R S REFLECTIONS

Muskegon Community College Magazine

For Alumni, Retirees & Friends of MCC Summer 2019 REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE is published by the Foundation for Muskegon Community College

Contents MUSKEGON COMMUNITY COLLEGE | REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE | Winter 2018 CONTACT US [email protected] Foundation for Muskegon Community College Letter from the President 221 S. Quarterline Road Muskegon MI 49442 (231) 777-0559 FEATURES muskegoncc.edu BOARD OF TRUSTEES Donald Crandall, M.D. 4 Frauenthal Center Chair I often lead my presentations by saying “Muskegon Community I am humbled to share that this February, the Grand Rapids Diana Osborn College is on the move.” Given what we have accomplished Business Journal recognized me as the Newsmaker of the Year Vice-Chair recently, this phrase never gets old. in the Education Category in West . While this is an Nancy Frye individual honor, many individuals on and around campus Earlier this year, we welcomed Michigan’s new governor, 8 Health and Wellness Center Secretary contributed to the recognition. Not to be outdone, Dr. John , to campus to visit our recently opened Selmon, our Executive Vice President and Provost, was selected Sean Mullally Health and Wellness Center and to share her proposals on by the Aspen Institute’s College Excellence Program to join Treasurer the community college role in talent development in the the 2019-2020 class of the Aspen Presidential Fellowship for 10 New Mascot Kathy Moore State. Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist came Community College Excellence, a leadership program aimed at Trustee to MCC to tour the Sturrus Technology Center and learn preparing the next generation of community college presidents. Ann Oakes how we are providing pathways to employment in advanced Congratulations, Dr. Selmon! 15 NextGen Award Trustee manufacturing and entrepreneurism for traditional students and incumbent workers. The College has purchased property in Grand Haven as the new Roy Portenga home for our Ottawa Center beginning this fall. This permanent Trustee MCC Biology Instructor Darren Mattone led a group of students location will replace space leased by the college at the Grand 16 Strategic Student Success LEADERSHIP to Washington, D.C., to present their research nationally as part Haven Community Center and will annually serve almost 400 of the Community College Undergraduate Research Initiative students including Ottawa Early College Students. Advances on MCC Campus Dr. Dale K. Nesbary (CCURI), the result of a National Science Foundation grant. President Professor Mattone was a co-principal investigator of the original Muskegon Community College’s momentum is palpable. Under Dr. John Selmon NSF grant and continues to ensure that MCC students have the visionary guidance of Chair Diana Osborn and the MCC Provost and Executive Vice President every opportunity to expand their capacities. Board of Trustees, we are able to move our mission forward Kelley Conrad while building upon the work of those who came before us. Vice President for Academic Affairs Our Nursing graduates led the nation once again with their All of you, our alums, retirees, and greater community make us 100% first time pass rates on the National Council Licensing proud to be Jayhawks! Kristine Anderson Examination for RNs and the National Council Licensing Executive Director of Human Resources Examination for PNs. The national pass rates for these Trynette Lottie-Harps examinations is 85%. Dean of Community Outreach Marty McDermott Dean of College Services and Athletic Director Foundation Board of Directors Eduardo Bedoya Diana Osborn Mary Anne Gorman Director of Institutional Research and Grants Dale K. Nesbary, Ph.D. Wayne Barrett Michael Alstrom President Chief Information Officer Muskegon Community College Sean Mullally Richard Kraft Ellucian Janie Brooks-Davis Frank Marczak Amy Swope Arn Boezaart Toby Moleski Director of the Foundation for MCC Gary Britton Nick Strait Jon “J.B.” Meeuwenberg Institutional Technology and Research Tom Dake Edgar Watson Be in the know, at home or on the go! Tina Dee Susan Zemke Director of Strategic Initiatives News and opportunities President’s Blog News and updates from for MCC alumni Dale Nesbary, Ph.D. all MCC athletic teams

