SEPTEMBER 8, 2011 Volume 38, Number 1

WMU on best Midwest colleges list For the seventh year, Princeton Review has Biosciences research, commercialization named WMU one of its “Best Midwestern Colleges.” The list, featuring 153 schools in center attracts new round of state funding 12 states this year, is In late July, the Michigan Strategic that support into more than $100 million compiled using insti- Fund announced its decision to make an in additional funding from investors, federal tutional data, school additional investment of $3.8 million in a grants and other funding sources. visits and opinions successful University initiative that will use Shortly after the new BRCC funding was of students as well the money to launch a new fund aimed at announced, two more BRCC-supported as college counselors further development of life science startups companies won major new external funding. and advisors. in Michigan. • CeeTox, a life sciences company Along with WMU, Michigan State Uni- The recipient of the award is WMU’s housed in WMU’s Business Technology versity, the University of Michigan-Ann Biosciences Research and Commercializa- and Research Park, was awarded a U.S. Arbor and Kalamazoo College numbered tion Center, or BRCC, a seven-year-old Environmental Protection Agency grant for among the 13 public and private schools in entity that has recently been placed under as much as $129.6 million to test chemicals Michigan that made the 2011 list. the auspices of the in everyday prod- Tenth anniversary of 9/11 observed University’s new ucts for potential School of Medi- toxicity. CeeTox’s WMU News is observing the 10th an- cine. Governed by new contract has niversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist a separate board, a maximum value attacks through a series of 10 stories posted but managed of $25.9 million in at www.wmich.edu/wmu/news. The stories by the medical the first year, with are vignettes that recount how the attacks school’s Office of four additional affected WMU, as well as various segments Research, the new one-year options. of the University community. Many include fund will further its • A second Kal- recollections from current employees. support in com- amazoo-based Employee records updates due soon mercializing novel company, Ve- All faculty and staff are asked to review technologies in staron Corp., was their personal records and make changes as the life sciences awarded a $1.4 mil- necessary by Monday, Sept. 12. Updates are throughout the The BRCC is housed in the Southwest Michigan In- lion grant from the needed to assist the University in providing state of Michigan. novation Center in WMU’s Business Technology and Foundation for the an accurate campus directory, developing ef- Established in Research Park. (Photo by Mike Lanka) National Institutes fective emergency plans and meeting federal 2003 with an initial cash infusion of $10 of Health to develop insecticides to control reporting guidelines. Updates received after million from the Michigan Economic De- the spread of malaria by mosquitoes. The the deadline will not be reflected in the velopment Corp., the BRCC has played a work will take place over three years. 2011-12 WMU Directory. critical role in the creation of 30 Michigan The new $3.8 million award to the BRCC Areas to review focus on privacy wishes, companies and more than 200 high-paying enables a logical continuation of such suc- emergency contacts, campus as well as jobs. With every dollar of the original $10 cess, according to Jack Luderer, associate home addresses and phone numbers, and million invested in startup companies, new dean for research with the WMU School of ethnic group affiliations. To make changes funding will allow the center to transition Medicine who served as the BRCC’s execu- to personal data, visit the My Self Service to a new fund, dubbed by BRCC organizers tive director for its first six years. channel in GoWMU. Select Employee Self as BRCC-II. “Our success is the result of talent and Service, then Personal Information Sum- The center’s investment in new companies hard work on the part of those startup mary. Visit www.wmich.edu/hr/personal- and program-related consulting has already companies we’ve had the privilege to help,” data-updates.html for an explanation of generated nearly $800,000 in income and has Luderer says. “Even more important than WMU’s privacy flag and other details. allowed the BRCC to honor its obligation our economic development success is the to begin to repay the state’s initial invest- fact that these companies are developing Popular cafe closed for remodeling ment. By late July when the new funding was the new therapies, devices and diagnostics Plaza Cafe in Sprau Tower is closed for announced, companies that have secured that will mean improved care for patients.” remodeling but expected to reopen Monday, BRCC investments had been able to leverage Sept. 19. The updated eatery will have a fresh, modern de- cor, more efficient customer service and Academic convocation set for Sept. 16 expanded seating WMU’s 2011 Academic Convocation will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. options. Visit www. 16, in the Dalton Center Recital Hall and include a concluding reception in the wmich.edu/dining/ Richmond Center Atrium. cafes for menu, location and related in- The convocation will feature President John M. Dunn’s annual State of the University formation concerning all five of WMU’s address, as well as the presentation of prestigious campuswide awards in five categories campus cafes. to 12 faculty and staff members (see related awards story on page 6). Western News returns from hiatus A long-standing academic tradition, the convocation honors accomplishment and With today’s issue, the Western News focuses on important University issues and initiatives. Since 2009, it has served as returns from its summer hiatus and will be WMU’s formal launch of a new academic year. published every other Thursday when classes The event is free and open to the public. Detailed stories about all of the award are in session. Publication dates as well as recipients being highlighted will be posted at www.wmich.edu/news during the days when and how to submit material are posted leading up to the Academic Convocation. in the masthead at the bottom of page 2. Governor appoints commissioners Jeorge Fierro, director