WINTER 2012 Grand Valley magazine

Students are fierce about rugby, 50 other sports clubs Contents GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE Vo lume 11, Issue 3, WINTER 2012

Features 14 Sports clubs turn heads Newcomers, seasoned veterans comprise 50 teams on campus

17 Finding your path and career passion Unique tool helps guide, challenge students through college 20 Moving beyond stereotypes 2012 Year of Interfaith Understanding 24 Students engage in life-changing research on Medical Mile

2 WINTER 2012 | www.gvsu.edu Editorial Staff Mary Eilleen Lyon, M.S., ’05 Assistant Vice President for

News and Information Services, Executive Editor Michele Coffill Contents Editor and Writer Dottie Barnes, M.S., ’05 Contributing Editor and Writer Nate Hoekstra, B.S., ’06 Contributing Editor and Writer Mary Isca Pirkola Contributing Editor and Writer Leah Zuber, B.A. ’10 Contributing Editor and Writer Bernadine Carey-Tucker, B.A., ’99 Photography Services Manager and Contributing Photographer Elizabeth Lienau, B.S. ’05 Photography Coordinator Amanda Pitts, B.S. ’05, M.S. ’10 Photographer Abigayle Sloan ’07 Alumni Editor Sherry Bouwman Editorial and Circulation Assistant Matthew E. McLogan Vice President for University Relations Design Staff Jacqueline Cuppy, B.F.A., ’87 Creative Director Christine Parkes-Schaw, B.S., ’06 Graphic Designer Contact Us Grand Valley Magazine is a publication of Departments News & Information Services. Comments and suggestions are welcome. E-mail [email protected] 4 Letters & Books Write Grand Valley Magazine Grand Valley State University 5 Campus News 1 Campus Drive, 133 LMH Allendale, MI 49401 10 Arts Grand Valley State University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity institution 11 Athletics

12 See the entire magazine online at Donor Impact www.gvsu.edu/gvmagazine. 27 Photo Feature Connect with students, faculty, staff and alumni 28 Q&A | Jeff Chamberlain through Grand Valley’s official social media channels. On the cover: photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker 30 Research The women’s rugby team is one of 50 sports club teams on campus. Read more on page 14. 31 Sustainability On these pages: photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker Work on the Mary Idema Pew Library Learning and 32 Alumni News Information Commons continues through the winter. The library on the Allendale Campus and the new L. William Seidman Center on the Pew Grand Rapids 38 Off the Path Campus are set to open in 2013.

The Grand Valley Magazine is printed on FSC-certified paper manufactured with electricity in the form of renewable energy (wind, hydro, and biogas). The cover includes a minimum of 10% postconsumer recovered fiber.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 3 BOOKs

Bookmarks Looking for a good book? Check out these recommendations from Grand Valley faculty and staff members:

Convergence Culture: Where Old and In Defense of Food: An Eater’s Big History and the Future of New Media Collide Manifesto Humanity (New York University Press, 2006) (Penguin Press, 2008) (Wiley-Blackwell, 2010) by Henry Jenkins by Michael Pollan by Fred Spier Kim Roberts, associate professor of film “I recently saw a magazine ad for frozen Craig Benjamin, associate professor and video, enjoys the way Jenkins provides waffles, with smiling children and the of history, said this little book by one of examples of how consumers of media are words: ‘Nutrition has never had a tastier the world’s finest big historians offers a leaving behind their passive ways and opting disguise,’” said Jo Miller, associate professor breathtaking overview of the history of the to engage in the story worlds being created of English. “I thought of this book, in which cosmos, Earth, and humanity in just 250 through a variety of media. “He touches Pollan exposes the role of ‘nutritionism,’ an pages. “By placing human history in the on several facets of how communities ideology that has transformed food in our context of the great sweep of cosmic are built around these worlds and what it culture.” Miller said the author encourages history, Spier is able to show us where means to grassroots activism, media literacy, people to think of food as a delivery system we have come from, where we are now, corporate branding, politics and popular for nutrients, rather than as a social occasion and what the future might hold for culture,” she said. “He writes in a style that is or an important part of cultural identity. This humans, our planet and the universe,” approachable and fun, whereas other books ideology strips food of its important social Benjamin said. on this complex topic can be overwhelming role in our lives that leaves us, Pollan writes, and intimidating. It made me want to jump vulnerable to the whims of food experts, in and join up!” who have things to sell us. Special order these books at University Bookstore and receive a 20 percent discount. An archive of past Bookmarks is now online at www.gvsu.edu/gvmagazine/books. The website also offers a page to submit a book for recommendation and a listing Contact: [email protected] of previous Community Reading Project books. or (616) 331-3521.

Land purchase will expand health care programs

Grand Valley purchased workers, and 5,000 students land in downtown Grand currently study in one of Rapids for $3.25 million to the university’s health care allow for future expansion of programs. CHS opened in its health care programs. 2003. It is full to capacity, The Board of Trustees and officials said additional approved the purchase in laboratories and classrooms November. The 1.6 acre site are needed to accommodate is adjacent to the university’s enrollment demand. Cook-DeVos Center for Health Officials are working to Sciences on Michigan Street, identify which health-related Grand Rapids’ “Medical programs would be placed Mile.” Rockford Development in the new building on the Group will manage the site Lafayette-Hastings site, until the university is ready which is bordered by Hastings photo by Amanda Pitts to begin construction. and Trowbridge streets and Students in the Radiologic and Imaging program work in a lab in the Grand Valley is the region’s Lafayette and Prospect avenues. Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences. Grand Valley purchased land No. 1 provider of health care that will allow for expansion of health care programs.

4 WINTER 2012 | www.gvsu.edu CAMPUS NEWS

Aging population dominates health care forecast

Grand Valley released its Hari Singh, professor of third edition of “Health Check: economics, said the report Analyzing Trends in West shows a significant increase Michigan” on January 5. The in the number of individuals report, supported by a grant in the 45-64 and the over 65 from by Blue Cross Blue Shield age groups, and a drop in the of Michigan and Blue Care number of individuals in the 18- Network, identifies significant 34 age group in West Michigan. health-related issues facing Singh said if the trend continues, Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon and the community will face a Allegan counties. substantial burden of chronic Paul Isely, professor and health problems and, as a result, chair of economics, said an increase in health care demographics is one of the expenditures. biggest stories coming out of the “The good news is we can report. “The aging population change some of the bad trends is one reason why we’re seeing by modifying our behavior,” said increases in obesity, which is Singh. “For example, exercising leading to increases in diabetes would reduce obesity, which and asthma,” said Isely. “The would bring down health care health care needs of the baby costs. Another focus is low birth photo by Adam Bird boom generation will change weight babies. These babies Paul Isely, professor and chair of economics, leads the audience dramatically.” tend to have a lifetime of health through the third area Health Check, which analyzes health care trends Isely said caring for the issues. Better prenatal care in West Michigan. large number of people with would reduce health care costs asthma and diabetes totals about significantly.” nurses are being trained than $800 million, more than the Other challenges include a needed. On the positive side, View the report online compensation costs of the continued nursing shortage. the report shows that cancer at tinyurl.com/7d4ql3a. entire furniture industry in The report shows that each year rates, strokes, heart disease and West Michigan. in West Michigan, 900 fewer smoking are all down.

GVSU remembers many campus contributions of Meijer

People at Grand Valley and in A member of the Advisory Michigan mourned the passing Cabinet for the Grand Valley of Frederik “Fred” Meijer, who University Foundation, Meijer died on November 25. was a university supporter since Meijer, chairman emeritus the early days of the college. He of Meijer Inc., was a successful generously gave to help create businessman and generous the Meijer Public Broadcast philanthropist who cared deeply Center and Frederik Meijer about the Grand Rapids and Honors College. See more on West Michigan community. page 28. Throughout his life he made After donating land to help many contributions that helped create the Meijer Campus in local medical institutions, Holland, he became a member educational facilities and nature of the “Land Barons.” Under preserves. He was 91. the leadership of Richard M. “Mr. Meijer’s generosity, from DeVos, this small group of the beginning of Grand Valley’s philanthropists helped secure history, has been critical to our land and funding for expansion Frederik ‘Fred’ Meijer, pictured at the WGVU studios, was a tremendous success and has helped make us of Grand Valley’s Grand Rapids supporter of Grand Valley and the West Michigan community. He died on the university that we are today,” campaign. November 25 at age 91. said President Thomas J. Haas.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 5 CAMPUS NEWS

Meijer Foundation gifts famed ‘Portraits of American Poets’ to Grand Valley

A poetry-inspired gift to Grand Valley from the Meijer Foundation was unveiled following the Fall Arts Celebration Poetry Night in October. “Portraits of American Poets,” is a series of 28 paintings by Michigan native Jack Richard Smith, who now resides in Taos, New Mexico. He is widely regarded as one of the most powerful contemporary painters working in the country. The artist and a number of poets in the series were on hand for the unveiling. The series, which is on exhibit in the Eberhard Center, includes portraits of U.S. Poet Laureates Ted Kooser, Billy Collins and Charles Simic; Noble Laureate Derek Walcott; and Michigan- born poets Jim Harrison and

Dan Gerber, among others. photo by Dianne Carroll-Burdick The collection of 6-by-6-inch President Thomas J. Haas and Marcia Haas look at paintings of notable poets by Jack Richard Smith, at right. oil on copper paintings was The series of paintings, gifted to Grand Valley by the Meijer Foundation, was unveiled October 21 following first exhibited at the Cornell Poetry Night in the Eberhard Center. Fine Arts Museum at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, Interlochen Arts Academy The artist spent three years to literary America. Spending prior to a 2009 tour to various when he was only 16. As a young traveling across the country the time to sketch, photograph U.S. cities. man he was also encouraged by to the homes and studios of and converse with each one, the Smith, born in Fremont in both Harrison and Gerber to poets he admired because of paintings were done after Smith 1950, began his training at pursue his love of poetry. their important contributions returned to his studio in Taos.

Grand Valley ranked top 20 in world for sustainable practices Representing Grand Valley

Grand Valley ranked 16th evaluate how sustainable they Steve Vander Clay, ’89, for sustainable practices are compared to universities wears a Laker fleece while in an international survey in developed countries. vacationing with family in called the GreenMetric “Our efforts continue to shine, North Carolina. World University Ranking. and now on a global scale,” Do you represent Grand The ranking system was said Norman Christopher, Valley when you travel? developed by faculty members director of the Sustainable If so, send a photo of from Universitas Indonesia and Community Development yourself wearing a Grand allows universities throughout Initiative. “This new recognition Valley T-shirt with a brief the world to compare their can be a platform for many description to Grand Valley efforts in sustainability new discussions, such as our Magazine at gvmagazine@ and environment-friendly partnerships with international gvsu.edu and it may be seen university management. The universities where our in a future publication. system also allows universities students travel to study.” in developing countries to

6 WINTER 2012 | www.gvsu.edu CAMPUS NEWS

Mobile app tracks grades, account balances

Students can access their “We’ve noticed a demand grades and view their class for something like this for a schedule on an iPhone or while,” said Brian Snyder, Android. web programmer in the IT The myGV mobile application, department. “We want to provide a free app launched last semester, an easy and convenient way provides campus news, class for the campus community to schedules, grades, housing retrieve campus information and assignments, and account personal account information.” balances and transactions. Snyder said new features for The framework to get started faculty members include class on the app was provided by lists, students enrolled in each SunGard, a software and class and meal plan balances. information technology Students in Grand Valley’s company that specializes in Mobile Applications and higher education. A team of Services Lab in the School of staff members from Grand Computing and Information Valley’s Information Technology Systems earlier developed the department designed and Laker Mobile app, a free app that developed the features and features news, maps, multimedia Students can access their grades, class schedule and more with a new functions of the app. content and a directory. mobile app developed by the Information Technology department.

