for the outdoors, and that her some of the greatest people I know @almacollege undergraduate experience paved the path for her career. LINDSAY FORD ’16 Things I love about @almacollege - the support that athletes get from their “I have always loved forests, but as professors. It was awesome to see so many cheering us on today! an undergraduate student I also fell BRENDEN KUDLA ’15 in love with research,” she says. “It allows me to use my curiosity and I love @almacollege. This has been the best four years of my life, I’ll never deny it creativity to try to figure out how the natural world works.”

Neumann, who has a Ph.D. in forestry and ecology, also is involved with the Tree Map Project, designed to identify all of the trees on Alma College’s campus. The project, funded by a grant from the Michigan Department of Nation- al Resources and USDA Forest Service, provides an online resource concerning the native and horticul- tural varieties of trees growing on Alma’s campus.

— MIKE SILVERTHORN COMMENCEMENT Nearly 300 students received degrees at Alma’s commencement ceremony, which was held in the the Hogan Center, Art Smith Arena this past April. U.S. Sen Gary Peters, a 1980 graduate of Alma College, gave the college’s commencement address.

TO SEE MORE COMMENCEMENT PHOTOS VISIT FLICKR.COM/ALMACOLLEGE

www.alma.edu 17 ATHLETIC NEWS

Career milestone: 800 wins COACH DENNY GRIFFIN RANKS SECOND ALL-TIME IN DIVISION III SOFTBALL HISTORY

When the 2015 Alma College Griffin’s teams have won 16 MIAA softball team completed a relatively Championships and nine MIAA easy sweep of two games against Tournament Championships. MIAA foe Albion College on April Before not making the playoffs 25, it marked a major milestone during the 2014 season, Alma had and in 27 seasons overall. Alma in the career of Scots Head Coach made the tournament every single owns an overall NCAA Tourna- Denny Griffin. year since the league went to the ment record of 43-37. current format. Even though there wasn’t much Griffin is still going strong after drama in the decisive win — a So, 2015 was a year of redemption. 27 years. five-inning rout — the second victory The Scots went 12-4 in conference against the Britons gave Griffin 800 competition, received an at-large “I have been blessed with a sup- career wins during his 27 years at the berth to the NCAA regional and portive wife and family, a great helm of the program. He now stands ultimately advanced to the national assistant coaching staff, including at 807, which is second all-time in Division III tournament. The 2015 Phil Hansen, Brandee West and Division III history. Only George squad marked Alma’s 18th trip to Mike Doran, and an excellent Wares at Central College of Iowa has the NCAA Tournament. The Scots school to recruit to for all these more victories (1,007) than Griffin. have advanced to the nationals six years,” says Griffin. “But the most times — 2015, 2005, 2004, 2000, important part is the players. I tip “It feels wonderful and humbling 1999 and 1994. my hat to all of the players who to get the 800th,” says Griffin. have been a part of this journey, “When I first started, I was just The first of the program’s NCAA and I would like to thank them for happy to have a winning season. I appearances occurred in 1994, when their dedication to the program. was a green coach who knew very Alma went 36-8 overall and 3-2 Without them, this milestone little about softball and the art of during the tourney. After missing would have never happened. coaching women — heck, I was an the party in 1996, the Scots reeled off athletic trainer by trade!” nine appearances in a row, and one “All of this is not about specific could argue that this was the most wins, as it is about the people that Griffin took over a young, fledg- prolific time in the program’s history. I have met along the way,” says ing program during the 1988-89 Griffin. “The players, coaches, academic year at Alma College In that time span, Alma won 33, 33, staff and parents — that is what and led the team to an overall 46, 42, 35, 28, 32, 39 and 33 games stands out. To go back and think mark of 19-10 and 8-4 in the respectively. The Scots had 321 (35.7 of all the fun that has occurred MIAA. That success was just a average) wins and just 76 losses (8.4 over the past 27 years is awesome.” precursor of what was ahead for average) in those nine seasons. That Griffin and the Scots’ program. is a lot of wins, both in those years — MIKE HANSON

18 accents Scots advance to DIII nationals

The Alma College softball team entered the 2015 season with uncertainty, having missed the MIAA tournament for the first time in school history in 2014. The Scots were picked to finish fifth in the MIAA Preseason Coaches Poll.

However, Alma performed beyond expectations, concluding the season with a trip to Salem, Virginia, to participate in the 2015 NCAA Softball National Finals for the sixth time in program history.

Alma earned a spot in the MIAA tournament, but lost to Trine in the finals. None- theless, the Scots received an at-large berth to the NCAA Tournament for the 18th time in program history, eventually capturing the regional title. At Super Re- gionals, the Scots dropped Lake Forest in back-to-back games to advance to the nationals. At Salem, they lost to top-ranked Tufts University and DePauw.

Alma finished the season with an overall 30-17 record.

www.alma.edu 19 The Alma College Alumni Association has a voting member in the U.S. Senate. ALUMNI NEWS Gary Peters ’80 was elected to the Senate in November 2014 after serving six years as a Michigan delegate in the House of Representatives. A political science major as a student and career public servant, Peters returned to his alma mater to deliver the 2015 Alma College commencement address and receive a honorary Doctor of Letters degree. Shortly after commencement, Peters was interviewed in his office on the 18th floor of the Patrick V. McNamara Federal Building in downtown Detroit overlooking the Detroit River.

At Alma I studied foreign language, economics, science, Gary Peters: astronomy. It’s interesting, I studied astronomy at Alma Col- lege, and now I am the ranking member of the subcommittee SERVING IN THE that oversees NASA and its space program. I remember that HALLS OF CONGRESS my beginning studies in astronomy really launched me on a lifelong interest in astronomy. I often say that being in the U.S. Congress is like the ultimate &Reflect back on your invitation to speak at Alma’s liberal arts job because every day is different, and you are commencement. dealing with a whole range of subjects. Having that kind of It was an incredible honor to get a honorary degree from the background helps me do my job each and every day. place where I graduated. Alma College is a very special place for me, and so it was humbling for me to give the commence- Did you envision a political career when you were a student? ment address. It was almost to the day, 35 years ago, from when I graduated from Alma. As a student, I never thought I would I was always interested in public policy, but when I walked Q be standing in front of the student body giving a commence- across the stage to get my diploma, I was actually on my way ment address. So, it was both an honor and very humbling. to a job with a large financial service firm, Merrill Lynch. I only had one business course, and that was, thankfully, What was your primary message to the graduating class? investments. So, given that I was going to an investment A firm, it was that investment background in addition to my We know today you often have several careers in your lifetime, not just one. To have a wide-ranging education that is provided by a liberal arts institution is so important. I believe the students are very blessed, and they have to understand that the kind of broad perspective they have about the world “I OFTEN SAY THAT BEING IN THE U.S. CONGRESS is going to serve them very well in their career going forward. IS LIKE THE ULTIMATE LIBERAL ARTS JOB BECAUSE What I also wanted to say, in addition to being successful in EVERY DAY IS DIFFERENT, AND YOU ARE DEALING their careers, that they also remember to get involved in the WITH A WHOLE RANGE OF SUBJECTS. HAVING THAT community. We can’t be successful as individuals unless our KIND OF BACKGROUND HELPS ME DO MY JOB communities are successful and our country is successful. EACH AND EVERY DAY.” — SEN. GARY PETERS ’80 And they are only successful when we all actively engage in public service, broadly defined. I certainly hope that the students take their experiences they had at Alma and use it for the greater good.

In what ways did Alma College prepare you for your election to the U.S. Senate? Part of what I do every day is dealing with a broad range of issues. Every day there are different things that come before me as a U.S. senator, and that is why having a broad-based education, a liberal arts education, was so important to begin with.

20 accents broad-based education that allowed me to land Michigan can continue to be the world leader that job. I spent over 20 years in the investment when it comes to that technology. business, helping people plan for retirements I also work with small businesses as the and their children’s education. engine of growth for our economy, as well as A couple of experiences at Alma really furthered making sure Michigan can continue to be a my interest in public policy. I had two Spring strong and vibrant agricultural state. We have Terms. One Spring Term was in Washington, the second most diverse agricultural state in D.C., where we met elected officials, think tanks the country, second only to California. and government agencies. But I also was an intern with Congressman Don Albosta who rep- Talk about your transition from the House to resented the Alma area, so I had the opportunity the Senate. to see the work of a member of Congress. I’m coming into the Senate in a freshman class of 13 new U.S. senators; there are 12 Republi- Who was an influential faculty cans and one Democrat. I’m the one Democrat, member at Alma? but it’s given me the opportunity to get to know Dr. Burnie Davis was a professor I got to know 12 new Republican senators very well. We have very well. He was the first professor I had for a bond coming in together as new members. a political science class, Poly Sci 101, as a new We’ve had a chance for our spouses to get to GARY PETERS: freshman at Alma College. Over those four know each other, to be able to socialize together, years I worked closely with him; he was an and it’s those kinds of personal relationships A Short Bio advisor to me. We developed a good strong that are going to be important for us to work In Congress, Gary Peters serves working relationship. together to solve some of the complex problems on the Senate Commerce, Science I was blessed to keep in contact with him over that we face as a country. and Transportation Committee, the years. Your professors at Alma don’t forget Homeland Security and Gov- you just like you don’t forget them, and they What do you think of the show “House ernment Reform Committee, the follow your path. Burnie Davis did that. When of Cards”? Committee on Small Business and I was sworn in as a new member of Congress, (Laughing). My wife and I actually do enjoy Entrepreneurship and the Joint shortly thereafter he made a special trip to “House of Cards.” But I just want to make Economic Committee. Washington D.C. to come and see me and see, sure folks realize that “House of Cards” is fic- Peters began his public service as a as he would say, how I was using all that he tion. My life in the Senate is not like “House Rochester Hills City Councilman taught me in my job as a U.S. Congressman. I of Cards.” It’s not like how Washington is. in 1991. In 1994, he was elected to will never forget him and what he taught me. But the show is good entertainment. the Michigan State Senate where he represented communities in What are some of the priority issues you What is your message to alumni? Oakland County. He later served hope to tackle as a first-year U.S. Senator? It’s critical for Alma alumni to stay engaged as the Michigan State Lottery My focus in the Senate is about jobs and the with the college. All of us who graduated Commissioner. economy, the same focus I had for six years from Alma feel this special bond with the He was elected to the U.S. House when I served in the U.S. House of Repre- school that educated us and sent us off on our of Representatives in 2008 and sentatives. And that means helping Michigan careers. But we have to be reminded that that served on the House Financial Ser- continue to move forward, grow jobs, grow special experience at Alma just didn’t happen. vices Committee, where he played opportunity for middle-class families to pursue Because of a community, and certainly faculty a central role in shaping financial the American dream. I serve on the Commerce and staff are an important part of that com- reform legislation. Committee, which deals, for example, with munity, but the Alma College community is Born in Pontiac, Peters graduated manufacturing, something that I’m very pas- what makes Alma special. Community means from Rochester High School and sionate about. I don’t believe that you can be a alumni — alumni who have gone on to went on to Alma College where he great country unless you actually make some- whatever career they have. They have a lot of earned a Bachelor of Arts degree thing, and manufacturing is critical to that. I experiences and skills they can bring back to while working part time to help work very closely with the auto industry. As the college to help students, and to help that pay his way. Peters later went on to the industry changes, cars are more than just college flourish. earn an MBA in finance from the torque and horsepower, although those are my Alma will continue to be a great institu- University of Detroit Mercy, a law two favorite things about a car – torque and tion that provides incredible education to degree from Wayne State Universi- horsepower – they are also highly integrated, students only if alumni continue to be actively ty Law School and master’s degree complex machines with computer power. involved on campus. It is a community that from Michigan State University. We’re heading down the road of self-driving allows individuals to succeed and to flourish. vehicles, autonomous vehicles that will im- The Alma College community is special, but prove safety dramatically. I want to make sure & it has to stay engaged. QA www.alma.edu 21 ALUMNI AWARDS