of outreach and Around campus and beyond special programs for Extended University Programs, and Patrick Munley, chair of Employee mixer dates announced Grant, director of the Arcus Center for counselor education and Mark your calendar for two Fridays With Social Justice Leadership. To register, counseling psychology, Friends mixers from 4 to 6 p.m. Sept. 16 contact [email protected] by Friday, have been named to state in the Richmond Center lobby (right Sept. 23. commissions by Michi- gan Gov. Rick Snyder. after the Academic Convocation) and Fall reading program slated Oct. 14 in the Gilmore Theatre atrium. Fierro was selected to The McGinnis Reading Center and All faculty and staff members are invited serve on the Hispanic/ Clinic is offering after-school literacy to the mixers. Complimentary light hors Latino Commission of tutoring for students in kindergarten Fierro d’oeuvres and cash bar will be available. Michigan, which is dedi- through 12th grade. Sessions will be cated to developing a Free employee photo session set held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, unified policy and plan of All faculty and staff are eligible to have Sept. 29 through Dec. 8, in 3514 action to serve the needs publicity photos taken Friday, Sept. 23, Sangren Hall. Visit www.wmich.edu/ of Michigan’s Hispanic between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. in Walwood wmu/news/2011/08/021.html for and Latino communities. Hall’s Heinig Emeriti Lounge. Employees costs, employee discounts and other He was appointed to may have electronic copies for personal details. To register, contact Teresa a three-year term that use at no charge. Contact Sue Beougher Valdez at [email protected] Munley expires Dec. 10, 2013. at [email protected] or (269) or (269) 387-3534. Munley was selected to 387-8402 to have a photo taken or to Service learning topic of program serve on the Michigan Board of Counseling, receive your photo. Faculty and directors of area non- which licenses and oversees the practice of Event explores social responsibility profit organizations are invited to counseling in Michigan. “Leadership and Social Responsibility” explore service learning at a network- He was appointed to a four-year term that is the topic of a dinner with distinguished ing and brainstorming session from expires June 30, 2015. speakers at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 29, 8 to 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 29, in Staffer readying for 1,600-mile bike ride in 157 Bernhard Center. Registration 208 Bernhard Center. A continental Amy Mack, a master’s level social worker is required. Speakers include Bobby breakfast will be provided. To attend, in the Children’s Trauma Assessment Cen- Hopewell, mayor of Kalamazoo; WMU’s RSVP to [email protected] or ter, will ride a bike from Portland, Maine, John Clark, political science; and Jaime (269) 387-2155 by Monday, Sept. 19. to Daytona Beach, Fla., from Sept. 21 through SRC, West Hills memberships available at low or no cost Oct. 16 to raise money to fight Huntington’s Benefits-eligible employees have annual memberships waiting for them at the Student disease. Recreation Center and West Hills Athletic Club. To activate these memberships, they Mack has a family only pay taxes on the $270 value of each membership. member with the dis- At the SRC, annual memberships start at the beginning of the semester or session em- ease and has overcome ployees become a member. This fall’s membership year began Sept. 6 and will end Aug. Mack terrible medical hurdles 17, 2012. At West Hills, employees may join at anytime throughout the year. herself. She helped organize this summer’s Both the SRC and West Hills have other membership options, with variable payment “Race for a Cure” fundraiser at the Kalama- plans, as well as offer free tours and orientation sessions. Emeriti and retirees, along with zoo Speedway. their spouses, may join the SRC and West Hills for free, but they must sign up in person. An “enduro car race,” it served as the Non-benefits-eligible employees become members by paying monthly fees. kickoff for her upcoming 1,600-mile “Ride For details about SRC memberships, visit www.wmich.edu/rec and click Employee Well- for the Cure” fundraiser. Visit www.firstgiv- ness or call (269) 387-3115. For West Hills membership details, visit www.westhillsath- ing.com/hdsa-greatlakes/ridetocureHD to letic.com and select WMU Employees under the Membership tab or call (269) 387-0410. support Mack’s ride. Exchange Dean leading international group For sale—2008 Buick Lucerne CX. Gold contact [email protected]. Anthony J. Vizzini, dean of the College of mist color, V6 engine, 35,000 miles. Clean, Wanted—Looking for a home or apart- Engineering and Applied Sciences, has been one owner (non-smoker), pet free. Blue Book ment for two to five months between Novem- elected the 2011-12 president of the Society value is $15,900 to $17,500. Asking $15,500 ber and March. Housesitting arrangement for the Advancement or best offer. For pictures or to make an offer, would be ideal for this faculty member’s of Material and Process older parent wishing to winter near WMU. Engineering. Contact Ann Chapleau at (269) 387-7242. SAMPE is the only Free pet—Dwarf Netherland rabbit that’s technical society that Volume 38 gentle with children. Cage and supplies encompasses all fields Number 1 included. Call (269) 321-1874 and leave of endeavor in materials EDITOR: Jeanne Baron. CONTRIBUTORS: Tonya R. Durlach, John a message. and processes. The group Greenhoe, Thomas A. Myers, Deanne Puca, Cheryl P. Roland Vizzini provides a unique and and Mark E. Schwerin. GRAPHIC DESIGN: Tammy M. Boneburg. Correction valuable forum for scientists, engineers and WESTERN NEWS (USPS 362-210) is published by the Office academicians. It focuses on new materials of University Relations, Walwood Hall, Western Michigan The years of continuous service were University, 1903 W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49008- and processing technologies and has profes- incorrectly reported in the June 23 issue 5433, every other week during the fall and spring semesters sional as well as student chapters around and Summer I session. Periodicals postage paid at Kalamazoo, of the Western News for Charles E. Hines MI 49008-5165. the world. Jr., accountancy. Hines will retire effective

