Momentum 2017-2018 Year in Review Senator Eddie Melton Commencement Address Speaker

Alumni Magazine avelengAVolume 6h • 2017-2018

Building Wave Momentum 2017-2018 Year in Review Senator Eddie Melton Commencement Address Speaker

Service Speaks Volumes Community Outreach

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H A A N MM IA OND, IND avelength • Awards up to $3,000 annually! • Available to qualified family members of CCSJ alumni who earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree • Requires student to enroll full-time for both fall and spring semesters Alumni Magazine Letter from the President

Dear Alumni,

As I reflect on this past year, I think about the people that I have met; but more importantly, I think about the common thread that connects us --Calumet College of St. Joseph. A college has the ability to bring people together that may have never had a reason or chance to meet. Perhaps it was when you were at CCSJ that you found your best friend, or your spouse, or a professional colleague, or a mentor, or maybe even yourself.

One of the best parts of being a college president is hearing the stories of students and alumni. It is what connects me to the history and the future of the college. I like to hear about their journey and how Calumet College of St. Joseph had an impact. I talked to a recent alumnus who said it wasn’t until he enrolled at Calumet College that heavelengt found his confidence. h He was a smart student, but he wasn’t confident in a large classroom setting. In his first day at CCSJ, he met two faculty members, his academic advisor, and found the Tutoring Center. Together, these helped lead him to academic success. And his journey is not over yet. He is applying for graduate school. I have also spent time with our first two alumni to be accepted into medical school, which is a great accomplishment for them and CCSJ. On a cold day in January, I had lunch in Philadelphia with one of our alumnae that just finished a pre-doctoral program at the University of Pennsylvania. I have also met several amazing individuals that went through our degree completion program and are serving the needs of our community. These are just a few examples of alumni that have discovered their passion; and, through hard work, mentors, and their professors, they are going to be making waves with a ripple effect on many.

In this current issue, you will read about alumni who are making a difference at CCSJ, in our region, and at the state level. We recently added two alumni to the CCSJ Board of Trustees, and both previously were featured in the Wavelength magazine. Both David and Gail are good examples of our talented and committed alumni. State Senator Eddie Melton, a CCSJ alumnus, delivered an incredible commencement address at our campus that will be remembered by all of those graduates that attended the May 2018 ceremony.

To those that have spent time with me, I thank you for sharing your stories and your hopes for Calumet College of St. Joseph. You know who you are. I look forward to another year of meeting people and extending the reach and impact of CCSJ. Please stay connected and make sure we have your email address. We know that there are many alumni making a significant impact in their communities, their professions, and the lives of others. I invite you to share your stories with us, so that we can share them with others. With gratitude,

Dr. Amy McCormack President

Contact us › We welcome your feedback on this issue and your letters/comments for future publications. Please contact us at 219-473-4254 or email: [email protected].

Find this issue (and back issues) of the magazine on our website: www.ccsj.edu/ institutionaladvancement/. Bookmark and save this link for future use! Alumni Magazine

avelengAh Summer 2018 Volume 6

Features Calumet College of St. Joseph 5 Alumni Association Board Building Wave Momentum President Amy McCormack leads CCSJ with Andy Marks, B.S. ‘05 & M.S. ‘14 passion and high energy. See all the initiatives Chairman that have gained ground in her first year. Sally Lobo-Torres, B.S. ’07 & M.S. ‘14 Vice Chairman Jeffrey Stur, B.S. ‘71 & B.S. ‘06 8 Treasurer Alumni Spotlight Angela Szczepanik-Sanchez, B.S. ‘02 Indiana State Senator Eddie Melton, Class of 2017, Secretary inspires this year’s graduates to find their purpose in life and live it, just as he has in serving others. Debra Burbridge, B.S. ‘01 Fran Drozdz, B.A. ‘67 11 Jesse Garcia, Jr., B.A. ‘80 Service Speaks Volumes CCSJ students impact the community through Zebediah Hall, B.S. ‘09 experiential learning and outreach opportunities both in academic and co-curricular activities. Angela Hughes, B.A. ‘11 Leslie Ihnat, M.S. ‘14 Also in This Issue Donald Kubacki, B.S. ‘69 Victoria Merrill-Washington, B.S. ‘81 9 New Board Members 14 Alumni Notes Dino Ramierez, B.S. ’13 & M.S. ‘16 10 Mission Ministry 15 In Memoriam Michael Skowronek, B.A. ‘77 12 Scholarship Gala 15 Upcoming Events 13 Crimson Wave Athletics avelength Published By

The Office of Institutional Advancement Wavelength is published annually and serves its readers by providing information about the activities of CCSJ and its Alumni. Text, photographs, and artwork may not Calumet College of St. Joseph be reprinted without the written permission of the Director of Communication and 2400 New York Avenue Public Relations at CCSJ. Whiting, Indiana 46394 www.ccsj.edu/institutionaladvancement Designed by Angela Hughes Alumni Magazine Year in Review

avelength

Calumet College of St. Joseph (CCSJ) is a special place with many great people doing amazing work in the service of students and higher education. Visionary leader and doer, President Amy McCormack, CCSJ’s 7th and 1st female president, immersed herself in the life, Mission, and spirit of the College. Engaging with students, the Board of Trustees, alumni, community leaders, and the greater community, McCor- mack spent the year building “Wave Momentum.”

