Community's Investment Allows MCC to Grow

Summer 2014

Community’s Investment Allows MCC to Grow see page 12

Series of History Lectures Bring MCC Students, Faculty, and the Community together see pages 8 & 10

In this issue Jayhawk Athletic Roundup see page 14 CAD/CNC Programs at MCC Work to Meet Regional Needs see page 10 ContentsMUSKEGON COMMUNITY COLLEGE REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2014 FEATURES 8 MCC & Community: A Grand Partnership Community members join MCC students and faculty to learn and discuss history at World War II lecture series. 12 Muskegon’s Community Invests in their College MCC plans the most ambitious improvement project since the campus was built in the 1960s. 18 International Club Students Learn about Life in the USA Numerous students from around the globe choose MCC for their college experience.

2 Summer 2014 REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE is published by the Muskegon Community College Office of Community Outreach

CONTACT US [email protected] Office of Community Outreach 221 S. Quarterline Road Muskegon MI 49442 (231) 777-0571 muskegoncc.edu

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Donald Crandall, M.D. Chair Diana Osborn Vice-Chair Dorothy Lester Treasurer Nancy Frye DEPARTMENTS Secretary Sean Mullally Trustee 4 Letters to MCC Ann Oakes Trustee 5 From the President Roy Portenga 6 Distinguished Alumnus Trustee LEADERSHIP 16 From the Archives Dr. Dale K. Nesbary President Teresa Sturrus 20 Alumni News Vice President for Academic Affairs and Finance 22 Foundation Report Dr. John Selmon Vice President for Student Services and Administration Trynette Lottie-Harps Dean of Community Outreach Tina Dee Director of Foundation and Strategic Initiatives Eduardo Bedoya Director of Institutional Research and Grants Marty McDermott Director of Athletics Michael Alstrom Chief Information Officer

Reflections Magazine 3 Letters to MCC Message to Life Science Message to Baseball Coach Message to Vice President for Instructor Kathy Pollack: Cap Pohlman: Student Services and Administration Dr. John Selmon: "After I received my associates from MCC “It’s been a while since I last talked to you. I transferred to Saint Joseph's College I hope everything is going alright with the “It was great to meet you when visiting in Rensselaer, Indiana. I received a team and season. I heard it was a pretty Muskegon Community College. I also think scholarship to play NCAA DII volleyball cold winter up there. How are you doing? it is great with what is going on with the here at school. I majored in Business How is the family? I’m in New Mexico MCC gym. MCC is a great place and I owe Administration with a concentration in for training, I wish I could give you a call much of my success to MCC. marketing. While here at SJC I traveled to but I have a hectic training schedule. I’m In fall of 2005 I started at MCC, I still did not Ethiopia for two weeks for study abroad. still in training to become an Air Force know what I wanted to do so I took many As well, I traveled to India for two weeks pararescue man. Last March I went different classes. I signed up for Physical for study abroad. Since I started at SJC through the initial training phase where Geography with Diana Casey and created back in August, 2012 I have worked in they weed out all the guys. Wow what an an interest for the material which led to the Integrated Marketing Department at experience that was, movies don’t really me taking her weather and climate class. the school. I stayed over this past summer do it justice! Our training is considered to After discussing future study with Diana, I and kept working there while I helped out be one of the toughest because when the decided to go to Valparaiso University for in other areas such as events, alumni, and seals and green berets go down we have Meteorology and Geography. The time and development. After volleyball had ended I to go in and get them. My class started experience at Valparaiso University was started an internship at a nonprofit here with 130 guys and we graduated 20. I just great and I gained more knowledge towards in my town called Jasper Foundation, Inc. wanted to tell you that you had a huge the field of Meteorology and Geography. As well, working for J&L Marketing where I influence on helping me be successful Yet, the after graduation uncertainty grew am on contract where I run events for car so far. I hope you know how important as I graduated from Valparaiso University. dealerships a couple weekends a month, what you teach and instill in your players I contacted Diana and asked if she had while still working in the integrated is. From doing everything with a purpose, any ideas for what to do, she offered that I marketing department. I am graduating to being accountable, and the values and come and co-teach and physical geography in May with a Bachelor in Science. I morals that you set as an example and class with her at MCC. Co-teaching this received a job in New York at a YMCA expect us to have, it doesn’t get much class with Diana was amazing and I gained camp for this summer. Then I just recently better than that. I wish your players could many skills during that semester. Diana received this amazing opportunity to work realize that now as they play for you, but told me about the Masters of Geography at UIC United International College in most do not until after they are done. The program at Western Michigan University. Zhuhai, China for the next school year. I pressure you put on us also helped a At first I was nervous to apply but with will be working as a TA in the Business lot haha. I was able to keep calm when Diana’s encouragement I applied and got Management Division. I will be there from other guys around me were passing out accepted. Throughout my career at Western Aug. 2014 to June 2015.” underwater, then getting thrown back in Michigan University, I was number one in --Alyssa Guarnaccia when they came back around. Since July my graduating class, got to be a research of last year I have got to travel all over the assistant and teaching assistant. At the end country for training. I graduated combat of my career I was awarded the Graduate scuba dive school, military freefall and I Teaching Effectiveness award, a university am working on becoming a paramedic nominee for the Graduate Teaching right now. Talk about being accountable Effectiveness Award, Graduate Service for your own actions the first skydive jump Award, and the Gamma Theta Upsilon (GTU) I did was by myself and the chute I was Excellence Award. Also during this time I wearing was one I had to pack myself. was president of GTU honors fraternity and Well coach I sure do miss ya. I hope all the WMU geography club. Now that my the other coaches are doing well and career at WMU is over I have accepted a hopefully you can say hello to them for position at Louisiana State University’s PhD me if you get a chance.” program in Geography and Climatology. --Drew Kennedy Looking back through this journey, I wanted to say how thankful I am that I chose MCC. At first I was unsure if I wanted to attend MCC but I am happy that I did.” --Rudy Bartels