EWS POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Western News, Office Vizzini will lead the organization’s seven-

N Aug. 17, 2012, after 35 years of service to of University Relations, Western Michigan University, 1903 W. member executive cabinet, which oversees Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5433. the University. yearly operations and long-term planning for DEADLINE: Items to be considered for publication should be SAMPE. Among the group’s main events submitted to the Office of University Relations by 5 p.m. Friday Jobs the week preceding publication. Summer I session publica- and activities for this year are holding two tion dates are Sept. 8 and 22, Oct. 6 and 20, and Current job opportunities at WMU are North American conferences as well as Nov. 3 and 17. Items may be submitted to Jeanne Baron at announced daily on the Human Resources [email protected], (269) 387-8422 or Campus holding a major conference in Kuala Lum- Mail Stop 5433. Web site at www.wmich.edu/hr/careers- pur, Malaysia. In addition, the cabinet will WMU is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer at-wmu.html. Please note that applications be directing the implementation of new SEPTEMBER 8, 2011 WESTERN consistent with applicable state and federal laws. must be submitted online by the stated international policies and procedures for deadline. Complete application procedures the society. 2 are included with each posting. Summer News School of Medicine announces staffing, design firm selections Progress toward opening a medical school She comes to assistant to the chairman of the Pediatric continued to be made last month with the the University Institute of the Cleveland Clinic. announcement by the University of the ap- from Kalama- The medical school will be designed by pointments of two important staff members zoo’s Bronson the S/L/A/M Collaborative, or SLAM, has and selection of a firm to design a home for Healthcare been chosen to design the medical school. the new WMU School of Medicine. Group, where It is a nationally known, Connecticut-based Michele Serbenski was she spent the past 17 years as a member of architectural and engineering firm with an named director of plan- the executive team and was vice president of extensive portfolio in medical and health ning and performance performance excellence and organizational science facilities. SLAM will partner with excellence and Kathy learning. Kalamazoo’s Diekema Hamann Architec- Morocco was named Morocco has an extensive background ture and Engineering. executive administrative as an executive assistant to several leading SLAM designs new medical and edu- assistant to the dean. Midwest business and medical leaders. She cational facilities and repurposes existing Serbenski, who is serv- comes to WMU from Ohio, where she buildings, both options being considered ing as a member of the Serbenski most recently served as executive assistant by WMU. The firm’s projects include Duke medical school’s senior to the CFO of Akznobel Deco Paints of and Emory universities’ medical schools leadership team, is re- Strongsville, Ohio. Prior to that, she was an and Georgia’s Health Sciences University. sponsible for strategy development and execu- tion and overseeing the STUDENTS EARN RAVE REVIEWS— school’s accreditation A University Theatre troupe has been earning efforts as it prepares rave reviews after staging its original production of “Good Death: A Community Conversation” in for a fall 2014 launch. Morocco August at Scotland’s prestigious Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the world’s largest arts festival. NHL coach leading hockey team Reviewer Benet Catty with Whatsonstage. com, which covers all UK theatre, called the NHL coaching veteran documentary-style play’s student cast a terrific Andy signed a ensemble of stars. “This is a masterpiece,” Catty five-year contract with wrote, “performed to perfection by 14 students from Western Michigan University (on whose WMU in July to become research it is based) and directed with understatement, precision and flair by Joan Herrington.” the sixth head coach in Another reviewer, Alex Eades with EdinburghGuide.com, reported that he saw near-absolute the hockey program’s perfection. “The cast are absolutely beyond words,” he wrote. “They are so unbelievably 38-year history. good at what they do, which apparently is everything. They have traveled so far to be here Murray has 10 years (Michigan to be exact), but they are all going to go so much further.” Murray of NHL head coaching “Good Death,” which premiered in Kalamazoo in fall 2009, was created through a unique experience, six seasons from 1999 to 2006 collaboration between WMU theatre students and the acclaimed Tectonic Theater Project. It with the Kings and four seasons confronts the decisions that govern the end of life and debates topics such as euthanasia. from 2006 to 2010 with the St. Louis Blues. Trustees approve six faculty, staff retirements in July Teachers-in-training show The retirements of three faculty members aeronautical engineering, 31 years, effective and three staff members were approved by Dec. 31, 2015. off summer research work the WMU Board of Trustees at its July 22 The staff members retiring are: Lester F. The University’s inaugural group of meeting. Trustees also signed off on three Baird, Facilities Management-maintenance Howard Hughes Medical Institute Fellows faculty and staff member resignations as well services, 24 years, effective Sept. 30; Rose showed off the science skills they will bring as leaves for two faculty members. A. Hartung, Facilities Management-building to their future roles as high school teach- All of the faculty members who are retir- custodial and support services, 13 years, ers during a poster presentation Aug. 10 in ing are doing so with emeritus status. Their effective June 26; and Hans J. Kruissel, Fa- Haenicke Hall. names, positions, years of continuous service cilities Management-maintenance services, The 13 students presented work they did and effective dates of retirement are: Eliza- 23 years, effective Aug. 31. this summer in WMU research labs under beth P. Amidon, English, 24 years, effective The faculty members resigning are: John faculty mentors. A similar group of HHMI April 30, 2012; Curtis Curtis-Smith, music, Austin, psychology, effective Aug. 19, and Fellows will be selected in each of the next 43 years, effective July 31, 2011; Jaimy Liang Dong, electrical and computer engi- four years. Gordon (change in retirement date only), neering, effective June 30. WMU recruited students for its fellow- English, 34 years, effective April 14, 2015; The staff member resigning is: , ship program last fall after being awarded and Dennis J. VandenBrink, mechanical and head hockey coach, effective July 8. $1 million for the program by HHMI, the nation’s largest private funder of science WMU purchases privately owned, off-campus bookstore education, for its fellowship program. That program puts prospective high school sci-

Acting at its July 22 meeting, the WMU Board of Trustees approved the purchase of the W ence teachers to work in the laboratory as University Bookstore, located near the intersection of West Michigan and Howard Street. ESTER N scientists to help them learn how to translate The move is consistent with the University’s commitment to acquiring property that is science into practical experiences for their contiguous to the campus when such parcels become available. N

future students. EWS SEPTEMBER 8, 2011 Trustees approved the purchase for $1 million of the land and WMU was one of only 50 universities fund- building that houses the privately owned bookstore, which is ed out of the nearly 200 national research surrounded by the main campus. universities in the United States invited The business operation itself will be purchased for an ad- in 2010 to submit proposals for fellowship ditional $980,000, and the University plans to operate it at funding. Its HHMI grant project director is its present location through fall 2011 and possibly for a longer Susan Stapleton, associate dean of the Col- period. lege of Arts and Sciences and a professor of Visit www.wmich.edu/wmu/news/2011/07/034.html for chemistry and biological sciences. more information. 3 Summer News