“A strong college makes our community stronger,” McCormack said. “We contribute to the educational opportunities and certainly to the quality of life of the community. I am working to integrate us more deeply in the community. I want people to know Calumet College as the valuable resource that we are.” Energized to connect people to the College, McCormack prioritized ways to increase the College’s visibility and expand the College’s reach and involvement in the community. Her foci for the year included strengthening CCSJ’s Catholic identity, establishing a sense of community as campus, engaging with the College family, and promoting pride in place.

Mission Compels Service CCSJ holds a unique identity. Rooted in the Missionaries of the Gary’s needs; and, second, in collaborating with three Catholic high Precious Blood (C.PP.S) tradition, it embraces Catholic values and schools in the area to offer dual credit, which helps make higher supports an education that encompasses the whole person—spiritual education more affordable and accessible. and moral, as well as intellectual. Lifelong learning, student em- powerment, social justice, an ethic of service, opportunity, and the These efforts have been exciting, McCormack said, because “they are inherent dignity of all people are written in its very Mission. so core to who we are.” “Our Mission allows us and compels us to serve this area,” McCor- mack emphasized. “That Mission is important to me. As the only Community as Campus Catholic institution of higher education in Northwest Indiana, we have a significant role to play. We have the opportunity to make a CCSJ’s campus is small compared to most, but that doesn’t detract significant impact, and I think we’re doing that.” from the college experience students receive. Quite the opposite, really. In thinking outside the current campus, the College creates Working closely with Fr. Kevin Scalf, C.PP.S., Special Assistant to the a rich campus experience, and its location is perfect for students’ President for Mission and Ministry, McCormack looked to further educational, recreational, and career opportunities, according the College’s commitment to Catholic education in two ways: first, to McCormack. in meeting with Bishop Donald Hying to discuss the Diocese of 5 Alumni Magazine Year in Review

President Amy McCormack’s 1st Trustees’ Scholarship Gala. (left) McCormack greets Gus Flores, ‘95. (right) Trustee “Whiting and Hammond are more than just a place where the College is Emeritus Thomas Katshanias, McCormack, Effie, and Chairman of the Board Larry Meyers. located. They are both critical partners,” McCormack explained. “They are integral to the campus in so many ways.” Already, the College utilizes facilities within the community for athletic Student, Board, Alumni Engagement events. The Crimson Wave “home fields” include Whiting’s Oil City avelength Stadium, the Whiting Sports Complex, Hammond’s Lost Marsh Golf CCSJ connects people—students, board members, community leaders, Course and Olympia Lanes, and East Chicago Central High School. “It’s alumni–they engage with one another and support the College and com- an incredible benefit because they are amazing facilities,” McCormack munity together. said, knowing first-hand having been both a spectator and occasional par- ticipant of the Crimson Wave Athletics. While these facilities are not part Students, through internships and experiential learning opportunities, of CCSJ’s physical campus, they are characteristic of the unique college have much to offer the community. In embracing local causes and ap- experience of CCSJ student-athletes. The partnerships are favorable, plying what they learn in the classroom, they begin to see themselves as too, for both parties in making better use of present facilities within the positive contributors who make a visible impact. community and allowing the College to keep the cost of education low. As an example, this year, students helped three local organizations. The McCormack’s aim is to continue to find creative and resourceful ways Social Justice class weeded and harvested fresh produce at FAITH Farms for Calumet College and the neighboring cities to partner for mutually in Gary. The Strategic Management class conducted focus groups and beneficial outcomes. presented recommendations based on their findings to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana. The students of Public Safety’s With the College’s partnership with the City of Whiting, the newest Capstone class performed security audits for the School City of Whiting. development is the Mascot Hall of Fame (MHOF), which will open later this year and feature professional and collegiate mascots. As one of two “These are the types of things we need to do as a college that serves educational partners for this 25,000 square-foot, interactive children’s our local community,” McCormack insisted. “It’s such incredible work museum, CCSJ’s Education Department will prepare resource materials on the exhibits and create lesson plans for school field trips. that builds on the expertise we have…and it prepares students for jobs yet to come.” “It’s going to be an incredible draw for the area,” McCormack commented. McCormack hopes for joint PR opportunities, but also looks McCormack engaged with students’ experiential learning as much forward to the invaluable (and fun!) opportunities it presents for CCSJ as she could. She helped at FAITH Farms and listened to students’ students. For instance, in working with the MHOF creative team, the presentations to the Boys and Girls Clubs. She also visited the Chicago Athletics Department and student body will be creating a mascot for Police Academy, where many Public Safety students attend classes, and Calumet College. (Some alumni may recall the surfer dude, “Splash,” experienced the students’ education in action, in personally participating who rallied the crowd on his surf board from the Crimson Wave Athlet- in a training simulation. “It was very real, and really cool, to see what our ics’ early days at the Civic Center—we’ll see if he resurfaces in any way.) students experience in their training,” McCormack said. Her simulation was a robbery at Walgreens, where someone pulled a knife on her. Beyond the College’s community partnerships, McCormack’s community-as-campus vision also envelops the area’s natural and recreational McCormack’s engagement with the Board of Trustees and CCSJ alumni features. Places like Lake Michigan’s National Lakeshore, Whihala Beach, this year has proved just as exciting for different reasons. First, the the George Lake Trail, Wolf Lake and the Pavilion offer activity and social Board of Trustees’ Scholarship Gala exceeded expectations in raising scenes that provide entertainment, exercise, and relaxation, which is over $100,000 in support of scholarships and having 100-percent board important for students’ education-work-life balance, McCormack noted. member participation, which, for McCormack, was incredibly reward- “This area,” she said, “just has so much to offer.” ing. “Our goals were aggressive to start with, but the fact that we could achieve and exceed our goals was fantastic. I felt honored to be part of 6 it,” McCormack said. Alumni Magazine Year in Review