4 Summer 2014 From the President Members of the Muskegon upon the most significant infrastructure Community College Community: investment since Muskegon Community Downtown Satellite Facility: The Facility I am hopeful College relocated to its current Marquette Master Plan calls for the development of a that your and Quarterline location in 1967. downtown Muskegon satellite facility. The summer is full Since the completion of the College’s project will not only address the College’s of fun, rest and Facility Master Plan in 2010, improving need to renovate advanced technology relaxation. I am Science facilities has been the top of four space and experiential learning program very pleased to infrastructure priorities identified by the capacity, it will serve as a much needed share with you MCC Board of Trustees. The plan calls for catalyst to economic development in the that the voters a Science/Technology building addition downtown area. Downtown satellite facilities of Muskegon with six new laboratories located in a implemented by other community colleges County new building adjacent to the Stevenson in Michigan and nationally have proven to approved Center for Higher Education. It will serve be extremely successful. the College’s a combined 18 academic programs. $24 million Additionally, another 25,000 square feet of The ballot providing additional funding for the existing Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geology, Creative and Performing Arts: Art Department is currently located in Science Center, an expanded Bartels-Rode and Technology space will be upgraded. a cramped 8,400-square-foot pole barn Gymnasium/Health Center, an upgraded The expansion and upgrades will address style building. The Facility Master Plan Creative and Performing Arts Center, as well the national call to increase the number calls for construction of five new art as a Downtown Muskegon Center. As a of student STEM (Science, Technology, studios, three instructional classrooms, result, our students will learn in state of the Engineering, and Math) graduates. an exhibition gallery and a kiln room, as art facilities and our faculty will teach in the Here are details on the Art, Health, and well as improvements to the Overbrook same. Downtown Centers: Theater and band/music area. Current and Additionally, I am pleased to share with future programs that will benefit include you that on March 14, 2014, Lt. Gov. Brian Art, Band, Broadcasting, Communication, Calley signed Senate Bill 608, legislation Bartels-Rode Health Center and The 47-year-old Bartels- Dance, Entrepreneurship in the Arts, General authorizing Muskegon Community College Gymnasium: Rode Gymnasium is the most heavily used Education, Humanities, Journalism/New to construct a 19,000-square-foot science building on campus. With expansion and Media, Music, Theatre, Performing Arts and laboratory and renovate 16,781 square improvements to this facility, MCC will Visual Arts. feet of existing science facilities. The State be able to expand current offerings and Thank you all for everything that you do to dedicated $4.646 million toward the Science implement new programs such as Health make Muskegon Community College the Center, meaning that the College now has Sciences and Recreation Management. best choice for higher education in West $68.6 million at its disposal to upgrade Other current and future programs that will Michigan. I will be in contact with you soon learning facilities. benefit include Athletic Training, Criminal to keep you apprised of progress on our It is expected that groundbreaking for the Justice, General Education, Health, Nursing, construction projects and other happenings project will occur in late summer of 2014 Nutrition, Physical Education, Recreation and on campus. with all phases of the project expected Respiratory Therapy. The improvements will to be complete by spring 2016. The $4.6 also allow for the implementation of campus million is a much needed supplement to recreation programming, which would be the voter-approved $24 million and the available to the entire community. College is extremely grateful for the funds. The above funds will allow MCC to embark Dale K. Nesbary, Ph.D. President Muskegon Community College

News and News and updates President’s Blog opportunities from all 13 MCC Dale Nesbary, Ph.D. for MCC alumni athletic teams

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

Reflections Magazine 5 Distinguished Alumnus Preston Pulliams Named 2014 MCC Distinguished Alumnus Muskegon native Preston Pulliams, the Before his recent retirement, Pulliams was for today`s students if they are going to former president of Oregon’s largest president at Portland (OR) Community be competitive in today`s job market and community college and vice chancellor College. He has championed affordable workplace.” overseeing the State University of New York’s higher education and promoted community 30 community colleges, has been named Pulliams, who was also the 2014 Muskegon Community College president at both Oakland Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. County Community College in Michigan and Orange County He will be honored May 1 at the Community College in New Distinguished Alumni Award Dinner on York, has served on a slew of campus and will also address graduates at boards over the years, including the 2014 MCC Commencement on May 3 in Big Brothers Big Sisters in Walker Arena. Muskegon, MI; President for the Board of Directors for United “...MCC INSTRUCTORS WERE SO Way in Middletown, NY; State SUPPORTIVE AND EACH ONE Board of Higher Education for the state of Oregon; Board of ENCOURAGED ME...” Directors of the United Way in Preston Pulliams Portland, OR; and the Board MCC Class of 1966 of Directors for the Oregon Historical Society. Established in 1998, the award is the highest honor that MCC bestows upon an He has received the Portland outstanding alumnus whose professional Business Alliance Award for achievements, community service, and advocacy for higher education; advocacy of higher education exemplify the the American Association of foremost ideals of their alma mater. The Community Colleges Award for honoree is selected by the MCC Alumni Outstanding Community College Relations Committee and college leadership. President; the Council for the Advancement and Support of After graduating from Muskegon High Education (CASE) Regional CEO School, Pulliams jump started his academic of the Year Award; the National career with a scholarship from MCC. Council for Marketing and Public Relations (AACC affiliate “I was the first in my immediate family to council) Regional CEO of the attend college and I was really challenged Year Award; and the Oregon when I arrived at MCC in 1964 because I service throughout a 40-year career that League of Minority Voters Civil Rights Award. had no idea if I could be successful,” said included serving his hometown as MCC’s Pulliams, who graduated from MCC in 1966. Dean of Students . Pulliams has been honored as the “But many of the MCC instructors were so “Research informs us that those who are Outstanding Fundraiser for Community supportive and each one encouraged me educated beyond high school have higher College President from the National Council and some even mentored me.” lifetime salaries and a better quality of life,” for Institutional Development. said Pulliams. “I certainly know firsthand He earned a bachelor’s degree from that much of my professional opportunities For more information or to make a Michigan State University, a master’s degree were the result of my acquisition of a Distinguished Alumni Award nomination, from Western Michigan University and a college education. Educational experience visit www.muskegoncc.edu/alumni. doctorate from the University of Michigan. beyond high school is absolutely essential

6 Summer 2014 A high point of the year for the MCC Arts faculty who reviewed several thousand 50th MCC and Humanities Department, the Student pieces produced by more than 500 students. Art and Design Exhibition celebrates its Only a small portion of this total amount golden anniversary this year by once again comprises the annual exhibit. Student Art highlighting exceptional artwork created by MCC’s art and graphic design students over The awards were chosen by Ed Wong-Ligda the past academic year. the illustration program coordinator at GVSU. and Design The artwork, which is on display in Gallery summer hours are 9:00am - 4:00pm Overbrook Art Gallery through Sept. 10, was Monday - Friday. Please call (231) 777-0324 Exhibition selected for the exhibition by art and design for more information.

t $400 FIRST PLACE: Artwork by Kathie Thompson

u PRESIDENT’S PURCHASE PRIZE or the MCC Art Collection (chosen by the college): Artwork by Matthew Cutting

Saturday, August 9th on the Port City Princess! Join fellow alumni on the Port City Princess for a cruise on Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan from 4:oopm - 6:00pm -- fun, music, hors d’oeuvres and great views! Boat capacity is limited, so early registration is recommended. The two-hour cruise is only $15 for alumni, and $20 for guests (non-alumni). Register online at www.muskegoncc.edu/cruise or call (231) 777-0461

Reflections Magazine 7 MCC & Community A Grand Partnership

By MCC Instructors immersion and museum investigation. The professors took advantage of the Kurt Troutman and George Maniates Weekly topics followed a war chronology Silversides museum's collection to make the outlined in John Keegan’s book, The Second history of WWII more engaging and to bring Muskegon Community College faculty World War, a required reading for the it to life. "We can talk about the wolf pack George Maniates and Kurt Troutman course. This is the second year that MCC has tactics of submarines or we can walk down teamed up with Dr. Frank Marczak, partnered with the USS Silversides’ Museum to the submarine and have students see Director of the USS Silversides’ Submarine and USS LST 393 Veterans Museum to exactly how it worked," said Troutman. "Our Museum to present a World War II offer this student and community learning two WW II era museums serve as a unique experiential learning course during the experience. classroom and we are grateful for access to winter of 2013. The submarine museum all available artifacts and teaching tools.” was used as a floating laboratory, providing students and community At the conclusion of each presentation, the Conversations with students and community members an opportunity to learn, explore public was invited to participate in group members reaffirmed that the most valuable and experience a pivotal period of our discussions and examine museum artifacts, experiences of the entire program were the country’s history. USS LST 393 Veterans including uniforms, equipment and films. numerous presentations, discussions and Museum President John Stephenson Students conducted multiple interviews comments from the many veterans who and Senior Curator Dan Weikel joined with veterans from all eras, facilitating an were in attendance. WWII, Korean, Vietnam, the team adding content expertise and enriching and very personal educational Iraq and Afghanistan veterans shared their artifacts to share with the students and experience. common experiences across the generations. participants.

