WINTER 2009

Return Service Requested Grand Valley m a g a z i n e

Classics make a comeback Students find relevance in ancient teachings Contents GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE Volume 8, Issue 3, WINTER 2009

FEATURES 12 Modern Classics Contemporary lessons from ancient times 16 Exxon Valdez Challenging crisis develops president’s leadership style 19 Historic Change Run for the White House energizes students and keeps Grand Valley experts in the news 38 IT supervisor earns stripes on football field

2 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu Editorial Staff Mary Eilleen Lyon, M.S., ’05 Assistant Vice President for News and Information Services, Executive Editor Michele Coffill Editor and Writer Dottie Barnes, M.S., ’05 Contributing Editor and Writer Brian J. Bowe, B.A.,’97, M.S., ’04 Contributing Editor and Writer Mary Isca Pirkola Contributing Editor and Writer Bernadine Carey-Tucker, B.A., ’99 Photography Services Manager and Contributing Photographer Amanda Pitts, B.S., ’05 Photographer Elizabeth Lienau, B.S., ’05 Photography Coordinator Sherry Bouwman Editorial and Circulation Assistant Susan Proctor, B.S., ’98 Alumni Editor 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 News & Information Services. Comments and suggestions are welcome. E-mail [email protected] Write Grand Valley Magazine Grand Valley State University 1 Campus Drive, 133 LMH Allendale, MI 49401 D e p art m ents Grand Valley State University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity institution 4 Letters to the Editor

4 Bookmarks Look for daily campus news updates at gvsu.edu/gvnow. 5 Campus News Grand Valley m a g a z i n e 9 Arts Feature stories are also online at www.gvsu.edu/gvmagazine. 10 Donor Impact On the cover: photo by Amanda Pitts Honors College and Classics major 22 Focal Point Kate Allen translated ancient Latin poetry from a rare book in the Seidman House Special Collections. 23 Research News Read about one of the youngest, yet fastest growing, Classics departments 24 Q&A H. James Williams in the world on page 12. On these pages: photo by Elizabeth Lienau 26 Athletics Highbush cranberries capped with snow are pictured in front of the Transformational Link on the 27 Alumni News Allendale Campus.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 3 LETTERS

Dear Editor:

Thanks for an excellent article in Grand Valley Magazine From time to time, alumni members are sparked to share (“Degrees by Design: Liberal Studies offers path for eclectic a memory from their Grand Valley days ... learners,” Fall 2008). I think it was 1976 or ’77. I went to Weirdbeards on the east It will be very helpful in enabling the larger community to bank of the Grand River just north off M-45. I was going to understand what liberal studies is (and isn’t). order dinner when the owner asked me if I was a student at Grand Valley and if I’d like to help him deliver some pizzas to the Stephen Rowe concert that was going on at Grand Valley that night. I said sure! GVSU Professor of Philosophy It so happened that Buddy Rich was headlining and he ordered the pizzas. I got backstage and handed the pizza right to Buddy, Here’s an update from a story (“Grand Valley graduates talked to him for a moment, and stayed for the concert. It was a get out the vote”) that appeared in the Fall 2008 issue ... very cool memory! The YWCA Lake County’s Get Out the Vote Coalition registered more than 1,000 voters throughout the county, Larry Rood, ’78 contributing to a record-breaking 30,000 new voters who cast Southfield, Michigan votes in the November election. We touched the lives of thousands more with information on our Web site, hosted two candidate forums and three issues forums. The campaign also generated more than 500,000 Letters to the Editor can be mailed to: impressions through its media outreach. Grand Valley Magazine I’m glad to have been able to do this work thanks to my 1 Campus Drive, 133 LMH education at GVSU. I look forward to the next project! Allendale, MI 49401 or sent via e-mail to: [email protected]. Callie Melton, ’06 Please include your name, class year (if applicable), hometown and Waukegan, Illinois phone number (not for publication). Letters are subject to editing.

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

Finn Snow Flower and the Secret Fan Mapping the Edge (Random House, 2007) (Random House, 2006) (Random House, 2002) by Jon Clinch by Lisa See by Sarah Dunant This novel is about Huckleberry Finn’s Ginger Randall, associate dean of In this suspenseful thriller, a mother leaves father, Pap, and runs parallel to the classic students, enjoyed this book about on a short trip to Italy but does not return by Mark Twain. Gary Van Harn, Padnos 19th century China as told through the to London on her scheduled flight. Her International Center assistant, said the experiences of two young girls, Lily and 6-year-old daughter and friends know it is book was brooding and fascinating. He Snow Flower, from childhood through not like Anna to disappear. Rachel Siglow, called it “an overlooked masterpiece,” adulthood. The girls rarely meet in person, executive secretary to the president, said and said it’s the story Twain would have but communicate by sending messages Dunant wrote the story as two on-going written if he lived in this century. written on the folds of a silk fan. Randall narratives and readers decide which story said the author portrays China’s customs to believe. At the end of the novel, Siglow and its code of conduct vividly and said, “You’ll be able to answer whether beautifully. you are a ‘glass half-empty’ or ‘glass half- full’ type of person.”

The University Bookstore is offering a 20 percent discount on these titles.