President Amy McCormack with CCSJ Bowling team, faculty, and staff at Olympia Lanes in Hammond, IN.

Second, the alumni gathering in Arizona was a success. Alumni hosts Fran, ‘67, and Stan,‘66, Drozdz opened their home in Litchfield, AZ, to McCormack, fellow alumni, and friends of the College. Graduates ranged from the Class of 1966 to 2014. They had great conversation about the College and shared career and life stories, and later they attended the Chicago White Sox spring training game against the San Diego Padres at Camelback Ranch Stadium. “Fran and Stan were amazing hosts. Their personal and professional accomplishments are just amazing,” McCormack said. “They both inspired me, and I just think, ‘These are the types of alumni that are out there— impressive and incredible human beings, who are eager to be connected avelength to the College—whom I am excited to meet in the years to come.’” McCormack’s next alumni outing will take her to the Sunshine State: Sarasota County, Florida. Pride in Place CCSJ was donated its main academic building from the Standard Oil Company (now, BP) in 1973. The building itself, however, is far older CCSJ Alumni gathering with with many features still original to the building. Take, for example, President Amy McCormack in the vibrant orange carpet. Upgrades are happening, though, at a Litchfield, AZ on March 4, 2018. steady pace. Stan Drozdz, ‘66 (left), “We have to spend our dollars wisely and invest in facility upgrades that Fran Drozdz, ‘67, Name (First, will give us a sense of pride in place,” McCormack explained. Last), and President Amy Mc- Cormack at White Sox– McCormack’s process is calculated and strategic—where will dollars Padres spring training game. have the most impact on the College family’s self-environments, both workplace and educational, so that they feel proud about where they work and learn. Some upgrades this year included window installments, One year down with many more to go—it has been an invigorating paint repairs, and bathroom upgrades. start for McCormack in the marathon of leading Calumet College of St. Joseph and building “Wave Momentum.” With great support, however, Also on the docket are the long talked about residence halls. The con- it’s a marathon that she is up to, for sure. “Spending time with faculty cept McCormack envisions—a “living and learning community”—in- and staff and seeing their committment to students and helping them corporates a service component as a part of residency, further meeting succeed, it’s really amazing, especially for a small college,” McCormack the needs of the community and providing more experiential learning said. “We have some fantastic people.” The College hired 11 new people opportunities for students. this year, as well, all of whom bring talent and will compliment the current faculty and staff. “It’s not a dorm, and it’s not just a residence hall. It’s really a living and learning community, where students who live on campus would have a When she hits the wall of fatigue, running on empty, she always returns commitment to a certain number of services hours to their community,” to the students. Thinking of and engaging with them fuels her. “The McCormack explained. “I’m pretty committed to this concept, and, potential I can see in our students and the College is breathtaking,” she obviously, I have a lot of fundraising to do to make that happen.” imparted. “I can only imagine how my life will continue to be changed and touched.” Over the next six months, as she finalizes the concept, McCormack hopes to find community partners who share her vision. Ideally, break- ing ground will occur in 2019 with a grand opening of the living and learning center in 2020. 7 Alumni Magazine Alumni Spotlight