Experiential learning classes provide The most endearing legacy of the Muskegon The lecture series is offered as History students an opportunity to immerse WW II class is that this experience provided 297-WW II, through Muskegon themselves through lecture, discussion, veterans a venue to share their story, many Community College. Thirty-one and examination of artifacts. Incorporating of them for the very first time. Emotional enrolled students and upward of 150- members of the public positively affected tributes and scarred experiences imprinted 200 community members in weekly the classroom dynamic, said Maniates and a message on all who attended. Please attendance created a unique learning Troutman. "We feel that there's much more consider joining us in January 2015 for our environment. The community event engagement in an intergenerational learning next series! started on January 6, 2014 and continued environment," Maniates said. "The younger through late April. Each evening program people learn from the older people and the was followed by group discussions, artifact older people learn from the younger people."

The Silversides (SS-236) off Mare Island taken on 2 February 1942, shortly after she was commissioned. Source: www.navsource.org

8 Summer 2014 u MCC history instructors George Maniates and Kurt Troutman

q A full house crowd enjoys the WWII history course at the U.S.S. Silversides Museum

TOPICS FROM THE WINTER 2014 SERIES: Introduction to WWII: Battle for Guadalcanal and Iwo Jima Battle of the Bulge Global Appeasement Featured Speaker: Mr. Dan Weikel, USS LST Featured Speaker: Debi Hollis & Russell Levine, Muskegon’s Ghost Mountain Boys 393 Veteran’s Museum Curator The Michigan WW II Legacy Memorial Guest Speaker: James Campbell, Author, Ghost Guest Speaker: Fred Bertsch: Native WW II Guest Speaker, Mr. Richard Mullally, Muskegon Mountain Boys-Their Epic March through New Sons of Muskegon! WWII Veterans Project Guinea Pearl Harbor-Awaking a Sleeping Giant War and Justice: Forgotten Casualties Muskegon’s Ghost Mountain Boys: Stanley Featured Speaker: Ron Janowski, Ret. Colonel Featured Speaker: Dr. Katharina Von Jastrzembski, Donald Stout, Russell Buys, Lloyd US Army, JROTC Instructor Muskegon Public Kellenbach, Professor of Religious Studies at St. Gongalski, Carl Stenberg Schools Mary’s College of Maryland and author of The German Blitzkrieg Guest Speaker: Ms. Peggy Maniates, USS Mark of Cain: Guilt and Denial in the Post War Featured Speaker: Mr. Bill Jacobks, MCC Silversides Submarine Museum Archivist “From lives of Nazi Perpetrators. (Skype Lecture) Professor-The Mind of Adolf Hitler the Archives” Guest Speaker: Rev William Freeman: Guest Speaker: Dr. Dan Collison-Psychological Muskegon-The Arsenal of Democracy Restorative Justice. profiles of an Evil Empire Guest lecturer-Dr. Daniel Yakes, MCC Professor The Holocaust Hitler’s Dilemma-Consolidate gains or Emeritus. Featured Speaker: Mr. Martin Lowenberg, expand opportunities? Special Guest: Ms. Mackenzie Brandel, Holocaust Survivor, Holocaust Memorial Featured Speaker: Mr. Nicholas Budimir MCC Whitehall High School student, Billie the Center, Zekelman Family Campus faculty Riveter-Women in the WW II Workforce The Siege of Berlin-VE Day and the life Guest Speaker: Ms. Peggy Maniates, USS The Air War over the Pacific and of German people Silversides Submarine Museum Archivist “From Muskegon’s Ike Kepford & Walter Featured Speaker: Ms. Kathy Tosa, MCC the Archives” Sprowls Department Chairperson: Operation Barbarossa-Russia Be Featured Speaker-Mr. John Stephenson, LST Wartime German life: A new normal damned! 393 Veteran’s Museum President Guest Speaker: Luise Calkins, WW II survivor Featured Speaker: Dr. David Stahel, Lecturer in Guest Speaker: Mr. Don Goodman: MCC goes from Mainz, Germany European history at the to War Guest Speaker: Dr. Dale Nesbary, A father’s University of New South Wales in Canberra, Operation Overlord-The Invasion of service and post war life. Australia, Author of Operation Typhoon: Hitler's Europe The USS Flier March on Moscow, October 1941 (Skype Featured Speaker, Mr. John McGarry, Director Featured Speaker: Dr. Frank Marczak, Director Lecture) Muskegon Lakeshore Museum Center-Jumpin USS Silversides Submarine-The USS Flier in the Joe Beyrle, Muskegon’s Hometown Hero Pacific Theater Guest Speakers: Ambassador John Beyrle, Julie Beyrle-Schugars, Joe Beyrle II.

Reflections Magazine 9 Public Welcome at MCC’s Labor Lecture Series in Muskegon, the “First City of Labor”

By Nicholas Budimir, the associated sit-down-strikes, including MCC Faculty, Sociology Yes, you guessed it; the controversial the most famous in Flint, the thorny issue Did you know that in the 1880s Labor Studies Lecture Series is back in the of union decline, labor and politics, labor Muskegon was the center of the national fall of 2014! This course, Political Science and the law, labor organizing, collective movement for the eight-hour workday? 220 or History 220 is a comprehensive bargaining, and the recent struggles over Indeed, before Chicago took over as the overview of labor and working class “Right-to-Work” and new labor Organizing center of that movement, the biggest history, the economics of employment, the at Wal-Mart and McDonalds. support was among the lumber workers rationale behind unions and unionization, of West Michigan with headquarters in attempting to inform students about the The class format will be a lecture series Muskegon! Did you know that Muskegon world of work and labor and the important and discussion sections inspired by the is one of only two cities in Michigan place of organized labor and collective popular World War II Lecture Series with a Labor Day Parade? It’s true; the bargaining in the current world economy. taught at the USS Silversides Submarine other city is Detroit! Did you know that Every major topic in labor studies is Museum by MCC Instructors George only about 11% of all workers in the touched on, from the earliest colonial Maniates and Kurt Troutman. Experts, U.S. today are members of labor unions? labor unions (like the one organized by activists and practitioners from throughout It’s true; that’s the lowest level since the Benjamin Franklin), to the Haymarket the Labor field will be invited to a series of 1920s. On the flip side, did you know Affair which is the foundation of May Day, free public lectures. This year the Lecture that the incomes of the richest 1% of the May 1st the International Workers Day Series will occur in conjunction with population recently reached their highest celebrated in every country except the MCC hosting the Michigan Sociological level since 1928, before the start of the United States. You want to know why not? Association’s Annual Conference with Great Depression? That’s true too. Enroll in the class! Other topics include a theme centered on Labor and the the 1930s and labor’s great upsurge with