Report shows solid return on investment

National and state data show The report has been cited as that Grand Valley continues to a national model for universities excel in the areas of graduation to prove their return on rates, alumni working in investment. Grand Valley Michigan and holding down puts together the report using the cost of a college degree. sourced data that shows the The university issued its fifth university attracts students with Accountability Report at its academic performances in the November 4 Board of Trustees top tier for the state’s public meeting. universities. Highlights from this year’s report:

• Grand Valley’s graduation rate is near the top of the 15 public universities in the state • Of recent graduates who are employed, 84 percent are working in Michigan • In 10 years, Grand Valley’s enrollment has gone up more than 44 percent, with students from every corner of Michigan • Grand Valley’s tuition remains in the bottom half of Michigan’s universities • Grand Valley receives the lowest state funding per student of any of Michigan’s public universities • Grand Valley has the largest share in the growth of degrees The full report can be viewed at granted in Michigan since 2001 www.gvsu.edu/accountability, • The university pumps more than $680 million into the click on “Accountability.” Kent, Ottawa and Muskegon counties

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 7 CAMPUS NEWS

Biggest Laker

Student loses more than 150 pounds using campus resources — by Leah Zuber

Ruben Rodriguez’s life Rodriguez was also concerned making healthy choices from a drastically changed after his about living long enough to see campus meal plan, Rodriguez Favorite healthy father was diagnosed with his niece grow up. “She was 3 lost 156 pounds in 13 months. choices Type 2 diabetes in the summer months old when I decided to A secondary education major of 2010. lose weight. I want to be here for from Holland, Rodriguez Breakfast: Egg whites, one slice of wheat toast Rodriguez weighed more her, and I knew I wouldn’t if I continued to diet and began to than 300 pounds and decided continued to live the way I was,” work out when classes started Mid-morning snack: that he would do all he could he said. and he moved back to campus Protein shake after not to follow in his father’s He immediately began dieting that fall. “One day my roommate workout footsteps. “I was scared for my after his father was diagnosed and I decided to train for a 5K, Lunch: Turkey sandwich life from that point on,” he said. and the results were dramatic. which is when I started using with no dressing or cheese “I was pretty big and I knew With support from family the Rec Center. I used the Dinner: Salad with light it. I thought I was going to be and friends, regular exercise treadmills, track, everything or no dressing the next one diagnosed in routines at Grand Valley’s I could. A month later I my family.” Campus Recreation Center and began lifting weights. When I combined dieting, cardio and weight lifting, the pounds began He cut out fast food and AFTER to drop,” he said. drinks loaded with sugar, and chose to eat salads and healthier meals. “A lot of people think it’s hard to eat healthy on campus, but really there are a lot of healthy options here,” he said. “My favorites are the salads at the Connection, and River Landing in the Kirkhof Center.” Campus Dining offers nutritional information on its website, www.gvsu.edu/ campusdine. Rodriguez said the most challenging part was setting goals each week and sometimes not reaching them. “A lot of friends went out to BEFORE eat and I couldn’t go with them. It was tough to watch other people eating, but I knew it was worth it in the long run,” he said. People wanting to lose weight should do what they want to “If you can only do at the gym and not worry walk on the about what others are doing, treadmill instead Rodriguez said. “If you can only walk on the treadmill instead of of run, by all run, by all means, walk on the means, walk on treadmill. Don’t let anyone bring the treadmill. you down,” he said. Don’t let anyone Today, Rodriguez maintains a healthy weight by working photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker bring you down.” out five days a week at the Ruben Rodriguez, pictured in the Recreation Center, lost more than Recreation Center. He rotates 150 pounds using campus resources and services. The Holland native — Ruben Rodriguez was motivated to change his habits after his father was diagnosed chest and triceps workouts with Type 2 diabetes. At his heaviest, Rodriguez weighed more than with shoulder and biceps sets, 300 pounds. and spends one hour on cardio machines each time.

8 WINTER 2012 | www.gvsu.edu CAMPUS NEWS

King week speakers inspire, encourage campus to act Keynote speakers during than 2 million today, the most of Martin Luther King Jr. any country in the world. Commemoration Week urged Alexander said only a national the campus community to social movement, similar to continue to work for human the civil rights movement of rights and be inspired by King’s the King era, will remedy mass messages as, they said, there is incarceration. much work left to do. In a presentation on January Attorney, professor 16, Bakari Kitwana, author of and civil rights advocate Hip-Hop Activism in the Michelle Alexander gave two Obama Era, drew connections presentations that stemmed between activists from the civil from her book, The New Jim rights era and activists from the Crow, in which she likened hip-hop era. America’s criminal justice Kitwana said the 2008 system to the Jim Crow laws election of President Obama that regulated blacks in the was the first political victory photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker South to second-class citizens. for young people. He projected Michelle Alexander gives a presentation in the Cook-DeWitt Center “The system of mass that political apathy and unrest during Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Week. The author of ‘The incarceration today functions occurred because the young New Jim Crow,’ Alexander said a social movement is needed to stop mass like the systems we supposedly voters who helped elect Obama incarceration in America. left behind years ago,” she said. into office stopped being She projected that the nation’s political activists, although there Kitwana said. “To be inspiring to “We are so rooted in our war on drugs, formalized during is a resurgence in activism with others, the most important thing political and social structures the Reagan administration, led Occupy Wall Street. is to be engaged yourself.” that this will not fade away to the dramatic rise in the prison He suggested to students in Alexander recognized without a radical shift,” she said. population. Over a 30-year the audience that they do not that attempting to overhaul “We need to go back and pick period, she said, the number of need to wait for an invitation America’s criminal justice up where people like Dr. King prisoners quintupled to more to be an activist. “Just jump in,” system is a daunting task. left off.”

Laker baseball team travels to Cuba

You wouldn’t think that a baseball equipment to give coach would be pleased that his to Cuban youth. They played team dropped three games three exhibition games against in a row. the Cuban national team. But when your team travels “Our trip was extremely to a communist country, plays successful,” said head coach against its elite all-star team Steve Lyon, who marks his and represents the university 15th year at Grand Valley this well, you would understand. season. “The people there The Laker baseball were just great and our guys team traveled to Havana, had a great experience on Cuba, in early January on a the playing field and off.” humanitarian mission with The Cuba trip was more photo by Charlie Pryor First Hand Aid, a Grand than two years in the making. Rapids nonprofit organization Laker baseball players pose with players from the Cuban national team Lyon said travel agents first after a game in Havana. Grand Valley played three exhibition games in that brings medical supplies discouraged him because of the Cuba while on a humanitarian trip with First Hand Aid. and aid to Cuba. necessary international flights, The Lakers brought bags of but then Athletic Director Tim Catcher Jared Cowan, a country most people can’t visit over-the-counter medicine, Selgo met officials from First senior from Davison, said and see a culture that most toiletries and other supplies Hand Aid who helped with it was the trip of a lifetime. people can’t see,” he said. to deliver to Cuban clinics and travel licenses and other details. “Not everybody gets to go to a

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 9 ARTS

UICA honors student for arts

advocacy and vision — by Mary Isca Pirkola

Not everybody gets a custom- of the Grand Valley Board of made piece of jewelry designed Trustees who established the in their honor. But then, Amber Kate and Richard Wolters Stout isn’t just anybody. Foundation, which is supportive Stout, who will graduate of nonprofit arts groups; and from Grand Valley in April, is artist Linda LaFontsee, who an art and design major, with has mentored and showcased an emphasis in graphic design many artists at LaFontsee and a minor in non-profit Gallery/Underground Studio. administration. The Women + Stout, a native of Grand the Arts committee at the Urban Rapids, first became involved Institute of Contemporary with ArtWorks as a senior they chose to honor Stout Arts in Grand Rapids, selected at Northview High School. because she represented Stout for a Junior Maven Award “I was so fortunate to be everything they were looking in October because of her selected for the printmaking for in a Junior Maven: her long involvement with an after- group,” said Stout. “It was led history with the ArtWorks school arts program, ArtWorks. by Alynn Guerra, who did program, first as an intern, The Maven Award is given to the 2011 Festival of the Arts then as a lead artist; her innovative women who embody poster.” Stout’s student group dedication to the Avenue for the spirit of an arts advocate and designed and printed banners the Arts; and her continued generously share their creative for a client, the West Michigan involvement with UICA while Her actual award was a vision and wisdom to make Environmental Action Council, actively pursuing a career in unique jewelry design created the community a better place. as part of an emerald ash borer graphic design. The award was by Renee Zettle-Sterling, Previous Mavens have included public awareness campaign. presented at a luncheon that associate professor of art and Kate Pew Wolters, member The UICA committee said highlighted the 10th anniversary design. She created a silver of UICA’s ArtWorks youth pendant with touches of job-training program, for youth gold and a matching pair of interested in creative careers. earrings, as a more youthful “Amber is a student with design than the traditional an exceptionally inquisitive brooch awarded to Mavens. mind,” said Dellas Henke, The Dwelling Place’s Avenue professor of art and design. of the Arts Market has also “She also has a fearlessness to benefited from both intern and try new things, to ‘fail’ even, volunteer efforts by Stout, as she which is why she succeeds managed several community so often. These are qualities events and worked to oversee that are rarely so apparent the entire 2010 operation. in an undergraduate career, While still a student, she also especially at the same time.” served as an arts administration Last summer, Stout returned intern, led tours of exhibitions to the ArtWorks program as at UICA, and worked as a a lead artist to teach graphic student web and graphic design to her own group of 13 designer with the Community young students. Much of their Research Institute in Grand work followed the themes Valley’s Dorothy A. Johnson of “take flight,” “soar” and Center for Philanthropy. “nurture” and were loosely “Amber defies easy related to the ArtWorks distinctions between being program, which was featured locally and globally focused,” at the very luncheon where said Paul Wittenbraker, associate Stout received her award. “The professor of art and design. “She photos by Amanda Pitts experience not only gave me has a deep love of Grand Rapids, Amber Stout received a Junior Maven Award from UICA for her skills, but also a bit of confidence her hometown, but is also commitment to arts in the community. Above is the pendant created for to try printmaking techniques engaged with ideas that resonate Stout by an art and design faculty member. at Grand Valley,” she said. in broad cultural contexts.”

10 WINTER 2012 | www.gvsu.edu ATHLETICS

Laker athletics by the straight Directors’ Cup trophies as top all-around athletic program in numbers Division II

national championships (4 football, 2 soccer and 1 each for women’s 51.2 11 basketball, volleyball, women’s cross country, 6' 8" percent of 531 student women’s indoor track Ben Lanning is athletes have a 3.0 GPA and field, and women’s tallest Laker men’s or higher and will earn outdoor track and field) basketball player academic honors

consecutive GLIAC Presidents’ Cup trophies as conference’s 13 top overall program 5' 2" Jasmine Padin is shortest Laker women’s basketball player; also 5th all-time in total assists (378) 1 university (in Division I, II, III) to win women’s wins (most by any Laker cross country, coach) for softball head indoor and coach Doug Woods in his outdoor track 768 21-year coaching career and field national championships in 1 academic year (2010-2011)

photo by Elizabeth Lienau

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 11 DONOR IMPACT

Making connections, making a difference

When Lakers work together Hungerford, Aldrin, Nichols to connect graduates and they can do anything. No and Carter, PC, and Erickson is their companies in support of one knows that better than a former professor of computer university projects. Individual Grand Valley supporters science at Grand Valley and gifts from alumni and other Dan Carter, ’84, and Carl president and co-founder of Grand Valley supporters within Erickson, who both rallied Atomic Object. They both led the company combine to their respective employees successful Alumni Workplace increase the size of the overall to make a difference for the Connections programs in gift, which is often matched by university and the community. their workplaces last year. the employer. Giving back as a Carter is a partner at The program is designed team allows alumni to relive the school spirit they experienced during their college years, and generate excitement throughout a company or organization.

Hungerford, Aldrin, Nichols and Carter, PC Positive experiences with Seidman College of Business graduates inspired Carter, former employee Kyle Purdy, ’03 and ’08, and Janet Bruner, ’07 and ’08, to give back to the university by creating an “Supporting Alumni Workplace Connections program to benefit the L. Grand Valley is William Seidman Center. like economic Carter asked for a five-year development for commitment from employees, 70 percent of whom are associated Michigan.” with Grand Valley in some way. — Dan Carter, ’84 The company offered to match any gifts raised in the program. Carter stressed the fact that even small gifts can make a difference. “Combined with the gifts of others over five College of Business. years, $2 a paycheck could “Supporting Grand Valley is add up to more than $10,000. like economic development Most of us wouldn’t miss $2 for Michigan,” he said. from each paycheck,” he said. Another reason Carter Atomic Object started the program was to Carl Erickson’s long-standing reconnect with the university relationship with Grand Valley that significantly influenced inspired him to launch an his career and continues to Alumni Workplace Connections influence the West Michigan program to help with the community. More than construction of the Mary $30,000 has been committed Idema Pew Library Learning by the firm and its employees and Information Commons. for the Seidman Center. Erickson was a professor of Carter said he is impressed computing and information Dan Carter, ’84, partner at Hungerford, Aldrin, Nichols and Carter, PC, with the talent he sees systems at Grand Valley for led a successful Alumni Workplace Connections program. coming from the Seidman 10 years before establishing

12 winter 2012 | www.gvsu.edu DONOR IMPACT

Giving Matters Please take our call Grand Valley students are supporting the university and learning critical skills by contacting alumni and parents through the Telephone Outreach Program. Student callers share Grand Valley news, update contact information and identify opportunities to give back to the university. By calling supporters, students learn communication and leadership skills that help them succeed in their careers. You can help them and receive university updates by simply taking their call. For more information about the Telephone Outreach Program, go to www.gvsu.edu/giving/top.