Service—August The following faculty and staff members colm, biological sciences; Donald J. Meyer, and Ping Zhang, mathematics. were recognized for 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, economics; Galen E. Rike, University Librar- 10 years—Said M. Abubakr, paper engi- 10 and five years of service during August. ies; Dennis K. Strasser, University Libraries; neering, chemical engineering and imaging; 45 years—David G. Dickason, geography; and Mercedes Tasende, Spanish. Amos O. Aduroja, human performance and Richard W. Malott, psychology; and James 15 years—Osama Abudayyeh, College of health education; Betsy M. Aller, indus- VanDePolder, industrial and manufacturing Engineering and Applied Sciences; Johnson trial and manufacturing engineering; Marc engineering. A. Asumadu, electrical and computer engi- Alspector-Kelly, philosophy; Julie Apker, 40 years—Suhashni Datta-Sandhu, politi- neering; John Austin, psychology; Blair S. communication; Robert F. Berkhofer, III, cal science, and Robert W. Felkel, Spanish. Balden, College of Aviation; Bruce E. Bejcek, history; Amos J. Beyan, history; Jonathan biological sciences; Peter Blickle, foreign Bush, English; Kuanchin Chen, business languages; Sandra L. Borden, communication; information systems; Scott Cowan, music; Christine A. Byrd-Jacobs, biological sciences; Lisa M. DeChano-Cook, geography; Marcia John H. Cameron, paper engineering, chemi- K. Fetters, teaching, learning, and educational cal engineering and imaging; Paul Clements, studies; Scott T. Gaynor, psychology; Barry political science; Lee Allen Cliffman, Fa- Goetz, sociology; Esther N. Gray, special cilities Management-maintenance services; education and literacy studies; Bradley Horst- William W. Cobern, Mallinson Institute; man, University relations; David Huffman, Van Edwin Cooley, educational leadership, chemistry; Sue Ellen Isacksen, communica- research and technology; Cat L. Crotchett, tion; Phillip Johnson, counselor education art; Paul D. Fleming, III, paper engineering, and counseling psychology; Mitch Kachun, chemical engineering and imaging; Lauren history; Jean Kimmel, economics; Andrew Freedman, special education and literacy A. Kline, paper engineering, chemical studies; Kathryn Marie Gilbert, Children’s engineering and imaging; David Kutzko, Place; Theresa J. Grant, mathematics; David foreign languages; Kelly Lycan, intercollegiate ECO-FRIENDLY FACADE—The Campus J. Hartmann, sociology; Emily Hauptmann, athletics; Christopher C. MacLean Nagle, Fountain got a new facade this summer that political science; Keith M. Hearit, Office of English; Robin Earl McKinney, social work; will provide an extremely durable and at- the Vice Provost for Enrollment Management; Mustafa K. Mirzeler, English; Frances N. Mor- tractive exterior while reducing maintenance Willem J. Homan, College of Aviation; An- row, Sindecuse Health Center; Magdalena and material costs. The 43-year-old fountain, tonio M. Isea, Spanish; Daniel C. Jacobson, Niewiadomska-Bugaj, statistics; Kathleen located in Fountain Plaza next to Miller music; Richard Junger, communication; David Onderlinde, biological sciences; Sue Pop- Auditorium, was originally built with a brick- N. Karowe, biological sciences; Vyacheslav G. pink, educational leadership, research and and-mortar facade that required frequent Karpov, sociology; Mitchel J. Keil, industrial technology; Kevin Duane Porter, WMU maintenance. That facade was removed and and manufacturing engineering; Allison Jon Bookstore; Bernard S. Proeschl, family and replaced with large granite slabs donated from the former Upjohn Co. world headquar- Kelaher-Young, teaching, learning, and edu- consumer sciences; Carl Ratner, music; ters in Portage, Mich. (Photo by Mike Lanka) cational studies; Daniel Kujawski, mechanical Christina Stamper, management; Mary Ann and aeronautical engineering; Conn L. Ma- Stark, nursing; Brian C. Tripp, biological sci- comber, Facilities Management-construction; ences; Bret Wagner, management; and John 35 years—Brenda L. Case-Parris, Career John F. Nielsen, social work; Betty J. Parker, E. Weitzel, marketing. and Student Employment Services; R. Wayne marketing; Jorge Rodriguez, industrial and Five years—Julia E. Copper, diversity and Fuqua, psychology; and Leo J. Stevenson, manufacturing engineering; Arezoo Rojhani, inclusion; Edward Eckel, III, University Li- finance and commercial law. family and consumer sciences; Jianping braries; Nancy J. Kibler, physician assistant; 30 years—Lillie B. Cotton, admissions; Shen, educational leadership, research and Matthew Kulik, intercollegiate athletics; Laurie Foster, Registrar’s Office; Jaimy Gor- technology; John M. Spitsbergen, biological Amy Jane-Bolt Mack, social work; Onaiwu don, English; Dean W. Halderson, physics; sciences; Kristin Szylvian, history; Robert E. W. Ogbomo, Africana studies; Susan M.B. Lasena Jennings, Human Resources; John A. Vann, Spanish; Jo Wiley, business information Steuer, University Libraries; and Jeremy C. Kapenga, computer science; Steven N. Lipkin, systems; Brian Wilson, comparative religion; Ynclan, Residence Life. communication; Judy L. Moonert, music; Nickola W. Nelson, speech pathology and audiology; Linda Reeser, social work; Ramesh- Service-July war P. Sharma, mechanical and aeronautical The following faculty and staff members Maatman, public affairs and administration; engineering; Robert A. Wertkin, social work; were recognized for 30, 20, 15, 10 and five Steven C. Palmer, residence life; Eric Martin and James G. Wiseman, Dining Services. years of service during July. Sauer, counselor education and counseling 25 years—Ariel L. H. Anderson, teaching, 30 years—Linda L. Dannison, family and psychology; and Jodi L. Ward, admissions. learning, and educational studies; Raja G. consumer sciences, and John S. Stanford, Five years—Gary L. Blackmer, chemis- Aravamuthan, paper engineering, chemical College of Health and Human Services. try; Brian P. Boyer, theatre; Lori J. Brown, engineering and imaging; David A. Barnes, 20 years—Arthur Ward, Facilities College of Aviation; Penny D. Bundy, geosciences; Ellen H. Brinkley, English; Sung Management-maintenance services. admissions; Daniel P. Cassidy, geosciences; G. Chung, physics; Paul Farber, teaching, 15 years—Susan Dame, disability William J. Charland, art; Carla Chase, learning, and educational studies; Alan Ke- services center; Steven DeVall, Facili- occupational therapy; Jennifer L. Coyle, hew, geosciences; Judith A. Kirk, University ties Management-building custodial and special education and literacy studies; Libraries; Hanjoon Lee, marketing; James support services; Hardy Figueroa, alumni Dyanne Lynne Foskey, Center for English A. Leja, blindness and low vision studies; relations; Liana T. Fox, cashiering; Randle Language and Culture; John L. Franklin, Frederick F. MacDonald, social work; Parviz J. Gedeon, University Libraries; Thomas College of Aviation; Elena Gapova, soci- Merati, mechanical and aeronautical engi- Wayne Joyce, paper engineering, chemi- ology; Tamela Sue Heydenberk, Extended EWS