Class of 2018 Indiana Senator Addresses Graduates

“It is inevitable that we will encounter hardships. But, it is our faith that sustains us...Hold onto your faith and believe that you will avelengtbe transformed.” h As an alumnus of CCSJ, Indiana giving. He also helped launch the company’s IN-POWER Youth Mentor- ing Program in 2010, which is a four-year, college- and career-readiness State Senator Eddie Melton, Class of program that pairs high school students with NIPSCO employees to 2017, admires the College’s roots in faith and the belief that education prepare them for community citizenship and to build confidence in their must encompass the whole person—the heart and the mind—and be futures and that of the community. incorporated in the fullness of peoples’ lives. In his own life, earning his degree in Organization Management in 2017 meant being an example This is important to Senator Melton. He is passionate about mentoring for his four children and a role model for the youth whom he mentors. and providing guidance to youth through education. He first started mentoring youth working with Edgewater Systems while he attended CCSJ. Senator Melton addressed the new graduates: “CCSJ has provided you Prior to his work with NIPSCO, he managed the mentoring programs for with a foundation and has equipped you for an ever-changing world,” a the Legacy Foundation as Community Initiative Officer. world that needs them now more than ever to face, reimagine, and solve complex issues in society like poverty and hunger and to “speak truth” to Senator Melton also established his own mentoring and tutoring program, power. called Red Karpet Achievement, early in his career. He’s mentored students in Gary and East Chicago elementary schools through Obama’s “No “As leaders, we have a moral obligation to seek social justice for those Child Left Behind” initiative, and he’s helped transition kids out of the Lake whose voices are silenced,” Senator Melton insisted. Senator Melton County Juvenile Court System. represents Indiana’s 3rd District, which includes Gary, Merrillville, Hobart, Lake Station, Crown Point, and New Chicago. He is the young- “I always want to be someone that my peers and youth can reach out to or est state senator and knows the positive, lasting impact he can have. He look up to as an advisor or champion, someone who can help them accom- seeks to serve the community and desires to make change, to move the plish their goals,” Senator Melton shared. In serving others, changing his State forward in education, and to advocate for people’s welfare and community, and mentoring youth, he found fulfillment in life, his purpose. well-being. To the Class of 2018 graduates, Senator Melton reiterated the importance “We have families out there who have jobs and are employed, but we of faith in their lives. “With faith and hard work, you will begin to see your have more who are barely making it—elderly on fixed incomes, veterans life manifest into your purpose,” he concluded. “I challenge you to build and disabled—who should have better support,” Senator Melton shared up or establish your faith, live out your purpose, and serve your commu- with Wavelength. “I want to be very intentional in focusing on these is- nity like never before.” sues and addressing poverty in 2019.” Senator Melton’s hometown is Gary, IN. He lives in the community he serves and recognizes its diverse constituency. He gives attention to each President Amy community and has developed working relationships with the districts’ McCormack with leaders to understand and address concerns on a state level. He also Indiana State stays very involved in the community, as well, because “some of the best Senator Eddie legislation comes from hearing the ideas of the people,” he said, “being Melton, Class open to and really listening to them.” of 2017. In addition to serving on the Senate, Senator Melton works for NIPSCO as the manager of Corporate Citizen and Employee Involvement. He leads the company’s corporate citizenship strategies and charitable 8 Alumni Magazine Calumet College of St. Joseph Board of Trustees Expands

In July 2018, the Calumet College of St. Joseph Board of Trustees welcomed Alumni David Gladish, Class of ‘91, and Gail Beloff, four new members, two of whom are Class of ‘03, join CCSJ’s Board of Trustees alumni: David Gladish, Class of ’91, and Gail Beloff, Class of ’03. While Gladish and Beloff may be new to the Board, they are both well-acquainted with and strong supporters of the College and its mission. Gladish has been a part of the College’s Paralegal Program Advisory Board and has taught Legal Writing and Research I & II as an adjunct faculty member for nearly two decades. He has regular- ly attended the Trustees’ Scholarship Gala and has hosted a number of gatherings at his Munster home in support of the College. “David [Gladish] brings energy and a commitment to the College to enhance our fundraising ef- valedictorian of forts as well as introduce us to many individuals and businesses that might become friends of the institution,” said Chairman of the Board Larry Meyers. “He is a good thinker and will add to our the Class of 2018 is Erwin strong civic minded and social justice guided board.” Herman Krackow. Krackow is from Bogata, Columbia. Graduating Summa Cum Laude, Gladish graduated from CCSJ with cum laude honors in 1991 and earned his Juris Doctor from he received a Bachelor of Science Degree Valparaiso University School of Law in 1995. He is a Board Certified Civil Trial Specialist, in Business Management. He is also the licensed to practice law in the States of Indiana and Illinois. He currently maintains his legal prac- recipient of the International Student Business tice as the Law Office of David Gladish, P.C., in Highland. Highly rated by his peers in both legal Management Award and was a member of the ability and ethical standards, he has achieved professional excellence in advocating for individuals CCSJ tennis team. and families in civil cases. Among his awards and recognitions, Gladish has received membership in the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and lifetime membership in the Million Dollar Advocates Having a deep passion for sports, languages, Forum. He was also the recipient of the College’s Brother Gerard Von Hagel Alumni Award and traveling, Erwin was able to find fulfill- in 2013. ment for all three at Calumet College of St. Joseph. The support, he said, from the CCSJ Also an accomplished professional, Beloff brings with her over 35 years of experience in the gam- faculty was outstanding. ing industry, having held various roles with casinos and casino operators, such as Harrah’s East Chicago, Las Vegas Hilton, ITT Sheraton-Caesars World, Hollywood Casino-Sands AC, and Bally Technologies (Scientific Games). Currently, she serves as IT consultant with Boyd Gaming PMO. “They always seemed to open another Her focuses are project management, process standardization, change management, and training door for me. I am grateful for all and operational support. She models top performance and always strives for excellence. For her the people whom I met throughout this professional accomplishments, Beloff was presented with one of the Great Women of Gaming’s four-year journey. Each one of them Proven Leader Awards in 2014. left a special mark on my personal “Gail [Beloff] is committed to faith-based education and points to CCSJ and her experience here and professional development.” as the reason she is where she is today,” Meyers said. “Her education has opened many opportunities, and she would like to ‘give back.’” Earning her bachelor’s degree in Organization Management from CCSJ is Beloff’s greatest personal accomplishment—she graduated in 2003 as Valedictorian, summa cum laude honors, at the age of 42. The Board of Trustees is pleased to have Gladish and Beloff along with Lynn Elkins and Guy Mason, the two other new members to the Board. Elkins is currently the CEO of The American Group, Inc. in Lansing, IL, and Mason is a real estate executive with experience negotiating and closing complex transactions. They will all serve and support the College well. 9 Alumni Magazine Mission & Ministry