facebook.com/mccalumni presidentblog.muskegoncc.edu twitter.com/jayhawkathletic

2 Summer 2019 Reflections Magazine 3 explained Richard Oman, who served in and professional actor, Celebrating many capacities - theater instructor, resident who has managed both scenic and lighting designer, Center for the Frauenthal and the Theater director and department chair – Playhouse at White Lake. 50 years during his 35 years at MCC until retiring in 2008. “The Dinner Theater, most often, was “A lot of professional of MCC’s combined with a buffet in the Blue and Gold theater that is done Room followed by the performance.” across this country is done in smaller spaces. Harold Luoma joined Scott Cutting on the Anybody who goes Frauenthal music faculty in 1968. From its third floor to theater with some environs, the program burgeoned within frequency understands Fine Arts a year to 11 performing groups – the that the more intimate Collegiates and College Singers, the Jazz the space, the greater the band, Stage Band and Concert Band, and level of the connection to Center ensembles in brass, woodwind, percussion, real theater.” string and instrumental. “It’s absolutely a magical Today, the proud legacy of MCC’s music place,” said Harryman, By Peter D. Koryzno The MCC Student Art and Design Exhibition in Overbrook Gallery, now its 55th year, program remains robust, with performances who came to MCC remains a Frauenthal Fine Arts Center highlight. MCC Communications Manager A scene from “J.B.,” the very first play performed in the Frauenthal Fine Arts Center as part of the January 1969 opening gala. in New York City’s famed Carnegie Hall in the early 1970s to major in political among its many accomplishments. One of science. “After I started performing here, it In early January, while noisy construction play “J.B.,” directed by MCC theater instructor college art gallery that a commercial, reawakened my love of working in theater. I productions. I don’t think any of the actors crews were busy transforming the old tech its alumni, trombonist Dr. Dale K. Nesbary, Carlo Spataro, who helped in the design cooperative, or the Muskegon Museum serves as the college president. did everything. I performed, ran lights, built only acted.” wing into the new Art and Music Building, of Overbrook Theater and created the of Art cannot do,” noted Erin Hoffman, an sets, and toured.” across campus an important Muskegon theater arts program at the college. Scott art faculty member since 2008. “We can Since the Frauenthal Fine Arts Center “It’s what I like to say is vocational work,” Community College milestone passed Cutting, who developed the college’s music have more cutting-edge artists because opened, its Overbrook Theater has For theater students of that era, the green explained Harryman. “We were able to without much fanfare. program, added his expertise to the theater’s we don’t have to fund ourselves through been home to more than 200 theater room, a place behind the stage intended practice here. As a professional actor, it’s acoustical decisions. sales and donations. We have much more department shows. for actors waiting between scenes, was not like I don’t practice anymore. It does not The Frauenthal Fine Arts Center, whose contemporary art exhibitions and are equally legendary. work that way for music, theater, dance or three floors include the Overbrook Theater, Spataro, who would remain at MCC for reaching out to more nationally recognized “We were on the cutting edge of a lot art, either. You’ve got to continue to create, Overbrook Art Gallery, dance and music more than 40 years, recently reflected on the artists than any other art gallery in of things,” said Spataro, putting MCC’s “Most students started and ended their grow and do different things.” rooms, marked its 50th anniversary on center’s impact. Muskegon County.” participation in the American College day there,” noted Don Bogema, a budding January 5. Theater Festival at the forefront. “We draftsman who got into theater after Spataro “One of the things that Carlo and Richard “For me, it exceeded my fondest joys in Originally located on the center’s second and then-technical director Kent DeYoung Oman did was rename this the Center With the college’s music program set to were one of only two community colleges terms of being able to create,” he said, floor, the art department needed more space regionally – the other was in Ohio – reached out to MCC students who scored for Theater,” noted Harryman. “Part of the vacate the center later this year for its adding that he was among a large wave of and moved to the pole barn across the north high the arts section of the ACT responsibility of taking on that name is impressive new quarters, where the art to submit plays for adjudication and new faculty members with master’s degrees parking lot. In its place, the college built a competition. We did new plays that came test. Bogema would later serve as the that you are a resource. We continue to be program will also fulfill the promise of state- who viewed MCC as a stepping-stone to a dance studio. The dance program flourished technical director and assist the department a resource for the Playhouse at White of-the-art facilities made a half century ago, out of the American College Theater Festival four-year college or university. “But none under the late Judith Brooky-Green, who at Ohio State.” in many capacities. Lake, the Muskegon Civic Theater, and we it is important to pause and celebrate the of us left and the reason we didn’t was arrived in 1975. host the West Michigan High School Frauenthal Fine Arts Center’s legacy as it because of the opportunities and challenges “There was one year where we played “It was truly unique, unlike any place at the Theater Festival.” begins a new chapter. we had here. They were all extremely “She was a role model and a talented Children’s Theater to 65,000 kids in school,” recalled James A. Kroll, one of the talented individuals and they all made instructor,” said Tracy Lynn Lamb, the MCC Muskegon County,” said Spataro, adding the program’s most accomplished alumni who Sheila Wahamaki, the Center for Theater In the late 1960s, Kaydon Engineering Corp. significant contributions in their own ways 2019 Distinguished Alumni recipient. “She now serves as the director of Screen Actor director, and Harryman invite area high founder A. Harold Frauenthal and his wife, popular program ended a few years later in to the entire fine arts program.” taught grace both on the dance floor and the wake of a failed millage. Guild-American Federation of Television schools to perform their works on the Grace, donated $325,000 to MCC for the with her spirit. She created space for self- and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) National Overbrook stage in front of the other building. The state provided $340,000 and Ken Foster, who taught in the art expression and community.” The intimacy of Overbrook Theater, with Signatory. “Once you became a part of students and receive professional the college $470,716 to make the dream department for 38 years until 2006, was part its 300 seats, separates it from the 1,750- the theatrical community, the green room feedback from the MCC faculty. The a reality. of an impressive faculty that included the In her first year, Brooky-Green established seat downtown Frauenthal Center or the was the place to be, to study, to work on energy that fills the theater during those likes of John Walson and Lee Collet. the Overbrook Dance Theater in Concert, scholastic performances represents one The Muskegon Chronicle, reporting on region’s large high school performing arts productions both as a performer and a which continues to this day. centers that emerged in the 1980s, said of the thousands of success stories that the opening gala, called the Frauenthals’ “For years we had at least four to six shows technician. But you had to earn that right. Tom Harryman, a MCC theater instructor The Overbrook Theater gave me a home, comprise the legacy of MCC’s Frauenthal generosity “the largest single gift to the annually, from student exhibits to one- “It was a unique theatrical production of Fine Arts Center. community since L.C. Walker gave Walker person shows to themed to group exhibits,” varied dance pieces featuring original gave me a family within the theatrical community, and Sports Arena to the community a decade he noted. “I had a design show one year, an choreography by student, faculty and Bloomquist, when asked what she would ago.” More than 300 invited guests toured Eames furniture show, and even had a VW guest artists, along with guest performers,” gave me a path and direction I wanted to follow in my life.” say to the Frauenthals today if such an the facility, strolling past the Mies van Beetle in the lobby for that show.” opportunity were possible, responded, der Rohe Barcelona chairs and Saarinen “Thank you for creating a space where being The lobby proved inadequate for art “When attending classes not tables in the lobby. Dr. George Ogden Kirk, related to theater, I was always different is OK. A place where imagination pastor of First Congregational Church, in his exhibits, so the college converted a and creativity were encouraged. A place to ground level classroom into the present- eager to get back to the theater invocation, prayed that its hallways would where folks saw the world more learn about art and ourselves. A place where become “a haven for creative minds.” day Overbrook Art Gallery. The space friendships took root and still grow.” still provides trailblazing works for the like I did,” said Ruth Bloomquist, who met her husband, Max, Cle Allison, representing architect Alden community, including the annual MCC In the end, Dr. Kirk’s prayer was answered. B. Dow, presented the building keys to Student Art and Design Exhibition, with at MCC. The duo continues to College Board Chair Lionel L. Booth. its financial awards and permanent perform their own original folk Mrs. Frauenthal and Mrs. Herman collection selections, now in its 55th music after more than 40 Grossman, the Board secretary, formally consecutive year. years. “It was a great group of unlocked the doors. Guests were treated MCC Music Director Daniel M. Meyers leads the Wind Ensemble during a concert in Overbrook folks that worked all parts of the to a performance of Archibald MacLeash’s “We can do some things here at the A poster from an Overbrook Theater Dance Concert, an annual event started Theater. The college musicians and singers now perform in the downtown Frauenthal Center, in the mid-1970s that continues to this day. another gift from the philanthropic Frauenthal family to the Muskegon community.