Alumni leadership challenged to action At the Alumni Celebration of Leadership event at Reserve photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker last fall, more than 150 alumni leaders celebrated the past Carl Erickson, president and co-founder of Atomic Object, said about year and discussed the future of Grand Valley. 50 percent of his employees are Grand Valley graduates and that is President Thomas J. Haas, past President Mark A. Murray one reason why it was important to him to give back to the university and President Emeritus Arend D. Lubbers were in attendance as a company. and spoke of how alumni can affect the university. “How you live, and what you give are the most important factors in the Atomic Object, a software design Grand Valley,” he said. university’s future,” Lubbers said. Haas issued a challenge and development company in These two programs raised for alumni to double their support by 2015. The challenge Grand Rapids. He approached nearly $60,000. Carter and was accepted by those present as representatives of alumni his employees with the hope Erickson both said that the leadership. Audio clips of the celebration and photos they would see how they and university is a strong factor in are available online at www.gvsu.edu/giving/events. the company have benefited the West Michigan economy. from Grand Valley. Nearly 50 “Grand Valley’s investment percent of Atomic Object’s in West Michigan is a critical employees are Grand Valley component of the economic graduates. The company also transition our state is going offers internship positions through,” said Erickson. to Grand Valley students. “The university provides February is Matching Erickson said he cares an affordable, high-quality about the relationships he has education and Grand Valley Gift Month with the university and his students tend to stay in You can double the impact of your gift to Grand Valley employees. “I work with smart Michigan. We need smart, by taking advantage of employers who match gifts to and creative people,” Erickson educated young people nonprofit organizations. February is Matching Gift Month said. “I am happy to add a new coming into the workforce.” and a perfect time to find out if your employer participates word — generous — to describe As more Lakers fill the in a match. Employers may match your gift by doubling or the people I work with.” Their leadership ranks at businesses even tripling its value. Some companies even match gifts by generosity was demonstrated and organizations across retirees or spouses/partners. Employer gift matching is an through their collective gift of the country, the opportunity easy, effective means to give back to Grand Valley. $28,000 for the Pew Library. for Alumni Workplace Identify an employer match when giving by visiting Erickson treasures his Connections programs is www.gvsu.edu/give. For more information on whether your relationship with the university growing, which means great company matches gifts, visit www.matchinggifts.com/gvsu. and the opportunities it has things for Grand Valley. provided him and Atomic Object. “I will always have a soft spot in my heart for

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 13 T T SPORTS CLUBS TURN HEADS SPORTS CLUBS TURN HEADS

hey beat teams nature of our students. No one out as many players on the Newcomers, from universities wants to hang up their skates opposing team as possible. seasoned T like Harvard and when they go to college.” There are no specific positions Ohio State and are regional Eric Garvelink, sports like offense or defense, so to veterans and national champions. clubs graduate assistant, speak. “There are people who comprise They are determined, hard- said new clubs are always are better at catching a ball and working and can usually be forming. “There’s something others have rockets for arms and 50 teams found in sweat-soaked gear. for everyone,” he said. can throw harder and longer, so They are the 1,500 “The growing number of we place them strategically on on campus studentsSPORTS who are members new clubs demonstrates CLUBS the court,” said MarkTURN Trippiedi, HEADS of the more than 50 sports students’ anxiousness to vice president of Dodgeball — by Leah Zuber clubs at Grand Valley. get involved on campus.” Club and a broadcasting major. “Many students are making The team took first place their decision to attend Grand Dodgeball at the National College Valley based on opportunities “Head shots guaranteed” Dodgeball Association (NCDA) to continue to play competitive is their slogan and the championship from 2006-2010, sports at a collegiate level,” said players on Grand Valley’s when they beat Division I and Bob Stoll, associate dean of the dodgeball team live by it. Division II dodgeball teams Office of Student Life. “And Founded in 2005, Grand from Michigan State University, they’re staying here because Valley’s Dodgeball Club is a University of Michigan and they can continue to play.” four-time national club others throughout the Midwest. When Stoll joined Grand champion with more than “I love the competitiveness Valley 29 years ago there 50 players on the varsity and of it all,” said Brian Savalle, were a handful of sports clubs junior varsity teams. Thirty Dodgeball Club treasurer and a and intramural sports teams. players, 15 on each team, criminal justice and sociology “Since then it’s exploded,” compete on a basketball-sized major. “It gives me the chance, he said. “It’s because of the court, and the goal is to knock for three days out of the week

14 winter 2012 | www.gvsu.edu “No one wants to hang up their skates when they go to college.” Bob Stoll, associate dean of the Office of Student Life

photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker when we practice, to relax, hang to play hockey and football in out with friends and relieve high school, but my mom never some stress from classes.” let me, so I was excited to learn about the women’s rugby team Women’s rugby when I came to Grand Valley.” The women, or “ruggers” Emma Pesci, a business as they call themselves, on major from Wisconsin, played Grand Valley’s rugby team rugby in high school and describe the sport as a mix wanted to attend a university between soccer and football. with a strong women’s team. The women’s rugby club “I asked my high school coach at Grand Valley began about if he knew of any schools with 12 years ago. Last fall, the successful rugby teams and he team hosted a national rugby recommended Grand Valley,” tournament and beat Ball she said. “I love it here; Grand State University, 92-0, in Valley has a great reputation.” the first round and took first place overall. Last year, the Men’s ice team played against Ohio hockey State and Penn State in the The men’s ice hockey club playoffs leading to the Midwest at Grand Valley has 50 players Final Four tournament. divided between Division II “We continue to grow and and Division III teams, but get better every year and we they regularly play against courtesy photo always welcome rookies,” said Division I hockey teams. Jordan Wiseman, captain and The Grand Valley teams More than 1,500 Grand Valley students participate in sports clubs such as dodgeball, rugby, hockey and rowing. club president. “I always wanted include students who were

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 15 New student recreation fields dedicated Student-athletes were courtesy photo part of a ribbon-cutting Men’s and women’s rowing teams consistently compete in national and international regattas. ceremony held October 22 for the dedication of the new student recreation named All-American athletes Hudsonville, a short distance team, came from Ohio to row fields at Grand Valley. The in high school. Coach Michael from the Allendale Campus. at Grand Valley because he fields provide more room Forbes is a former NHL player heard positive things about the for the growing number of who played for the Boston Bruins. Men’s and program. “I knew if I went to students involved in varsity The team has made it to women’s rowing Grand Valley I would be able athletics, intramural sports the Men’s Division II Ice Ask anyone on the men’s or to get better, which was one and clubs on campus. the fields encompass Hockey American Collegiate women’s rowing team and they of my biggest goals,” he said. 65 acres and include a Hockey Association National will say rowing is a lifestyle. The men’s and women’s Their teammates are family, stormwater management Championship each year since teams placed first in overall system, rugby field, lacrosse rowing is their hobby and their 2007 and won the national team points at the American field, 400-meter track, two free time is spent practicing. championship in 2010. Collegiate Rowing Association softball fields, track throws C.J. Pobur, a film and video Rowing was one of the first National Championship area and picnic shelters. major who plays forward, sports founded at Grand Valley Regatta from 2008-2011, and, There is also a building for described the group as a more than 50 years ago. The last May, four Grand Valley concessions, locker rooms powerhouse. “We basically go men’s and women’s teams crews placed third at the Dad and scoring. The fields were all year-round,” he said. “The compete at international and Vail Regatta, which is the created using recycled seasons starts in September national regattas, including largest collegiate regatta in rubber and synthetic turf, and we play through March. races in England, Croatia North America. Grand Valley eliminating the need for We love to see a full house and Boston, and the have hosts the Lubbers Cup Regatta water and mowing, which of fans at the arena when won regattas that included in Spring Lake; teams from will reduce emissions. we play home games.” rowing teams from Harvard the Midwest travel to West the project was accepted The team practices and and Rutgers universities. Michigan to compete each year. into the Sustainable Sites hosts home games at the Marco Benedetti, one of Initiative, a pilot program Georgetown Ice Arena in three captains for the men’s that hopes to create national guidelines for sustainable land design.

Learn about the more than 50 sports clubs at Grand Valley at www.gvsustudentlifesports.com or follow on Twitter at @GVClubSports.

16 winter 2012 | www.gvsu.edu manda Tamburrino had been a pre-nursing A major because she Finding thought she wanted to work in a hospital. After taking several science-based courses, Tamburrino knew it wasn’t for her. She changed her major to business because your path of its varied possibilities. She continued to fine-tune her path of study at the end of her second year, choosing health communications as a minor to “tie both my wishes together — and career medical and business,” she said. Tamburrino said she is pleased with her decision but getting to that point was incredibly stressful. “It’s hard to make a decision that will affect passion the rest of your life,” she said. Tamburrino enrolled in Grand Unique tool helps guide, challenge Valley without declaring a major, joining about 20 percent of her first-year peers. She students through college — by Michele Coffill said as a high school student in Caledonia, she considered nursing or teaching as possible careers but was never truly passionate about either. “It really terrified me, I just couldn’t make up my mind,” she said. Perhaps she shouldn’t have been so hard on herself. Tamburrino took the right steps and used Grand Valley resources to help decide on a major. She met with a career counselor, took skill assessment tests, met with an academic advisor and, from time to time, glanced at the Blueprint for Success. The Four-Year Blueprint for Student Success was developed to help students answer a common question: “Am I on the right track?” After five years of input from students, administration, faculty and staff members, a taskforce unveiled the Grand Valley blueprint in 2009. With a graphic illustration, photo by Elizabeth Lienau the blueprint helps Grand Amanda Tamburrino studies in the Valley first-year students Commons. She used many Grand Valley resources, including the identify academic and campus Blueprint for Student Success, to community landmarks to help her decide on a major. reach. For example, points on

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 17 photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker Students meet for tutoring sessions in the Student Academic Success Center in the Student Services Building. The SASC is often the first stop for students who are undecided about a major.

the timeline include Attend direction,” she said. “Grand blueprint has helped streamline said millennial students Transitions, Participate in Valley also has a high percentage how housing connects students are more interested in job Service Learning, Take US 102 of first-generation-in-college to campus resources. “These opportunities than students (a career exploration course) students. So those students students live with us and we’re of seven or 10 years ago. and Meet with an Academic come to Grand Valley with connecting with them on an To help movement science Advisor. The blueprint no family background of emotional level. We’re naturally students choose an emphasis, continues each year through scheduling classes or what doing all of these things anyway, career exploration courses are the fourth year (and beyond) college life is like.” but the blueprint puts everything offered, he said. “Students can with timeline points pertinent Getting the blueprint in in one spot for us,” she said. take these courses early in their to that year of study. Under front of those 3,200 first- The blueprint serves as a good major,” Hatzel said, adding each year’s timelines are time-in-college students, and complement to another tool they include components like lists of academic challenges, others, involved cooperation Grand Valley uses to connect job shadowing or observing campus resources and from academic units and with first-year students, the a professional. Movement opportunities for engagement. student service departments MAP-Works survey, which science encompasses programs Nancy Giardina, assistant vice like Housing, Career stands for Making Achievements in sport leadership, physical/ president for Academic and Services, Student Senate, Possible. The survey is sent to health education, athletic Student Affairs, led the taskforce Student Life, and Student students within the first month training and exercise science. through implementation Academic Success Center. of the fall semester; half of its Michael Messner, director of of the blueprint. Giardina Colleen Lindsay-Bailey, questions relate to academics, the Student Academic Success said its catalyst was a report assistant director for Housing half relate to how a student Center, agreed that jobs are very published by the American and Residence Life, said each connects to others on campus. much on the minds of students. Association of Colleges and first-year living center has a “MAP-Works has been a good He said the majority of students Universities about how large blueprint banner hanging thing for us. Even involved and who are the first in their families institutions can better prepare in a common area. She also said active students might report to attend college will choose students to live and work in living center staff members on a survey that they are not a professional program, like the 21st century. Giardina said incorporate the blueprint feeling connected,” Lindsay- nursing or education. The SASC the AACU report discussed when talking with a resident. Bailey said. “We wouldn’t know is an umbrella department that student persistence, retention, “When a living center director that person was struggling oversees all advising programs employable skills and high- meets with a student, and the until they left Grand Valley.” for the university. SASC staff impact learning experiences. student talks about changing a Faculty members who members are also advisors for The university’s blueprint major, the director will pull out advise students are finding students who haven’t declared taskforce also took into the blueprint,” Lindsay-Bailey the meetings have become a major, like Tamburrino. consideration the mindset said. “It really opens the eyes of much more than helping a “We meet about three times of today’s college students, students to see all these services student select a course. Brian a year with undecided students Giardina said. “Millennial and resources available to them.” Hatzel, associate professor and to go over career advising and students are needing more Lindsay-Bailey said the chair of movement science, assessments,” Messner said. “We

18 winter 2012 | www.gvsu.edu First Year SECOND YEAR THIRD YEAR FOURTH The Personal Exploration of Integration and AND BEYOND Transition the college involvement in the transition BLUEPRINT to College community Larger campus to career FOR community