you shouldSCOTS know

JEFFREY LEESTMA ’78 | GEORGE HEBERT SERVICE AWARD

HOMETOWN: I grew up in Birmingham but FAVORITE ALMA PROFESSOR: I’m afraid have lived in Royal Oak for 30 years. I’m going to have to name a few. Dr. Joe Sutfin and Dr. Eugene Pattison, (my English PROFESSIONAL STATUS: I am creative professors), Professor Wesley Dykstra director at Jack Morton Worldwide, a (philosophy) and Dr. Charles Gray (physical global brand experience agency, and work education and cross country coach). The in Detroit. Specifically, I am a corporate “why” is easy: These men changed my life! writer on the General Motors account. I have been in the automotive communica- ALMA ACTIVITIES: Cross Country (captain, tions space my entire career, working in track), Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity (pres- public relations for Honda and Chrysler; ident), Sports Information Director (when serving as president of the Automotive it was a student position) and Almanian (a Hall of Fame; and as managing editor of sports writer, briefly). Presented annually to alumni for their Automobile Quarterly magazine. loyalty and service to Alma College and WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU WORE A the Alumni Association, the George WHY ATTEND ALMA? Although I was free to KILT? I think the question should be, “Will Hebert Service Award is named in choose any college or university, I never real- you ever wear a kilt?” Not likely. Not a good memory of George Hebert, the 1920 ly considered it. My father was an alumnus, look for me, I’m afraid. alumnus whose love of Alma College and he served on the Alma College Board WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER AN and work on behalf of the institution of Trustees during my childhood years. INCOMING FRESHMAN ABOUT SELECTING was an inspiration to all alumni. This As such, I was very familiar with Alma THEIR MAJORS? Keep an open mind. As a year’s recipient is Jeffrey Leestma ’78. College, having visited campus many times freshman, I thought I wanted to major in as a kid. Let’s just say I really didn’t need the business. Then, one evening, I shared a four- A past president of the Alumni Board freshman orientation! It was just an easy, and the Metro Detroit Roundtable, hour car ride with Joe Sutfin, chair of the comfortable decision. In the end, it turned English Department, on our way to a high Leestma has helped sponsor many De- out to be the right decision. troit-area alumni events. He served on school recruiting event in Detroit. When he a presidential search committee (2010) WHY HAVE YOU STAYED INVOLVED WITH asked me why I wanted to major in business, for the college. ALMA? Basically to stay in the loop and as apparently my answer wasn’t very convinc- a way of getting to know some amazing ing. After more questions, he learned that I “Jeff brings a determined spirit and alumni, faculty and staff who I would other- liked to write. He said that I didn’t need to vigor to all the alumni, which helps wise never meet. have a business degree to work in business. bring excitement to all he does,” says He told me that businesses have a great Gary Stano ’83, who nominated him OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS WHO HAVE need for great writers – and they’re in short for the award. “ Jeff is the epitome of ATTENDED ALMA: Father Clifford Leestma supply. He was right. I declared my English what a dedicated alumnus should be ’42; brothers Randy ’75 and Mark ’81; sister– major, and Joe became my advisor. The and one who wears the maroon and in-law Connie ’80; and daughters Kirsten most important thing about that prophetic cream with pride.” ’08 and Hanna ’10. Even my niece Claire car ride was that Joe saw something in me attended Alma briefly. that I didn’t see in myself.

22 accents KALEENA SHARP LIEDKE ’05 | YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD

HOMETOWN: Pittsford, Mich. It’s a small Brayden, 9, and Clara, 6, are competitive town in Hillsdale County about 10 min- Highland dancers, so we’re surrounded utes from the Indiana and Ohio border by the Scottish heritage all the time, even and with one blinking light. though we are not Scottish. Clara danced her first Highland competition in Alma last PROFESSIONAL STATUS: I work in public year at the Highland Festival. relations and special projects for the Scotland Oil Company and Scotland HOW HAS YOUR CAREER PATH DIFFERED Transportation in Alma. I am in charge FROM THE ONE YOU IMAGINED WHEN YOU WALKED ACROSS THE STAGE AT of branding, our online presence and any COMMENCEMENT? When I graduated, additional projects my boss throws my I had no idea where my career path was way. I also am the co-owner and designer heading. I didn’t know what I wanted to do of the Two Tutu Ladies. We run a home- professionally, and since my husband was based business selling tutus and hair bows still in school, I was a little more limited in at craft shows, online and in various stores my options. I got my first job at a bank as throughout the Midwest. We’ve been in a teller and met my next boss who was a business for seven years now. customer of the bank. I managed to talk the HOW HAVE YOU STAYED INVOLVED WITH customer into giving me a job at his small ALMA SINCE YOUR GRADUATION? I CPA firm even though he wasn’t thinking moved here! My husband Chris ’07 and I of doing any hiring. After that, I moved to decided to make Alma our home and raise Scotland Oil. I did not see myself managing Kaleena Sharp Liedke ’05 has spent the our children in Alma. Chris currently works the public relations of a company when I past six years serving Alma College as at MidMichigan Medical Center in Alma. was at Alma, but it is something I really the Gamma Phi Beta chapter advisor. In addition to my role as Gamma Phi Beta enjoy doing. I also never saw myself owning Recently, she was promoted to regional chapter advisor, I coached a season of Girls my own business, but I love the challenge coordinator for Gamma Phi Beta. on the Run for Gratiot County at Hillcrest and opportunities it presents. Elementary, as they are one of Gamma Phi WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER AN Liedke is this year’s recipient of the Beta’s philanthropic partners. Young Alumni Award, presented INCOMING FRESHMAN ABOUT SELECTING annually to a recent graduate who has FAVORITE ALMA PROFESSOR: Ron Lem- THEIR MAJORS? Don’t be afraid to change given faithful service to Alma College mon. I never had another teacher instill them. I came into Alma with a political and their communities. such a fear of failure and drive to succeed. science and psychology major and thought I still often think of lessons I learned in my I wanted to work on political campaigns. I “The chapter advisor position requires capstone class with him in my every day life quickly found out that wasn’t for me and countless hours and personal sacrifice (make sure you know your partner’s credit fell in love with economics (thanks Dr. without a paycheck, benefits or reward score before you get married!). He made me Cunningham!) After I decided economics — other than helping mentor our a stronger leader and businessperson and was where I really wanted to be, I decided collegians and give back to a campus was just an amazing guy to be around. We that I needed a “safe” major also, so I added organization that has meant so much spent time together preparing for the SIFE business administration to the mix. So my to her,” says Bree Brownlee ’04, who competitions, and I really enjoyed getting to advice is to take chances and make sure nominated her for the award. “Kaleena know him on a more personal level. you’re open to experiences in all of your has done all this while raising a family classes. One of the best parts of Alma is the and continuing to be involved in the WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU WORE A liberal arts aspect that gives you the chance Alma community.” KILT? I have never worn a kilt. However, I to experience so many areas of education hear the sound of bagpipes and deal with and you never know what might suddenly kilts on a daily basis. Both of my children, click for you.