N neering; Robert F. Reck, marketing; Cynthia cal engineering and imaging; Thomas J. University Programs-Grand Rapids; Brian Running-Johnson, foreign languages; Paul T. McLaughlin, College of Aviation; Mark H. S. Horvitz, educational leadership, research Wilson, special education and literacy studies; and technology; Helen Lee, blindness and ESTER N Naesset, University Libraries; and Kidada and Steve M. Wolfinbarger, music. Patterson, Facilities Management-building low vision studies; D. Steven Mackey, 20 years—Donald L. Alexander, econom- custodial and support services. mathematics; Jeanine B. Michael, Human ics; Lisa E. Baker, psychology; Nora Berrah, 10 years—Michele D. Behr, University Resources; Maureen Mickus, occupational physics; Linda J. Borish, history; Jody A. Libraries; Amy M. Boven, West Hills Ath- therapy; Christine VanNess Pepin Pasztor, Brylinsky, human performance and health letic Club; Laura R. Ciccantell, College Center for English Language and Culture; education; Janet L. Coryell, history; Doug- of Education and Human Development; Kenneth Prewitt, music; Carolyn K. Rob- SEPTEMBER 8, 2011 W las V. Davidson, sociology; George J. Haus, Thomas M. Dreier, public safety; John J. ertson, Sindecuse Health Center; Megan special education and literacy studies; R. V. Greenhoe, development; Janice Wassenaar Slayter, dance; and Mary E.B. Stahl, nursing. 4 Krishnamurthy, geosciences; Stephen B. Mal- Fall News Thousands expected to attend Bronco Bash, CommUniverCity Two of WMU’s biggest events of the An estimated crowd of 25,000 students take the stage at 6 p.m. year take place this week: Bronco Bash and community members is expected to Some 30,000 fans are expected to be in and the CommUniverCity football game. turn out for the 31st Bronco Bash from Waldo Stadium Saturday, Sept. 10, for the 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 9, at Fountain annual CommUniverCity game. Plaza by . The event This year’s contest pits WMU against welcomes students back to campus and Nicholls State University at 7 p.m. For Kalamazoo for each new school year. tickets, visit www.wmubroncos.com or It features games, live music, and 450 call (888) 496-8849. booths where students can peruse the CommUniverCity started in 1988 and wares of area merchants, pick up free has grown into a fun-filled day of tailgat- stuff, and learn about WMU departments ing for families, area businesses and the and student organizations as well as local University community. The event marks businesses and volunteer opportunities. the Broncos’ first home game of the sea- Innovative booths, games and music are all part Five bands have been booked for this son and includes a corporate village filled of Bronco Bash. (Photo by Mike Lanka) year’s bash, with headliner Parachute to with some 50 tents. Center for humanities plans Corral, ArtPrize headline new engagement events lecture series, grand opening An entertainment village preceding the Cen- tral Michigan University football game and a The University Center for the Humani- skyscraping ArtPrize event in Grand Rapids, ties is set to officially open Wednesday, Mich., highlight upcoming activities created by Oct. 5, in 2500 Knauss Hall, pending the Office of Development and Alumni Relations. approval of the WMU Board of Trustees The Corral entertainment village will make its during its Sept. 28 meeting. debut Saturday, Sept. 17, in Bobb Stadium, which Called “an incubator for ideas and is home to WMU’s baseball team and situated projects” by its founding director Kath- near the football team’s Waldo Stadium. erine Joslin, English, the center will The venue will feature a performance stage, mark its grand opening with a “Barbecue food, a mechanical bull and a Kid’s Village com- and Books” reception from 4 to 6 p.m. The WMU Cheer Team helped lead the plete with a playground and pony rides. It will Stampede Pep Rally in Grand Rapids, Mich. Wednesday, Oct. 5. in 2500 Knauss. operate from 8 to 11:15 a.m. and is free to those The rally, an Aug. 31 engagement event, WMU humanities scholars and writers with a football game ticket or valid student ID. included a downtown march to excite fans are asked to donate signed copies of their An encore version of the Corral will replace the about the football game with the University books and articles for the center’s collec- of Michigan. (Photo by John Greenhoe) Alumni PepFest for this year’s Homecoming game. tion. Friday, Sept. 23, WMU will unveil a four-story-tall, 170-foot-wide work of art honoring Prior to the grand opening, though, the WMU mascot, Buster Bronco. The artwork is the latest in a series of pieces created by the center will kick off a 2011-12 lecture award-winning artist Revere La Noue that depict the nation’s most beloved collegiate icons. series based on the theme “Convergence Called the Epic Broncos, WMU’s piece will be unveiled during an ArtPrize in Grand of Cultures.” First up will be a talk by Rapids after party from 7 to 9 p.m. in the WMU Graduate Center, 200 Ionia Avenue SW, Amanda K. Rath of Goethe University in Grand Rapids. Tickets are $15 per person and may be ordered by calling (269) 387-8746. Frankfurt, Germany. Visit www.mywmu.com for more information. Rath will speak on “Improvisation Within Scenes of Constraint: Contempo- rary Art of Yogyakarta, Java, Indonesia” 2011 Homecoming festivities just around the corner at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22, in 2008 An exciting mix of It features numerous Richmond Center. public activities are events on campus and Her presentation coordinates with an being planned for in the Kalamazoo area installation exhibition featuring three of Homecoming week, throughout the week, Indonesia’s most prominent contemporary Monday through culminating in the artists that is running through Saturday, Sunday, Oct. 3-9. football game against Oct. 8, at the Richmond Center. This year’s celebra- Bowling Green State Visit www.wmich.edu/humanities for tion revolves around University at 2 p.m. details about the other lectures in the the theme “Go Big or Saturday, Oct. 8, in “Convergence of Cultures” series. Go Home.” (Photo by Mike Lanka) Waldo Stadium. Major activities slated include the student- WMU opening its doors this fall as top-25 gay friendly school staged Western Games and soap box derby Just before the start of the 2011-12 of Technology and Stanford and Tufts the afternoon of Friday, Oct. 7, the new academic year, Newsweek Magazine and universities, in that order. Paint the Town Brown Pep Rally at 7:30 the Daily Beast published their list of the The rankings were based on Campus p.m. that evening at the Arcadia Creek country’s most gay friendly colleges and Pride’s Campus Climate Index, a leading Festival Place in downtown Kalamazoo, and W universities. metric of how inclusive college campuses the 13th Campus Classic 5K and 1K run/ ESTER N WMU ranks 21st on the top-25 list of are of LBGT students and their allies, walk early Homecoming day. N