Background photo: Attendees at the “Marx in the SoHo” play

MCC Accelerates Needed Workplace Skills with CAD Programs By Valarie Shelby, certificate and two year AAS degree program The college also bought a Haas mini mill Grant Coordinator are also available and encouraged for those as well as a (CMM) coordinate measuring Muskegon Community College has that want to continue their education and machine that was a special request of an developed (CAD) computer-aided design become highly skilled in both disciplines. area employer, which needs workers trained and (CNC) computer numerical control in the highly precise measuring. or CAD/CNC Programs as a response to To help move students quickly through the West Michigan companies that continue program, and to receive more intensive In addition to the new equipment, software to request highly skilled workers in the training, the college has utilized about and new accelerated learning curriculum, manufacturing industry. $100,000 in federal funding from the grant MCC is now offering a few of the CAD on new equipment and software to update classes on-line and has integrated on-line With the help of federal funding designed current equipment and provide enhanced lecture components to many machining to assist displaced workers, the college skills to our students. The equipment classes. This allows for students to have combined the CAD/CNC disciplines includes 16 CNC simulators, which are more “hands on” time in the classrooms and to develop four hybrid programs, two essentially the computer portion of a mill training labs. “accelerated” eight week programs, where that is used to program the tool path the For more information on the MCC CAD/CNC students earn six credits in each and mill will use to produce a part. Program, contact coordinator Valarie Shelby fast track into the job market, a one year at (231) 777-0217 or [email protected].

10 Summer 2014 keynote presentation by labor expert, AT&T and the Communication Workers course, transferable to all major colleges former American Sociological Association of America, and they had to do research and universities in Michigan. This is an President, and University of California at and bargain over wages, pensions and involvement intensive class, not for the Berkeley professor Michael Burawoy. work crews. This was a very fun and passive or faint of heart. Students who wish challenging learning experience. Finally, to enroll should do so soon. Others who students were invited to participate in a wish to attend may do so completely free of Last year, the list of guests included labor themed field trip to Detroit including charge on any day; members of the public, union presidents: David Hecker (AFT), a factory tour at the state of the art Rouge the labor community, and family members Steve Cook (MEA) and Gerald Kariem assembly plant, the Detroit Institute of are all welcome to attend and participate! (UAW); politicians: Colleen Lamonte; Arts and the Wright Museum of African- Tell a friend and tell an enemy, bring both activists: Brent Gillette (AFL-CIO), Mary American history. along! Valentine, and Stan Burnell (MEA retired); academics: Andy Fink (MCC) and David Takitaki (MCC), also there was a free The Labor Lecture Series will begin For more information please contact performance of historian Howard Zinn’s on Tuesday, August 26th at 6pm and Nicholas Budimir, Sociology Instructor, play Marx in Soho which attracted nearly run until 9pm, the Public portion will Muskegon Community College at, three hundred attendees. Students conclude around 7:30pm. A surprise (231) 777-0620 or participated in a series of collective guest will be announced soon. The class [email protected] bargaining simulations where they were is a standard three credit hour, 15-week assigned companies and unions, such as

p Stan Burnell (MEA retired), Nicholas Budimer, Mary Valentine (former State Representative), and Brent Gillette (President of the West Michigan Labor Council, AFL-CIO) u MCC student and guitarist Kwame James, labor historian Michael Johnston, and Nicholas Budimer

t CAD/CNC Program A CAD/CNC student learns how to operate an industrial Computer Numerical Control machine in the Applied Technology area on MCC’s main campus.

Reflections Magazine 11 Muskegon’s Community Invests in their College For the most ambitious improvement project since Muskegon Community College built a new campus in the 1960s, Muskegon County voters approved a $23.7 million bond to build and expand the facilities of Muskegon Community College for science, downtown center, health education, and a new arts facility.

Science, Technology, Engineering, Gov. Brian Calley signed Senate Bill 608, When - By mid-2016. Planning and legislation authorizing MCC to construct a programming for the site are nearing and Math (STEM) Center 25,000-square-foot science laboratory and completion. The site acquisition and design What - New and renovated classroom and renovate 20,000 square feet of existing processes have begun. A site is expected laboratory space for the life and physical science facilities. The Lt. Governor signed the to be determined by Summer 2014, with sciences. The completed project will serve a Bill, now PA 34 of 2014, as Governor Snyder construction and or renovation expected to combined 18 academic programs and would was out of the state. begin by year’s end Cost - $7.2 million renovate existing lab and instructional MCC Downtown Center space, as well as construct new space Health and adjacent to the Stevenson Center for Higher What - A downtown Muskegon space Education. designed to accommodate the growth in Physical Education Center Why - “Muskegon Community College enrollment and programming since the What - A major renovation and expansion needs to compete on a national and global College relocated to the Marquette and of the Bartels-Rode Gymnasium and Health level,” said MCC President Dale Nesbary. “In Quarterline location. While still under Center will update one of the two oldest addition to meeting crucial student needs, review, the Center will house the College’s and most popular buildings on the MCC this expansion will also benefit employers applied technology programs including Campus. Included are a new recreation floor and the community at large. It will help computer aided design, computer aided area, fitness center, classrooms and training attract and retain talented individuals and manufacturing, engineering, and electronics. space that collectively serve 10 academic equip them with the science skills to make Also under consideration for occupying areas. them both more effective employees and our downtown space are: entrepreneurial Why - Currently 47 years old, Bartels-Rode informed residents, critical to improving the programs, experiential learning programs Gymnasium is the most heavily used facility overall health of our communities. Moreover, and a black box meeting/performance space at MCC. “Our 150 percent growth as a the College’s growth from approximately to serve our students and community. campus since 1968, has taken the most 2,000 in the mid-1960s to approximately Why - Since the mid-1960s, the College’s wear and tear on our over-used health and 5,000 credit-bearing students has led to the enrollments have grown from approximately recreation facilities,” explained Nesbary. “It need for additional academic space in the 2,000 credit-bearing students to roughly is expected that the new fitness and health STEM fields.” 5,000 students, with another 2,000-plus facilities will generate operational revenue Where - Renovation of existing space in students engaging in lifelong learning and to offset increased costs associated with the the Main Building, along with a 19,000 sq. training programs. The College has also additional building space. ft. new building adjacent to the Stevenson increased programming in manufacturing, Where - An expansion of the existing Center for Higher Education design, engineering, welding, technology, Bartels-Rode Gymnasium and Health Center. When - Groundbreaking for the new and related fields. The College’s credit- When - Expected completion in mid-2016. building is expected in 2014, with full bearing student headcount has increased Cost - $6.2 million occupancy expected in 2015. Reconstruction by 150 percent since the mid-1960s, while Size - 17,599 sq. ft. of new space and of existing space is expected to begin in academic and support space have not kept 12,800 sq. ft. of renovated space early 2015, with completion expected in pace, increasing by only 40 percent. mid-2016. “Many colleges around the nation and Creative and Cost - $9.6 million, $4.65 million of which in Michigan have partnered with their Performing Arts Center communities, to grow the local economy comes from a state appropriation and What - The proposed $6.1 million arts and just as importantly, to serve the needs the remainder from property tax revenues center includes five new art studios, three of students, business and the community,” approved in the November 2013 general classrooms, an exhibition gallery and kiln explained Nesbary. Sites in Norfolk, VA; election. On July 3, 2013, Gov. Snyder room, improvements to the Overbrook Springfield, OH; and Kalamazoo, MI are signed a supplemental appropriations Theater and performance space, and among those experiencing enrollment bill authorizing MCC to develop planning expanded lab and multimedia instructional growth, economic growth, and enhanced documents for 33,000 sq. ft. of existing space. This space will serve MCC’s community engagement. and expanded campus facilities. The new growing visual arts, performing arts and law authorized MCC to begin planning Where - Downtown Muskegon, in the communications programs. The Visual Arts for the project. On March 14, 2014 Lt. Downtown Development Association District 12 Summer 2014 “I look forward to our art students and faculty being more effectively integrated into the main campus layout.” --Timothy Norris, Instructor of Art