www.alma.edu 23 ALUMNI AWARDS

CHRISTIE FREESTONE ’74 | DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD

HOMETOWN: While I grew up in Dear- FAVORITE ALMA PROFESSORS: While I born, my “home” has been in Alma had many “favorite” professors at Alma since I graduated from college. College, I think Dr. Sam Cornelius ranks up at the top of my list. I remem- PROFESSIONAL STATUS: I am the litera- ber the actual moment that I first loved cy coach/reading specialist for Ithaca Shakespeare when he read a passage Public Schools in Ithaca, Mich. from Macbeth in a freshman English class that I had taken. I was mesmer- WHY ATTEND ALMA? My Scottish ties ized! His oral reading of this difficult run deep! I was a Highland dancer text influenced how I read orally to my and had attended the Alma Highland elementary school students even today. Festival on the beautiful Alma College campus. When I began investigating WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU WORE A possible college choices, Alma College KILT? Probably the last time I wore a kilt was at the top of my list. was when performing as a Kiltie Dancer at Alma College. However, I have been HOW HAVE YOU STAYED INVOLVED WITH ALMA SINCE YOUR GRADUATION? the director of the Mid-Michigan High- I was an adjunct professor of Highland land Dance Academy since 1970 and a Scottish Official Board Highland Dance Highland dance instructor and elemen- dance at Alma College and director Adjudicator since 1974. I travel around tary school educator Christie McLeod of the Alma College Highland Dance the world teaching workshops and judg- Freestone ’74 is this year’s recipient of the performing group (aka Kiltie Dancers) ing Highland dance competitions. While Distinguished Alumni Award, which rec- from 1980-2009. My other passion, I don’t usually wear a kilt anymore, I ognizes graduates who bring distinction elementary education, has kept me wear a lot of tartan when doing “my to Alma College through their profes- involved at Alma College since grad- Scottish thing!” sions, set strong examples for others, and uation. I have been a guest lecturer in serve their communities. education classes on campus and have HOW HAS YOUR CAREER PATH DIFFERED mentored more than 100 education stu- FROM THE ONE YOU IMAGINED WHEN “Christie’s passion for Alma College goes dents as student teachers and elementary YOU WALKED ACROSS THE STAGE AT beyond service,” says Ashley Montfort education placement students over the COMMENCEMENT?I am doing what I al- ’12. “She has put Alma College on the past 30 years. ways planned to do…be a teacher! What world map, especially for people involved I never imagined was how rich my life in Scottish arts.” WHY STAY INVOLVED WITH ALMA? My would be because of my career choices. undergraduate experience at Alma Freestone was instrumental in helping College was life changing for me. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER IN- to form the Federation of United States Being the first person in my family to COMING FRESHMEN ABOUT SELECTING Teachers and Adjudicators (FUSTA) of graduate from college, the value of ed- THEIR MAJORS? A liberal arts educa- Highland Dancing in 1980 and served as ucation was instilled in me from child- tion provides a person the opportunity its first president. She was inducted into hood. A college education is more than to be a life-long learner. One can never the FUSTA Hall of Fame in 2010. career preparation…it is the beginning make a mistake choosing a major. If of a journey that defines who we are you discover that your life should take As an early elementary school teacher and who we will become as life-long a different path, you will only be wiser with a master’s degree in early childhood learners. I have stayed involved with and enriched as your journey contin- education, Freestone has researched Alma College to ensure that future ues. It is not all about the job you will motor skills development in children and generations of students have the same do, but rather the quality of life you adapted her findings to the teaching of quality opportunities that I have had. will live. Everything we learn defines young Highland dancers. who we are and enriches our lives.

24 accents JACOB SCHROEDER ’03 | SMITH DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD

HOMETOWN: Carson City, Mich. get higher than an A/B in, but I took his courses anyway because of his PROFESSIONAL STATUS: I have been passion for the subject. working with the Pure Michigan Busi- ness Connect (PMBC) program since ALMA ACTIVITIES: I enjoyed several its inception in 2011. I lead the services intramural sports and fondly remem- team of PMBC, linking Michigan ber the opening of the Stone Center for businesses to the service resources they Recreation. I also remember a strong need to help them grow and thrive in urge to graduate early without debt, so the State of Michigan. extra classes and waiting tables seem to be prevalent memories as well. WHY ATTEND ALMA? My sister, Krista Schroeder Ried, attended Alma, and I WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU was sold on the idea of joining her as a WORE A KILT? I shower in one daily, don’t judge. The Smith Distinguished Service Scot by age 10. Award is presented annually to HOW HAVE YOU STAYED INVOLVED HOW HAS YOUR CAREER PATH DIF- a graduate who believes in Alma WITH ALMA SINCE YOUR GRADUA- FERED FROM THE ONE YOU IMAGINED College and has assisted with TION? The areas I’m most excited WHEN YOU WALKED ACROSS THE student recruitment, provided about being involved in have been the STAGE AT COMMENCEMENT? I had no career steps through internships or Alma College Career EXPLO and idea my field of work existed when I employment, or visited the campus helping students prepare in alumni graduated from Alma. I honestly didn’t to attend events, speak to a class, or mock interviews. When I graduated follow my advice from the following serve on a college council or board. from Alma, I didn’t feel like I was question, and wished I had done more This award is named in honor of ready to sell myself in an interview research on what was available. You Art ’38 and Carra Jones ’42 Smith. setting. The programs available at the can never open a door you don’t know Center for Student Opportunity and exists, but sometimes you are pushed This year’s recipient is Jacob the hard work by individuals like my down a new hallway, and you have to Schroeder ’03, who works for fellow Alma grad, Laurie DeYoung be willing to take control of your life the Michigan Economic Devel- ’04, have given Alma students access to and step into something new. opment Corporation as director resources to take that next step. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER AN of services for Pure Michigan INCOMING FRESHMAN ABOUT SELECT- Business Connect. WHY STAY INVOLVED WITH ALMA? I ING THEIR MAJORS? Before you start feel like all Alma alums are an extend- He regularly looks for at Alma, you owe yourself (and your ed part of the admissions recruitment parents, if they are paying) a research opportunities to tie his work to team, but my passion, in both my programs at Alma College. paper. Seriously, make the investment current and previous roles, have been of time to look into potential job fields “He has offered up his person- helping others find jobs here in Mich- and then backtrack into what you need al time to help prepare Alma igan. I have the utmost confidence to study to achieve that goal. Knowing grads to be at a higher level that Alma grads are equipped to be the demand for your potential skill than what he’s been seeing successful in Michigan’s job market. sets, where those jobs are located, and statewide,” says his sister, Krista FAVORITE ALMA PROFESSORS: In how much they pay are things you Schroeder Ried ’94. “He’s a my major, James Mueller, but overall, need to know before moving into your passionate champion for Alma Murray Borrello. He was one of the dorm, not after you walk off the stage College and represents us well.” few professors that I knew I couldn’t at commencement.

www.alma.edu 25 GREAT SCOTS AT WORK FOR TECH CEO MEREDITH BRONK ’92, LEADERSHIP IS ABOUT LEARNING ALUMNA SHARES WITH STUDENTS HER ADVICE ON LEADERSHIP, MENTORSHIP AND WORK/LIFE HARMONY

During Meredith Bronk’s interview for a job at an application for an apple orchard that could Open Systems Technologies, the CEO asked her scan and grade the quality and texture of apples where she saw herself in five years. She told him to be sold to a fast food chain; and helping to that she wanted his job. create an app for a healthcare provider in West Michigan, so patients can get their medical Seventeen years later, she did exactly that. She’s records, make new appointments and commu- been at the helm of the Grand Rapids-based nicate with their doctors. tech company since April. Her former boss and mentor, Dan Behm, started planning her transi- Bronk’s new role puts her among the few women tion more than five years ago — a rare approach CEOs of tech companies. for a tech company. “We as women have a perspective that’s different “Most technology companies, when the found- than some of the other perspectives at the table,” er exits the business, the business goes away,” she says. “When you see things that no one else says Bronk, a 1992 Alma College graduate who sees, find a way to bring it up. Bringing a new majored in business administration. “But our perspective to the table is absolutely critical, I commitment to our employees means we’re into think, to helping to change the dynamics in how this forever, for the long haul.” thoughts are brought to bear.”

Open Systems Technologies develops custom The key to innovation is being open to those cre- applications such as mobile apps, websites or ative ideas — even crazy ideas — and acknowl- other technology solutions for business prob- edging that failure is an option, she says. lems. The company also sells hardware, servers and storage for universities and companies. “We have a saying at OST, ‘anything goes,’ and ‘we’ve got your back,’” says Bronk. “We want Recent projects include: Creating hand-held to hear everybody’s crazy idea. And the ‘we’ve barcode readers to scan wristbands to speed got your back’ means if we try it, and it doesn’t up the lines at an amusement park; developing work, we’re all here together.”

26 accents Bronk visited Alma to share her experiences with a didn’t let them be defining,” she says. “They let me spring term class on strategic leadership taught by mature in a way that allowed me to really flourish.” President Jeff Abernathy and Professor Greg Baleja. When she sat in the classroom recently with “The best leaders are learners,” she says. “Good Baleja — her former advisor — she reflected on leaders will put people around them that are his words of encouragement. smarter than them.” “I didn’t have a great freshman year, first term Another piece of advice she had for students: here, academically,” she says. “He really kind Reflect. of helped me stay focused, which I do with the people that I mentor. Sometimes mentorship is “It’s easy to look at the road in front of you, but as much about reminding people of their own you gain perspective by also looking at the road capabilities rather than teaching them.” behind you,” she says. “The lessons that are learned are back there.” The softball field was another place where she grew as a leader. Work/life balance — or “work/life harmony,” as she prefers to call it — also is important at OST. “When I talk about leadership and I talk about my journey to leadership, softball is always part “You have to get a peaceful coexistence of the dif- of it,” she says. “The lessons learned on the field ferent competing interests in your life, so family, correlate to the same challenges that you face in work, health, community, faith,” she says. leadership in business, in life, really: How to win well; how to lose well; how to show compassion “It’s never exactly perfect; it hasn’t been for me at and grit and competition and hard work and the least.” says Bronk, who has three daughters, ages opportunity to be a part of something that’s bigger 11, 13 and 15. than just me.” She credits Alma with giving her the foundation She acknowledges she wasn’t the best softball player. to be a successful leader. “I didn’t actually play much,” she says. “I was a “The intimate level of relationships that you’re number three or number four pitcher, but every- able to form at Alma College, the opportunity to body else on that team was better because I was get involved in so many things — almost the ex- part of the team. pectation to get involved when you’re on campus — affords the opportunity to learn how to work “Learning how to be a leader, even if you’re in small groups, to learn how to work in larger not the one who’s standing in the middle of groups, to learn how to find what’s the right fit for the field, is an opportunity that I have even you,” she says. today,” she says.