4 Summer 2019 Reflections Magazine 5 Distinguished Alumni Award Alumni Achievement Award

Tracy Lyn Lamb Nicholas Strait

From general education courses to racy Lyn Lamb, the award-winning specialty nursing courses, each instructor executive director of NEWS, an provided me with the resources I needed organization providing domestic to thrive. With my nursing degree in violenceT and sexual abuse services in hand, I was able to start working right California’s Napa Valley, was honored as away at Mercy Health without the the 2019 Muskegon Community College crippling student loan debt many of my Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. peers were saddled with.” A Muskegon native, Lamb attended MCC Strait continues his nursing career in from 1979 to 1983, when she graduated Muskegon. An experienced director with an associate’s degree. of nursing services, he has practiced nursing in many different roles: bedside “When I came to MCC I didn’t have a lot nursing, unit management, department of confidence in my academic ability,” icholas Strait ‘03 was honored with an associate’s degree in nursing. management, and currently as the Director recounted Lamb. “In high school, no one Assault, the only professional organization In partnership with On The Move, Lamb the 2019 Alumni Achievement He went on to earn a Bachelor of of Clinical Consolidation at Mercy Health. said to me, ‘Tracy, you are college material.’ dedicated to advocating on behalf of received a $50,000 grant from Raliance, Award. This award recognizes Science Nursing from University of I didn’t even consider applying to four-year and supporting the work of rape crisis an agency funded by the National Football He serves as the process improvement Nextraordinary professional achievement by Mercy, a Master of Science in institutions. I was the first in my family to centers which operate independently League (NFL) and aimed at ending sexual facilitator for clinical groups in three one of the institution’s graduates from the Nursing and a Master of Business attend college and Muskegon Community throughout California. violence in one generation. She used hospital sites. He is the director, past 15 years. Nicholas is the director of Administration from the University of College felt like a safe place to start. It the funds to create a one-year youth facilitator, problem solver and overall Clinical Consolidation at Mercy Health Phoenix, and is a doctoral candidate turned out to be one of the best decisions She was successful in obtaining a leadership cohort for survivors of project manager for construction, in Muskegon. in Nursing Administration at the of my life.” $625,000 grant for NEWS Domestic childhood sexual abuse. finance and clinical teams to complete Violence Housing First, which has helped . Established in 2017, the Alumni Mercy Health’s $271 million hospital After MCC, Lamb earned a Bachelor’s domestic violence survivors move into Lamb was also instrumental in launching a Achievement Award recipient is “Muskegon Community College consolidation project. Degree in Social Work from Western apartments and prevented homelessness primary prevention program called “NEWS selected by the MCC Alumni Relations allowed me to get a high quality Michigan University. among others. She serves as co-chair of About Sports,” which involves school Strait has served as campaign co-chair Committee. This is the third presentation of education without sacrificing time the Economic Self Sufficiency Committee athletic directors, coaches and student of United Way and currently serves on the She began her career as a crime victim the award. away from my friends and family,” focused on issues aimed at creating equity athletes working to promote gender said Strait. “Once I started down Muskegon Community College advocate, then became a program manager and quality of life. She is a member of equity, bystander training, and positive, Foundation Board. and spent two years in Sonoma County A native of Shelby, MI, Strait graduated the path to becoming a nurse, and the Napa County Child Abuse Prevention healthy relationships. from Shelby High School. He attended (CA) District Attorney’s Office. at every interval in between, my He and his wife, Sara, have four children – Council Steering Committee. MCC from 1999 to 2003, when he earned professors guided me to success. Jacob, Zachary, Evey and Andrew. Lamb has been the executive director of NEWS since 2005. With its dedicated group of staff and volunteer domestic violence and sexual assault counselors, NEWS – an acronym standing for Nurturing, Empowerment, Worth and Safety – provides direct client services and shelter 24/7 to approximately 1,300 annually. NEWS also offers preventative education and outreach programs. This past year, Lamb has received the Excellence in Leadership Award from The Center for Volunteer and Nonprofit Nominate an Alumnus Today! Leadership. In 2016, she received the Help us continue these long standing Napa Valley Hispanic Chamber of traditions and honor of the Muskegon Commerce Woman of the Year Award. Community College Alumni Awards! Nominations for the Distinguished Alumni That same year, she was recognized by g Award or the Alumni Achievement the Hispanic Network with a Lifetime Award are accepted year-round. Learn Achievement Award. more on the website or contact Rachel! www.muskegoncc.edu, Rachel.stewart@ Lamb serves on the Board of Directors for muskegoncc.edu. Tracy addressing the graduates at commencement the California Coalition Against Sexual Nick with his staff at the new hospital

6 Summer 2019 Reflections Magazine 7 Health and Wellness Center This new 52,000 square foot classroom and academic building Health Simulation Lab for MCC students in nursing, respiratory located on the south side of the main Muskegon Community therapy, and medical assistant programs; and the Mercy College campus now functions as the primary location for MCC’s Health Partners Primary Care center. A collaboration between Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER) Department. MCC and its Mercy Health and Grand Valley State University Focused on the health and wellness of all students, the HPER educational partners, the primary care center provides MCC Department offers classes that are required in most students’ nursing, respiratory therapy and medical assistant students with core curriculum. In addition, the facility contains collaborative opportunities for required clinical hours. learning spaces; large and small classrooms; a state-of-the-art