schools that have a diverse and accepting as well as on surveys designed to reveal EWS SEPTEMBER 8, 2011 student body, as well as strong lesbian, student perceptions regarding the extent Waldo Stadium hosts K College bisexual, gay and transgender awareness of diversity and degree of acceptance on Kalamazoo College will play its five home programs. each campus. football games this season in WMU’s Waldo Eastern Michigan University, No. 18, Visit the Office of LBGT Student Stadium while the college’s athletic fields and the University of Michigan-Ann Ar- Services at www.wmich.edu/lbgt for undergo a $16 million upgrade. bor, No. 25, are the only other Michigan more information about lesbian, bisexual, K Colleges’ games will be played at schools on the list. gay and transgender services at WMU, 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, and Friday, Oct. The top three institutions in the rank- or send questions to lbgt-coordinator@ 28, and at 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, Oct. 1 ing were the Massachusetts Institute wmich.edu. and (K Homecoming) Oct. 22. 5 Fall News Dozen faculty, staff members to receive awards at convocation Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award Distinguished Teaching Award Annual Make a Difference Award This award is the highest honor WMU This award is the University’s highest This award is the highest honor the Uni- bestows to faculty members. It recognizes teaching honor. It goes to exceptional versity bestows specifically to non-faculty those whose work is widely known beyond educators and mentors who demonstrate employees for their service. It recognizes campus and constitutes a significant body outstanding dedication. the year’s four most outstanding employ- of achievement, most of which has been The 2011-12 recipients are Donald F. ees—those who reach far beyond their accomplished while a WMU faculty member. Cooney, Karen M. Lancendorfer and assigned responsibilities to give generously The 2011-12 recipient is Katherine Joslin. Maureen Mickus. and creatively of their time and talents, Joslin, professor of Eng- Cooney, associate pro- making the University an even finer place lish, joined the faculty fessor of social work, to work and study. in 1986. She is founding joined the WMU faculty The 2011-12 recipients are Kathleen director of the newly in 1977 and is the em- Cain-Babbitt, Kai M. Chapman, Connie established University bodiment of community Volenski and Tiffany B. White. Center for the Humani- involvement. A member Cain-Babbitt, a ties and is well known for of the Kalamazoo City groundskeeper in Facili- her 2004 biography “Jane Commission since 1997, ties Management-land- Joslin Addams, a Writer’s Life” Cooney he is well known for his scape services, joined the and 2009’s “Edith Wharton and the Making vocal advocacy for quality-of-life issues in staff in 1993. She began of Fashion,” which Choice magazine of the the community. In the classroom, he is noted her career in WMU Din- American Library Association selected as for having an accessible, empowering teach- ing Services then worked an Outstanding Academic Title in 2010. ing style that fosters student interaction and for a number of years in Cain-Babbitt engagement. building custodial and Distinguished Service Award Lancendorfer, associ- support services. In addition to providing This award recognizes exceptional service ate professor of mar- top-notch service on the job, she has de- to the University through innovative and keting and advertising, veloped computer training classes for union effective programs, service in areas and orga- joined the WMU faculty colleagues, is heavily involved in the United nizations that contribute to WMU’s growth in 2005 and previously Way and helps provide food for area pantries. and stature, or service that broadly extends spent nearly two decades Chapman, director of WMU’s impact and presence. in the business sector. advancement services in The 2011-12 recipients are Thomas C. She is praised for her development and alumni Bailey, Tony O. Dennis and Robert A. Lancendorfer boundless enthusiasm relations, joined the Wertkin. and is respected and complimented for the full-time staff in 1970. Bailey, professor of “contagiously high” academic performance She started in alumni English, has been a fac- standards she establishes for her students. relations then moved ulty member since 1970. Mickus, associate pro- into the development He has served as associ- Chapman fessor of occupational area, where she currently ate vice president for therapy, has been a fac- maintains mission-critical information academic affairs and in a ulty member since 2006. databases. She has gained a reputation as variety of other adminis- A gerontologist, she is an excellent boss and incredibly diligent trative roles. A leader on Bailey lauded for her zest for worker who has a caring personality and is numerous boards, he has the study of geriatrics committed customer service. been president of the University and College and for initiating both Volenski, office coordi- Ombuds Association and been active in the Mickus an occupational therapy nator in the Department local arts community and WMU’s American study abroad trip to Ireland and a group for of Economics, joined Association of University Professors chapter. students preparing to enter health care fields WMU’s full-time staff Dennis, director of re- who wish to learn Spanish. in 2001. Initially a pro- cruitment and retention cess associate in Human in the Graduate College, Emerging Scholar Award Resources, she accepted has been a staff member This award celebrates the accomplish- her current post in 2007. since 1993. He has been ments of faculty members who are among Volenski Volenski has become her a leader in professional the rising stars in U.S. higher education. It department’s go-to person for both large and organizations such as the honors faculty members in the first decade small issues. She is lauded for her exceptional Alliance for Graduate of their WMU careers who have gained Dennis efficiency, creativity and friendliness; proac- Education and the Profes- national recognition and demonstrate tive style; and consummate professionalism soriate and Organization of Black Airline outstanding promise to achieve renown in and customer service. Pilots as well as been active in several local their continuing work. White, director of op- organizations, including the citywide MLK The 2011-12 recipient is Eli Rubin. erations for the Office Celebration Week and Boy Scouts. Rubin, associate pro- of Diversity and Inclu- Wertkin, professor of fessor of history, has sion, joined the staff in social work, has been been a WMU faculty 2005. She came to the a faculty member since member since 2004. He