“All of those things I learned as an Alma College “Influencing others and being aware of the dy- Scot, I’m applying today.” namics that are going on between people, whether it’s a pitcher and a catcher and a first basemen on Her time at Alma was a formative time and al- the field or reading peoples’ strategies — I learned lowed her to mature in a safe environment. that on the field, and I apply it every day.” “I made stupid decisions — but I was surrounded — ERICA SHEKELL by people who didn’t let them be catastrophic, they

www.alma.edu 27 GREAT SCOTS AT WORK

PURSUING A PATH TOWARD SOCIAL JUSTICE W. ROBERT SCHULTZ III ’77 HAS SPENT DECADES WORKING ON ISSUES RANGING FROM THE DEATH PENALTY TO MARRIAGE EQUALITY

W. Robert Schultz III ’77 has dedi- “I was raised as a civil rights diaper He spent about eight years working cated his life to making the world a baby,” he says. for Access Living, a disability rights better place. organization in Chicago. At the time, He was born in Florida when segrega- public transportation lacked wheel- Schultz has worked on disability tion still existed, and the amusement chair lifts, and there weren’t provisions and immigrant rights, death penal- park in his neighborhood in Lou- for people who were blind, deaf or ty abolition and marriage equality. isville, Ky., was off-limits to Afri- hard of hearing. He co-founded an organization and can-Americans. magazine for the African-American “I actually walked upstairs in those lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender “My father kept in a prominent place public housing high-rises that people (LGBT) community in Chicago to in our household — almost every- wouldn’t dare to venture to see people combat homophobia and racism — and where we moved — the headline from with disabilities,” he says. “I’ve seen he is a founding member of a neighbor- the local African-American news- some of the most disadvantaged areas of hood political organization to support a paper regarding Brown v. Board of the country, so just being able to bring gay Latino man (and youngest person Education,” he says. “He was the first hope to people like that is important.” ever) on the Chicago City Council. He African-American to be allowed to also serves on the board of the Howard attend pharmacy school in Kentucky.” The work he’s most proud of came after Brown Health Center, the Midwest’s that: Abolishing the death penalty and After graduating with a political largest LGBT health provider. passing marriage equality in Illinois. science degree from Alma, he went to “Trying to give people hope is an North Carolina Central University to When 13 men in Illinois were exon- important part of the work that I do,” get his law degree. erated for being wrongfully convicted he says. “Also making people aware that and sentenced to the death penalty, He returned to Michigan to work for there might be realities or life outside Schultz jumped at the opportunity to the Catholic Church on an amnesty the world that you’ve lived.” get the conversation started. He spent program that provided legal status the next 10 years working on the issue, As an Alma College student, spring and support to undocumented people. both as a board member of the Illinois term classes to Washington, D.C., Even though he had grown up in west Coalition Against the Death Penalty and the Philadelphia Life Center Michigan — he went to high school in and a field organizer for Amnesty with John Agria and Verne Bechill Wyoming, outside of Grand Rapids — International. propelled Schultz toward social he hadn’t realized just how much the justice. He learned that change doesn’t agricultural industry there depended “I organized a couple statewide speak- happen in a vacuum; activism involves on migrant workers. ing tours to colleges and communi- strategizing and organizing. ties,” he says. “One of those statewide “I was just appalled at the living tours I did with Delbert Tibbs, who True to the nature of activism, his in- conditions that I saw in some of the had spent time on death row in Flori- terest in it didn’t happen in a vacuum. camps,” he says. da and was subsequently exonerated.”

28 accents A meeting with a bureaucrat in Washington, D.C., In honor of Fourth of July, dissuaded Schultz from persuing a career in government tell us how Alma has and led him toward a career in activism. given you the “freedom” to pursue your passions!

LISA (BURMEISTER) RAMSHAW ’89 For me, Alma showed me there was a much bigger world out there than just Michigan or America. It taught me to be a global citizen; to not worry Along with two others, he organized a but the work I participated in Illinois about boundaries or skin colours or race relay race of men who had been wrong- sort of helped break the dam,” he says. or religion. It developed and fed my fully convicted and released to deliver a And this past June, that dam broke passion for travel and writing and I’ve signed letter to the governor. Teams of completely when the U.S. Supreme used skills learned at Alma to work, people — including Schultz — drove Court fully legalized same-sex marriage. live in and visit countries all over the the men from the execution chambers in world. I now live in Australia but part Joliet to Governor Ryan in Chicago. Other measures of success: When the of my heart still remains in a small mid- Chicago Black Lesbians and Gays, an His work helped convince the gover- Michigan town. organization he co-chaired, was recog- nor to issue a mass commutation in nized as a member of the Chicago Gay SARAH GEKELER ’03 2003 — changing the sentences of all and Lesbian Hall of Fame, as well as Coming from a small town, Alma 167 people on “death row” at the time Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles, which gave me the freedom to be me and to to “life in prison.” It still remains the he helped found 18 years ago. He was in grow comfortable in my own skin. largest mass commutation in U.S. his- Alma’s Kiltie Marching Band and still Alma gave me freedom to become tory. Finally, in March 2011, the state plays the drums. strong. Alma gave me freedom to of Illinois abolished the death penalty. become who I am today. “If someone told me when I was “I was standing on the shoulders of graduating from Alma College that I LIZ WILLIAMSON ’78 giants and other people who plowed would have a role in participating in The freedom to think for myself, to the field, and I just helped to plow the either repealing the death penalty or live outside the box, and to recognize field a little bit more,” he says. marriage equality or even working the price of freedom! Use it wisely On marriage equality, Schultz worked with people with disabilities, I would and respect others! Thank you, fellow in two legislative districts that were have said, ‘You’re crazy!’” he says. Scots! God Bless America! represented by African-Americans. “But it happened in my lifetime.” “I was able to organize enough pressure — ERICA SHEKELL to get one of those Illinois House members to vote in favor of marriage equality, and the other person, we were able to convince at least not to vote against it,” he says. “He ended up voting ‘present,’ despite being the father of a gay son.”

In November 2013, the Illinois legis- lature passed a bill legalizing marriage equality.

“Other states have since gone ahead and abolished or repealed their death pen- alties, and other states have since passed legislation granting marriage equality, Activists for Illinois Unites for Marriage march in Chicago’s Bud Billiken Parade, the oldest and largest parade for African-Americans in the U.S.

www.alma.edu 29 GREAT SCOTS AT WORK

Kobzar speaks at the 2015 Asan Plenum. The conference is organized by the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, a think tank that focuses on peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and Korean reunification.

MUN team has now won 37 “outstand- How a small college can open a ing delegation” awards at the national conference held in New York — the most of any college in the 94-year history of the conference.

“Going to New York and experiencing diplomacy in real time was an amazing WORLD experience,” she says. “Professor Hulme was the one who instilled the belief that by working hard and dreaming big, it’s possible to pursue ambitions goals.”

Hulme encouraged her to apply for a scholarship to do summer research ofSVITLANA KOBZARopportunities ’04, WORKS TO INFLUENCE EUROPEAN UNION POLICIES at the Harvard Ukrainian Research AND THE NEXT GENERATION OF STUDENTS WHO WILL CHANGE THE WORLD. Institute — and she got it. He also introduced her to Lee Posey ’56 and Sally Souders Posey ’56, whose As an international student from “Going from being really, really not foundation allowed her to attend the Ukraine, Svitlana Kobzar ’04 never confident and not even knowing English University of Cambridge to pursue dreamed of the possibilities that Alma that well, to thinking, ‘Oh, I can pursue her master’s degree in contempo- College would open for her. all these opportunities,’ that change rary European studies. Hulme also happened at Alma,” she says. told her about the Gates Cambridge Her professors at Alma — especially Scholarship and worked with her to Model United Nations advisor Sandy Her participation in Model United Na- prepare for interviews and the com- Hulme — helped her a lot. tions had a huge impact on her. Alma’s petitive application process.

30 accents She applied — and became one of “I remember thinking, ‘This sounds problems,” she says. “It’s a nice feeling only 100 students annually worldwide so much like Alma College,’” she to have people who can actually maybe to receive it. The Gates Cambridge says. “It’s a small, liberal arts-type of end up changing the world for the bet- Scholarship enabled her to continue college, with a lot of small classrooms ter, to work with them and teach and her studies at Cambridge to achieve and dedicated professors.” interact with them at these early stages her Ph.D. in international studies. of their careers.” Two years later, she became the head She and other Alma students, includ- of the Department of International It’s a difficult time for Ukraine, but ing Shabnam Miraeedi ’05, Jessica Kar- Affairs at Vesalius College. She also there are also many opportunities to bowski ’04 and Lora Ross ’04, founded is the academic director of European address corruption issues and im- a non-profit student organization at Peace and Security Studies. prove its governance, she says. Being Alma to raise money for orphanages in in Brussels — the de facto seat of the Ukraine. Her role in founding Forgot- Vesalius College is a private, Amer- E.U., which is working to build ties ten Children of Eastern Europe helped ican-style college with about 300 with Ukraine — has been enormously her stand out on her application for the students, and all classes are taught in helpful to her policy research. Gates Scholarship. English. It’s affiliated with a larger university, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel. “A lot of policy debates linked to “It allowed us as undergraduate Ukraine happen in Brussels,” she says. students to experience what it’s like to She teaches, does research, connects “Being originally from Ukraine also have a non-profit,” she says. with students and faculty, and serves as a allows me then to contribute to the link to the administration. Her favorite debate on Ukraine and go to Ukraine At Cambridge, she started working part about her work is interacting with and see for myself what’s happening as a lecturer and doing research for students and advising policymakers. there and then feed back into the RAND Corporation, a non-profit debates here in Brussels.” think tank for global policy. The “We have a lot of discussions about corporation does research in defense, problems in the world with my — ERICA SHEKELL security, health, education, migra- students, but also solutions to those tion and demography issues for the benefit of the public. Often, the U.S., European governments, European Union institutions, non-governmen- tal organizations (NGOs) or charities request that the research be done to help guide their policy decisions.

“Being at Alma and having so much support, and thinking about all of these opportunities in my life, really changed the course of where I was going,” she says. “I wanted to give back.”