“The new building will help us offer more classes in variety of areas such as dance and martial arts etc. program would be relocated in an expansion MCC’s arts facilities need to be up to the of the existing Overbrook Theater. The Music, highest standards to meet the expectations Also, this will help improve Theater, and Communications programs of and continue the educational process for the health benefits of all would occupy existing space, along with these talented students. We need to keep the MCC students who take minimal expansion to accommodate these students in our community rather than physical education classes program growth. sending them out of the region or state. Why - In the early 1970s, MCC placed Upgraded facilities will help us accomplish or just enjoy working out in its creative arts program in a “temporary” this goal. recreational setting before facility, a free-standing pole barn at the Where - Renovated space on the MCC or after classes.” far corner of the north parking lot. The campus. --Dan Rypma, program is still located in that pole barn, When - Mid- to late 2016. An Arts Center Health, Physical Education with its inadequate cooling, heating, lighting, and Recreation Chair Committee comprised of community and Instructor storage and demonstration space. The site’s members, students, faculty, staff, limitations negate year-round and evening administrators and MCC Board of Trustees instruction. members, will finalize planning for the “Within the next few “Muskegon County has a rich and proud construction and relocation of the MCC Arts years, construction here history not only of supporting the arts, and Humanities Department. The Art Center but also of producing its own talented at MCC will conclude planning process will begin in earnest in with new outstanding artists, many of whom make their living May 2014. It is expected that construction operating small studios in our communities” will begin in early to mid-2015, with a target facilities and technologies, explained Nesbary. Muskegon County is date for completion in mid to late 2016. such as the science home to many exceptional arts institutions, Cost - $6.1 million including the Muskegon Museum of wing and undergraduate Art, the internationally recognized Blue research area. Thank you Lake Fine Arts Camp with its 6,000-plus to the Muskegon County students annually, and many exceptional community members and scholastic music programs that garner state championships and national attention. all who supported the “Our faculty and staff are highly skilled, funding approval to build regularly performing locally, regionally, and the new facilities. These nationally,” added Nesbary. new buildings and rooms will increase in the opening of doors and exciting opportunities for students and the community to experience science. The Life Science Department will strive to pursue more avenues for greater student research and experiential learning in an effort to increase science literacy.” --Theresa Van Veelen, Life Science Department Chair and Instructor

Reflections Magazine 13 WRESTLING: FALL The MCC wrestling team placed ninth in the nation at the NJCAA Championships Jayhawks WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL: in Spokane, Wash. All-American Zachary Middle blocker Beka German became Cooper took third nationally at 133 only the second All-American volleyball pounds to lead the way for the Jayhawks. player at MCC. The 2013-14 MCC Female Donavan Fouchey placed fourth in the Earn Athlete of the Year, she and teammate nation at 197 pounds and Tyler Stenberg Brandie Jones were First Team All-Region took sixth nationally at 149 pounds to and First Team All-MCCAA players for the both garner All-American honors. 37-7 Jayhawks. Amber Carmean was also National an all-league choice. MCC took second WOMEN’S BOWLING: place in both the region and league under Jayhawk bowler Jill Klein placed 18th Rick Ryske, voted the Western Conference nationally to lead the MCC women’s Coach of the Year. bowling team to 10th place at the NJCAA championships in Buffalo, N.Y. Honors MEN’S SOCCER: MCC Male Athlete of the Year Eric Hilt WOMEN’S BASKETBALL: spearheaded the Jayhawks to a 13-7 The 16-12 women’s basketball team was record - the most wins and best overall led by First Team All-MCCAA selection During record in the school history of the sport. Krystal Geers, whose stats for points, MCC also enjoyed school bests as MCCAA rebounds and field goal percentage were co-champions and third in the region among the Top 30 in the nation. under Ben Ritsema, the MCCAA Coach of MEN’S BASKETBALL: 2013-14 the Year. Hilt and Zachary Sutton earned The 11-17 Jayhawk men’s basketball First Team All-Region and First Team All- squad narrowly missed qualifying for a MCCAA honors. Hilt was also named to conference playoff berth with a two-point the Region XII All-Tournament Team. loss in the season finale. Tyiwan Jones Campaign was voted Second Team All-Western MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY: The MCC men’s cross country squad Conference. placed 14th at the NJCAA national championships in Fort Dodge, Iowa. All- SPRING Region and All-Conference runner Esrom Woldemichael took 43rd in the country. BASEBALL: His fourth place finish in the regionals led The MCC baseball team captured its MCC to a fourth place team showing. first-ever outright Michigan Community WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY: College Athletic Association regular Summer Hussey’s 48th place finish paced season title with a 21-5 league mark. the MCC women’s cross country team Coach Cap Pohlman surpassed 500 to 24th place nationally at the NJCAA career wins during the Jayhawks’ 35-18 championships. Hussey and teammate season. Kory Brown, an all-region and all- Andrea Lavigne earned all-region and all- state selection, was presented with MCC’s conference plaudits. MCC placed fifth in John G. Thompson Student-Athlete of the the regional meet. Year Award. WOMEN’S SOCCER: SOFTBALL: Linsye Haan, a First Team All-Region and First-Year MCC Head Coach Ryan Schalk, First Team All-MCCAA selection, led the voted the MCCAA Western Conference Jayhawks to a 6-8-1 overall mark and Coach of the Year, guided the Jayhawk third place in the conference. softball unit to a 20-14 finish and third place in league. Freshman centerfielder Meghan Birr was named to the NFCA Div. WINTER II All-Region Team, while Megan Jean and Megan Vanderwal were both named First MEN’S BOWLING: Team All-Region 12 and First-Team All- The doubles team of Jimmy Strysick and Western Conference. Kyle Essenberg placed fourth nationally to pace the Jayhawk mens bowling team to MEN’S GOLF: a seventh place national finish. The Jayhawks took fourth at the NJCAA regionals, where Ollie Shepardson placed seventh to qualify for the NJCAA national championships.