8 Summer 2019 Reflections Magazine 9 The video launched a series of fundraisers on campus including cookie sales and donations at the bookstore. Students, staff Jayhawks Capture National, Women’s Basketball Saving Jay and faculty were encouraged to give their spare change in the Ranked nationally throughout much of the season, the Jayhawks bookstore in exchange for their name on a feather to be displayed By Rachel Stewart, Regional Honors in 2018-19 advanced to the NJCAA District Quarterfinals. All-Region players at the store as well as a “Help Save Jay” pin to raise awareness. Elysia Mattos and Delaney Bolles led the Jayhawks to a 23-5 overall Alumni and Donor Relations Manager Many individuals and departments also donated $100 or more to record and a 14-3 mark in the Western Conference. be included in the “Blue Feather Club” with prominent displays Women’s Bowling in the book store as well. “We really have a giving community at The talent-laden Jayhawks finished second in the nation at 2019 Men’s Indoor Track MCC and it has been great to use Our MCC Bookstore to showcase NJCAA Championships in Buffalo, NY. Meagan Batka took second The Jayhawks placed third in the Region XII meet. High jumper this generosity” mentioned Kim Oakes, Manager of the Muskegon nationally in the all-events to become the fourth bowling All- Armund Gordon and long jumper Anthony Gualitieri captured Community College Barnes and Noble Bookstore. American at MCC. She placed third in singles. Rachel Pierce and regional titles. Jamie Perry took third in doubles nationally. Kendra Schuitema was Women’s Indoor Track Additionally, the Foundation for Muskegon Community College the Regional XII champion. All four bowlers and Ashlyn Cross were The Jayhawk women took fourth place in the Region XII meet. played a huge part in the campaign supporting the project with All-Region selections. approval of a Special Needs Grant. These grants are approved by Baseball Men’s Soccer the Foundation Board of Directors to support projects that have a The Jayhawks posted a 31-18 overall record and finished fifth in the One of 12 teams in the nation to qualify for the 2018 NJCAA direct and measurable impact on student success and retention. MCCAA Western Conference with a 15-13 league record. National Championships in Daytona Beach, FL, the Region XII Noted Arn Boezaart, Foundation Board President, “With ‘Jay’ being Softball such an iconic and recognizable image for the College, and with Champion Jayhawks finished the 2018-19 season with a 12-4 record. The Jayhawks had a 14-32 overall record and took seventh in the the demonstrated fundraising effort by students and staff already Tommy TenCate, Daniel DuBois and Matt Udell were All-Region First Western Conference with a 10-24 league mark. underway, the Foundation Board unanimously felt a need to lend a Team. hand in making the new mascot possible. May Jay live a long and Women’s Cross Country Women’s Outdoor Track healthy life and with fresh energy continue to help promote our The Jayhawks led all Michigan colleges with their 15th place in the Grace Sweet won the 800 meters regional title to pace the Jayhawk fabulous Muskegon Community College!” nation at the 2018 NJCAA Championships in Garden City, Kansas. women to a fourth place finish in the Region XII Championships. Maddy Windberg took 54th and Grace Sweet finished 60th among Men’s Golf With Foundation grant approval and continued on-campus the 293 runners. The two Jayhawks, along with Adele Cory and Ellie fundraisers, the 2019 Commencement Ceremony concluded with a Keaton Inglis tied for 18th in the nation to earn All-American honors Nausadis, were All-Region runners. special surprise to the graduates and crowd with the reveal of the at the NJCAA Div. II National Championships. Zach Lisman tied for th new and improved Jay! “It was so much fun to be able to reveal the Volleyball 114th and Andrew McConnell tied for 120 nationally. The Jayhawks new costume to the audience at the Commencement Ceremony! NJCAA Div. II Second Team All-American Julie Brown paced the placed second in the MCCAA Western Conference Tournament. Jay was very well received by children, graduates and adults. We Jayhawks to the NJCAA Region XII championship match. Brown and are looking forward to his appearances at more community events Jaren Smith earned Region XII All-Tournament Team honors. MCC as well as the college’s athletic competitions and other student finished with a 32-12 record and ranked 16th in the nation. engagement activities!” said James. Men’s Cross Country MCC wrestler Corey Perkins-Willett For almost 80 years the Jayhawk has been the mascot for As the demand for appearances by Jay grows, there is still Mitch Johnson, who took 98th among the 289 runners, fronted the took eigth in the nation at 184 pounds Muskegon Community College. During that time there have support needed to complete the fundraising effort and establish Jayhawks to place 21st in the nation at the 2018 NJCAA National been many changes to the look and even the color of this a maintenance account so as to assure Jay’s long-term “health”. Championships in Garden City, Kansas. Johnson, Kyle Benham. mystical bird, but nevertheless, “Jay” has grown as its own If you are interested in supporting the Jayhawk mascot project, Michael Hyatt and Cameron Oleen captured All-Region laurels. symbol of the college to many. please contact the Office of the Foundation for Muskegon Women’s Soccer Second Team All-American Julie Brown (right) Community College at muskegoncc.edu/foundation-for-mcc helped MCC capture the regional title The Jayhawk costume has been used at numerous athletic The Region XII co-champions advanced to the North Central competitions and community events to promote the college and Championship semifinals. First Team All-Region selections Emily engage with students, faculty, staff and alumni. All of this use Winicki, Viviana Mireles and Haley Ruiter led the 8-7 Jayhawks. began to take a toll on the condition of the costume and it was Men’s Bowling time for an upgrade. Vincent Birch and Tony Long placed seventh nationally in doubles competition at the 2019 NJCAA National Bowling Championships in “This project really grew from a group of employees who saw Buffalo, NY. Birch also won All-Region honors. the need for a new costume and thought the fundraising could be done in a creative way to respect the history of the old Men’s Basketball costume, but also get people excited about a new look!” said The 15-13 Jayhawks advanced to the NJCAA District IX Quarterfinals Amy James, Director of Marketing and Branding at Muskegon and posted a 9-9 league mark. Kylan Shipp and Josh Smith were Community College. Second Team All-Western Conference. Women’s Bowling Team - Second in Nation Wrestling Thus started the “Help Save Jay” campaign on campus. Through Corey Perkins-Willett took eighth nationally at 184 pounds to a collaboration involving students, faculty and staff, a video lead the Jayhawks to a 31st place team finish at the 2019 NJCAA was created showing Jay working out during a gym class and Wrestling Championships in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Perkins and Tyler falling short of breath during the workout. After being whisked away to the Medical Assistant Department and then on to be Blagg were North Central District champions. evaluated by students and faculty from the Nursing Program, it Men’s Outdoor Track is determined that Jay has come down with a case of the “Bird The 2019 Region XII champions, the Jayhawks were led by several Flu” and an extended stay in the hospital is necessary for his regional champions. Derek Monje won the javelin, hammer throw recovery. Unfortunately, we learn in the video that the college’s and shot put. Logan Wells took the 100 meters and 400 meters. Nic Ruvalacaba was one of several regional “Bird Insurance” will not be enough to cover this hospital visit Other regional firsts included Noah Hendricks in the 800 meters, champions for the Outdoor Track team which won the and help is needed to pay for the cost of Jay’s recovery. regional title. Jacob Netschke in the discus, Nic Ruvalacabo in the pole vault, and Emily Winicki helped lead MCC to the Ryan Bytwerk in the long jump. a regional soccer title.