Her work with the RAND Cor- poration brought her to Brussels to do work for the E.U., which is headquartered there. That’s when KOBZAR SPEAKS ON A PANEL OF POLICY EXPERTS AT THE 2015 her husband saw an advertisement ASAN PLENUM, A CONFERENCE OF LEADING THINK TANKS TO for a part-time teaching position at DISCUSS THE PRESSING CHALLENGES FACING THE WORLD. THE Vesalius College. CONFERENCE WAS HELD IN SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA.

www.alma.edu 31 GREAT SCOTS AT WORK

Exploring life’s

greatALMA COLLEGE ALLOWEDquestions REV. AMJAD SAMUEL ’92 TO PURSUE HIS INTELLECTUAL CURIOSITIES — AN OPPORTUNITY THAT HE DIDN’T HAVE IN HIS HOME COUNTRY OF PAKISTAN.

When Amjad Samuel ’92 said family members — on both sides Upon graduation from Duke he wanted to go to college in the — have been members of the University Divinity School, he United States, a family friend sug- clergy, including his father. returned to Pakistan and was gested Alma. The family friend, ordained a deacon, the first Dr. Charles Amjad-Ali, had “I never wanted to do religion; step toward priesthood. Then taught a religion course at Alma. I was a rebelling teenager,” he started a school for children says Samuel. “But I kept taking modeled after the American “He said to me that if you want to religious studies courses, and I education system and Alma’s study in the States, the best place loved them.” focus on a liberal arts education. to go is a small college, where you will get one-on-one interaction Samuel finished Alma in two “Coming from Pakistan, you’re with professors,” says Samuel. years by taking on heavy course not allowed to think for yourself,” “And he was absolutely right.” loads, doing independent studies he says. “You’re told that this is with professors, and taking the curriculum that you have to Samuel is currently the rector at summer courses. One course follow, and that’s it. But coming St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in included mapping the Pine to Alma was really a great Shelton, Conn. He’s been there River for cleanup with Professor experience for me, from the point since November 2014. Tracy Luke, the head of the of view of being able to explore religious studies department. what I wanted to explore. When Samuel came to Alma, he It was Luke who encouraged intended to major in psychology Samuel to aim high and apply “ I was so impressed by the but couldn’t handle the rats in to places such as Princeton and American system of education that the lab. But he loved learning Duke for graduate school. I wanted that for other people.” about how people think, so he took courses in sociology and “He helped me have faith in He spent two to three years political science. myself,” says Samuel. “That’s how educating himself about I got to Duke. Again, it was really education theories, raising Eventually, he changed his major this feature of Alma College to be money and meeting with to religious studies, despite trying able to have this one-on-one time architects to draw up plans for to avoid it. Three generations of with the faculty.” building the school.

32 accents “The thing that kept me working After leaving Pakistan in 2006, religion,” he laughs. “Frankly, I through the night was wanting he went to Hartford Seminary don’t blame them.” the world to be a good place for in Connecticut to do a Christian/ everyone,” he says. “I worked Muslim relations graduate study He thinks it’s an outcome of with predominately Muslim for a year while serving at Calvary centuries’ worth of thinking children with Muslim teachers Episcopal Church in Stonington, in Western society, a lasting with this question in mind: Connecticut. Most recently, impact of the Enlightenment, Where and how does it happen he spent more than four years when people began to challenge that we end up with a different working as an associate rector in a the authority of institutions worldview?” large parish in Akron, Ohio. such as the church.

As a Christian, Samuel was a His job there was to do In the U.S., religion has religious minority in Pakistan; international and local mission historically been closely tied to about 96 percent of the work. The parish built schools in ethnicity; for example, there are population was Muslim. He Liberia and Nigeria. Polish Catholics, Irish Catholics, was also different because of his Italian Catholics and German American education. “For the local missions, we did Lutherans. But those ties are things like community meals for weakening, says Samuel. For He spent eight years working on the homeless,” he says. one, people are often surprised to the school and pastoring a church, learn that he’s Christian. but soon found that his vision went “In Akron, the unemployment against what the establishment in rate was quite high, so we started “Cultural Christianity is Pakistan wanted. So he left. working on a ministry for the completely eroding, and I think unemployed and underemployed, that’s a beautiful thing,” he says. He learned a lot from the and that ministry is now up and “It’s wonderful because the experience. running, and it helps people people who then end up in faith coming out of the prison system as communities are actually really “I feel very blessed that I had this well as anyone who is out of a job.” interested in the subject of faith.” opportunity to come to the U.S., study, then go back and apply As someone who has a unique — ERICA SHEKELL some of that, and then come back perspective on religion and and be more reflective about the international politics, Samuel says experience,” he says. that there’s much that the church can learn from Islam. “We in the West like to think that if only there was more education, “There are so many people societies would be more peaceful from the Western world, young and just and benign, right? people in their 20s and early/ What I discovered was that late teens, who are finding Islam that’s not true,” says Samuel. “It very appealing,” he says. really stems from your religious thinking. And that’s where people He says it’s no secret that faith in make decisions that shape the the U.S. is on the decline. very fabric of a society.” “More and more people don’t wish to associate with institutional

www.alma.edu 33 GREAT SCOTS AT WORK

Teaching future Scots from the class of 2030

ANGELINA LOWE ’12, A FIRST-GRADE TEACHER IN PHOENIX, HAS CREATED A FOCUS BOARD WITH HER STUDENTS TO INSPIRE THEM TO PURSUE COLLEGE. THEY’RE EXCITED ABOUT IMAGINING THEMSELVES AS FUTURE SCOTS.

Angelina Lowe ’12 teaches first Most of her students speak Span- funding from the U.S. Depart- grade at William T. Machan ish and are English-as-a-second- ment of Education because so Elementary School, a K-8 school in language learners. many of its students are from Phoenix, Ariz. She already has the low-income families. For a school students thinking about college — “The kids we work with are to receive this supplemental her alma mater, of course. very low-income kids,” she funding, 40 percent or more of its says. “Most of their families are students must be enrolled in the “At our school, we have a college immigrants — some of them are free and reduced lunch program. theme going on in every class- immigrants from Mexico — so At William T. Machan, 99 percent room,” she says. “The point they don’t have that background of students are. of the project was to get kids of going to college.” excited to further their education “The biggest challenge is the after high school.” William T. Machan is a Title I language barrier,” says Lowe. school, meaning it receives extra “A lot of the parents don’t speak

34 accents Angelina Lowe ’12 with future Alma Scots class of 2030

any English, so it’s very hard Alma area, I think that really — “and all the plaid stuff on it to communicate with parents prepared me to teach anything I as well!” about things, and even with the came across.” students, that language barrier is “We also had to put their col- the biggest obstacle for them.” Fortunately, despite being lege graduation class on there,” low-income, the students’ fam- she says. “My kids would be She uses her computer to look ilies place a high importance on the Class of 2030 if they were up the Spanish translation of an their education. to go to a four-year college like English word they might not Alma College. understand. She took a couple “In the Hispanic culture — at Spanish classes in high school least around this area — “It makes them feel like but wishes she’d continued school is very important,” they can achieve that goal in learning the language. she says. “So these kids are in life eventually; they’re not school every day, they’re here just going to end up either Despite her own language to learn, and they’re ready to dropping out of high school or barrier, her education at Alma learn — but they do have the only finishing high school and thoroughly prepared her for the language barrier.” going right to work,” she says. challenges of teaching. “They’re thinking, ‘Oh, we The class created a focus board can go where Ms. Lowe went “We were in the classroom from that includes Scotty, the fight to school!’” our first education course,” she song, alma mater, the college’s says. “Getting the experience of mission statement, year founded, — ERICA SHEKELL multiple different grade levels, majors and minors offered, a multiple different classroom map of where it is in Michigan, settings, different schools in the and some quick facts, says Lowe

www.alma.edu 35 GREAT SCOTS AT WORK

Meet Alma’s new Board chair: Michael Sherman ’74

“SPECIFIC JOB TRAINING OFTEN IS PROVIDED TO NEW EMPLOYEES. BUT WHAT THEY CAN’T TEACH IS HOW TO THINK, HOW TO ANALYZE, AND HOW TO DEVELOP A SET OF VALUES — THE ESSENTIAL EDUCATIONAL COMPONENTS PROVIDED BY A LIBERAL ARTS EDUCATION.” — MICHAEL SHERMAN

More than four decades since receiving his Alma Throughout his career, he has purposely sought College diploma, Mike Sherman ’74 remains convinced new employees who have educational backgrounds that his student experience and liberal arts education in the liberal arts. were the main drivers of his successful career. “Specific job training often is provided to new em- “Coming to Alma as a student, I did not appreciate ployees,” he says. “Companies have their own training what a liberal arts college offered,” he says “Now, I methods and procedures. But what they can’t teach look back and recognize the foundation that was built is how to think, how to analyze, and how to develop and how frequently you call upon your education to a set of values — the essential educational compo- assist you as you move through your career.” nents provided by a liberal arts education. We all can develop skills, but the foundational values that enable Sherman, the newly elected chair of the Alma College you to make proper decisions come from the liberal Board of Trustees, is chairman and CEO of the Daw- arts experience.” son Companies and vice chairman of AssuredPartners, which is an insurance distribution firm with about 100 Sherman chose to re-engage with his alma mater with the offices geographically spread throughout the country. He realization that he had “taken more than I had given.” has worked at Dawson in various positions since 1978. “When I left Alma College, I didn’t realize that the “I was born and raised in the small mid-Michigan costs associated with my education was not covered town of Potterville,” says Sherman. “I played football in total by the tuition, room and board payments my for a couple of years. I spent my remaining college family made,” he says. “I want current and future years juggling married life and a young son.” students to get the same educational benefits I had, but that is not possible without the regular support Sherman re-engaged with his alma mater when former from our alumni, parents and community in general. President Saundra Tracy called on him during alumni We simply can’t cover those costs only with tuition, visits. He eventually was invited to join the Board of room and board.” Trustees in 2008. — MIKE SILVERTHORN

36 accents ORDER YOUR Trustees elect officers, welcome new members ALMA GEAR FOR The Alma College Board of Trustees elected new officers and approved the appointment of four new members HOMECOMING effective July 1, 2015.