14 Summer 2014 Former Jayhawk Wrestler Claudell Ruffin Selected to National Junior College Wrestling Hall of Fame

Claudell Ruffin, a two-time NJCAA win their second team state championship Award both seasons. All-American and the 1998 National in school history and ranked them 5th in the After finishing his career with the Jayhawks, Champion at 118 country. Claudell received a full athletic scholarship lb. for Muskegon Claudell then chose to attend Eastern Michigan University Community College, Muskegon Community (1999-2001). While competing for Eastern was inducted into College to continue he placed 8th in the prestigious Midlands the National Junior his education while Tournament, and was voted Team Captain College Wrestling wrestling for Coach and Most Outstanding Wrestler. His senior Hall of Fame on Ron Gaffner. During year he was ranked 15th in Division I until February 23, 2013, at his outstanding career he suffered a season-ending injury. He the NJCAA Wrestling with the Jayhawks, he received his Bachelor of Science Degree Championships was a two-time Region from Eastern Michigan University in 2002. in Des Moines, XII champion and a Iowa. Claudell is Claudell is production manager for Cliff two-time NJCAA All- Keen Wrestling Products in Ann Arbor MI, a graduate of Flint American; placing 4th Northern High and is in his 10th season as head wrestling in 1997 and winning coach at Ypsilanti High School, Ypsilanti MI. School, Flint MI, the championship at where he wrestled His teams have recorded over 150 wins and 118 lbs. in 1998. His he has coached over 25 state qualifiers with for Coach Al Collins, career dual meet record and was captain of multiple place winners. He currently resides was 21-1 and career in Ypsilanti with his wife Monica and two the wrestling team. record 46-4, giving A four-time state sons, Isaiah and Xavier. His parents are him the highest career Claudell Ruffin Sr. and Mary & Mac Davis, qualifier, he placed winning percentage three times with a brother Darnell Ruffin and sister Angel (.920) for the Muskegon Ruffin. In his spare time Claudell enjoys championship in 1994. His high school Community College wrestling program. He career record of 160-10 helped the Vikings hanging out with family and friends, fishing received the team Outstanding Wrestler and golfing.

Celebrate the 1926 founding of Thursday, September 18, 2014 Muskegon Community College 6:00pm - 8:30pm with a fabulous Roaring Twenties at The Lake House style event featuring live jazz, swell snacks, cash bar, silent auction, Tickets: $19.26 in advance flappers, and other nostalgic fun! muskegoncc.edu/founder b (231) 777-0660

Reflections Magazine 15 From the Archives

16 Summer 2014 1926, when the Junior College was established, classes were held on the third floor of the new Muskegon High School InBuilding. Junior College students were eager to celebrate the opening of the College and to establish their own identity. In the first year, the energetic class formed many student clubs, including an orchestra, known as the Junior Collegians. The Bay Window, a student newspaper still in existence today was inaugurated, as was a vaudeville show in which the whole school could participate. The show was a success. The Junior Collegians, who had such an integral part in the production, changed their name to the “Roof Raising Collegians”. Roof Raisings were the rage. Acts included musicians, dancers, singers, one act plays, magicians, 2014-2015 SEASON short skits, comedians and many more. If the students did not perform, they were involved with ticket sales, ushering and “About Time” construction of the sets and props for the various acts. Acts entitled: “Futuristic Flappers”, “The Lost Battalion”, “Gypsy Camp”, “The Four Horsemen”, “Mister Mystery” and “The Dance of the Farmerettes” October 16 - 19, 2014 were lauded long after the final curtain was drawn. The annual Auditions - August 27 & 28, 2014 at 6:00pm productions were continued into the mid-1930s, when the idea for this Overbrook Theater kind of production fell out of vogue. Death of a Salesman By Arthur Miller

December 3 - 6, 2014 Auditions - September 28 & 29, 2014 at 6:00pm Overbrook Theater A Civil War Christmas: An American Musical Celebration By Paula Vogel Music by Daryl Waters

February 18 - 22, 2015 Auditions - November 9 & 10, 2014 at 6:00pm Overbrook Theater Angels in America: Millenium Approches By Tony Kushner

April 22 & 23, 2015 Studio On Stage

Information or Tickets call: (231) 777-0324 Scripts available for perusal in the A&H Department Room 166 $5 Refundable Script Fee

Reflections Magazine 17 International Club Students Learn about Life in the USA

“Urbain’s presence makes the world a better place.”

Carol N., MCC staff

18 Summer 2014 By Lynda Ferry, Soles for Souls, and the Rescue Mission, Urbain serves as a math tutor in the College English Paraprofessional as well as participated in local coat and Success Center where he greets all with a smile and a friendly hello asking “how are Muskegon may not be known as an clothing drives. you today?” in a most upbeat manner. He international hub, but here at Muskegon actually seeks out his fellow students and Community College we serve some of the International Student Profile: Urbain Nyode co-workers to make sure they feel important brightest, most friendly, and interesting and special. His philosophy that “we are all English Second Language students. Urbain Nyode is one of MCC’s shining examples of integrity, positivity, and a part of a massive village, therefore we are Perhaps you are unaware that MCC has all related,” is one that he takes seriously. its own International Students’ Club, which humanitarianism. Urbain is a native of Senegal and has been here in the He loves people, and he shared, “I consider brings together U.S. born students myself a citizen of the world. I with those from countries thoroughly enjoy tutoring, helping around the world. Each year “Over the past several months, I people. That’s what we are here several students come to MCC for, to help one another” from a wide array of countries. have gotten to know Urbain very The cultural awareness, joy, Sarah, Urbain’s co-worker in the friendliness, and knowledge well. He has helped, not only me, but College Success Center, shares, they share can forever change others in so many ways from helping “Since I met Urbain, I have said other students, faculty, and staff. that I wish more people were like MCC’s International Students’ with math to encouraging us to be him. He is always positive, and it Club is open to all MCC students. optimistic in every situation.” is evident that he genuinely cares Club members participate in about the people around him and various campus events such as his work.” the International Student Panel Cija, MCC student discussion, International Week, Urbain is studying international and Mayfest. Students visit area states for 19 years. First arriving in NYC business with the goal of working cultural treasures, sample various cuisines for an international company and helping around West Michigan, and visit four year in 1994, he always wanted to further his education, but life took different turns. his country’s young people to gain the colleges/universities. MCC’s International necessary tools to build self-esteem, obtain students have surely changed me and Along his life journey, he has learned to adapt to various regional and cultural a proper education, and become strong and allowed me to learn about other cultures successful. as I’ve forged new and lasting friendships differences. He has driven cabs, worked construction, sold clothes and jewelry, with those from Kenya, Poland, Mexico, Urbain comes from a diverse family who Russia, Costa Rico, Venezuela, Germany, and currently holds the role of “student.” In 2012, he was visiting a friend in has followed his father’s lead to “accept Malaysia, Vietnam, China, Japan, and all people” and live a life of service and many other countries. The club meets Muskegon and decided to stop by MCC to look around. After talking with some gratitude. His brothers live in France and twice monthly, and we look for community Sweden and have married local women, projects to enhance our time together. staff and meandering around our campus, Urbain knew that this would be the place so this family represents many different In the past, our club members have cultures. Urbain’s infectious smile tells his presented at local Girl Scouts’ events, he would begin again. MCC is fortunate that Urbain Nyode chose our school as a story well! We can all learn a lesson from visited local assisted living and nursing this fine young man. homes, aided with Habitat for Humanity, stepping stone towards his International Business degree.