Admission STUDENT Attend sophomore Begin job SUCCESS welcome search back event At right is the Blueprint for Student Success, Confirm with a sampling of points progress on each year’s timeline. in major coursework The blueprint was Utilize Career Explore developed to help answer Take Services graduate a common question: Map-Works resources school Am I on the right track? Learn Laker options Values Engage in research

also look at salaries and the job outlook to help students find the career that will fit their lifestyle.” Attend Before she met with advisors Convocation Reconsider Meet with and career counselors, major based major advisor Tamburrino said she came Meet with on secondary about close to leaving Grand Valley. academic admit employment advisor opportunities Now confident in her choice Participate during the Gather of majors, Tamburrino is ready in Laker first year secondary to engage in more of what Participate admit Leadership the university has to offer. As in Student program program detailed in the blueprint, she Work on Scholarship application attended Campus Life Night, campus Day information an event that draws thousands Engage in of students to the Fieldhouse to faculty/ learn more about the university’s student 350 student organizations. research “After that night, I decided to join a sorority, so I joined Delta Zeta, and also learned about so many more community service opportunities,” she said. Looking at the many Participate in Prepare landmarks on the blueprint Participate in internships, job search might be daunting for some Alternative co-ops, and portfolio students. Tamburrino advised Spring Break practium students to view it differently. Confirm “I could see how it might be Attend overwhelming and people progress Participate Explore in major Grad Fest might wonder how they in service internships coursework Graduation are supposed to do all these learning Begin and review all things, but the blueprint development graduation is really not stressful — it’s of a resume requirements about taking advantage of the Take US 102 (Career resources available,” she said. Education) Professional certification

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 19 Moving beyond stereotypeS

2012 Year of Interfaith Understanding — by Mary Isca Pirkola

ews are cheap and always events last September, following try to bargain, Muslims the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 are violent extremists terrorist attacks in the U.S. and Christians are closed- “The world has changed minded. Unfortunately, that’s dramatically since the events what some people think. Grand of September 11,” said Douglas Valley is part of a yearlong effort Kindschi, director of the to help change misperceptions. Kaufman Interfaith Institute. These and other derogatory “For many people, their stereotypes were the topic of introduction to the religious a lively discussion initiated by landscape of the Middle East Professor Sheldon Kopperl in was the terrorist acts of a few his Liberal Studies 100 class. individuals. As misinformation The class discussions were overtook facts, there grew an modeled, in part, after interfaith increasing need to open up the dialogues occurring throughout channels of dialogue. The goal West Michigan. They are part of this yearlong program is for of a larger project, the 2012 Year participants to truly understand of Interfaith Understanding, other religions and to learn designed to cultivate peace how to live in community with through community interest, respect for their differences.” understanding and acceptance Respect was paramount in of all faiths. Kopperl’s class. So much so that The endeavor was developed students were at first hesitant to through a unique partnership participate in the discussion of led by Grand Valley’s Kaufman stereotypes, fearing they might Interfaith Institute, the Grand offend someone of another faith. Rapids Press, WGVU Public Kopperl, who is Jewish Media, Grand Rapids mayor’s and co-advisor of the Jewish office and three organizing students’ group Hillel, set councils representing campuses, them at ease by explaining photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker congregations and community they could name a stereotype Professor Sheldon Kopperl leads a class discussion to raise awareness organizations. There was a without actually believing it. of derogatory stereotypes. conscious decision to kick off He even got the ball rolling

20 winter 2012 | www.gvsu.edu 2012 Year of Interfaith Understanding — by Mary Isca Pirkola

with his own comments about away the mystique of unfamiliar staff members participate in photo by April Joy Galbreath Jews. After writing comments religions. Eight West Michigan interfaith dialogues. “We started Patrick Lawrence, a senior on the board, the discussion colleges, seminaries and with 11 trained facilitators who from Almont, helps Sister Lucia turned more personal as universities are also featuring each coordinate a group of Treanor with yard work during a community workday at the Kopperl asked students to interfaith understanding interested people,” said Aaron Franciscan Life Process Center. share a time when they felt events throughout the year. Haight, assistant director for uncomfortable when someone For example, the Migrations the Office of Student Life. The stereotyped them because of of Islam project of the Muslim groups will meet about four their beliefs, appearance or Studies Program and Asian to six times during the year; intern Emrie Carlton. She is ethnicity. By the end of the Studies Center at Michigan participants will share their coordinating service-learning class unit, students said they State University brought a faith background, explore other opportunities for students moved beyond stereotypes number of events to Grand faiths, discuss the role of religion via participation in the White and misunderstandings as Valley, including the Hijabi in world politics and society, and House Interfaith & Community they learned about the many Monologues and the Poetic talk about how to work together Service Campus Challenge, similarities between faiths. Visions Tour, among others. on social issues. which kicked off at Grand Some students also felt they “People often have the Also working from the Office Valley in January. Student enriched their own faith in the misconception that participating of Student Life is student leadership and cross-campus process of explaining it in interfaith activities requires a to others. compromise of their own faith,” said Whitney Belprez, 2012 Congregational and YIU project manager. “It’s not “I really felt the stresses of college campus events about conversion, but rather life melt away while there.” Interfaith services, tours about conversation, and people of sacred spaces of worship learning to move from tolerance Patrick Lawrence, who attended a and interfaith dialogues are to acceptance of each other as community workday at the Franciscan being conducted at Christian people of faith.” Life Process Center churches, Jewish temples and Many such conversations are Islamic mosques throughout taking place at Grand Valley, West Michigan, in efforts to take where students, faculty and

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 21 spends at least 10 hours with a one. When there was a funny religious organization of which part in the book, the monks they are not affiliated. would laugh freely.” Alice Munday, a freshman Several other classmates from Canton, chose to visit spent time at the Islamic Center St. Gregory’s Abbey in Three and Mosque of Grand Rapids. Rivers. It is the home of a Muslims, who are called to community of men living a prayer five times a day, gather contemplative vocation under on Fridays at their mosque for the Rule of St. Benedict, within communal prayer. Classmates the Episcopal Church. attended a Friday worship “I chose to spend time at St. service and a Sunday School

photos by April Joy Galbreath Gregory’s because I wanted class, and then spent time after to challenge some commonly each with the imam, who leads Audience members interact with Muslim musicians from the Poetic Visions Tour, which features spiritually inspired folk rock music and accepted stereotypes of monks the prayers and addresses the hip hop poetry, brought to Grand Valley as part of the Migrations of and learn more about how they congregation. Levi Bauer, a Islam project of the Muslim Studies Program and Asian Studies practice their religious beliefs,” freshman from Reese, said his Center at Michigan State University. said Munday. She attended experience was very positive all seven of the daily services and enlightening. “While I partners are encouraged in by the political and social spread throughout the day from had some confusion about the initiatives that address specific mores of the times, Cataldo 4 a.m.-8 p.m. “It was interesting rituals and practices during service priorities. Grand has equipped his students to see how they schedule their the service, the imam later Valley participants have put with a broader perspective to life around God, rather than explained their meaning to us,” their emphasis on the areas of address historic and current squeezing their worship into an Bauer said. “He also shared education and poverty. issues of conflict and to otherwise busy day,” she said. some of the doctrines of Islamic Many faculty members develop possible solutions. She also had a tour of the faith and how they are similar have incorporated aspects “Though most students in grounds, free time to explore to Christianity and Judaism, but of interfaith understanding the class are quick to reject and shared her meals with the also how they differ.” into this year’s curricula, stereotypes, they also needed monks, prepared by them from Katelynn Chase, a freshman ranging from business ethics to expand their sphere of ingredients mostly grown in from Paw Paw, expected the and philosophy to history knowledge,” said Cataldo. “By their garden. She learned that mosque to be extravagant and journalism. Jeremiah providing students the means no talking is allowed during inside, but noticed the lack of Cataldo, assistant professor to look beyond their own meals, although one of the seats in the prayer hall, because of history, teaches an Honors worldview, they are given the monks read aloud. “During my Islamic prayer involves standing, College Special Topics course, opportunity to study and better visit, they were reading and kneeling and prostrating on “Alliance & Conflict: Religion understand others.” listening to a biography of Dr. prayer rugs. & Society,” over two semesters. Another aspect of the course Seuss, which was interesting,” Nicole Summers, a freshman By studying the history of is a required service learning she said. “It wasn’t an awkward from Livonia, visited Temple early religions as informed experience. Every student silence, but a shared intentional Emmanuel, a Reform Judaism

22 winter 2012 | www.gvsu.edu synagogue in Grand Rapids. with a dozen other sisters, who shine with a great love of life,” New “When I first arrived at the share the workload of self- Lawrence said. “I really felt religious synagogue, it was not what sustenance on the 230-acre the stresses of college life melt I expected,” she said. “They land. They raise rabbits, sheep, away while there.” Lawrence is a studies have a school attached to the cows, horses and chickens; member of St. Luke’s University major, minor building, so we saw many little maintain gardens and orchards Parish and as a peer minister kids running around — all very of apples, cherries, pears, with Campus Ministries, hopes pending excited to be learning. It was peaches and plums. Each sister to organize events that are a very relaxed and peaceful is responsible for a farm animal geared to a wide audience. A new religious studies environment.” Summers, and a garden section. They major and minor could be following a tour by Rabbi always welcome help, from Goals and added the Grand Valley Michael Schadick, attended spring weed whacking and opportunities curriculum beginning in a couple services and a Torah planting, to harvesting, canning One of the highlights of the fall semester, pending class. She said she thought the and general maintenance tasks, the year will be the Grand approval from the Board services were interesting, and like cleaning out the barns and Valley Triennial Interfaith of Trustees. The program even though they were mostly in washing windows. All ages Dialogue, an all-day event reinforces the idea of religious Hebrew, she was able to identify are welcome and helpers are at DeVos Place on October understanding and sensitivity a few patterns similar to other treated to a hot lunch following 30, 2012. Featured speakers as yet another dimension faith practices. a morning of work. are three internationally of campus diversity. Inspired by the philosophy respected experts in the Jewish, Faculty member Judy Community Service and practice of St. Francis Christian and Muslim faith Whipps, co-chair of the and Programming of Assisi, the program helps traditions: Rabbi Donniel Religious Studies Task Force, Many community individuals accept each other Hartman, Episcopal priest said the committee has been organizations, from the as unique persons as they learn Marilyn McCord Adams, and working on this proposal Grand Rapids Symphony to about life on a farm, working Islamic studies professor for more than five years. the World Affairs Council, alongside the Franciscan Omid Safi. They will focus “We’re pleased that this have incorporated issues of sisters. on resources and scriptures new major would coincide interfaith understanding into “We don’t have a teaching in their faith traditions that with the Year of Interfaith their regularly scheduled focus on community workdays, address the conference Understanding,” said programming for 2012. but often answer questions theme of “Living with God Whipps. “The committee Sister Lucia Treanor from workers about our faith in the midst of suffering.” placed the major in Brooks FSE, teaches in the Writing practices, or deep concerns Community and campus College of Interdisciplinary Department at Grand Valley. they have about their own life, groups, and individuals, Studies because we want She is also the faculty advisor inside and outside of faith,” continue to ask how they can the program to function as for Gatherings, the Catholic said Treanor. “Following get involved. The 2012 YIU a university-wide major, Student Association on the teachings of St. Francis, website, www.2012gr.org, is including faculty and courses campus, and Students for Life, we ‘Preach always. If constantly updated, providing from all the colleges.” a non-sectarian pro-life group. necessary use words.’” details and contact information The study of religion She welcomes the 2012 YIU Patrick Lawrence, a senior for the many campuses, includes courses in the as an opportunity to invite from Almont, said that for congregations and community humanities and social more people to participate in years he had heard about participants. Together the sciences, and understanding Community Workdays, held the students going to the workdays, three councils have launched religious diversity is important second Saturday of each month, but this was the first time he grass-root efforts to engage for many professions, as one of many programs at the participated. “The sisters’ as much of the community as including medical fields, Franciscan Life Process Center, welcome, not to mention possible. Organizers hope their global business, politics and just outside Lowell. their homemade lunch, was efforts create a solid foundation global social justice issues. Treanor lives at the center heartwarming, and they for continued growth and Whipps said it is anticipated understanding, beyond 2012. that students in these fields “Diversity is not only a racial may double major or minor “It’s not about conversion, but or ethnic concern, but it also in religious studies.

rather about conversation, and includes religion,” said Kindschi. “As the population throughout people learning to move from the world and West Michigan tolerance to acceptance of each changes to include more other as people of faith.” diversity, it becomes essential to confront the uncomfortable Whitney Belprez, feelings and unwarranted fear 2012 YIU project manager inherent in the lack of true understanding.”