EWS University as a contract N 1981. He has accepted is a specialist in modern and grant specialist in several administrative European history and the grants and contracts

ESTER N appointments during his Germany, and spent 2007 White office and until late last career and been active in to 2009 in Berlin on a Rubin month, she had been serving as a budget local social-welfare and postdoctoral fellowship Wertkin officer in university budgets and financial community organiza- supported by the Alexander-von-Humboldt planning. She is frequently cited as being tions. He also led the consortium for the Foundation. His research resulted in the an amazingly focused, organized, proactive International Bill of Rights for Children and internationally hailed book, “Synthetic and helpful employee who regularly vol-

SEPTEMBER 8, 2011 W served as the evaluator for the U.S. Office Socialism: Plastics and Dictatorship in the unteers for office projects and campuswide of Child Development. German Democratic Republic.” Rubin is committees. 6 working on two related book projects. Development, alumni office focusing on service, engagement Placing greater emphasis on telling the tion, Thomas adds that the office’s WMU story and more actively engaging fundraising is to raise $100 mil- the WMU family, the University has re- lion annually from all donor sources organized its Office of Development and by fiscal year 2013-14. Alumni Relations. “The character of our new orga- James S. Thomas, who was appointed vice nization is to be unafraid of failure,” president for development and alumni rela- Thomas says. “As a nationally noted tions last fall, spearheaded the restructuring. fundraising consultant commented Thomas also serves as executive director of regarding the recent announcement Lewis Jeremy Small the WMU Foundation. of a $100 million gift to WMU, in fundrais- the years as well as working closely with Thomas’ vision is to create, over the next ing, success begets even greater success.” development colleagues and donors. three years, a development and alumni rela- Colleen Lewis, formerly WMU director Overseeing the engagement function is tions program that is distinctive nationally. of internal audit, serves the development James C. Small, who was named associate The program’s success will be measured by and alumni relations office in her new role vice president for engagement May 18. Small substantially increased fundraising produc- as executive director of administration. is leading a team of engagement managers tion and by an enhanced reputation and Lewis is responsible for all administrative as well as a marketing and communication image among donors and alumni. functions of the office as well as the WMU effort whose goal is to engage, inspire and Success will be founded on values that Foundation. increase members of the WMU family. include service, engagement, congenial- M. Jamie Jeremy, who has served as chief ity, communication and professionalism, alumni relations officer since 1984, will Thomas says. remain executive director of the WMU Workshops slated for students “At the core of these values is a shared Alumni Association Board. Reporting di- WMU is again holding a fall series of purpose of serving and engaging members rectly to Thomas, Jeremy in addition will free on-campus workshops to help new of the WMU family who want to help make serve as the University’s chief relationship students with their transition to college. WMU great,” he notes. In keeping with the officer, nurturing and strengthening the All WMU students are welcome and results-oriented focus of the new organiza- many relationships she has developed over encouraged to attend these Western Suc- cess Series workshops. They are part of WMU’s ongoing efforts to foster students’ State grant to improve Asylum Lake water quality academic and personal success. Restoration efforts at the Asylum Lake Preserve in Kalamazoo received a big boost The series begins with a comprehensive recently, when the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality awarded WMU a half-day workshop from 12:30 to 4:20 $393,845 grant over three years to implement a stormwater treatment project that will p.m. Friday, Sept. 23, in the Bernhard improve water quality in Asylum and Center Ballroom. Little Asylum lakes. It will feature a keynote speaker; a stu- The University is providing an ad- dent panel session; 13 workshop sessions, ditional $153,876 in in-kind matching which participants can select from based funds for smaller projects on its main on their individual needs; and a chance to campus that will improve water quality win prizes, including an Apple iPad. in Arcadia Creek. Christopher Sell, Career and Student Cari Delong, Facilities Manage- Employment Services, will give the ment, says water quality in both of the keynote talk. The half-day event will be preserve’s lakes is a concern due to heavy stormwater loads and eutrophication, a process followed by more than a dozen hour-long in which water bodies receive so many nutrients that plants grow excessively. This can workshops to be held in the evenings decrease the dissolved oxygen in the water, causing fish kills and other problems. Tuesday through Thursday, Oct. 25-27, A 2008 study characterized both Asylum and Little Asylum lakes as eutrophic. Follow- on everything from the key steps to decid- ing a recommendation in the study, WMU will focus its DEQ grant project on managing ing a major to balancing academic and stormwater runoff from the West Towne Mall, a 17.5-acre commercial shopping area social activities. north of the preserve that discharges the single largest amount of runoff into Asylum Although not required, students are Lake. The treatment system will be built on a former trailer park property near Stadium encouraged to pre-register for all Western Drive and Drake Road that is now controlled by the WMU Foundation. Success workhops by emailing fye-info@ With its matching funds, WMU will work to reduce stormwater runoff reaching Arca- wmich.edu. Visit www.wmich.edu/fye/ dia Creek, which passes through the main campus as it flows along Stadium Drive. success.html for more information.

Obituaries Visit www.wmich.edu/news and click Obituaries for details about the following members of the WMU community who passed away or had services finalized while the Western News was on summer hiatus. Ralph W. Allen of Kalamazoo died Aug. 3, at age 76. He joined the staff in 1964 and retired in 1994 as manager of what is now Fa- Chateauneuf Cooke Fillingham O’Shaughnessy Sheridan cilities Management-maintenance services. at age 83. She joined the staff in 1981 and died June 27 at age 58 while awaiting a