10 Summer 2019 Reflections Magazine 11 Muskegon Area Sports Hall of Fame Inducts MCC’s National Champion By Peter D. Koryzno 1963 and 1964 Cross Country Teams MCC Communications Manager Room Renumbering By Rachel Stewart, Alumni and Donor Relations Manager

The talent-laden 1963 and 1964 MCC Of course it helps to have an elite runner At the 1963 national meet, Barton and men’s cross country teams, which won the like Roger Plant, but I think it’s even more Roger Hamel, finished seventh and eighth, first back-to-back national championships important to have depth.” respectively, with Ken Merkins 21st, Bill in Michigan community college athletics Plont, who passed away in 2008, led all Bringedahl 36th, Bill Kowalski 50th and history, were formally inducted into the competitors while shattering the Erie County Dave Hopkins 58th to round out the prestigious Muskegon Area Sports Hall of Technical Institute’s course record by 37 Jayhawk runners. Fame during its 33rd annual ceremonies on seconds despite the rain and fog at the 1963 At the 1964 NJCAA Championship in June 1 at the Muskegon Country Club. National Junior College Athletic Association Jackson, MI, Barton and Mike Gaunt took Ironically, the club’s grassy rolling hills (NJCAA) Championship in Buffalo, N.Y. He fifth and ninth, respectively, to lead the served as the team’s home course, one they went on to help lead Western Michigan Jayhawks to a second consecutive national often traversed on bare feet. University’s cross country teams to NCAA crown. David Bolduc placed 22nd, Tom “Running barefoot on the golf course here national titles in 1964 and 1965 and is Redenius 32nd, Mike Cassady 34th and Jon actually felt really good,” quipped Scott enshrined in WMU’s Hall of Fame. Dodson 42nd. Barton, who spoke for the honorees at the “I think it’s safe to say that Roger was the Plont, Gaunt and Dodson were honored banquet. “We just had to avoid the acorns.” greatest cross country runner in Muskegon posthumously with Hall of Fame plaques. In 1964, many of the MCC team members Community College history,” added Barton. Barton reserved much of the praise and competed without shoes for the first 10 “Roger was the most competitive runner I’ve credit for the teams’ success to their miles of the inaugural Seaway Run, from ever known. Long distance runners don’t legendary coach Rudy Bartels. “I’ve never the starting point at Grand Haven beach to just train by running long distances. To met anyone who didn’t like Rudy,” he Pere Marquette Park, before putting on their maximize your conditioning, you must run noted. “He was a very easy going, pleasant running shoes for the final stretch across sprints and other shorter runs. To motivate gentleman. He proved you didn’t have to be city streets. yourself to give 100 percent on 8 to 10 a screamer to win.” sprints or intermediate runs on a regular “Back then, there was no campus,” basis through a whole season is pretty much “To say we are surprised by this honor is explained Barton, noting that the current impossible, unless you are Roger Plont.” an understatement,” concluded Barton. MCC main campus would not open its doors “Shocked is probably more accurate. After 55 for another few years. “Classes were held “Other teams had elite runners but didn’t years, we never expected this. Cross country at the Hackley Building, Vanderlaan School have the depth,” explained Barton. “Our runners aren’t used to getting recognition and the Wilson Building. Cross country third, fourth and fifth runners crushed their like athletes in the major sports. To be in practice took place at Froebel School on third through fifth runners. Our runners all the company of Hall of Fame members like Jackson Hill.” worked hard to improve over the season. Earl Morrall, who played quarterback in two Our sixth and seventh runners pushed the Super Bowls, is quite an honor.” “Why did we have the success we had? fourth and fifth runners.” ne shared experience students, to make it easier for our students and the 1400s are in the Science Center. The 1500s faculty, staff, alumni and community public to navigate campus” mentioned are located in the Automotive Building. Omembers can all speak about is the Marty McDermott, Dean of College Services The stairwells will now be denoted with infamous room numbering system on the and Athletic Director. capital letters, from A-H, on each map. main campus at Muskegon Community Every room in the main campus building, Additionally, there will be a significant College. Many have heard faculty and staff Science Center, Automotive Building, and number of directional signs posted at every relate the odd and evenly numbered rooms Art and Music Building will be involved in intersection on every floor. on opposite sides of the building to naval the renumbering process which includes or cruise ship numbering. New campus maps, a numerical list of installation of 962 new signs! There will no the new room numbers and even an old In support of the strategic plan goal to longer be odd or even wings in the building. room number new room number list are all improve the room numbering system and The 1000s will run sequentially across the available on our website at muskegoncc. establish a wayfinding consistency to all main floor of the main campus, with the edu/maps-and-directions/room-renumbering MCC locations, it is with much anticipation 2000s in the same sequence below on the to share that the main campus will be second floor and the 3000s in the same “We are asking for the campus community’s renumbered during the Summer of 2019! order beneath on the third floor. patience in the process,” added McDermott. “I think visitors will be pleased with the Left to right: Coach Rudy Bartels, Roger Plont, Dave Hopkins, Roger Hamel, Bill Kowalski, The 1963 and 1964 Muskegon Community College national champion cross country teams “We have a unique building which was Further, the 1200s will be located in the new transformation.” Ken Merkins, Bill Bringedahl and Scott Barton. were inducted into the Muskegon Area Sports Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the very hard to navigate with the previous Art and Music Building. The 1300s, 2300s Muskegon Country Club on June 1. Attending the ceremony from those Jayhawk teams were, left to right: Mike Cassady, Ken Merkins, Scott Barton, Bill Bringedahl, Bill Kowalski, Roger numbering system. Now in support of the and the 3300s are on the Stevenson Center Hamel, Chuck Krupa, Dave Hopkins, Tom Redenius, and Mike Smith. Strategic Plan, these changes are going first, second and third floors, respectively. The