Together Better

As the only Catholic institution of higher learning in Northwest Indiana, Calumet Col- lege of St. Joseph serves an essential role in Catholic education. Over the past year, the Office of Mission and Ministry has begun to define and build upon that role. “Our mission across curriculum is certainly impacting faculty and students internally,” President Amy McCormack expressed. “Being able to expand our reach externally, I’ve started to think about Catholic education from kindergarten through college and to work collaboratively [with the Diocese of Gary and Catholic high schools] to serve their needs.” Director of Mission Effectiveness Fr. Kevin Scalf, C.PP.S., agreed, explaining that the College’s joint efforts with the Diocese of Gary and Catholic high schools will cultivate better relationships. “The College is invested in the Diocese and wants to stay invested,” he said. “It stands to reason that the more intentional we are, the stronger we are together. Reciprocity will animate our partnershipavelengt in a new way.” h To that end, Dr. McCormack’s and Fr. Scalf’s efforts for the year have centered on strengthening the College’s partnerships with the Diocese and the three Catholic high schools in the area: Andrean High School in Merrillville, Bishop Noll Institute in Ham- mond, and Marquette Catholic High School in Michigan City. In the first semester, they not only met with Bishop Donald Hying, but also sat down with the high schools’ administration to assess their needs and tour the schools. An education summit was then held to discuss these needs as a group, and together, they established a number of goals. 1. Being present to and promoting each other—Sophomores from the high schools will be invited on CCSJ’s campus every fall to give them a phenomenal and impactful “college experience,” touring the College, meeting professors, and really seeing what CCSJ is all about. 2. Increasing dual credit options—High school juniors and seniors will have the opportunity to enroll in college level courses in any course as long as prerequisites are met to earn credit prior to entering college. These college credits may transfer to any college or university the student chooses to attend as well. 3. Providing “101” sessions—These sessions will cover general information for high school students and parents regarding the college application process, such as filing FAFSA and applying for scholarships. They will be hosted by the Catholic high schools and presented by CCSJ representatives. 4. Providing professional development—CCSJ faculty from all departments will conduct workshops and make content resources available for the high schools’ teachers. Topics will include best teaching strategies, methods for incorporating the use of technology in the classroom, and many more. These four goals are equally important to the College, Diocese, and Catholic high schools in thinking of the big picture of Catholic education from kindergarten through college. They are mutually beneficial and absolutely attainable. “We wanted to start off small, so we could accomplish these goals and be successful. That way, they can build,” Fr. Scalf said.