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 23 Students engage in life-changing research

on Medical Mile — by Dottie Barnes

he type of research Institute, Spectrum Health, a life sciences lab at the The Grand Rapids native being conducted on Syzygy Biotech and Avalon West Michigan Science and described the work the company T Medical Mile has the Industries, all located in a Technology Initiative, a does as being the biological potential to change the future one-mile stretch near and SmartZone located in Grand toner in a DNA copy machine. of medicine and health care, along Michigan Street in Valley’s Cook-DeVos Center “Being able to copy DNA can and Grand Valley students downtown Grand Rapids, for Health Sciences. accomplish so many things,” are right in the middle of it. known as Medical Mile. Nowak describes the company she explained. “If you watch Undergraduate and graduate as a protein factory whose the television show ‘CSI,’ students are serving internships Syzygy Biotech first commercial product (Taq when the results come in and landing jobs at research Barry Nowak is president Polymerase) is used by labs, identifying the killer, it’s our facilities like the Van Andel and CEO of Syzygy Biotech, universities and others to enzyme that let them do that.” amplify DNA for use in research, Jakubowski said she is often testing and experimentation. asked if she’s found the cure “The protein we produce for cancer yet. “I answer by let’s you make copies of DNA,” saying that today could be the explained Nowak. “Protein is day we’ve given a researcher a key component in copying the tools to do so,” she said. DNA, which is used everywhere “Our research has the potential — in hospitals, criminology, to accomplish great things in food safety, treatment for health care. Syzygy is part of disease — it goes on and on.” the Gift of Life program; the Syzygy opened last year enzymes from our company and Nowak said being located are used to match organs at Grand Valley has been to potential recipients.” the key to success. “We have Brandon Nader worked as access to students, faculty an intern at Syzygy before and consultants,” he said. “I graduating from Grand Valley hired two of the top master’s in April 2011 and is now a senior students in Grand Valley’s tech lab manager. “It’s fun being biomedical program.” part of something that is so Nowak is talking about important for future research,” Pushpaja Dodla and Jenn said Nader. “There is no such Jakubowski, the 2010 and thing as a typical day in the lab.” 2011, respectively, outstanding Nader said he is currently graduate students in cellular working on what’s called and molecular biology. Quantitative PCR, or QPCR. Jakubowski is a senior “This allows researchers to look molecular biologist with Syzygy. at expression or how much DNA “I oversee the lab and quality is produced,” he said. “Instead control, and also the process of just knowing whether a of getting our product out,” disease is present, researchers said Jakubowski. “It’s exciting can measure how much disease courtesy photo to be part of a company is there. It’s exciting work and Jenn Jakubowski is a senior molecular biologist with Syzygy. on the ground floor.” researchers I’ve met at places

24 winter 2012 | www.gvsu.edu like Cleveland Clinic and the University of Pittsburgh are “Our research excited about what we’re doing.” has the potential Avalon Industries to accomplish Avalon Industries is a medical device company that is also great things in part of the West Michigan Science and Technology health care.” Initiative. Avalon is a leading supplier of disposable surgical — Jenn Jakubowski components and a global senior molecular leader in the manufacture of biologist for Syzygy cardiovascular catheters. Chris Knowlton, a 2007 graduate who majored in engineering, was hired at Avalon after graduating and Trevor Rolph, a senior majoring in project design and manufacturing and engineering, has had a co-op position with Avalon since 2010. “This has been such a great opportunity for me,” said Rolph. “I am involved in new product development and have been able to design and build several working prototypes of balloon catheters.” Rolph, a native of Ypsilanti, said his aunt has cerebral palsy and watching her benefit from medical equipment made him want to enter the field of life sciences. “It’s a great field to be in. I’m working with devices that improve the quality of life,” he said. “I’m connected to experts in the field who are excited about their work. We can be out to lunch and people will start drawing on napkins, sketching the heart and how a new device might work.” Rolph said Grand Valley fully prepared him for the challenging work on Medical Mile. “Grand Valley gave me the prior knowledge I needed to hit the ground running,” he said. “It gave me the confidence and educational experience I needed in engineering to succeed.” Rolph said students in Grand Valley’s engineering program are given a lot of responsibility. “With product design, there photos by Bernadine Carey-Tucker are no set answers; professors Brandon Nader is a senior tech lab manager with Syzygy.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 25 will tell you to make it work, bring to their work. models in order to get usable, biomedical science who figure it out on your own,” “In most cases, these quantitative results. We try plans to apply for medical he said. “Sometimes there internships represent the first to automate the process of school in the spring. are five answers, sometimes genuine research experience interpreting these scans to make “I manage and operate the none. It can be very difficult, for an undergraduate student,” it quicker and more reliable. micro ultrasound program in but that’s what it’s like in the said Triezenberg. “The ‘doing’ For example, three people the imaging lab,” said Merrifield. real world, in the industry. of science is much different might give three different “We look at different kinds of You are given something and than learning about science. results after looking at an cancer models and measure told to figure it out. So, having “These internships uncover X-ray; a computer program the effectiveness of various that type of responsibility as the complexity of science, would be more consistent.” therapies for those cancers. a student was invaluable.” the uncertainties. There is The Holland native said he Various research throughout no answer key for a brand plans to work as a computer or the institute comes to us in the Van Andel Institute new experiment — and electrical medical engineer after lab and we’ll do the imaging for Research at the Van Andel the frustrations — because graduating. “Grand Valley offers them and analyze the data.” Institute has led to advances experiments don’t always work, a project-oriented engineering Merrifield said smaller in cancer diagnosis, treatment and experiments don’t always school, while other schools offer class sizes and the ability to and prevention. Grand yield the expected answers.” a more theoretical engineering interact with faculty are what Valley undergraduate and Jeff VanOss received a program,” he said. “Grand attracted her to Grand Valley. graduate students have served bachelor’s degree in electrical Valley also offers the research Stewart Hildebrand said he summer and academic year and computer engineering opportunities necessary to knew he wanted to work with internships at the institute from Grand Valley in 2010. advance in this field. It’s exciting computers when he was 13 since its opening in 2000. He is working toward a to be able to create things that years old and living in Denmark. Steven J. Triezenberg, master’s degree in biomedical will help people, and interact His family moved back to director of the Van Andel engineering and is a paid with doctors and biologists the States and he eventually Education Institute and dean student intern at the institute. and be able to understand enrolled at Grand Valley and of the VAI Graduate School, “I work with cancer models what they are talking about.” earned a bachelor’s degree said scientists at the institute in an imaging laboratory,” Brittany Merrifield is also in computer engineering. He value these internships because said VanOss. “As a computer a paid student intern at the is now an intern at the Van of the energy, enthusiasm engineer, I apply image institute. The Traverse City Andel Institute, working with and curiosity that students processing to scans of those native is a senior studying image processing and software that takes images and turns them into 3-D pictures. “We handle all parts of development and design,” said “...partnerships Hildebrand. “We use a program called OsiriX to create 3-D are important in images which makes images building the more presentable for analysis. It’s a lot of work and very regional intellectual time consuming, but these enhanced images will be much community. easier for doctors and health Together we are professionals to analyze.” Grand Valley students have much stronger!” contributed to a number of published research papers with — Steven J. Triezenberg scientists from the institute director of Van Andel and Triezenberg said some of their projects open up new Education Institute ideas that form the kernel of a new research project. “The availability of students from Grand Valley fits well with the opportunities for research experiences at the institute,” he said. “Such partnerships are important in building the photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker regional intellectual community. Trevor Rolph has a co-op position with Avalon Industries. Together we are much stronger!”

26 winter 2012 | www.gvsu.edu PHOTO FEATURE

Not a real orange, it’s plastic. Johnson took it home from a Bible study class, saying it reminds her of the “fruits of the spirit.” Johnson is an active member of His House Johnson sometimes keeps Christian Fellowship, a socks here, taking them off student group. It’s a Scentbug: both a fan before going to sleep. and fragrance diffuser.

“I found this chair at the beginning of the year; pink’s my favorite color,” she said.

Johnson works at the Walker branch of the Kent District Library and checked these books out, although she said she’s too busy to read them.

Ashley Johnson, resident assistant; elementary education major photography by Adam Bird

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 27 Q&A

Q&A Jeff Chamberlain

The Grand Valley Frederik Magazine’s Nate Hoekstra talked are actually one of Grand living situation is a little more Meijer Honors College is home to Chamberlain about what the Valley’s oldest living-learning sedate than north campus, to about 1,200 high-achievers. Honors College has to offer, and communities, which means we but it doesn’t mean there’s Running such a tight-knit what the program means to the have housing and academics no opportunities to have fun. program that’s best described university and its students. in the same location. To us it In fact, there are lots of fun as a living-learning community means we’re forming a genuine events — just watch the honors takes work, compassion, and an GVM: Can you explain what’s academic community. We students doing their lip sync at unending desire to do whatever different between an honors often hear the students say Homecoming! You’ll hear peals it takes to help students student’s experience and the they form a special bond with of laughter, at times, from every succeed. Jeff Chamberlain has experience of other students at other honors students where floor and classroom. been the director since 2007. Grand Valley? they share jokes and learning We also integrate honors It’s normal to see him chatting Jeff Chamberlain: In general, experiences all while living in courses for a truly with students (to whom he’s the Frederik Meijer Honors a close-knit living space. We interdisciplinary approach to known as Dr. J.) in his office, College is a couple of things: it’s do find that the students in the learning. Courses are taught by in the hallway, or in one of the a living-learning community program tend to take academics faculty members from different many meeting rooms around and it is an alternative general more seriously. The students discipline areas, which means the building. Grand Valley education program. We who live here will tell you this you’re really getting more viewpoints because of the way it’s presented. You’ll find political scientists teaching with anthropologists, for example. These are dynamic classes with fabulous faculty, who are getting students to think critically about how this impacts their lives. It’s a way that’s engaging and empowering to our students.

GVM: Since you started with the honors college in 2007, it’s grown by about 25 percent. What’s been the biggest catalyst for that growth? JC: Frankly, I would say that we are a success because of the success of our students. Potential students have heard from current students that there are great things happening here. They’re telling them about their access to faculty, their experience, their education. They’re being very successful and people are taking notice of their success. Admissions also deserves a lot of credit. They are extraordinary recruiters, and they really get the word photo by Elizabeth Lienau out. When they have good Jeff Chamberlain, director of the Frederik Meijer Honors College, said a mix of living and learning helps prospective honors students students reach their potential, and that those students are the reason for the program’s continued success. on campus, they send them

28 winter 2012 | www.gvsu.edu Q&A

over. We put them in touch with a student who talks about the program and what it’s like, shows off their apartment. The students are wonderful; they are our best ambassadors and recruiters. They love it, and when they begin sharing about it, there is a snowball effect.

GVM: Is there a different attitude among honors students that helps them succeed in a more academically demanding program? JC: There’s an attitude in honors students that we look for in the admissions process. We make the decision on the whole package, not just the ACT score and the GPA. We want photo by Amanda Pitts to see some motivation, some Honors College students are pictured outside the Niemeyer Learning and Living Center. innovation, some initiative in students who are applying. That personally followed up with Hearing that from another where high-level academics means they often carry through her. Many students don’t get student is much more powerful and research meant cutting that initiative and we just have that sort of attention from other than if it comes from me or the fun out of learning, but I to provide the opportunities and places. Other schools can be another staff member. A mentor also attended and taught at they will run with them. That’s so big that they can’t take the is also someone they can rely small schools where there was why we use the tag line “Live, time for each student, and other on if they do really start to feel a real sense of community and Learn, Lead,” because we look schools are so small they don’t pressure. There are also other fun, both of which encouraged for students who are motivated have the resources to do what resources, like workshops, effective learning. to do those things, and take we can do here. librarian visits, and Housing I’ve found that here we advantage of the opportunities We’re growing but we’re programs. We also use our close have the community and the they’re presented with here. taking steps to make sure the connections as a living-learning resources to have the best of great learning environment community to hold students both worlds. The high level of GVM: You’ve said that Grand and the personal touch accountable. If a student isn’t academic work is something we Valley is seeing a big increase in stays in place. Combine that showing up for class, faculty can all attain, but we’ve shown the caliber of honors students environment with the high- members will get in touch with it can be done without the that are coming here. What does caliber programs we’re offering us, we’ll talk to the resident stuffy, no-fun attitude. that say about the quality of here and you’ve got a world- assistant, who will knock on programs being offered? class combination of experience that student’s door and just say, GVM: The honors program is JC: I think it says a great deal. along with education. “Hey, is everything OK?” and very generously supported by the Many students tell us they will try to address the problem Meijer Foundation. How does feel at home at Grand Valley. GVM: An honors curriculum right where they’re living. It’s that support help the program? One person after another in is designed to be challenging just one of the ways we keep JC: It helps us constantly this program tells us about to students. How do you the students accountable and grow by trying new things, their passion, not only for the help students who get into provide them with the support and innovating. It’s added academics, but for the program the program but start to feel and help that they need. value to the honors college in general. Another thing we overwhelmed by the rigorous through a scholarship for first- offer is the personal touch. demands of their schoolwork? GVM: You’ve done some generation college students. We had one student who, as I JC: We have been working intense study yourself, including That opens a lot of doors. recall, could have easily gone on that for years. We have a earning a doctoral degree from They also help with the Meijer anywhere — she came here. mentor program where we the University of Chicago. How Lecture Series — those are I read in her application that take a mentor who is assigned does your personal experience phenomenal! We’re incredibly her father had written a book. to about seven to 10 freshmen, in academia help you relate to lucky to have their support. It It sounded interesting, so I and make sure they understand the students? allows us to give the students bought it and read it, then asked the demands and the rigors JC: It relates both in a good and a much more rich experience her questions about it when I they will face in academic life. a bad way. I had an experience in a multitude of ways.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 29 research