12 Summer 2019 Reflections Magazine 13 pairs of a new shoe line as a gift to the A grateful Jake plans to use some of the Athletic Shoe shoe’s namesake to share with his or her funds to attend upcoming Sneaker Con Input Encouraged at Annual “friends and family.” Many of the conventions held five or six times a year at recipients will put the shoes for sale on various large U.S. cities for the thousands Entrepreneur the open market. and thousands of athletic shoe buyers Community Summit and sellers. “Take the Jordan 5 Retro Fresh Prince, the Steps into the shoes that Will Smith wore on ‘The Fresh Does Jake think he can compete in this Prince of Bel Air’ TV show,” explains Jake. large international market? By Tina Dee, Director of Strategic Initiatives Spotlight “The retail white and purple pair goes for “Oh, I know I can,” he responds, exhibiting about $150 to $200. The Friends and Family the confidence that impressed Sarnciola. pair, which was all gold, sells for thousands “I’ve been doing this for the last three years. As Muskegon Community College with $10K • Priority #4 Engagement and of dollars.” I have made quite a name for myself. The completes the second year of implementing Collaboration: Expand collaborations last couple of years, I have been selling on its “Successful Students, Successful NextGen Award “This idea started with me trying to find the and improve communications to further shoes that I actually liked,” he continues. Instagram and Facebook. You need to have Communities” Strategic Plan, MCC President engage the community in the mission “Why are they charging so much for these knowledge, product knowledge. Anybody Dale Nesbary and the Implementation of MCC By Peter D. Koryzno shoes? Then I realized it was really supply can go out to the Finish Line in Muskegon Advisory Team are finalizing details for the MCC Communications Manager and demand. The products that I liked sold and be like, “Oh, I am going to buy that annual community summit. • Priority #5 Culture and Equity: out everywhere. You couldn’t find them Jordan and sell it for more money.” Anybody Strengthen our culture of inclusion, MCC student Jake Groendal can trace his except to buy them off a Stock X app, but can do that. The fact that anybody can, does A free event, the 2019 Community Summit equity, accountability, safety, and passion for owning vintage sneakers to a paying a couple of hundreds of dollars not mean you should.” takes place in Collegiate Hall on Wednesday, well-being trip to the Muskegon Mall, where, as an over the retail price because they’re very Sept. 25, from 4-5 p.m. No reservations “The biggest risk is buying multiple shoes eighth grader, he relentlessly pestered his in-demand.” figuring you can make money on them and are required. Attendees will get the latest community mother to buy him a pair of Nike Flight 89s. needs assessment data and updates on Soon, Jake started making contacts to buy then they ‘brick,’ which means that they’re The “carousel” format for this year’s goals achieved over the past year. They can “They originally came out in 1989, but Nike the special sneakers himself and sell them not worth anything. That’s happened to me once or twice, but fortunately I bought only Community Summit provides attendees with provide input on initiatives scheduled for brought them back in 2012 and I wanted for under the prices offered by larger, well- one pair and I always find a way to just more opportunities to ask questions and 2019-20. For more information about the them so badly,” recounts Jake, who within known ventures like Stock X and Go a few years would land a job at the same make my money back.” provide feedback. There will be stations for summit or MCC’s strategic planning process, Flight Club. shoe store. His knowledge and interest in each institutional priority, with attendees contact Tina Dee at (231) 777-0660 or “It’s a real personal level that I bring to Jake has come a long way since the days rotating to each area to engage in brief the athletic footwear market coupled with the table, which speaks to the Friends when he and his father, James, started [email protected]. his newfound employee discount suddenly discussions about the related goals for and Family name,” Jake says. “I treat my collecting and selling some 10,000 Hot sparked an idea for a business venture. each area: During the 2016-17 academic year, 180 customers like they are friends and family. Wheels over the years as a hobby. Even campus and community members defined “It was when the Jordan 11 Space Jams A lot of people would prefer to buy from a his mother, Karen, who was more than • Priority #1 Student Support: Provide five priorities and 25 goals that became the first came out in December 2016,” recalls person rather than a big company.” somewhat incredulous as her home comprehensive support systems to 2017-2022 MCC Strategic Plan. Jake, who purchased a $220 retail pair started to fill with boxes of sneakers, has As an MCC entrepreneurial studies student, come around. ensure student success with his discount for $160 and then quickly Jake was eligible to submit his business “This is very much a community-driven sold them to a guy outside the Mall for plan in the competition for a $10,000 seed “My parents looked at me and they were • Priority #2 Academic and Training process,” explains Tina Dee, Director about $330. fund, an annual award created and funded praying for me and they said, ‘We hope that Programs: Develop, implement, and of Strategic Initiatives. “Ongoing input “Unfortunately, employees were limited to by Nick and Ashley Sarnicola, the generous you win this,’” recounts Jake, “because I evaluate relevant and innovative is essential to ensure MCC’s goals are just one pair, but it was a moment for me founder of NextGen, whose mission is to know a lot of people look at you and what programs that meet current and addressing current and evolving needs, of realizing what I had just unlocked,” says help young entrepreneurs realize their you do and they think it ain’t worth a damn. emerging student, business, industry, which is why we host this annual summit.” Jake, who at the same time was taking a passions. Sarnicola and NextGen Executive ‘He’s buying and selling shoes, so what?’ The and community needs business class at the Career Tech Center. Director Patrick Adams serve on the award fact someone like Nick believed in me - I Every Friday, MCC Entrepreneurial Studies selection committee. know that my parents believed in me - it • Priority #3 Facilities and Infrastructure: Chair David Stradal taught a Community E just solidified my idea and it gives me the Provide a state-of-the-art learning On May 9, Sarnicola informed a speechless strength to really believe in myself to make course to the teenagers about starting one’s and stunned Jake via Skype in Stradal’s environment that meets academic own business. this actually happen.” needs while promoting access campus office that he was the 2019 winner. “Dave kind of kicked it off for me,” says Jake, and sustainability “I really believe in you,” Sarnicola told Jake. an Oakridge High School graduate. “I knew I “I believe in your business model. You have wanted to be my own boss and do my the right personality. I think you have the own thing.” right amount of swag. I think you’re going to “From the beginning, Jake was a standout do really good and I am super excited because he was a very outgoing person,” for you.” Community Summit remembers Stradal. “He was serious about “Jake is an entrepreneur at heart,” adds Provide input on your community’s strategic plan for higher education the business and that caught my eye. Adams, who was present at MCC for the He obviously enjoyed entrepreneurship announcement. “He’s ready to launch Wednesday, September 25 enough to come to the college and take my his business. We are looking for young 4 - 5 pm Collegiate Hall entrepreneur training class.” entrepreneurs that are ready, that have For his required business idea as part taken those first steps, and that are 221 S. Quarterline Road, Muskegon of the course, Jake created Family and committed and dedicated. He has got what Friends Sneakers, naming his venture after it takes to be a successful entrepreneur and Questions? 231.777.0660 a term used by the shoe companies when we’re going to come alongside him and launching a new line. The companies will give him all the support he needs from a make a unique design twist to about 20 mentoring standpoint.”