Michael Sherman ’74 was elected chair of the Alma board. He replaces Stephen F. Meyer ’80, who will continue to TODAY! serve as a trustee after completing three years as board chair. Sherman is chief executive officer of Dawson Com- panies and a resident of Rocky River, Ohio. He has served on the board since 2008.

Eric Blackhurst ’83, assistant general counsel with The Dow Chemical Company, was elected vice chair. Darryl Schimeck ’82, president and chief executive officer of Opti- mer Brands in Chicago, was elected secretary.

Trustees also approved the appointment of four new members to the 34-member board:

• Larry Andrus ’72, chief executive officer of Trivalent Group, a computer technology and Internet services firm in Grandville. Andrus returns to the Alma Board after previously serving from 2004 to 2013. He is a member of the Alma College Athletic Hall of Fame.

• David Bowen ’73, a faculty member at the Thunderbird School of Global Management in Glendale, Ariz. Bowen’s past work includes teaching at Arizona State and Southern California universities and consulting in the transportation and financial services sectors. He is the author of several books and academic articles.

• Elizabeth Parkinson ’84, senior vice president of marketing and partnerships for the Detroit Lions. Prior work experience includes serving as a senior vice president with the Michigan Economic Development Corp. and director of marketing and publications for Ann Arbor SPARK.

• Bryan Segedi ’81, a retired executive with Ernst & Young and member of Alma College’s Chicago Presi- dent’s Advisory Committee. He joined Ernst & Young in 1982 and has advised companies ranging from start-ups to multi-nationals in a wide variety of industries. He resides in Scottsdale, Ariz. bookstore.alma.edu

www.alma.edu 37 ALUMNI & FRIENDS GREETING

HELP WANTED

I have literally been around the world opportunities for alumni and parents since graduating in 2002, but I have never to share their expertise, connections felt all that far from the “Jungle, grove and passion with prospective and campus fair.” students, current students and recent graduates. With help from terrific parents, Rick ’68 and Donna, Alma took a shy, All of us at Alma College appreciate and academically indecisive, 18-year-old hear these messages. The Advancement me and provided the critical thinking Office’s mission is to help create and skills, professional network and facilitate opportunities for you to enhance confidence I needed to audaciously chase your relationship with Alma through a challenging and impactful career. your engagement and investment. We I struggle to imagine how different want and need your help to ensure that my life would look without my four the college continues to prosper. transformative years on campus, but I suspect that my non-Alma alternate Based on your strong feedback, we will life may have left me wanting for better identify, advertise and deliver many additional opportunities for you to “MY RETURN TO CAMPUS HAS tools, deeper friendships and more engage with and concretely help the PROVIDED ME WITH STRONG career fulfillment. college. From encouraging prospective EVIDENCE OF A HEALTHY ALMA Alma catapulted my career and life, and students to attend Alma, to creating COLLEGE WITH INCREDIBLE the place is so special to me that I feel a internship and job opportunities, to UPWARD TRAJECTORY AND lump in my throat each time I return mentoring students, we have much to POTENTIAL.” — Matt vandenBerg ’02, VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT after a lengthy absence. I am thrilled to accomplish together. Please stay tuned return home and serve our alma mater at for several new engagement programs such an important and exciting time. in the coming months!

My return to campus has provided As we look with enthusiasm and me with strong evidence of a healthy optimism toward the future, I would like Alma College with incredible upward to personally thank and congratulate my trajectory and potential. As I have predecessor, Carol Hyble ’78, for her 18 begun to reconnect with campus and to years of dedication and service. Earlier « STAY visit scores of constituents, I have heard this year, Carol left Alma to accept three very encouraging themes: a position with the senior executive CONNECTED! leadership team at Eagle Village, a 1. Convinced of Alma’s value, our residential healing center for troubled If you have recently moved to graduates and parents are incredibly youth. We gratefully set out to build on a new location, had a change in proud of and grateful for the college. the foundation that she helped to create. employment or wish to become involved with the alumni in your 2. Our alumni and parents are eager I look forward to our deepened region, simply contact the Alumni to ensure Alma’s continued vitality partnership and friendship with Office at 1-800-291-1312 or and want to help future generations you! [email protected] for more of Scots to flourish. information. Go Scots! 3. The college has an opportunity to Matt vandenBerg ’02 create even more and even better Vice President for Advancement

38 accents Becoming A Scot Day THIS SUMMER, BOTH BECOMING A SCOT DAYS WERE A HUGE SUCCESS WITH A TOTAL OF 335 STUDENTS PLUS THEIR GUESTS VISITING OUR CAMPUS.

www.alma.edu 39 TARTAN TIDBITS

Upcoming alumni events Please visit events.alma.edu for information about upcoming alumni and campus events.

If you have ideas for future alumni events, please contact Director of alumni and us at 1-800-291-1312 (ext. 2) or: [email protected]. family engagement: Amanda Zielinski Slenski ’07 Chief advancement officer: Matthew vandenBerg ’02

Matthew vandenBerg ’02, a Michigan native with more than a decade of fund-raising and advancement managerial experience, has returned to his alma mater as chief advancement officer. He assumed the role of vice president for advancement in June 2015.

VandenBerg previously served as associate vice president for development at Albion College and assistant dean for development and alumni relations for Indiana University’s School of Informatics and Computing in Bloomington, Ind. Amanda Zielinski Slenski ’07 leads college-wide efforts to strategically engage alumni, parents In positions prior to his work at Indiana University, and friends in supporting Alma’s mission. Her vandenBerg was campaign director for CCS Fund appointment as director of alumni and family Raising, a consulting and management firm in New York engagement was effective July 6, 2015. City; a legislative assistant and deputy press secretary for U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra; and coordinator of international In her new role, Slenski will work with campus student services at Centenary College in New Jersey. colleagues to create opportunities for alumni to participate in student recruitment, internships and career placement. She also will oversee alumni program- ming at the regional and national levels.

Slenski previously served as Alma’s director of admissions, overseeing admissions office operations Tartan Tuesdays and campus-wide recruitment efforts. Join us for casual drop-in gatherings in several locations on the first Tuesday of each month. For more information: alma.edu/alumni-events

40 accents ALUMNI AND FRIENDS:

Interested in exploring Germa- The 10-day tour, scheduled for Cost is $2,500 (not including ny with your fellow Scots and June 6-16, 2016, will focus on airfare). Registration is open friends? The Alumni Engage- “The Divided Germany,” with now, with a deposit of $750 ment Office is organizing a trip visits to locations that are con- required by Dec. 1, 2015. to Germany in Summer 2016. nected to the post-World War II We would love to help you put a history of the country. For registration information, stamp on your passport! visit the website at In Berlin, see what life was like alma.edu/alumni-trip, or call Alma College Associate Professor in a divided city. In Leipzig, learn the Alumni Office at Marcus Richter invites alumni about the peaceful revolution of (989) 463-7245. and friends to join him on a trip 1989. In Heidelberg, participate to Germany in summer of 2016. in an international alumni event.

www.alma.edu 41 ALUMNI BOARD

Please note, that due to upcoming board member transitions the list below alumni includes both members beginning and ending their terms this fall.

President — Devon Anthony ’09 Vice President — Bill McHenry II ’83 Secretary — Bree Brownlee ’04 1953 George Lawrence ’53 Harriet have moved to Celebration, and his wife recently sold their home Fla., after 50 years of marriage and 36 Tom Anthony ’72 years of living in Northville. Alisha Majszak Baker ’02 on Cape Cod and have permanently moved to a lake area in Clearwater, Fla. Andria Baker ’12 1963 Nancy Gobel Meyer ’63 Virginia Cloutier Blandford ’02 Ashley Budde ’05 1954 Marilyn Gordon Drumm and her husband, Al, worked as Alexandria Cnudde ’11 ’54 avoids the worst of Michigan volunteers for the 2015 World Ski Raymond Cochenour III ’99 winters by staying in Naples, Fla., Championships held in Beaver Creek, Norma Bender Curtis ’69 for nearly four months. Col., Feb. 2-15. Their assignment was Thomas Davey ’07 in spectator services, which was mostly Laurie DeYoung ’04 Barb Loomis Greer ’61 1956 John Homer ’56, antic- crowd control. She writes, “It was a Dale Greer ’65 ipating his 60th class reunion in thrill to see and talk to some of the Heather Hays ’97 2016, hopes to be at homecoming! world’s best skiers.” Lisa Knowles ’94 He fondly remembers Alma faculty, Mark Kraft ’08 especially Dr. Rex King, economics, 1965 Curtiss Wall ’65 and wife Robin Lewis ’78 traveled to Europe this past summer. Kimberly Light ’05 “a good prof and admirable role Tom McGuire ’08 model.” He writes, “Anne and I con- The trip included a stay-over in Jan Knapp Merz ’75 tinue at Galleria Woods Retirement. Edinburgh, Scotland, and a train trip. Martha Hubbard Miller ’90 We’re very involved. Thankfully no He writes, “On the train we were Andrew Pomerville ’02 snow in Alabama. Love to hear from served a formal meal in which my Krista Schroeder Ried ’94 wife insisted I wear a kilt. Too bad I Anthony Rosenblum ’08 “y’all” anytime.” John Ruggles ’89 could not wear Alma colors.” Scott Timmreck ’02 1958 Marion Isherwood Arps Dana Weston-Eadeh ’01 ’58 and Dick celebrated their 56th 1966 Rev. Chere McKnight Elizabeth Wheat ’02 anniversary on June 20. • George F. Bates ’66 was recognized for Robyn Laird Woolcock ’76 Carter ’58 and Judie celebrated their Excellency in Chaplaincy in Illinois Buz Zammaron ’83 55th wedding anniversary on Aug. 15. with the Wintisck-Kaufman award They are full-time residents at their at the Regional Training Seminar new home in Bonita Springs, Fla. of the International Conference of TARTAN TASK FORCES: Police Chaplains on March 10 in REGIONAL PLANNING GROUPS 1961 David Finnegan ’61 had Fort Wayne, Ind. • Billy Brown ’66 If you are interested in helping us plan the privilege of touring the Clack Art published a second poetry anthology, events in one of our major areas of Center and gallery during a visit to Fixed and Free Poetry Anthology, alumni concentration, please join us the campus in May 2015. He writes, “I 2015, in December 2014. Stepson Aar- at one of our planning meetings. Each would like to encourage other alumni on Trumm was to celebrate two years planning group will meet two times to consider channeling, at least a of double lung transplant surgery on a year, and we will work to have the meetings scheduled well in advance portion, of their giving to the fine arts July 4. • Lloyd MacAskill ’66 works so they can be published in Accents. department. It would be greatly ap- as a software engineer for Liberty IT For updates in between meetings, preciated and of the greatest and most Solutions on system improvements for please join the appropriate group on lasting value.” • Bob Sawyer ’61 and Veterans Health Administration. LinkedIn.com! For specific time and locations, please watch your monthly alumni e-mail and/or contact the Alumni Office at (989) 463-7245.