Reflections Magazine 19 Alumni News Greg Terrien (1966) Patricia Giroux (1977) 1950s Greg attended MCC in the mid-1960s, Patricia attended MCC in the mid-1970s and Robert Slager (1951) focusing on Science. Greg was a member of obtained her LPN degree. She is the allergy After obtaining a business administration the honor society during that time. Greg is supervisor at 3 different offices (Raleigh degree from MCC, Robert attended the currently retired. Capitol Ear Nose and Throat), where she has University of Michigan. He obtained his been with the practice for 21 years. Patricia BBA there in 1952. Robert was involved 1970s has also previously worked for the trauma with the International Relations club and Larry Adams (1978) center for five years. his most fond memories of MCC are of arry earned an Associate’s degree in the late Bette Naruszkiewicz (1977) classes with Dr. John McKinley. Robert was 1970s and now is employed at Wayne State Bette attended MCC in the 1970s where employed at American Standard Corp, and is University. she earned an Associate’s Degree in currently retired. Donald C. Barkel (1974) Criminal Justice. In 1979, she obtained Donald attended MCC in the early 70s and a B.A. in Reading from Aquinas College. 1960s earned his Associates before transferring She then attended Western Michigan Jerry J. Brower (1965) to University of Michigan. After obtaining University, where she obtained degrees in Roger attended MCC in the mid-1960s, his Bachelor’s degree from U of M, he then Early Childhood Education and Educational focusing on Science. His college career transferred to Michigan State University Leadership. Bette currently resides in Ft. did not end there, as he went on to obtain where he earned his M.D. degree. Donald is Myers, FL. a Bachelor of Arts at Grand Valley State currently a physician at Beaumont Hospital Bill Perry (1971) University, and later earned M.A. (Western in Royal Oak Michigan. Bill continued his education with a B.A. and Michigan University) and PhD degrees Kim Bloomquist (1974) M.A. from MSU and has spent his extensive (Kingston University, United Kingdom). His Kim earned her Associate’s degree from career as the editor of Michigan Banker favorite memories of MCC include belonging MCC with a focus in Social Science. She magazine, as the radio news reporter & performing with a Folk Song group "The currently works for the Internal Revenue and communications specialist with the Knights Three." Jerry sometimes did gigs at Service and lives in Fairfax, VA. She is Michigan State Senate, and as public affairs the "Sandbox Lounge" on Western Ave. Jerry married and has two grown children. specialist for the Michigan Community is retired from Grand Valley State University. Coordinated Child Care Council, in the Brad Borgeson (1971) Michigan Department of Management and Linda (Fethke) Donley (1960) Brad was active on the cross country and Linda attended MCC in the late 1950s to Budget. Bill was recently appointed a Policy golf teams during his time at MCC. After Associate to the “Fight Crime: Invest in focus on a career in education. She then graduating from MCC, he worked at transferred to Wayne State University, where Kids Michigan,” an affiliate of the nonprofit Brighton Public schools. Brad is married organization “Council for a Strong America.” she obtained her Bachelors in Education in with three grown children, and is now 1962. Linda currently is employed at James retired. Norma J. (Sukup) Tate (1970) R. Donley, DDs - Centers for Dental Medicine. Norma earned her Associate’s degree with Dr. Elizabeth S. Giammarco (1979) Roger Hoffman (1967) an emphasis in early education. She later Elizabeth attended MCC during the late earned her Bachelor of Arts and a Master’s Roger obtained his AAS degree in 1970s, focusing on English. Dr. Giammarco Accounting from MCC and later attended of Administration and Supervision from then later earned a PhD in Psychology and Western Michigan University. She was Ferris State University to obtain his is an adjunct professor at Southern Maine Bachelors in Accounting and CPA degrees. formerly employed at Hamilton County Community College and a lecturer at the Schools and is now retired after 40 years of Roger married Paula (Carr) Hoffman. He University of Southern Maine. is retired from Hoffman & Lekutis and teaching. currently works part time at Conn Geneva & Donna (Binkley) Gillette (1976) James Verboncouer (1972) Robinson. Donna earned an Associate’s Degree with James obtained his Associates degree from an emphasis in drafting and design. She Nancy (Westgate) Springstead (1961) MCC in the early 70s before transferring was married in 1999 and lives in Whitehall, to Michigan State University and finally After attending MCC and earning an MI. She works for Alcoa/Howmet Inc. Associate’s Degree, Nancy transferred to to Western Michigan University, where he Western Michigan University. She now earned his M.P.A. At MCC James was active works for Gerber Products Inc. in the Chanticleer and Bay Window student newspaper. In Memoriam: Donald A. Seifert Max Monette Jr. Paul Wistrom MCC Trustee 1971-2002 MCC Faculty MCC English Faculty Lloyd Cogswell, Class of 1977 Roy F. Graves Thomas C. Clock, Class of 1951 In 1976-77, Lloyd was awarded the MCC Employee MCC Trustee 1963-1994, All-American Wrestling Champion Russell Cloetingh Virgil Hillstead, Class of 1950 John G. Thompson MCC Trustee 1977-1994 John C. "Jack" Mixer, Class of 1939 Former MCC President