The Office of Mission and Ministry at CCSJ advances the Catholic identity and Precious Blood heritage of the only Catholic college in Northwest Indiana by supporting the integration of learning, faith, and service through a broad array of programs that engage students, 10 faculty, staff, College leadership, and alumni in the understanding and practice of our religious identity, values, and commitments. Experiential learning makes a difference in students’ lives and educa- The HR/Business Club also brought in guest speakers to speak with tion. Incorporating firsthand opportunities into academic coursework students. This year, they were Attorney Dana Rifai of Burke Costanza and co-curricular programs, the College creates a dynamic and impactful and Carberry, LLP, who talked about immigration and student residency, learning environment. These direct experiences prepare students to not and Keith Davison of Ameriprise Financial, who shared information only be career ready but also be well-rounded individuals. about investing and careers in Financial Management. “My prospective career path is in finances and investments,” said junior Nicco Vicari, HR/ More than that, experiential learning positively impacts countless Business Club co-president. “Hearing about it straight from [a financial people’s lives in the community, as well, in engaging students in service advisor], I started to enjoy it even more than I had previously.” projects, internships, and outreach programs with local businesses and organizations. This past year, students were involved in many ways. Security Assessments for the School City of Whiting Stewardship at FAITH Farms Graduate students of the Public Safety Administration’s Capstone course Dr. Joan Crist’s Social Justice Class got their hands dirty (literally!) conducted security audits for the School City of Whiting. Analyzing at FAITH Farms in Gary, IN. They weeded and helped pick and haul the schools K through 12 interior and exterior systems, including door, fresh produce during the harvest season. These seemingly simple tasks electric, surveillance, intercom, emergency systems and more, they had depth to them. “In class, students are asked to think about the role provided a complete (and free) risk assessment for each. “We looked to of religion in today’s world,” Crist said. “Many have said it’s a thing of ensure school safety and security and used a proactive approach to assess the past, but it’s not. Religion is alive and all around us—it’s a vibrant the needs of the school,” Dr. David Plebanski, who taught the Capstone part of development and community, and this is a way for students to course, said. “We presented it to the school system and administration see that.” The urban farm at Progressive Community Church provides to make sure they are aware of all of it.” Students’ presentations were food year-round for families in need and always has an abundance of evaluated as a group and individually by not only Plebanski but also hands-on projects. Homeland Security. The experience provided real application and a vote of confidence for students, Plebanski added. Recommendations for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana Desila Rosetti’s Strategic Management students led 18 focus groups in “We need more opportunities seven weeks at six Boys and Girls Clubs locations. They learned how to like these. They provide hands- act as managers, to hold others accountable, and to apply project management tools in order to facilitate focus groups, synthesize data, write on experience and showcase to business reports, and prepare and present their recommendations for improvement. “The Boys and Girls Clubs [leadership] was overwhelmed the public our CCSJ education by the quality of work,” Rosetti commented, adding that the scope of and our talented students.” the project was equivalent to a $20,000 project, and it was done for free by CCSJ students. “The students were excited about the opportunity to present their work, and they did very well. I am very proud of them.” Experiential learning is characteristic of CCSJ’s education. It serves the community and helps students bridge their academic experience with career and outreach opportunities. “We need more opportunities like Exposure to Leaders: “Chat with the Chief” these,” President Amy McCormack commented. “They provide hands- Outings and On-Campus Guest Speakers on experience and showcase to the public our CCSJ education and our Students of the HR/Business Club sat down for an hour-long chat with talented students.” CEO’s of three local businesses: Mike Schrage of Centier Bank, Rick Urschel of Urschel Laboratories, and Steve Albanese of Albanese Candy Factory. “It was really interesting to hear about their lives, what drove If you would like to invite CCSJ students to participate in an experiential learning them into their industry, their secrets to success, and why their business opportunity like an internship, service learning, or outreach project, please contact is one of the top in Northwest Indiana,” noted junior Chaire Schapker, the Alumni Office at [email protected]. HR/Business Club co-president. “They all said how much the employees and their happiness mattered to them and their business.” This year was the Club’s first round of “Chat with the Chief ” outings, but several more are on the calendar for 2018-2019. 11 Frank Schilling George Carberry accepts the 2018 receives the St. Augusto Flores Jr. receives the Br. Gerard Corporate Leadership Award for Burke Joseph the Worker Von Hagel Alumni Award for 2018. Costanza & Carberry LLP. Award for 2018. Signature Event Exceeds Expectations Entering her first Gala as president, Dr. Amy McCormack welcomed both guests and honorees on Saturday, April 28, 2018, for the 53rd An- nual Trustee’s Scholarship Gala at the Center for Visual and Performing Arts in Munster, IN. “I feel privileged to be the president of Calumet College,” McCormack said, her voice animated with the passion she’s displayed ever since she took over on campus. “What I love about these events is that everyone comes together for the common good. Just like in sports, it isn’t always about the win, but what you can do together.” This year’s Gala was certainly a “win.” Raising over $75,000, it had the support of every member of the Board of Trustees and included an event program book that featured pictures and profiles of the students and award winners in attendance. Also new to the evening were the students who spoke of their experiences at CCSJ before introducing one of the three guests of honor. “My goals of obtaining a college degree would have remained dreams if it were not for CCSJ,” said junior Kenneth Conde. Senior Mel Pabon credited the school for her academic and future success. “I know that what I have learned and gained while here at CCSJ will carry me through my lifetime,” she said. “Because of my scholarship support, I will have the confidence to take my place on the thin blue line with my sisters and brothers in law enforcement.” Student Kellyn (Surname), too, has thrived at CCSJ and gained confidence in her future. “Because of the people I have met here, my life going forward will be built upon a better understanding of who I am and what my dreams are....I owe this life changing transformation to CCSJ.” Award winners this year were Frank Schilling, who received the St. Joseph the Worker Award; George Carberry, who accepted the Corporate Leadership Award on behalf of Burke Costanza and Carberry, LLP; and Augusto Flores Jr., who was honored with the Br. Gerard Von Hagel Alumni Award. “The [Alumni] Award means a lot to me,” Flores said. “Attending college was something that I always wanted to do, especially because no one else in my family ever received a college degree.” Earning his bachelor’s in Criminal Justice in 1995 fulfilled a longtime promise Flores had made to his parents and helped tremendously in his career. Officially retired now, Flores served as Chief of Police for the East Chicago Police Department twice: once from 1985-1990, then again from 2009-2012. His career, he said, was “a rich and rewarding experience,” one for which he’s eternally grateful. Flores continues to show the spirit of stewardship and service through an outreach effort that he and his wife, Roberta, began called “Police Bible Ministry.” Together, they distribute custom-inscribed Bibles to officers across Northwest Indiana. “Police officers are very susceptible to hardships like divorce, physical pain, and mental and emotional stress,” Flores noted in speaking with Wavelength. “I knew these guys would benefit from being exposed to the Word of God. Just like it helped me through heart surgery and difficulties in my life.” So far, the Flores’ have handed out roughly 400 bibles to officers in seven police departments, including East Chicago, St. John, Whiting, Griffith, Highland, Dyer, and Lake Station. Frank Schilling, president of Schillings—a family-owned, residential construction company, which spans three generations—also exemplifies service and stewardship. He enjoys working alongside his family and employees and contributing to the company’s success. One widely- known success is The Shrine of Christ’s Passion in St. John, IN. This, Schilling calls, “his most glorifying project,” as it was built with deep faith and trust in God. As a corporate leader, Burke Costanza & Carberry, LLP, undertakes leadership roles both in law and litigation matters, as well as in the community. The firm’s attorneys participate in bar association events, education seminars, and other activities committed to improving the quality of life in Northwest Indiana. “Every business has a culture,” Mr. Carberry said. “We believe in fully participating in everything we do, including what us Catholics call charity. We’d like to thank Calumet College of St. Joseph for honoring us with such an award.” Thank you to all our sponsors, supporters, and attendees. A special thanks to the Gala Committee, Board of Trustees, students, and event staff 12 for helping to make it a memorable and successful evening! Alumni Magazine Crimson Wave Athletics