Unique research could reveal potential of

wind power over Great Lakes — by Nate Hoekstra

Grand Valley researchers called the “Vindicator” that Boezaart. “They’re interested land. To discover the potential are in the middle of a new uses high-tech laser light in knowing more about the wind energy on a body of water project that could be a key pulses to measure wind technology. They believe they would require millions of dollars step in unleashing the energy speed, direction and other may be able to use it to help to build a wind measurement potential of the winds above atmospheric information. their forecasting ability.” The tower in the lake, and it could the Great Lakes. The application for the National Oceanographic and never be moved again. The buoy The state-of-the-art project equipment is to measure Atmospheric Administration is is highly mobile and can readily is being organized by Grand wind information using new also interested in exploring the be moved by a service boat to a Valley’s Michigan Alternative technology to determine use of the Vindicator technology. new location where it’s capable and Renewable Energy Center, the feasibility of future While the new research of using laser pulses to measure on the shores of Muskegon offshore wind development equipment appears to be wind up to a thousand times per Lake. Researchers there on the Great Lakes, but Arn returning good data and second, at six different heights have taken a brand-new Boezaart, MAREC’s director, atmospheric information up to 120 meters simultaneously. technology and combined it said scientists are interested back to a server at Grand Grand Valley is working in with a decades-old buoy to in the new technology for Valley, Boezaart said the main partnership with the University make a functioning research other reasons as well. Data goal of this first research of Michigan, where researchers platform that’s one of only two was gathered from the buoy deployment is to make sure the hope to study the data for in existence in the world, with for two months between data is reliable. Researchers more in-depth analysis, and the goal of validating a new October and its removal from need to compare the data to the Michigan State University way to measure offshore wind. the water in December, and existing acceptable standards Natural Features Inventory The research vessel, Wind the information appears to be to make sure it’s accurate. program, which will capture Sentinel, is a bright yellow consistent and matching data One big advantage that the special data using sonic combination of an 8-ton buoy coming from other sources. buoy has in the research project technology on-board the buoy designed by the U.S. Navy “We are actively talking is its portability, Boezaart said. to study flight patterns of birds during World War II, and a with the National Weather Wind is normally measured and bats over the Great Lakes. cutting-edge piece of technology Service in Grand Rapids,” said on a tower or tall building on Funding issues could set the project back after a court decision forced a state department to pull funding from the project. Other funding options to continue the research are currently being explored. Boezaart said he hopes researchers will be able to use the unique system to gather a full season of data in 2012 and is confident that the project will help set a new standard for wind measurement science. “It’s a truly remarkable research project,” Boezaart said. “It’s a fantastic first step in learning more about the potential of wind on the Great Lakes, and it’s a move that will help to bring us closer to a renewable energy future.”

photo by April Joy Galbreath The 8-ton Wind Sentinel is prepared for launch into Lake Michigan in Muskegon last fall. The scientific equipment aboard the buoy could help reveal the energy potential of the winds from Lake Michigan.

30 winter 2012 | www.gvsu.edu Sustainability

Problem-solving at its best Students create sustainable solutions in new partnership — by Leah Zuber

In a first-ever partnership, the City of Grand Rapids and students from Grand Valley are working together to create long-lasting sustainable solutions for the city. In September 2010, the Grand Rapids City Commission approved the formation of the Transformational Research and Analysis Team, a partnership designed to conduct research and analysis in areas of interest vital to transforming city departmental operation and service delivery models. Three graduate students and one undergraduate student were selected to serve on the first team: Margaret Carney, Shane Schamper, Farrah Curran and Aaron Ferguson. Olwen Urquhart is the team manager. photo by April Joy Galbreath Carney, a public TRAT team members Aaron Ferguson and Margaret Carney researched sustainable lighting methods and biofuel administration graduate student, opportunities for the City of Grand Rapids, but most TRAT projects are kept confidential. is from Ludington and has worked in the accounting field “The students are interacting allotted 100 hours for TRAT to Jobs, Grand Valley’s online job for more than 20 years. “When with the important decision- research sustainable methods database, and candidates were I first started working on TRAT, makers by presenting their and practices suited for that interviewed via ooVoo, an online we had no idea what to expect, research data to department specific department, then teleconference tool. so it just sort of evolved into this heads and recommending students present their results “We’ve had student interns great experience for me to be solutions for the city.” and recommendations. “It before, but never at this level of able to learn the interworkings TRAT has worked with 16 can be a challenge to learn interaction,” said Tom Almonte, of the city,” she said. departments within the city, their expectations because assistant to the city manager, TRAT students are learning from engineering to accounting. some departments like to see who helped select the students research and business skills, said While most projects are numbers, while others like to for the team. “This partnership Norman Christopher, director confidential, other projects see ideas,” Carney said. is unique because these students of the Sustainable Community the students have worked TRAT members Kevin Bergy, are working on projects with Development Initiative at Grand on include researching ways a graduate student majoring top management. They are Valley. “The research these to conserve energy through in accounting, and Aaron in high demand around here students are conducting is the lighting methods to evaluating Ferguson, who just began the because most of the city’s platform for helping the city to biofuel opportunities. public administration graduate departments are in need of make better decisions,” he said. Each city department is program, both said the most sustainable solutions that will challenging aspect was getting help the city’s economic and acquainted with all the city environmental goals.” departments. “We’ve worked The team completed 30 “These students are working on projects with the city clerk, engineering projects in just one year, said with top management. They are in high and mayor’s offices so far, and Christopher. demand around here because the city is one of the challenges is “Through this partnership, learning about how each office we are learning a great deal in need of sustainable solutions.” operates and to figure out the more about the in-depth issues — Tom Almonte, assistant to city manager best methods to research,” the city is facing and how Bergy said. sustainable solutions can be of Grand Rapids Last summer, TRAT job developed,” he said. positions were posted to Laker

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 31 alumni news

5K Run/Walk The annual Homecoming 5K Run/Walk kicked off events on October 29. Due to construction on campus, the race started inside Lubbers Stadium and ended in the Kelly Family Sports Center. Nearly 65 alumni competed in the race, which boasted 305 runners overall. Many participants sported their favorite Halloween costumes.

2011 Seidman spellbinding reunion for Grads Return During the week, 50 Seidman thousands of Lakers College of Business alumni returned to campus classrooms Alumni from all over the country poured into Allendale to meet with students, answer on Halloween weekend to share memories and create new questions and share first-hand ones during Homecoming 2011, “GVSU, You Put a Spell experiences of their careers in on Me.” The successful weekend came to a close at Lubbers the business industry. Stadium with a 24-20 Laker football victory over Michigan Tech University.

32 winter 2012 | www.gvsu.edu/alumni alumni news

Pancake Top honors Breakfast presented at Eighty hungry alumni commencement and friends enjoyed candy corn pancakes, sausage and The Alumni Association coffee throughout the chilly bestowed its top honors morning, fueling up for a day full of activities. to two of Grand Valley’s finest at the December commencement ceremony held December 10 at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids. Michelle Troseth, ’83 & ’97, received the Distinguished Alumni award. Troseth received bachelor’s and Bus from Southeast master’s degrees in nursing Michigan from the Kirkhof College of Nursing. She is the executive It was the biggest carpool of the day; 42 alumni, family vice president and chief and friends hopped on a bus professional practice officer chartered by the Alumni for Clinical Practice Model Association to Allendale from Resource Center in Grand the Detroit area in what has Rapids, a business unit become a Grand Valley tradition. of Elsevier. Felix Ngassa, ’07, associate professor of chemistry, received the Outstanding Educator Award. Ngassa was selected by the results of a survey filled out by alumni in their fifth year since graduation. He earned a master’s of business administration degree from Grand Valley in 2007, and has published more than 30 research articles. Both honorees were presented with awards before Reunion Row their colleagues, friends and family at a reception and Back by popular demand for dinner held at the Alumni the second year, Reunion Row Alumni Expo & House on December 9. welcomed more than 500 Tailgater Lakers and their favorite groups and organizations, from Greek More than 800 Lakers life to hospitality and softball gathered under the sunshine alumni. The groups played lawn near the Kelly Family Sports games and enjoyed snacks Center for a one-of-a-kind while reconnecting with their spooky themed Grand Valley alma mater. reunion complete with music, Halloween food, prizes and family friendly activities. A Save the dozen campus departments date: hosted tables with information and giveaways. Thank you to Homecoming the 28 alumni volunteers who 2012 helped make all of the events October Pictured are Felix Ngassa, ’07, run smoothly. 19–20 and Michelle Troseth, ’83 and ’97.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 33 alumni Updates

CLAS honors outstanding alumni Lakers helping Lakers at Major Fair

Hundreds of students filled the Kirkhof Center in Allendale to look for career advice from fellow Lakers on November 2. More than 20 alumni volunteers staffed tables and provided encouragement to students who were undecided about a major, or contemplating a change in their path. Laker alumni were ready to give tips on fields ranging from nursing to anthropology. courtesy photo Students were also supplied The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences celebrated the accomplishments with information on career of 11 graduates during Homecoming weekend. The 2011 Distinguished services and academic Alumni-in-Residence recipients are, left to right, Andrew Alverson, ’97; scholarships. The annual event Katie Mawby, ’87; Kim Hansen, ’80; Noel Boyle, ’96; Brittany Hunter, ’08; Liem Nguyen, ’94; Jennifer Schaub, ’02 & ’07; Troy Schindlbeck, ’95; and is sponsored by the University Pictured at the Major Fair are Ronald Sheets, ’82. Not pictured are Clinton Randles, ’01, and Peter Advising Council and Alumni William Hudson, ’78, and Maria Stevens, ’01. Relations. Espinoza, ’89.

Careers Steven H. Versluis, B.A., 1977, the Board of Education for Ana I. Aleman-Putman, B.A., stepped down from his seat the Clinton County Regional 1993, received the 2011 YWCA 1960s after 24 years of service on the Educational Service Agency. Tribute Award for Professions. Peter J. DeWitt II, B.A., 1968, Walker City Commission. Lisa A. Minnella, B.S., 1988, Philip R. LaRochelle, B.S., received the Morris Hershson Leo T. Gabriel, B.S., 1978, is M.Ed., 1992, is principal of 1993, is a healthcare finance Award of Merit from the a professor in management Mulick Park Elementary in consultant for Lubaway, Masten Reusable Industrial Packaging accounting for the College of Grand Rapids. & Co. in Milford. Association. Management at Metropolitan Theresa J. (Woltanski) Grant, Drew P. Cataldo, B.S., 1994, is State University in Minnesota. 1970s B.A., 1989, is publishing her first the vice president of sales for All Michael J. Tappy, B.S., 1978, is novel, Trajectories, in March. Covered. Stephen M. VanderLaan, B.S., a quality manager for Display Paul J. Clemens, B.A., 1995, 1974, has retired from Caledonia Pack Inc. in Grand Rapids. 1990s received the Whiting Writer’s Community Schools after Hendricka Stauffer, B.S., 1991, Award. teaching for 37 years. 1980s was recognized as the Caledonia Melissa A. Stull, B.S., 1995, is an Arthur R. Culver, B.S., 1975, is Douglas W. Crim, B.B.A., 1981, Education Foundation’s 2011 intelligence analyst for Spectal. the superintendent for East St. was named “Lansing Best Honored Alumnus. Kathleen B. Vogelsang, B.B.A., Louis District Schools in Illinois. Lawyers’” Environmental Law William J. Ward, B.S., 1991, 1995, M.B.A., 1999, was named Deborah A. Smith-Olson, B.S., Lawyer of the Year for 2012. He M.S., 1998, works in the to the Pine Rest Christian 1975, is CEO and vice chair is a principal at Miller, Canfield, communications department Mental Health Services Board for the Michigan Banking Paddock and Stone. of Syracuse University’s S.I. of Directors. Association. Beth E. (Almburg) Delaney, Newhouse School of Public Sharon L. (Zinnah) Greer, Jody E. (Zuverink) Bacinski, B.S., 1985, is the pastor at Communications. B.S.N., 1996, is a clinical care B.S., 1976, is the pastor at Filipino American Presbyterian Julia G. Bausman, M.Ed., coordinator for Carolinas Voyage Wesleyan Church in Fellowship in Southfield. 1992, is an assistant professor Healthcare System. Wyoming. Patricia L. (Spencer) Sellner, of education for Waynesburg Timothy M. Basa, B.S., 1997, is James J. Hosford, B.A., 1977, B.S., 1986, received the 2011 University in Waynesburg, the vice president of sales for was inducted into the Grand YWCA Tribute Award for Pennsylvania. BullsEye Telecom in Southfield. Rapids Sports Hall of Fame. Sports, Fitness and Wellness. James Wilkinson, B.S., Sarah A. (Haddouche) Oomen, Lorenzo A. Moner, Jr., B.B.A., Mark A. Dewey, B.S., 1987, 1992, was is the inventor of the B.S., 1997, is an account 1977, was elected to the inducted into the Grand Rapids Veritek Process and formed executive for Berends Hendricks City of Inkster City Council, Sports Hall of Fame. a new company, Veritek Coal Stuit Insurance in Grandville. representing District 3. Patti J. (Smith) Jandernoa, Processing Inc. Joshua M. Lamers, B.B.A., B.S.N., 1987, is a member of 1998, has opened Joshua