42 accents 1968 Richard L. Douglass ’68, 1975Alison Ricker ’75 has been director for Advanced Correctional retired professor of health administra- elected as co-president of the League Healthcare after 15 years in private tion, lives in Ann Arbor with wife Mar- of Women Voters of Ohio. She also practice. His territory is Michigan, ian. He serves on several boards and is serves on the executive board of Ohio and Indiana. still engaged with Ashesi University in the Academic Library Association 1997 Staci Hill McKeon ’97 re- Ghana. He has eight grandchildren. of Ohio and as liaison from The tired in December after just over nine American Library Association to years of being an acute care physician. 1969 Stephen Bryan ’69 reports the American Association for the She writes, “I am happy fulfilling that his daughter is graduating from Advancement of Science. medical school, getting married, then my next calling as a homemaker and off to her yet-unknown internship. 1977 Linda Hodge LaLonde homeschooling mom of five rambunc- He writes, “I had a great time at 2014 ’77 is no longer working for IBM. She tious kids!” homecoming seeing many classmates is considering retirement “but will 1999 Patrick Carmody ’99 is de- and fraternity brothers.” • James need to keep busy!” An Alaskan cruise veloping autonomous vehicle technol- McIntyre ’69 enjoyed seeing so many was planned. Her new e-mail is farm- ogy with Ford Motor Company and DGT brothers and wives at home- [email protected]. “I would love the University of Michigan. He and his coming last year. He writes, “Please to hear from any ’77 class members.” wife, Melissa Cooper Carmody, live in donate to the new house!” 1978 Jim Daniels ’78 is the author Ann Arbor. 1972 Craig Wesley ’72 has been of a new poetry collection, Apology to 2000 Carrie Rau ’00 recently appointed interim director of admis- the Moon, BatCat Press, 2015. He read finished six years of schooling, sions and enrollment management at his poetry on National Public Radio’s completing an MS in forensic science the University of Washington Bothell. “Prairie Home Companion,” taped at from IUPUI and a JD (magna cum the Fox Theater in Detroit, on May 30. 1973 Bonnie Outman ’73 retired laude) from IU McKinney School of from Pfizer in September 2013. • 1979 Steve Wylie ’79 joined the Law. She resides in Indianapolis and Richard Thurston ’73 has rejoined staff of Habitat for Humanity Lake works for the Indiana State Police the firm, Duane Morris LLP, as of County, California in March as pro- as a forensic DNA analyst. • Laura counsel in its Intellectual Property gram manager, helping low-income Camann Lewis ’00 welcomed Practice Group in the New York veterans and other residents with Olivia Ann to the family on April 2. office. He recently retired from his home repairs and new-home building. She joins 2.5-year-old Jackson. position as senior vice president and He and his husband Steve Gibson live 2001 John Brostrom ’01 and general counsel of Taiwan Semicon- on the shore of Clear Lake and enjoy Danelle Barber Brostrom ’02 announce ductor Manufacturing Company small town life. the arrival of their second child, Stella Ltd., the world’s largest semiconduc- Mae Brostrom, on March 5, 2015. She tor foundry company. • Elizabeth 1983 Robert Lovejoy ’83 reports was welcomed home by her sister, Harbeck Voshel ’73 is an author of that his son, Rob, after completing a Norah Grace, who just turned 5. a social work textbook titled Direct successful soccer career and gradu- The family resides in Traverse City. Social Work Practice: Theories and Skills ating from the University of North • Jennifer Wiles ’01 works as a for Becoming Evidenced-Based Practi- Carolina at Chapel Hill, was drafted senior attorney at the Department of tioner published by Sage Publications, into the MLS and joined the Houston Homeland Security-Immigration and Thousand Oaks, Calif. Dynamo. As a member of the Dyna- mo, Rob scored his first professional Customs Enforcement. She recently 1974 Barbara Wurdock Sham- goal against the Montreal Impact and won the Eleanor Roosevelt Human mas ’74 reports that both of her earned an assist in the same game. Rights Award. daughters are engaged to be married. 2002 Jessica Kotas Eng ’02 and She writes, “I’m looking forward to 1993 Kurt Roecker ’93 has taken Derek Eng welcomed twins into the the next phase of life.” a new position as a regional medical

www.alma.edu 43 alumni

world on Aug. 8, 2014. Jessica same-sex wedding when it was writes, “Keira and Daniel are legal in Michigan, marrying already best friends and getting Stephanie Becker on March 22 into mischief together!” with approximately 323 other same-sex couples. Later, they 2003 Darlene Fawkes had a more formal ceremony Pettit ’03 and husband Brad with family and friends. Pettit announce the Oct. 4, 2014, birth of their son, Dalton Jacob. 2009 Lisa Brindley James ’09 received her doctorate in 2004 Marilee Brooks-Gil- physical therapy from Elon BUILDING lies ’04 and Jeff Brooks-Gillies University in December 2012. ’06 announce the birth of their She is employed in West our son, Ezra Merle Brooks-Gil- Branch. Lisa married Matthew lies on May 9. Marilee’s new James on April 24, 2014 in Legacy! position as assistant professor of Key West, Fla. They reside in English at Indiana University Alger, Mich. • Lisa Snider Purdue University Indianapolis ’09 graduated with a Mas- was to begin in August. ter of Arts degree in higher education administration from Alma College alumni are active every 2005 Mindy Vandamme Central Michigan University day in recruiting new Scots, sharing Dow ’05 and Joel Dow ’04 their Alma experience, showing how in a commencement ceremony announce the March 6 birth of Plaid Works, and providing an ener- held on May 9, 2015. gized network for young alumni and their second son, Micah Jules. current students. Micah’s older brother is Max 2011Amanda Grace As always, if you know of any high (2 years old). They live in the Ewing ’11 directed The Glass school students who are committed to Upper Peninsula. • Shannon Menagerie for Puzzle Piece service, have a passion for music, are Nystrom Klonowski ’05 and Theatre. The play received dedicated student-athletes, participate Ed Klonowski ’05 announce the three out of four stars in the in Model UN, or are looking forward Feb. 26 birth of their first child, Detroit Free Press. • Dr. Kelsey to continuing their education after Edward James Klonowski. high school, we would love to have Travis ’11 graduated from the Michigan State University the opportunity to share more about 2006 Oscar DeLong School of Veterinary Medicine Alma. You can refer a student by ’06 and Kimberly Reeve ’05 completing the online referral form at with her DVM. https://www.alma.edu/refer moved to Escanaba in 2013. Oscar is the library director 2013 Olivia Bishop ’13 At Alma, students can build on the for Bay College, and Kim is legacy of their family members and graduated with a master’s de- carve their own spot in our campus the research data analyst at gree in chemical engineering community. We look forward to see- Bay. They just had their first from Wayne State University ing your legacy continue! child, and future Scot, Thomas in May. Doyle DeLong, on April 16, Go Scots! 2015. • Erik Sanborn ’06 and 2014 Emily Hollenberg Krissie Sanborn welcomed ’14 is a water safety instructor their first child, Ethan Robert, at Helen P. Brown Natatorium Anneliese Fox Associate Director of Admissions born on April 1, weighing 7 in Ft. Wayne, Ind., and an lbs. 13 oz. and measuring 20.5 administrative assistant at New inches long. • Brandi Wright American Youth Ballet and ’06 participated in the one-day Conservatory.

44 accents IN MEMORIAM

Celebrating the lives of our friends Mike Hanson

Mike Hanson, Alma College sports infor- communication position with the Univer- During college, Hanson interned with both mation director from August 2008 through sity of Montana in Missoula, beginning his the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Rep. May 2015, died in Missoula, Montana, June employment there on June 1. Bill Frenzel. After college, he went on to 17, 2015. He was 49. complete a season-long internship with the He grew up in Bloomington, Minn., and NFL’s Houston Oilers before beginning his During his seven years at Alma, Hanson graduated from Thomas Jefferson High athletics communications career with the compiled game statistics, oversaw athletics School in 1984. He attended the Univer- New England Patriots. He later worked media coverage, launched and maintained sity of Minnesota in Minneapolis where for the Miami Dolphins, Florida Panthers the GoAlmaScots.com website, mentored he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in and the Portland Trail Blazers. students and promoted all 23 intercol- political science and mass communica- legiate sports. He also taught a popular tions. He married Jana Anfinsen in 1993. He is survived by his wife, Jana; son, sports communication class as an adjunct Together they had a son, Zachary (18) Zachary; daughter, Sydney; mother, Jean faculty member. In April 2015, Hanson and a daughter, Sydney (15). (Denny) Malherek; and father, David accepted the assistant athletic director for (Carol Miletti) Hanson. 