14 Summer 2019 Reflections Magazine 15 Positive Attitude Reflects Strategic Student Success Advances on MCC Campus “The organization taught college leaders to ask questions,” explains Klingenberg. “Why “When centering the college’s 2017-2022 were so few students completing a degree? Why do some students succeed while others Strategic Plan on student success seemed do not? What barriers keep students from achieving their goals?“ like the most natural thing, not a battle or These questions led college leaders through a gimmick, MCC knew it had arrived.” an important process whose steps would be repeated many times during the next several years: reach out to students who would benefit obstacles. The college’s IT office developed from them the most, the confidence to a tool, a friendly ‘Care Report’ button on the • identify an achievement gap; require them, the resources to provide a faculty portal which would allow instructors • investigate the barriers that caused it; valuable experience, and the ability to to identify students in need.” track students’ progress and measure the • review national best practices or influence the practices had on their success. “In order for improvements to be meaningful innovate to adopt a strategy designed to and sustainable, they had to be slow and help students overcome the barrier; “That’s why MCC’s first few years in incremental,” she continues. “After a time, Achieving the Dream were about MCC stopped referring to Achieving the • use student success data and student strengthening behind-the-scenes systems Dream as something the college did and feedback to evaluate the usefulness of and policies to accommodate a true student started referring to student success as how the strategy; success agenda,” adds Klingenberg. the campus did everything.”

• make improvements based on the New strategies resulted from collaboration “It wasn’t until we were able to look back evaluation; with community colleges nationally. MCC over the span of nearly a decade to see participated in the statewide Michigan how far we’d come that we truly felt like a • allocate resources to accommodate Transfer Pathways initiative to make transfer Leader College,” she adds. “When centering scaling up; between itself and four-year colleges the college’s 2017-2022 Strategic Plan seamless. MCC also participates in the on student success seemed like the most A visitor to Muskegon Community College In recent years, the college has earned “But there’s still work to be done,” she • amend policies to make proven national Guided Pathways movement to natural thing, not a battle or a gimmick, may wonder about the brightly colored recognition as Michigan’s Top-Ranked continues. “This is what new Muskegon strategies inescapable for the students help “guide each student effectively and MCC knew it had arrived.” Post-It notes stuck to office doors, restroom Community College and for its selection as Community College employees hear at their who need them most. efficiently from her/his point of entry through mirrors, and students’ laptops. an Achieving the Dream Leader College. The orientation to the college, and the message to attainment of high-quality postsecondary What effect does that have on today’s MCC Each contains a terse but encouraging data support these well-deserved accolades: carries over into their work as they approach This process set up a rhythm of continuous students? improvement that the college views as its credentials and careers with value in the message handwritten by a student worker each decision with the refrain, ‘What’s best labor market.” and then placed on a main hallway • 49% of MCC students transfer to a for students in this situation?’ MCC’s people new normal. Klingenberg replies, “MCC students can whiteboard. Passersby peruse the missives four-year college (compared to a 34% have always had a heart for students. What say, ‘Someone notices when I’m struggling “We don’t just assume our student success A transformation at MCC was happening. like “You’re stronger than you think you national average) we lacked was orchestration -- shared vision with something in the classroom or in my strategies are perfect from the start or From 2014 to 2017, the overall college-level are!” or “It’s worth it!” before plucking the and resources.” life. They talk to me and connect me with • 40% of MCC students complete any abandon them if they don’t have the credit completion rate increased from 73% appropriate thought. to 77%. Black students improved by over someone who can help, and then they keep degree within six years Embedding student success into the impact we expect,” says J.B. Meeuwenberg, track of me to make sure I’m doing okay.’ Chairperson of the College Success Center. 11 percentage points and first-generation “Students just started to take one and either operations and attitudes of an entire students by over 7 percentage points. • 94% fall-to-winter persistence rate “We try things, evaluate them, and tweak Sometimes, MCC students may even express keep it or give it to someone else who institution takes time. MCC has pursued Meanwhile, pass rates in gateway Math (compared to 83% state and national) them. It’s a process.” an upbeat sentiment on a note to be shared needed that little push,” says MCC Director this goal with laser-like focus for nearly and English courses during a student’s of Student Success Patti D’Avignon. a decade, after the college fueled by its with others. • 22% drop-out rate (compared to 25% Providing support for student success was first year increased 4 percentage points. disappointing three-year 13% graduation state and 26% national averages) not a new concept for MCC. Some strategies, In 2017, 88% of new students participated The culture of positivity on the MCC rate replaced its emphasis on student access like New Student Orientation, College in New Student Orientation, 62% met with campus reflects an actual upturn in student with one on student success. Data revealed “We care about students,” affirms Jenny Success Seminar, and Tutoring, had been a counselor, and 41% enrolled in College achievement over the past decade. The that three out of four students attending Klingenberg, an MCC English Instructor and around for decades. Success Seminar in their first semester. college has seen improvements in several Student Success Strategy Team member. “We MCC were seeking an associate’s degree measures of student success -- the rates Change was underway, yet not all strategies want them to achieve their goals. We believe and/or to transfer to a four-year college or “But we took a Field of Dreams attitude: ‘If at which students persist from semester stemmed from collaboration. it is our moral and ethical responsibility to university as their goal. we offer it, students will take advantage of to semester, graduate with certificates or help them succeed. We have the systems it,’” recounts Klingenberg. “Unfortunately, “Sometimes innovation is the best option,” degrees, or transfer to four-year colleges So, in 2010, MCC joined Achieving the and resources in place to make it happen.” students aren’t often inclined to walk into a says Klingenberg. “For example, MCC faculty, and universities. Dream, which labels itself as “America’s campus office and say, ‘I need help.’” who spend the most time with students and Klingenberg and her colleagues share a largest network of community colleges Student success forms the cornerstone of often see their needs before anyone else, collective pride in their accomplishments working to become strong engines of MCC needed systemic support for student Muskegon Community College’s mission, needed help connecting students to the to date. student and community growth.” success strategies, the tools to identify and vision, and its 2017-2022 Strategic Plan. resources that would help them overcome