Crimson Wave Steps Into National Spotlight

Demetrius Banks Roger Malonda

here was a lot to celebrate after a remarkable 2017-2018 season for the Crim- son Wave. Front and center were the track and field program and the men’s Olivia Askew Tbowling team. They both had historic seasons. Three players from track and field program made it to the NAIA Indoor National Championships. Senior Olivia Askew punched her ticket to Pitts- burg, Kan., via the 400-meter dash. She finished her heat in fourth place with a time of 58.98, good enough for a 15th place finish. Robert Davis avelength in the long jump event registered a distance of 6.85 meters in his first attempt, but fouled on the next two runs, leaving him to claim a respectable 11th place finish. Roger Malonda qualified in three individual events, competed in two. He missed the finals in the men’s mile by .11 seconds in his first competition. For the 3,000 meter run, a race that Malonda came into seeded tenth, he turned in a time of 8:39.01. This mark secured him seventh place, a podium finish, and the title of first All American in school history for a track sport. Moving to their outdoor season, the track and field team rounded out their historic year by sending two more athletes to the national meet, this time in Gulf Shores, Ala. Askew extended her career by one race, qualifying for the 200-meter dash. Her time of 24.81seconds locked her in for 5th place in her heat, and 15th overall in a field of 32 runners. The sub-25 second time was fast enough for Askew to claim yet another Crimson Wave school record. Joining Askew in Alabama was Demetrius Banks, appearing in his first ever national meet with the high jump. For his performance, he was named tenth best in the country. Demetrius sailed over the initial bar, clearing the 1.97m mark in his first attempt. He cleared the 2.02m level, after two failed attempts; unfortunately, in the third round, the 2.05m height proved to be too much.

Men’s bowling appeared on the national stage in mid-April, visiting the USCB-ITC national championship for the 12 straight season. The team performance turned out less than desired results, losing back to back matches that led to their elimination only two wins away from the title game. Fortunately, there were two very strong Wave competi- tors still alive. After Jeffery Holden defeated teammate Tyler James in singles competition to reach the finals, Kenneth Ryan from Robert Morris University was all that stood in the way of the ultimate individual collegiate crown. Holden got down early, but was able to storm back, putting pressure on Ryan. Unfortunately, the RMU bowler was up to the challenge however, and took the crown 217-191, leaving Holden as the 2018 USCB ISC Men’s National Runner Up.

Coaches Corner: New Wave Rolls In Head Coach Kelly Greer, who has served as the women’s volleyball Andrew Morgan coach, will become the head coach for the men’s program as well. Kelly Greer Mis’ Mrak Elderkin Ferguson Mis’ Mrak, who was brought in to take control as head coach for both the men’s and women’s soccer programs, will look to continue the recent success of the men’s team and quickly turn around the women’s squad. Andrew Elderkin has been tasked with turning the men’s golf program into a squad that will once again challenge the CCAC championship. Lastly, Competitive Cheer has been added as the 19th sport offered at CCSJ. The 2018-19 season will be the inaugural campaign for Head Coach Morgan Ferguson.