John Chateauneuf of Kalamazoo died June W

retired in 1993 as a secretary II in electrical lung transplant. He joined the staff in 1983 ESTER N 17 of complications from a stroke at age 54. and computer engineering. and retired in 2010 as manager of utility He joined the faculty in 1996 and was an Catherine Julien, professor emerita of administration in Facilities Management- associate professor of chemistry. N history, will be honored during a memorial maintenance services. EWS SEPTEMBER 8, 2011 Dean W. Cooke of Stillwater, Okla., died service from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 25, in Gregory R. Sheridan of Kalamazoo died Aug. 10 at age 80. He joined the faculty in the atrium of the Gilmore Theatre Complex. Aug. 16 at age 76. He joined the faculty in 1966 and retired in 1996 as a professor of She died May 27 in Turlock, Calif. 1965 and retired in 1992 as a professor of chemistry. Kenneth “K.C.” O’Shaughnessy of Ada, philosophy. Wallace “Wally” F. Fillingham of Portage, Mich., died Aug. 1 at age 50 due to injuries Erika Zadins of Amherst, Mass., died July Mich., died Aug. 14 at age 84. He joined the from a biking accident. He joined the faculty 21 at age 95. She joined the staff in 1956 faculty in 1964 and retired in 1986 as an as- in 1994 and was a professor of management. and retired in 1976 as assistant director of sociate professor of engineering technology. Gregory G. Roseboom of Portage, Mich., registration. Myrl J. Helwig of Kalamazoo died July 31 7 On Campus with Les and Linda Baird Husband and wife Lester and Linda Baird may have markedly different jobs, but they share an affinity for WMU and a deep passion for their respective hobbies. Les, a staff member since 1987, is a welder and pipefitter in Facilities Management- maintenance services who plans to retire this fall. Linda, a staff member since 1991, is a finance assistant in the Development Office. The couple lives near Parchment, Mich., and has three “great” sons and a daughter-in-law who graduated from WMU. Les used to race cars locally and ride a motorcycle, then painstakingly built a 1948 GMC pickup street rod that he takes to shows, some of which have been fundraisers for charity or held at WMU. A former boilermaker who built nuclear and conventional power plants, he helps maintain WMU’s steam pipes and does welding as assigned. “We do a lot of trouble shooting and try to serve the customer by getting things fixed correctly and done quickly,” says Les, adding that he works on pipes in buildings as well as underground pipes up to 12 inches in diameter. “Many times it takes two people for that to happen. We’re dealing with steam and condensate and working with huge valves as well as on ladders and in trenches and tunnels.” In the past, his welding skills haven’t just been used on pipes. He’s also battened down the hatches to prevent students from sneaking into the steam tunnels to play Dun- MULTIPLE COMMON DENOMINATORS geons and Dragons and helped seal shut the vacant building known as the Kalamazoo (Photo by Jeanne Baron) Psychiatric Hospital’s Northwest Unit, in which trespassers would set up housekeeping. Linda, a former elementary school volunteer turned part-time school clerk, is an avid reader and quilter and loves to put together digital jigsaw puzzles. She keeps “a library” in her office and especially enjoys creating commemorative family quilts. Linda processes an average of 100 gifts a day for the WMU Foundation and tracks about $19 million in donations a year. Primarily, she handles record keeping for donor receipts and daily audits, and assists with annual audits and semiannual funds transfers. “We’re the only ones on campus who can provide tax receipts. So all gifts have to come through the WMU Foundation in some way, including checks and in-kind dona- tions given to departments,” Linda says. “Gifts come in daily, with the peak periods revolving around key accounting deadlines and end-of-the-year giving, as well as regular fund drives such as those for WMUK and the Gary Fund.” Linda notes that she’s repurposed some interesting in-kind gifts. Among them are an uncut diamond the geology department uses as a teaching tool and a loom the Center for Disability Services uses to help clients improve eye/hand coordination. Training series for employees to focus on benefits behind the ‘W’ Human Resource’s training series for employees will focus on the Holtyn’s One-to-One program and other wellness initiatives. “Benefits behind the ‘W’ ” when it returns this fall. Future session dates, along with the topics to be covered are: Instead of emphasizing the way Western works, as it did last year, Thursday, Oct. 6, retirement services; Wednesday, Oct. 19, Unified the series will highlight key benefits and services in addition to regular Clinics; Tuesday, Nov. 8, Blue Cross Blue Shield; Friday, Nov. 18, pay that are available to WMU benefits-eligible employees. And, the Sindecuse Health Center; and Thursday, Dec. 1, the HelpNet it will allow employees to hear more about their benefits directly employee assistance program. from the service providers. “Benefits behind the W” gives new and seasoned employees an Six fall sessions have been scheduled from 11 a.m. to noon in the opportunity to ask questions, obtain additional information, and Fetzer Center between September and December. They are free and learn how to take full advantage of the benefits and services WMU open to all employees. Pre-registration for each session is required, currently provides. and refreshments will be provided. Visit www.wmich.edu/hr/development/series for more details The first session is set for Tuesday, Sept. 20, and will be facilitated or to register. Seating is limited. Questions should be directed to by Holtyn & Associates. It is designed to provide an overview of Nichele Moses at [email protected] or (269) 387-3650. Business college makes two administrative moves WMU writing guide expanded The University’s style guide, Writing for The Haworth College of Business moved support and grants, accreditation, and global and About WMU, has been expanded to two management professors into administra- programs. He also oversees the college’s three include many of the popular writing tips tive positions, effective July 1. academic-related centers. that have been sent weekly since 2005 to Satish Deshpande was Stamper assumes re- faculty, staff, emeriti and retirees in WMU named associate dean for sponsibility and oversight Today emails. operations and graduate of all undergraduate pro- The guide brings consistency to correspon- programs while Christina grams as well as the col- dence and print and electronic publications. Stamper was named as- leges academic advising It addresses common writing errors and sociate dean for under- office and Career Center. style questions as well as features useful graduate programs. In addition, she oversees appendices, such as a guide for how to pro- Deshpande assumes assurance of learning ac- Deshpande Stamper nounce unusual building names and links responsibility and over- tivities and is responsible

EWS to institutional documents that have been sight of all graduate programs and several for undergraduate enrollment management, N approved for publication. operational activities in the college, includ- including recruitment, retention and com- Go to to access ing faculty and staff development, research munity college partnerships. www.wmich.edu/writing ESTER N Writing for and About WMU.

SEPTEMBER 8, 2011

SEPTEMBER 8, 2011 W Volume 38, Number 1

8 www.wmich.edu/westernnews