16 Summer 2019 Reflections Magazine 17 Update your alumni information online at muskegoncc.edu/alumni-relations/ Message from Alumni and Donor Relations Manager Class Notes

Mark Jastrzembski, 1969 Hello Fellow Retirees, Mark graduated with an Associate in Sure hope you have all enjoyed Applied Science and went on to receive a receiving the newsletters from Rachel Bachelors and Masters Degree from Western Stewart, Alumni and Donor Relations Michigan University. He has authored two Manager. For the past couple of years, I have served on the Alumni books and has been a member of the Board Relations Committee as a liaison and of Directors for the Muskegon Sports Council supporter for MCC retirees. This past for 35 years serving as Board President for year, we have incorporated our first the last 10. He is now retired from the State Retirees’ Coffee Hour— it was fun, of Michigan Department of Corrections. informative, and supplied us with a venue for sharing ideas. One of those Mick Denton, 2006 Earlier this Spring I had the opportunity to participate in a global residency ideas involves a future fund-raising Mick graduated with an Associate in study abroad trip to Argentina and Chile. The experience was rich with event where we can all be involved in Applied Science. During his time at MCC, culture and new experiences. There was one inconvenience being abroad various capacities. You will hear more about this as details progress. As you he was involved with the baseball team. He that I did not anticipate and that was not being able to keep up on the final season of Game of Thrones or the new Marvel Avenger’s movie also have been informed, you are all now works with the Transportation Security entitled to the MCC alumni benefits Administration. Endgame! I know this may sound trivial, but fans of these shows know card. There are some awesome deals what a cultural phenomenon these stories have been to fans all over with this card—check it out. At Paris Thomas, 2009 the world. the December Holiday Luncheon Paris Thomas played basketball and served celebration, we have included a as a student assistant to the team during This experience was a great reminder to me about the power of storytelling special time to pay tribute to all MCC her time at MCC. She went on to play at which makes us human and there are so many amazing stories to tell retirees we have lost during the year. There are a number of ways you can the collegiate level at Slippery Rock and about our Alumni from Muskegon Community College. I am humbled to serve in a role at the institution to help tell these experiences and I find out about these events, perks, Mercyhurst. She is now the Girls Basketball and special retiree news items: (1) David Williams ’06, a former Jayhawk Baseball player and now Bench Coach Coach at Muskegon High School. encourage our alums and friends of the college to keep sharing them! look for an email with a newsletter to the New York Mets, took time to meet the current Baseball Team and joined from Rachel Stewart—sent out several them for a team dinner. Kody Harrell, 2012 Our office is busy planning events and other opportunities to stay involved times a years (2) peek at our Facebook Kody graduated with an Associate in during the coming academic year, please be sure to watch your mail, page “Muskegon Community College Science and Arts. He is now the Founder emails and follow our social media! Retirees & Friends”; (3) call Rachel and President of West Michigan Soccer Stewart at (231) 777–0461 or email Last, but not least, I would like to give a special welcome to our newest her at rachel.stewart@muskegoncc. Training and the Partnership Manager for members of the MCC Alumni Association from the graduating class of edu. She is eager to answer your the Muskegon Risers. 2019 reading this publication! Welcome to your new MCC Family! questions and hear your ideas--do not hesitate to give Rachel any ideas Adrienne Whisman, 2014 about how the Retiree connection can Adrienne graduated with an Associate in be improved. And, please make sure Science and Arts. During her time at MCC we have your current mailing and she was a member of Phi Theta Kappa. email addresses. She has gone on to receive a Bachelor of Rachel Stewart Cheers and hope to see many of you Arts from Saint Mary’s College majoring Alumni and Donor Relations Manager at future events. in Humanistic Studies and History with a Sue Meeuwenberg concentration in Women’s History. She is now the Philanthropic Services Associate at the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation. Cameron Bricker, 2016 Camerson graduated with an Associate in Science and Arts. He now works at Reaume Heating and Cooling. Friends and colleagues gathered in the MCC Nursing Department for Mary Did you see our billboard? In partnership with the Watch Muskegon Campaign, MCC Alumnae Dyke’s retirement party. Mary has been on the MCC nursing faculty for 18 Amy Heisser was featured earlier this year to northbound traffic on US 131. Amy is the Director years. Enjoy your retirement, Mary! of Human Resources at Arconic, a community leader and philanthropist.

18 Summer 2019 Reflections Magazine 19 221 South Quarterline u Muskegon, MI 49442