20 Summer 2014 Patrick Bectel (1994) Michael Videtich (1996) 1980s Patrick earned an Associate’s degree in continued his education with a BBA and an Jeffrey P. Stapp (1980) Design Engineering after attending MCC in MSA from GVSU, and had his original thesis After earning an Associate’s Degree at the early nineties. He is currently employed published with the International Academy MCC, Jeffery joined the U.S. Army. After at Robert Bosch Fuel Systems. Patrick is of Business & Economics (IABE) and did an retiring from the Army in 2005, Jeffrey married and has two boys. academic presentation of the work at the attended Western Michigan University and 2007 IABE conference in Las Vegas. “I think earned a Bachelor’s in Social Work degree. Brenda Billings-Carter (1995) Brenda attended MCC in the early 1990’s that MCC had a huge impact on my life. Jeffrey currently is employed at Arbor Circle MCC provided me with personal attention Corporation. with a focus on Child Development. She earned a certificate in Paraprofessional/ and helped me build the confidence that I Carolyn (Stahl) Timmer (1983) Teacher’s Aide & Special Education. Brenda needed to continue with my education.” Carolyn attended MCC in the early 1980’s currently has five sons, and has worked as a to focus on a career in Nursing. After Head Start Teacher for Muskegon Heights. 2000s graduating from MCC, she attended Valerie Kay (Rabe) Hanson (1999) Jody Ferguson (2011) Grand Valley State University to obtain Jody earned a degree from MCC and her Bachelors in Nursing degree. Carolyn Valerie attended MCC in the late 1990s with an Associate of Applied Science degree in currently works at Nowak Machined currently is an administrator at Grandvue Products as a Quality Technician. Jody’s Medical Care Facility in East Jordan, Information Systems. She then transferred and obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in most fond memory of MCC was meeting MI. Carolyn has 2 grown children and 1 her husband in the Quality 101 classroom grandchild. Business Leadership and currently is top CEO of a child abuse agency. Valerie also -- they were married in 2008. Patrick J. Young (1984) owns Bygone Basics and Amanda’s Bed Kathleen Karpin (2000) Patrick attended MCC in the early 1980s and Breakfast in Montague, MI. A favorite After attending MCC, Kathleen earned a and obtained his Associates degree in memory of MCC is Geology with a professor Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Education 1984. He also attended St. Joseph’s College who called himself “The Big Kahuna.” She from Grand Valley State University. She is in Maine, where he earned a Bachelor’s credits him with giving her the best advice currently employed at the West Michigan degree in Business Administration and on how to succeed in life. Academy of Arts & Academics. Management. One of his most fond memories of his time at MCC was qualifying Jason Keefe (1990) Elizabeth (DiRito) Klopp (2008) for nationals in the spring of 1984 with Currently working on his bachelors at Elizabeth attended MCC in the early 2000s DECA, after the team took 1st place at state. Central Michigan University, Jason is the and then later in the late 2000s. She Patrick has served 24 years in the U.S. Air owner of ConEx, Inc., a partner business graduated with an Associate in Science Force Reserves, until his retirement in 2007. with FedEx. He was named a FedEx National and Arts degree and her favorite memory He currently works for Blue Cross & Blue Entrepreneur of the Year in 2009. of MCC was going to Germany in 2002. Shield in Grand Rapids, MI as a Customer Susan J Mixer (1992) Elizabeth currently works at White Lake Area Service Representative. Patrick also has Susan attended MCC in 1990 and received Community Education. been married for 24 years to his wife Sharon, her Associate’s Degree in 1992 with an Kevin Parker (2005) and has three children in college and one in emphasis in accounting. She has retired Kevin attended MCC in the mid-nineties, high school. from Anderson Pattern after 23 years. and later in 2004, earning an Associate’s in She is married and has four children, electronic and biomedical technologies. He 1990s 12 grandchildren, and eight great- now works for Spectrum Health. Tammy (Boes) Anderson (1990) grandchildren. Jeffery Thommen (2010) Tammy earned her Associate’s degree with Michael Stafford (1995) Jeffery Thommen obtained an Associate of an emphasis in Business. After graduation, After attending MCC in the early nineties Science and Arts degree from MCC in 2010, she transferred to Western Michigan and earning an AAS in Nursing, Michael has with a focus on Electronics. He currently University. During her time at MCC, Tammy become a home dialysis nurse in Muskegon, works at Alcoa Howmet. was a student representative and she helped where he lives with his wife, children, and incoming students prepare for college. She grandchildren. currently works for Mercy Health Partners – Hackley Campus Revenue dept. She is married and has two girls, ages 19 & 10.

Shelley A. Armstrong, Class of 1993 Center. “His dedication and his commitment our entire community’s quality of life and Barbara Jean Moessner, Class of 1951 and the energy and enthusiasm that he standard of living.” Toxopeus received a had for Lord Fairfax Community College scholarship at Community Foundation for Norma G. Houseman, Class of 1977 was wonderful,” LFCC President Cheryl a Western Michigan Christian High School Alan G. Toxopeus, Class of 1955 Thompson-Stacey said. “He understood the graduate to attend MCC. In 2013, the welcome center at Lord Fairfax value of a community college education and Community College (LFCC) in Middletown, how that education led to a better quality VA was renamed the Toxopeus Welcome of life not only (for) the individual ... but for

Reflections Magazine 21 Foundation Report Annual Fund Exceeds Goal Four Years Straight I am pleased to report that the As always, your questions and feedback are Foundation for Muskegon Community 2013-14 Contributions encouraged and your support is very much College (FMCC) has already exceeded appreciated. Thank you for all you do for our the goal for the fiscal year ending students and communities. June 30, 2014. As of March 1, donors contributed $133,148 to support scholarships, facility improvements, athletics, and other programs. This year’s goal of $126,000 is a 5% increase from the previous year, so I Tina Dee, MS, CFRM am very pleased that it has already been exceeded by nearly 6%. Director of Foundation and Strategic Initiatives This marks the fourth year in a row (231) 777-0660 that the FMCC has exceeded the [email protected] annual fund campaign goal, which I think speaks well for the community’s dedication to improving education opportunities. We very much appreciate you and the other donors FYTD as of March 1, 2014 who help advance MCC’s mission. in September, this Roaring Twenties-style ESTATE PLANNING 101 event celebrates the community members, The Foundation for Muskegon Community HOW TO PROTECT, YOU, YOUR MONEY, College 2014 Jayhawk Scramble on June faculty, staff, alumni, and others who have YOUR FAMILY, AND YOUR LEGACY! 13 at University Park Golf Course raised contributed to MCC’s 88 years of success. $12,850 for MCC scholarships thanks You can learn more about this event at to generous and enthusiastic sponsors, www.muskegoncc.edu/founders. 5:30pm - 7:00pm benefactors and participants. Their support Thursday, October 16, 2014 will increase access to higher education and You can get updates about both of these Muskegon Community College help local students achieve their dreams. At events, our progress on campus additions, Stevenson Center for the luncheon, four MCC student scholarship and other MCC updates by joining the Higher Education conversation on Facebook for friends, recipients - James Hendricks, Shelinda Room #1100 Davenport, Kathy Davis, and Sierra Johnson donors, and alumni at - shared how their scholarships created www.facebook.com/mccalumni. Join us for this free seminar educational opportunities that transformed If playing an active role in raising money to learn how to protect your their lives. for scholarships and campus improvements assets. You will learn about sounds rewarding, consider joining recent changes in estate We are also working on Founder’s Day, our the FMCC Board of Directors. You can planning laws, methods of learn more about this exciting volunteer most important fundraising event of the avoiding probate, long term opportunity and get an application at year. Held annually on the third Thursday care asset protection, www.muskegoncc.edu/foundation. charitable planning, and reasons why an estate plan should be updated. Presented by Karen Kayes and David Waterstradt, attorneys from Leave a Legacy at MCC Warner Norcross & Judd with over 45 years of The Foundation for Muskegon Community policy. These thoughtful contributions combined experience. College Legacy Society is comprised of help strengthen the endowment and will individuals who have included Muskegon enable MCC to advance its mission to help Reserve your spot today at Community College in their estate planning. students and communities for generations muskegoncc.edu/estate, Anyone wishing to leave a legacy at the to come. For the Legacy Society enrollment College may do so through planned gifts like [email protected], form or for more information about how you or by calling (231) 777-0660 bequests, trusts, annuities, or by designating can leave a legacy at MCC, visit MCC as the beneficiary of a life insurance www.muskegoncc.edu/foundation#legacy.

22 Summer 2014 HIGHER CREDITS SMARTLEARNING AFFORDABLE CLUBS SUCCESSSPORTS Your Destination for Higher Education TRANSFERTRAVEL ACHIEVE FACULTY CAMPUS UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIP muskegoncc.edu/register Fall Classes Start August 25, 2014 Winter Classes Start January 12, 2015

Muskegon Community College

Reflections Magazine 23 221 South Quarterline u Muskegon, MI 49442

A Day of Discovery The 36th Annual Mayfest at MCC on May 17 brought together our community’s civic, ethnic, social, and service organizations in a day-long festival of activity and cultural enrichment. The fun-filled free events included the opportunity for budding scientists to study macroinvertebrates taken from Four Mile Creek on the MCC campus.