34 winter 2012 | www.gvsu.edu/alumni alumni Updates

Tree Insurance and Financial Adrienne A. Wallace, B.S., Reginald Spearmon, B.S., Natalie A. Bazan, B.A., 2007, Services in Kingman, Arizona. 2001, M.S., 2005, M.P.A., 2008, 2004, was inducted into the is the director of the Hopkins Shirley A. Tuggle, M.S.N., is the manager of volunteer 2011 GVSU Athletic Hall of Public Library. 1998, is a quality manager services for Kids’ Food Basket in Fame for football. Adrian R. Chouinard, B.S., for CentraCare, retiring from Grand Rapids. Marie C. Cameron, B.B.A., 2007, qualified to participate in MDCH as a nurse consultant. Amber R. Castonguay, B.S., 2005, was inducted into the the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trial Benjamin J. Hunter, B.A., 1999, 2002, was inducted into the Harper Creek Hall of Fame in after completing the Chicago M.S., 2003, is the creator of 2011 GVSU Athletic Hall of Battle Creek. Marathon in October. Prospecto, a music festival held Fame for softball. Daniel R. Pear, B.S.N., 2005, Michael G. Dixon, Jr., in Grand Rapids. Eric C. Cowles, B.B.A., 2002, is a nurse practitioner at M.Ed., 2007, is the director Jason K. Kae-Smith, M.S.W., was inducted into the 2011 Edmondson, Rouse and Schmid of multicultural services 1999, is an AASECT, certified GVSU Athletic Hall of Fame Family Medicine in Saranac. and campus diversity for sex therapist therapist in Grand for golf. Barbara Nan Schichtel, M.P.A., Manchester College in North Rapids. Darci R. Luyk, M.S., 2002, is 2005, was elected chair of the Manchester, Indiana. Sheila K. Marquardt, B.A., manager of physician relations Community & Junior College Keri A. Gerken, B.S.N., 2007, is 1999, is working for the and network development Library Section of the American a registered nurse for Spectrum educational studies department for Mary Free Bed Hospital & Library Association. She was Health-Blodgett. at Monmouth College in Rehabilitation Center. also re-elected to the Board of Michael K. Kontry, B.S., 2007, Monmouth, Illinois. Joseph R. Modderman, B.S., Trustees of the Grand Rapids is a senior digital producer Historical Society. Steven M. Slee, B.B.A., 1999, 2002, is head basketball coach for Weber Shandwick in is vice president/manager of at Allendale High School. John M. Seals, M.Ed., 2005, Birmingham. the commercial middle for Jason D. VanElst, B.S., 2002, is director of residence life at Daniel J. Vredeveld, B.B.A., Fifth Third Bank in Raleigh, was inducted into the 2011 Willamette University in Salem, 2007, is a financial advisor for North Carolina. GVSU Athletic Hall of Fame for Oregon. Edward Jones. track and field. Thomas J. Van Cleave, B.S., Joseph J. Ferlito, B.S., 2008, is 2000s Sara L. Jonker, M.Ed., 2003, 2005, is the master’s degree a senior account executive for Kyle P. Hilla, B.S., 2000, is a first- and second-grade program director for the Franco Public Relations Group created the CallabraCam app teacher at Central Elementary International Partnership in Detroit. for iPhones. School in Petoskey. for Service Learning and Laura (Wiebenga) Fouty, Mark E. Rambo, B.S., 2000, Kyle R. Purdy, B.B.A., Leadership in Portland, Oregon. B.B.A., 2008, is an agency M.P.A., 2003, is the operations 2003, M.B.A., 2008, is an Michael M. Maule, B.S., 2006, accounts coordinator for manager for Grand Valley’s Pew assurance senior associate joined the U.S. Army. Farmers Insurance Group in Campus. for BDO USA, LLP. Michael D. Tiffany, B.B.A., Caledonia. Susan E. Roemer, B.S., Erica R. Berens, B.B.A., 2004, 2006, was promoted to vice Jennifer L. Gregg, B.A., 2008, 2000, M.P.T., 2003, received is a senior district manager for president, portfolio manager is an ET3 in the U.S. Navy. Orthopedic Clinical Specialist Farmers Insurance in Caledonia. at Associated Banc-Corp in Sarah M. Hollemans, B.S., Certification from the American Angela M. (Sharper) Brown, Chicago. 2008, was a volunteer for the Physical Therapy Association. B.S., 2004, is the external Brian S. Tolsma, B.S., 2006, first Special Olympics and Peace Steve Wilkins, M.B.A., 2000, is communications manager joined Hanger Prosthetics & Corps partnership in Morocco. an application support analyst for CoStar Group in Fairfax, Orthotics at the Hazel Crest, Michael C. Vanden Berg, B.S., for Lake Michigan Credit Union Virginia. Illinois, patient care facility. 2008, M.P.A., 2010, is an IT in Grand Rapids. Paul D. Cook, B.S., 2004, is an Elizabeth J. Toman, B.S., trainer for Cherry Street Health William A. Yates, B.A., 2000, is assistant professor of chemistry 2006, is associate director of in Grand Rapids. the northeast zone manager for for University of Mount Union operations systems of Urbana Chelsea L. Brayton, B.S., 2010, Farmers Insurance Group. in Alliance, Ohio. 12 for Intervarsity Christian is a math and career transitions Christopher J. Berry, B.B.A., Elizabeth A. Kelly, B.S., 2004, Fellowship in Madison, teacher at McKinley Education 2001, was appointed to the is a trainee for the Grand Rapids Wisconsin. Center in Adrian. Mirela Tutundzic, B.A., 2006, Easter Seals Michigan Board of Ballet Company. Amanda J. Gillard, B.S., 2010, Directors. He is also an attorney Olivia M. Destrades Mendoza, was inducted into the 2011 is the ticket operations manager at Witzke Berry & Carter in B.A., 2004, M.Ed., 2010, is GVSU Athletic Hall of Fame for for the Grand Rapids Griffins. Bloomfield Hills. soccer. a program coordinator in Erin L. Pinkster, M.B.A., 2010, is Matthew Wilson, B.A., 2006, Kathryn J. (Lauer) Hoover, B.S., customized workplace English an audit manager for Macatawa 2001, was appointed by Gov. at the Literacy Center of West received a nomination in the Bank in Grand Rapids. Rick Snyder to the Michigan full-length script category Michigan in Grand Rapids. Rikki E. Brown, B.A., 2011, has Domestic Violence Prevention for the New York Innovation Karen J. Messick, M.P.A., 2004, been awarded a Fulbright U.S. and Treatment Board. Theatre Awards. was appointed to the Michigan Student Program scholarship to Abbey L. (Hodgson) Mead, Long-Term Care Supports and study in Russia. B.S., 2001, is a customer care Services Advisory Commission. executive for Booking.com.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 35 alumni Updates

Stephanie A. Doran, M.S.W., Carly G. Miller, B.S., 2004, and 1990s Bonnie S. (Runnels) Makeham, 2011, B.S., 2001, is the executive director Steve Anderson on July 9, 2011. Catherine S. (Carson) and husband Will of Uniting Three Fires Against announce a son, Colby William Kimberly A. Yount, B.S., 2004, Fitzpatrick, B.S., 1992, and Violence Coalition in Sault Peter, born August 17, 2011. The D.P.T., 2007, and Brett Kopchitz husband Larry announce a Ste. Marie. family resides in Minneapolis, on May 7, 2011. daughter, Nathalie Marie, born Minnesota. Kyle S. Kujawa, B.S., 2011, is the Lindsay I. Crawford, B.S., 2005, August 29, 2011. The family public relations manager for the and Troy Elsenheimer on July resides in East Lansing. Sara A. (Gapinski) Middlebrook, B.A., 2001, Grand Rapids Griffins. 19, 2008. Jeffrey R. Reed, B.A., 1992, and husband Scot announce a Brad J. Natelborg, B.E., 2011, Michelle L. Lelli, B.S., 2006, and wife Martha announce a daughter, Gwen Margaret, born is a computer engineer for GE and Brian T. Vandenbrand, B.S., son, Cooper, born November May 29, 2011. The family resides Aviation in Grand Rapids. 2006, on August 20, 2011. 18, 2011. The family resides in in Cedar Springs. Stephanie M. Rice, B.A., 2011, is Kristen M. Butts, B.A., 2007, Grand Rapids. Brenda S. (Kolbe) VanNevel, an assistant account executive and James A. Smoke, B.A., Laura (Irrer) Miersen, B.S., B.S., 2001, and husband for Weber Shandwick in Detroit. 2010, on September 27, 2008. 1997, M.P.T., 1999, and Mark C. Lawrence announce a daughter, Jennifer M. (Brown) Walen, Miersen, B.S.E., 1998, announce Chelsea Childs, B.B.A., 2007, Molly Therese, born March 29, M.H.A., 2011, is the director of a son, Luke Donald, born May and Charles Fisher on August 2011. Molly was welcomed by revenue integrity and payer 3, 2011. Luke was welcomed by 12, 2011. sister Paige. The family resides relations for Spectrum Health siblings Meredith, Samuel and Meredeith J. Means, B.S., in Elkhart, Indiana. Medical Group. Kayleigh. The family resides 2008, and Robert Borreson in Alto. Joseph A. Smith, B.S., 2011, and on July 8, 2011. Patricia (Vining) Maravolo, B.S., wife Bethany announce a son, Marriages Nicole R. Roggenbuck, Micah William, born October 1998, and husband Anthony M.Ed., 2008, and Jonathon E. 3, 2011. The family resides in 1990s announce a son, Nicholas McCarthy, B.S., 2006, M.S.W., Grand Rapids. Rita H. Kais, B.S., 1998, M.P.T., Phillip, born October 18, 2011. 2010, on October 10, 2010. Melissa A. (Smith) Byker, 2002, and Eric Graham, on Nicholas was welcomed by sister Alana K. Sims, B.S., 2008, B.S., 2002, M.Ed., 2008, August 13, 2011. Marissa. The family resides in and and Daniel Leland, on Cedar Springs. husband Barry announce twin September 24, 2011. 2000s Carrie L. (Rikkers) Merchant, sons, Lincoln Kahne and Jenson Erica M. Law, B.A., 2009, Cale, born September 13, 2011. Adrienne A. Wallace, B.S., B.A., 1998, and Bryan M. 2001, M.S., 2005, M.P.A., 2008, and Robert W. Rumble on Merchant, B.M.E., 1999, Lincoln and Jenson were welcomed by sister, Eden. The and Derek T. DeVries, B.S., July 2, 2011. announce a son, Ethan Tyler, family resides in Jenison. 2000, M.S., 2005, on October Christina M. LeVey, B.A., 2009, born September 13, 2011. Ethan 7, 2011. and Mitchell E. Rowland, B.A., was welcomed by brother Lucas. Kimberly L. Saindon, B.S., 2002, Kristen S. Hamilton, B.S., 2008, on June 10, 2011. The family resides in Grandville. and husband Scott announce a daughter, Addison 2002, and Michael Woods, on Jena Voogd, B.S., 2009, and Kelly M. (West) O’Day, B.S., Faith, born November 3, 2011. October 1, 2011. Andrew Tucker on May 20, 2011. 1999, and husband Benjamin Addison was welcomed by sister Elizabeth A. Fynewever, announce a daughter, Landry Jessica Y. Rittenhouse, B.S., Gracelyn. The family resides in B.S., 2011, and Joseph M. Ryanne, born March 30, 2011. 2002, and Asa J. Lakeman, Wyoming. B.B.A., 2002, on August 26, Chiaramonte, B.S., 1997, on Landry was welcomed by sisters Lisa A. (Wesch) Tieman, B.S.N., 2011. September 10, 2011. Riley and Marley. The family 2002, Bridget F. Hodges, B.S., 2011, resides in San Diego, California. and husband Brady Angela S. Bajalieh, B.S., 2003, announce a son, Brian Anthony, and Kyle Start on August 6, 2011. and Jacob Khalaf, on September 2000s born June 28, 2011. The family 21, 2008. Nichole L. Moore, B.A., Melissa (Zarzecki) Clegg, B.S., resides in Plainfield, Illinois. Jennifer A. Hofmann, B.S., 2011, and Andrew Otten on 2000, M.Ed., 2005, and Daniel Jennifer A. (Hoffman) 2003, July 1, 2011. and Jeb Beverwyk, on E. Clegg, B.S., 1998, announce Beverwyk, B.S., 2003, and September 25, 2010. a daughter, Finley Marie, husband Jeb announce a Heather M. Washburn, B.S.N., Births born June 19, 2011. Finley was daughter, Alexandra Eloise, born 2003, and Shane McClure, on 1970s welcomed by sibling Crawford. June 29, 2011. The family resides September 24, 2011. The family resides in Pierson. in Grand Rapids. James K. Stiff, B.Phil., 1979, Cynthia R. Anderson, B.S., Kathryn C. (Dixon) Golicz, Michelle L. (Larson) and wife Meredith announce 2004, and Jeffrey A. Lopez, B.S., 2000, B.S.N., 2003, and Dombrowski, B.S.N., 2003, a daughter, Mary Margaret, B.B.A., 2004, on September 25, husband Eric announce a son, and Alex A. Dombrowski, B.S., born March 21, 2011. Mary was 2010. Aidan Robert, born June 30, 2002, announce a daughter, welcomed by siblings Sarah, Ashley E. Ryan, B.S., 2004, and 2011. Aidan was welcomed Scarlett Alexa, born April 1, 2011. Anna, Rebekah, Philip, Clare and Stephen P. Czubak, B.S., 2002, by siblings Brendan and The family resides in Dearborn. Valerie Rose. The family resides on October 23, 2010. Kaitlyn. The family resides in Eric J. Inch, B.S., 2003, in Augusta, Georgia. and wife Farmington. Tammy announce a daughter, Madeline Patricia, born