For up-to-the-minute Crimson Wave sports news, visit ccsjathletics.com or download the CCSJ Athletics App on Google Play or the iTunes store. You can also follow CCSJ Athletics on social media on Facebook, @CCSJAthletics on Twitter and @crimsonwaveathletics on Instagram. 13 Alumni Magazine

avelengAh What’sWhat’s NewsNews withwith You?You? Class h Notes avelengt

Promotion at work? Retirement? Family celebrating a milestone? Share your exciting news with us. >> Let’s celebrate together! Scott Allen, B.S. ‘06 was recently Matt Jackson, B.S. ‘17 was accepted into the School of named Educator of the Year by the Osteopathic Medicine at Campbell University. Whiting-Robertsdale Chamber of Commerce. Scott joined the Wayne James B.S. ‘14 was faculty of Nathan Hale Elementary appointed IUPD Chief Diversity in Whiting in 2007. Among a host Officer. In this new capacity, of activities, he also serves as the he will be working to ensure after school Elementary, Middle and diverse and inclusive recruit- High School Drama Club Sponsor/ ment, training, promotion and Coach. His passion for teaching and community engagement. He will his productions are legendary. provide leadership on diversity issues to all IUPD divisions while continuing his role as chief of police for IUPD-Northwest. Kristen Ashby, B.S. ‘15 completed her first year of the doctorate occupational therapy program at Bay Path University William Paterson, M.S. ‘07 was promoted to chief of police in Boston. and second-in-command for the Lake County Sheriff’s Department.

Mark Ashmann, B.A. ‘78 & B.S. ‘95 is enriching and shaping Janet Sienicki, B.S. ‘82 is blessed to have exchanged vows lives of students as the ESL aide at Highland Middle School. He with the man she loves, Joe Kern, on June 30, 2018, surrounded taught for 22 years at Johnston Elementary School in Highland. by her dad, children, and many family and friends.

Jeffrey Balon, B.S. ‘12 was named Police Chief of the Valparai- Dion Smith, Sr., B.S. ‘03 & M.S. ‘15 has pubilshed his book, so Police Department. He began his duties on August 18, 2017. “Life and Times of Dasism Lord,” on August 1, 2018. This true story details his life-turnaround from escaping a thug and drug Graham Federico, B.S. ‘17 has been accepted into medical life to becoming a businessman, professor, and motivational school at West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine. speaker, who helps others create the best lives for themselves.

John Gruszka, M.S. ‘09 was named commander of the staff Jillian Van Volkenburgh, B.S. ‘01 enriches the community services division by Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez, Jr. through her art. In August 2017, she was commissioned to paint a mural and beautify the Erie-Lackawanna trail in Merrillville. Angela Hughes, B.A. ‘11 and her husband David welcomed their fourth child, a son they named Viktor Thomas Hughes, Submit your class notes, news, and/ or on January 30, 2018. > photos to Ester Diaz: [email protected]. > 14 + In Memoriam upcoming • Events • “I am the Resurrection and the Life; whoever believes in me even if he dies, he will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” –John 11:25 October 1-6, 2018 2018 Crimson Wave Allan Bajda, Class of ‘82, age 59, of Whiting, IN, on June 19, 2017. Homecoming Gregory Bieda, Class of ‘74, age 64, of Lansing, IL, on September 27, 2017.

Stanley J. Burczyk, Class of ‘75, age 67, of Hammond, IN, on August 24, 2017. November 7, 2018 Laura M. Burgess, Class of ‘89, age 87, of Highland, IN, on February 20, 2018. Alumni Association Deborah “Debi” Buttram, Class of ‘10, age 64 of Crown Point, IN on August 24, 2017. Annual Meeting Gilberto “Gil” Cantu Jr., Class of ‘78, age 64, of Indianapolis, IN, on August 17, 2017. Helen M. (Howe) Dorsey, Class of ’98 Valedictorian, age 71, of Hammond, IN, on February 14, 2018. November 10, 2018 Frank F. Essig, Class of ‘92, age 75, of Portage, IN, on January 6, 2018. 2nd Annual Mary Anne Huss, Class of ‘77, age 74 of East Chicago, IN, on October 22, 2017. Crimson & Gray Night Carol M. Johnson, Class of ’77, age 61 of St. John, IN, on July 23, 2017. Madeline M. Koenig, Class of ‘80, age 93, of Munster, IN, on November 24, 2017. April 27, 2019 Dennis L. Marschke, Class of ‘82, age 73, of Valparaiso, IN, on July 13, 2017. 54th Annual Trustees’ Louis J. Mazzoni, Class of ‘84, age 90, of Crown Point, IN, on March 15, 2018. Scholarship Gala Joseph Gregory Pacheco, Class of ’10, age 41 of Cedar Lake, IN, on January 9, 2018. Lisa Marie Percak, Class of ‘84, age 54 of Hammond, IN, on September 18, 2017. Thomas Puplava, Class of ‘66, age 73, of Whiting, IN, on April 6, 2018. Judith F. Sadler, Class of ‘00, age 68, of Munster, IN, on November 1, 2017. Tyler McCoy, Class of ‘16, age 27, of Lafayette, IN, on January 19, 2018. www.ccsj.edu May They Rest In Peace Calumet College of St. Joseph Office of Institutional Advancement 2400 New York Avenue Whiting, IN 46394

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