Elizabeth “Liz” Sidebotham White of the U.S. Army Reserve and was direc- three grandchildren, 12 great-grandchil- ’29 of Miami, FL died April 16, 2015. tor of the Adjutant General Department, dren and seven great-great-grandchildren. After earning her bachelor’s degree retiring as a Lt. Colonel. Several family Alan G. Cordill ’57 of Lansing, MI died from Alma and master’s degree from members attended Alma College includ- March 4, 2015 at the age of 79. Mr. Cordill the University of Michigan, Mrs. White ing her parents, Rev. Charles Sidebotham, was a 50-year employee of the Lansing moved to Miami, FL and taught at Dade Class of 1901 and Essie Hooper, class of School District where he taught at West Ju- County Public Schools for the Miami 1903; uncles Richard Sidebotham, Class nior High and Rich Middle schools. During Beach Senior High School and Miami of 1898 and William A. Hooper, class of his professional career, he taught economics, Jackson Senior High School. She became 1913; and aunts Emily Hooper, Class of typing and clerical skills to over 8,000 Lan- the first Dade County Supervisor of 1913 and Ruth Hooper, Class of 1918. She sing students. Following his retirement in English and retired in 1973 as Director is survived by two nieces, two nephews 1991 he continued to serve as building trea- of Secondary Schools, Southwest Area. and their families. Mrs. White supported surer of Rich Middle School until 2007. He She was active in various local, state and and provided for Alma College. also served six years in the Michigan Army national educational organizations. Her National Guard. Mr. Cordill provided for name appears on English textbooks pub- Jeanette V. Verplanck Ward ’39 of Alma College in his estate plans. lished by Harcourt, Brace and Janovich as Hobe Sound, FL died April 6, 2015 at the age of 97. Mrs. Ward earned her master’s author, co-author and critic collaborator. Donald W. Osborn ’53 of Grosse Pointe degree from Florida Atlantic University Her teaching career was interrupted by Shores, MI died May 15, 2015 at the age and went on to teach in multiple areas, WWII when she was selected as a mem- of 84. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, from the first grade level to specific classes ber of the WAAC Second Officer Can- 1952-1956, Mr. Osborn was a purchas- of English and chemistry. She is survived didate Class. After leaving active duty to ing agent for Ex-cel-o Corporation and by two daughters and their husbands, resume teaching, she remained a member then a partner and vice president of

www.alma.edu 45 IN MEMORIAM

Ultimate Precision Company in Madi- to Michigan; Alberta, Canada; Colorado Charles A. “Chuck” Walker ’58 of son Heights, from which he retired. He and Maine. A gifted quilter and rug Grand Junction, CO died April 16, 2015 loved spending time with his family and hooker, some of her work is on display at the age of 79. Mr. Walker, who loved friends, and was a member of St. Paul at the Maine State Museum in Augusta. to sing, was a member of the A Capella Evangelical Lutheran Church in Grosse Mrs. Sloan is survived by her husband choir along with his future wife while Pointe Farms, the Grosse Pointe Senior Robert “Bob” Sloan ’57, a niece, neph- they were students at Alma College. Men’s Club and Bayview Yacht Club. ew and great-niece and great-nephew. They continued to sing together in quar- Mr. Osborn is survived by his wife, Joyce Mrs. Sloan provided for Alma College tets, duets and choirs and enjoyed many (Emke) Osborn ’54, four children, 13 throughout the years. years of choir participation in church. grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Mr. Walker is survived by his wife, Joan Joyce A. “Omi” Howarth Voska ’54 (Moore) Walker ʼ59, a son, two daugh- David C. Helser ’54 of North Branch, of Dublin, OH died Feb. 7, 2015 at the ters and three grandchildren. MI died April 17, 2015 at the age of age 82. A member of the Kiltie Marching 88. A veteran of WWII who served in Band where she played French horn, Donald E. Worm ’60 of Ludington, the U.S. Navy, Mr. Helser earned his Mrs. Voska began her career as kinder- MI died June 11, 2015 at the age 76. master’s degree from the University of garten teacher. Over the years she was Mr. Worm was a teacher and coach for Michigan and education specialist de- a preschool teacher, daycare director, Sparta High School for 34 years until he gree from Wayne State University. He substitute teacher and in-home daycare retired in June 1994. A member of the worked as a teacher and administrator provider. She also found time to be a Girl Ludington United Methodist Church, he with the Troy Public Schools for over Scout leader, president of the PTA and enjoyed RVing, fishing and hunting. Mr. 30 years, where he was an early media a travel agent. Mrs. Voska and her hus- Worm is survived by his wife and four innovator teaching media to Troy stu- band were foster parents to over 30 new- children, including Eric Worm ’89. dents as well as on national platforms. borns whom they loved and nurtured Mr. Helser is survived by his wife, two until adoption. She is survived by her Wilma K. Adams Rojas ’71 of Chesan- children and one brother. He was a husband, William Voska ’54, a daughter ing, MI died April 3, 2015 at the age of 66. supporter of Alma College. and son, two grandchildren and her Mrs. Rojas taught Spanish for 30 years at sister Jan Doolittle ’61. Mrs. Voska pro- Montrose Public Schools and retired in Edward J. “Ed” Pless ’54 of Green vided for Alma College throughout the 2003. She is survived by her son, two sisters Valley, AZ died March 16, 2015 at the years and in her estate plans. and three grandchildren. age of 82. After serving in the Army, Mr. Pless began his career at the local James F. Wagar ’56 of Charlevoix, MI Stephen H. “Stever’s” Manglos ’77 of radio station WFYC, where he was died March 13, 2015 at the age of 80. East Syracuse, NY died April 14, 2015 at the broadcasting voice of the St. Louis After one year of teaching, Mr. Wagar the age of 59. After his graduation from Sharks basketball and football teams. He headed for the business world. He was Alma, Dr. Manglos earned his Ph.D. in served as a Gratiot County commission- treasurer of Mobile Home Finance physics from Duke University in 1981. He er, was an active member of the St. Louis Company; controller of DMH (Detroi- is the patent holder for SPECT (sin- and Ithaca Rotary, and prior to retire- ter Mobile Home) Corp.; president of gle-photon emission computed tomogra- ment was an active member of the Alma Gittleman’s, Inc.; treasurer and vice phy), was a professor at SUNY Upstate Highland Festival from its inception in president-finance of ARP Corp.; and Medical University, and an active member 1968. He is survived by his wife, two sons president and CEO of Avalon & Tahoe in his church and the Christian communi- and a daughter, 11 grandchildren and 13 Mfg., Inc. from where he retired in ty until his illness kept him homebound. great-grandchildren. 2003. He was the director of Chemical Dr. Manglos was a pianist on many Bank in St. Louis for 12 years, trustee worship teams over the years and loved the Elmere Louise “Rick” Erickson Sloan of Gratiot Community Hospital for 11 outdoors. He is survived by his wife of 34 ’54 of Roque Bluffs, ME, died May 29, years and was chair of the Alma Police years, three children, two granddaughters 2015 at the age of 82. Active with her so- and Fire Special Benefit Fund. Mr. and two brothers. rority, Mrs. Sloan played on the women’s Wagar is survived by his wife, Janet Marjorie Wykes Bjork of Grand Rapids, basketball team and was a member of the (Anderson) Wagar ’56, a daughter and MI and friend of Alma College died Kiltie Marching Band as a student. She son, three grandchildren and a sister. March 31, 2015 at the age 89. A graduate taught in St. Louis, MI while her hus- He provided for Alma College through- of Vassar College, where she received her band completed his studies at Alma, then out the years. it was on to Howell, MI; Vermont; back bachelor’s degree, and the University of

46 accents Michigan, earning her master’s degree, ing medical complications at VA Hospital of the Gratiot County Republican Party, Mrs. Bjork was a founding member of the in Saginaw, Mich. Born in St. Thomas where he was the Republican Man of the board of Opera Grand Rapids, treasurer in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Rishaul and Year in 2010. An active member of First and later president; a member of the Board his family moved to Flint in 2003, and he Presbyterian Church for over 50 years, Mr. of Directors of the St. Cecilia Music Society, graduated from Flint Southwestern High Vanderbeek was an usher and ordained and a performer; and a member of the School in 2010. He played baseball and Elder of the church. He is survived by his piano teacher’s forum of Grand Rapids. football in high school and was a mem- wife, three children, five grandchildren, a She also was active in community affairs ber of the Alma College football team. A sister and sister-in-law, and several nieces including her church, Junior League, memorial service for Rishaul was to take and nephews. Mr. Vanderbeek supported Women’s City Club, Cascade Hills Coun- place Aug. 29, 2015, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Alma College. try Club, Side Board of Blodgett Hospital, Church in Flint. and the Vassar Club of West Michigan. Kathleen F. Gager Wiles of St. Louis, MI, She also greatly enjoyed outdoor activities James A. Vanderbeek of Alma, MI and friend and former Physical Plant clerical including skiing, sailing and tennis. Mrs. friend of Alma College died March 1, 2015 staff member of Alma College, died on July Bjork is survived by her daughter and two at the age 86. Mr. Vanderbeek worked 2, 2015 at the age of 51. Active in her com- sons, and two grandchildren. She was pre- for Total Petroleum for 30 years, was a munity, Mrs. Wiles was a member of the St. ceded in death by her first husband Harold member of the Pine River Country Club Louis School Board and had helped with V. Hartger, a former member of College’s for nearly six decades and also became PTO, the Sports Boosters and Band Boost- Board of Trustees, and her second husband interested in horse racing and operated ers while her children were in school. She Arnold Bjork. She provided for Alma Col- Six Gun Stables with his partners, hav- is survived by a son and daughter, Caroline lege over the years and in her estate plans. ing several successful horses. He was Wiles ’15, three sisters and three brothers. involved in the Alma and Gratiot County Mrs. Wiles was preceded in death by her Rishaul Nital, age 22, a senior at Alma community as a County Commissioner husband, David Wiles, retired grounds College, died July 27, 2015, after experienc- from 2002 to 2004 and served as the chair supervisor at Alma College, in March 2012.

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