36 winter 2012 | www.gvsu.edu/alumni alumni Updates

August 24, 2011. Madeline was Jamie (Quarterman) DeVries, a son, Owen Thomas, born welcomed by sisters Adrianna B.A., 2006, and husband Ross December 20, 2010. Owen is and Allison. The family resides announce a daughter, Bristol welcomed by siblings Connor in Kentwood. Kelly, born July 7, 2011. The and Lillian. The family resides Angela S. (Bajalieh) Khalaf, family resides in Holland. in Allendale. B.S., 2003, and husband Jacob Brandy (Witner) Reynhout, announce a daughter, Danielle B.A., 2006, and Benjamin In Memoriam Suham, born January 5, 2011. J. Reynhout, B.A., 2006, The family resides in Canton. announce a son, Gavin Malcolm, 1970s Quinn M. (Hood) Steendam, born April 17, 2011. Gavin is John Adastik, of B.F.A., 2003, and husband welcomed by sister Skye. The Grand Rapids, B.B.A., 1974, Jeffrey announce a daughter, family resides in Grand Rapids. on November 5, 2011. Haley Jay, born September Laura (Bright) Hakim, B.S.W., Thomas H. Devine, of 25, 2011. Haley is welcomed 2006, M.S.W., 2008, and Pullman, B.Phil., 1977, on by brother Austin. The family Thomas M. Hakim III, B.B.A., September 23, 2011. resides in Rockford. 2005, announce a daughter, Congratulations Christina M. Juntunen, B.S.N., Adeline Olivia, born September 1980s 2004, and husband Cory 2, 2011. The family resides in Jerry D. Fellows, of December 2011 announce twins, Abigail Rose Indianapolis, Indiana. Kentwood, B.S., 1986, on graduates and Rebekah Maria, born Keri A. Gerken, B.S.N., 2007, August 30, 2011. September 16, 2011. The family and husband Grady announce Martha Vandereyk, of The Alumni Association resides in Jenison. a daughter, Addisyn Faith, Grand Rapids, B.A., 1988, wishes you the best as you Olivia M. Destrades born March 7, 2011. Addisyn is on November 15, 2011. venture out to shape your Mendoza, B.A., 2004, M.Ed., welcomed by sister Ayla. The lives, your professions and your societies. You now join 2010, and husband Jorge, family resides in Grand Rapids. 1990s an alumni network of more announce a son, Gabriel Amaru, Kenneth P. Leister, B.S., 2007, Jon T. Muller, of Grand than 81,000 people. M.S., 2011, and wife Nicole born March 7, 2011. Gabriel is Rapids, M.S.W., 1995, on the Alumni Association welcomed by siblings Lourdes announce a daughter, Amelia October 8, 2011. is your constant link to and Isabella. The family Kathleen, born October 28, 2011. Grand Valley, and it will resides in Grand Rapids. Amelia is welcomed by sister 2000s help you stay connected Jessica M. Stone-Chapman, Adele. The family resides Sarah E. Frazier, of Midland, to your alma mater. Your B.B.A., 2005, and Kevan in Bath. B.A., 2003, on October 1, 2011. free membership provides Chapman, B.A., 2002, Jennifer L. (Funk) LeMaire, Matthew K. Hales, of countless opportunities announce a daughter, Olivia, B.S.N., 2007, and husband Petoskey, B.B.A., 2006, on and benefits including born November 9, 2011. The Aaron, announce a daughter, July 20, 2011. lifelong career services family resides in Alexandria, Allison Michelle, born February and a membership card Virginia. 14, 2011. The family resides in that provides discounts at dozens of businesses across Lindsay I. (Crawford) Muskegon. the country. For more Elsenheimer, B.S., 2005, Joel D. Schick, M.B.A., 2007, and information on alumni clubs husband Troy announce a and wife Taya announce a or chapters in your area or daughter, Kalyn Madison, born daughter, Ellie Christine, born to request a benefit card, June 20, 2011. The family resides October 10, 2011. The family visit www.gvsu.edu/alumni. in Greenville, South Carolina. resides in Ada. Erika L. (Bisson) Holleran, Kristen M. (Butts) Smoke, B.S., 2005, and Kevin J. B.A., 2007, and James A. Holleran, B.S., 2005, M.S., Smoke, B.A., 2010, announce a Delicious Flickr Twitter Retweet 2008, announce a son, Brendan daughter, Lorelai Kathryn, born Stay Informed. Stay Involved. Stay Connected. Richard, born October 7, 2011. December 20, 2009. The family Brendan is welcomed by sister resides in Queen Creek, Arizona. Keep your Alumni Association in the know. Please Helena. The family resides in Jacquelyn M. Abeyta, B.S., Facebook MySpace StumbleUpon Digg Grand Rapids. 2009, and husband Lawrence contact the Alumni Relations staff any time your family, Morgan L. (Rybarczyk) announce a son, Jaxon Charles, career, education status or address changes. Callahan, B.B.A., 2006, and born July 20, 2011. Jaxon is • Call (800) 558-0541 Joseph T. Callahan III, B.S., welcomed by siblings Christian Slash Dot Mixx Skype Technorati 2005, announce a son, Bennett and Joseph. The family resides • Email [email protected] Joseph, born September 9, 2011. in Interlochen. • Visit www.gvsu.edu/alumni Bennett is welcomed by sister Jennifer M. (Brown) Walen, and click “Stay Connected.” Grace. The family resides in M.H.A., 2011, and Joel A. DeliciousReddit Flickr FriendFeed Twitter YouTube RetweetLinkedIn St. Joseph. Walen, B.S., 2004, announce

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 37 FacebookNewsvine MySpaceSlideShare StumbleUponGoogle Digg Google Talk

Slash DoYtahoo Mixx Yahoo Buzz Skype Netvibes TechnoratAOi L

Reddit Microsoft FriendFeedMSN YouTubeApple LinkedInMobileMe

NewsvineApp Store SlideShareAmazon Google Last.fm Google TMalkister Wong

Yahoo Qik Yahoo BuzzVimeo NetvibesViddler AOL Virb

MicrosoftTumblr MSN WordPerss Apple Blogger MobileMePosterous

App StorBehancee AmazonDesign Float Last.fm Deviant Art Mister WDesignong Bump

Qik Friendster Vimeo Bebo Viddler Squidoo Virb Share This

Tumblr RSS WordPerssEmail Blogger Posterous

Update #1

Behance Design Float Deviant Art Design Bump

Google Buzz Picasa Bing Meetup

Friendster Bebo Squidoo Share This

Ebay Feedburner WordPress (blue) Drupal

RSS Email

Update #1 Gowalla ICQ Metacafe Yelp

Google BuzzXing Picasa Paypal Bing Heart Meetup Star

Ebay Podcast FeedburnerButton Blue WordPressButton (blue) Orange Drupal Green

Gowalla Button Red ICQ Button White MetacafeButton Light BlueYelp Button Yellow

Update #2

Xing Paypal Heart Star

IconDock Foursquare Coro ot Ember App

Podcast Button Blue Button Orange Green

Hyves Identi.ca

Button Red Button White Button Light Blue Button Yellow

Update #2

IconDock Foursquare Coro ot Ember App

Hyves Identi.ca OFF THE PATH

Off-road courtesy photo anielle Musto just wanted she said. “My husband said, Dto get back into shape. ‘Don’t worry, you’re a beginner, She never thought a simple you don’t have to wear anything bike ride would lead her down special.’ So I showed up in a path to become a national a ribbed T-shirt and all the trails mountain biking champion. other beginner women were Musto, a senior majoring decked out and focused.” in advertising and public Musto, 34, won that first Student is national relations, said she fell in love beginner race and hundreds with biking when she went on a more after it. In October 2011, bike ride around Reeds Lake in she won a national mountain mountain biking East Grand Rapids during the biking championship in the summer of 2002. “My boyfriend Solo Single-Speed Division at the time, who’s now my at the USA Cycling 24-hour champion — by Leah Zuber husband, was really into cross National Championship in country biking and always Colorado Springs, Colorado; talked about it, so we went for she finished 12, 13-mile loops a ride one day and that’s all it in less than 23 hours. “The took,” she said. “I was hooked.” most difficult part of that Two months later, Musto competition was the altitude competed in her first cross difference,” she said. “I’m used country race. “I had no idea to training in West Michigan what I’d gotten myself into,” and the altitude in Colorado

38 winter 2012 | www.gvsu.edu OFF THE PATH

at the store and started training more intensely.” Musto said she is close to completing her bachelor’s degree and credits many of her advertising and public relations classes to her success in the cycling industry. “Learning the right communication and writing skills have definitely come into play when I look for sponsors and maintain my website and blog,” she said. (www.daniellemusto. blogspot.com.) Each year, Musto begins the outdoor racing season in late March, and said racing in the Pacific Northwest is her favorite area. “Northern California is a favorite because of the great weather and the ocean is beautiful. The first two 24-hour World Championship races I competed in were in British Columbia, and I have a lot of great memories from my early years of racing there,” she said. During the peak of a racing season, her trainer will schedule training plans weeks in advance and include two to three intense workouts that range from one and half to three hours, then two longer courtesy photo endurance-based days that range from three to eight hours. photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker was at about 7,000 feet, so you Musto said she rides between Danielle Musto fell in love with biking when she went on a bike ride lose a bit of power because the 15-25 hours a week. “After around Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids in 2002. Nine years later, she oxygen is thinner that high up.” a big race, though, I usually was named a national mountain biking champion. Musto, a Grand Rapids take a few days off where I do native, enrolled at Grand Rapids absolutely nothing,” she added. husband, who tracks calorie Her favorite part about Community College after When the snow and cold intake per hour and status in the mountain biking is the high school then transferred weather hits, Musto trains competition. “In the middle of adventure of it all, but her to Aquinas College. While at inside daily on a bike and with the night of a 24-hour race you biggest challenge is mentally Aquinas, she became a store a strength coach; she tries to become almost like a shell and prepping herself for a race. merchandise manager and ride outside as much as possible. can’t think very straight,” she “It’s hard to get up the courage decided to transfer to Grand She also leads several spinning said. “It helps to have someone at the start line to feel like Valley because its classes fit classes at the Ada Bike Shop, there to track your progress.” you belong there. There are her flexible schedule better. which is one of her sponsors. Being a national champion a lot of professional women “After taking a few public In the past 10 years, she and well-known throughout who have been racing longer relations classes at Grand competed in the USA Cycling the biking community doesn’t than me, but I just have to Valley I realized that I was 24-hour National Championship stop her from competing in remind myself that anyone can really interested in the four times, placed second local races, though. “Michigan win at any time,” she said. advertising and public relations twice and third once, and has a big cycling community Musto plans to participate program,” Musto said. competed in the 24-hour and there are a lot of strong in the European National “Around the same time I also World Championships twice. women here and the courses are Championship and National started getting really serious During a race, Musto relies challenging, so there are short Championship in Alberta, about bike racing, and stepped heavily on her mechanic, who races that I’ve won here that Canada, this year. down from my position manages her gear, and her I’m equally proud of,” she said.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 39 NON-PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID News & Information Services GRAND VALLEY 1 Campus Drive STATE UNIVERSITY Allendale MI 49401

110000-63004-665

Grand Impact Wherever you are in the world, you are a part of the Laker family! This week of service is intended to unite Grand Valley alumni from around the globe in providing volunteer support in their own communities and in ways meaningful to each individual or group. • Volunteer during the week at your favorite non-profit organization in the name of Grand Valley. Community • Sign up to help with a project being planned by a regional alumni club, chapter, or alumni group near you. Outreach Week • Coordinate a project for a group of alumni in your area. March 26–31, 2012 Recruit volunteers from your class year. Visit www.gvsu.edu/cow for information on how to get involved.

www.gvsu.edu 800-558-0541 [email protected]

Co-sponsored by www.gvsu.edu/cow the Community Service 800.558.0541 Learning Center. [email protected]