4 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu CAMPUS news

Grand Valley celebrates historic inauguration eople cheered, hugged, At the Fieldhouse, remarks Pjumped up and down were made by President and waved American flags as Thomas J. Haas; Jeanne Barack Obama was announced Arnold, vice president as the nation’s 44th president. for Inclusion and Equity; Many had tears in their eyes Gleaves Whitney, director of as they witnessed the historic the Hauenstein Center for inauguration at a campus- Presidential Studies; and faculty wide event on January 20 members Mark Richards in the Fieldhouse Arena on and Louis Moore before the the Allendale Campus (see start of the inauguration. page 19 for more on this Richards, associate professor event and the election). of political science, called A live Webcast of the speakers Obama a transformational and a link to the inauguration leader whose story inspires was made available on Grand and gives hope, and one whose Valley’s homepage. In addition story is not fully written. He to Allendale, viewing locations led the Fieldhouse crowd in a were held at each campus and chant as everyone stood and regional center. More than shouted, “My president is 1,500 people participated at one Black!” This prompted cheering of the sites. and clapping, and some Michael Blair, a junior waved their American flags. majoring in psychology, Several Grand Valley students attended the Allendale traveled to the nation’s capital celebration. “I am excited to to watch the inaugural events, see so many people coming including four political science together to witness the students who attended an inauguration,” said Blair. “This academic seminar through the is a pivotal moment in history. Washington Center. One of Being half African American, those students, Selma Tucker, this makes me feel like I can a senior from Buchanan, said accomplish anything.” he could feel the energy as Caitlin Cherney, a junior he stood on the Mall in front from Muskegon, said she of the capitol. He said it got wanted to experience the quiet when Obama began to moment with others at Grand speak: “The crowd hushed. photos by Bernadine Carey-Tucker Valley. “There’s an excitement We were hungry to hear it, Top, the campus community watches the presidential inauguration in the within the student body,” to hear him repeat the words Fieldhouse Arena. said Cherney. “This is a big for the oath of office, to know President Thomas J. Haas and Marcia Haas were among the enthusiastic step for our society. I heard it was really happening. And, celebrants. about the celebration and I after he said ‘So help me From left are Molly Stabler, Louis Moore and his wife, Ciciley Moore. The wanted to be a part of this God,’ fireworks went off.” kids are (from left) Elle Stabler and Amaya Moore. Louis Moore was one memorable moment.” of the speakers.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 5 CAMPUS news

More student housing planned for south campus More students than can fit useful lives. A two-story want to live on the Allendale dining facility is planned and Campus, and the university’s will include a convenience Board of Trustees took steps store and coffee lounge. to provide them with beds. The project will increase the The board on December 5 number of beds in on-campus approved a project that would housing from 5,464 to 5,924, add more living and dining yet still not meet the demand facilities to the south end of by students to live on campus. campus by 2010. Grand Valley’s Last year, campus housing housing and dining systems received 6,500 applications are self-sustaining businesses; for 5,464 beds. Six hundred neither tuition revenue nor freshmen live off-campus state appropriations are used as do more than half the to build or operate housing or sophomores. National studies dining on campus. Construction show that students living on and operating costs will come campus do better academically from the payments of students and are more likely to remain who choose to live or dine enrolled and graduate. on campus. Room and board “This economic climate rates will not be increased requires us to be even more to pay for this project. diligent about our needs photo by Andrew Terzes The $52.4 million project and confident of the results. A construction project approved by the Board of Trustees will add more on-campus beds to meet the demand from students. The project will would add three buildings After more than 20 years add three living and dining buildings to the south end of the Allendale that will house 608 students of enrollment growth and Campus; occupancy is set for August 2010. in apartment-style units. They increasing demands on our will replace six buildings housing system, we must million because of the economic all vendors and workers with 139 beds at Grand Valley continue to ensure that our slow down and the competitive who will provide materials Apartments located on 42nd facilities meet student needs,” building environment.” and labor to the project. Street, south of Pierce. These said President Thomas J. Haas. The project will stimulate Construction is scheduled to 1960s-era facilities require “The timing actually helps with the local economy and could begin in April with occupancy costly maintenance and have our construction costs — we’re result in the creation of as set for August 2010. reached the end of their projected to save about $1.5 many as 1,300 jobs, including ‘Roots’ actor narrates Grand Valley documentary Accountability report Emmy Award-winning Green Tomatoes,” and shows successes, actress Cicely Tyson came to countless other television despite fiscal burdens West Michigan in October to shows and movies. She was record narration for a historic nominated for an Academy In its second annual Grand Valley State University Award for Best Actress for her review of academic and fiscal documentary, “Up From the performance in the 1972 film performance, Grand Valley Bottoms: African American “Sounder,” and earned two has again demonstrated its Migration to Muskegon, Emmys for her 1974 portrayal ability to educate successful Michigan.” The film is of a 110-year-old former slave students, despite a continued produced and directed by the in “The Autobiography of shift of the financial burden School of Communications Miss Jane Pittman.” of education from the state to in collaboration with “I’m happy to be involved students. brothers Jim and Rod Schaub in this important project,” President Thomas J. Haas of Clear Vision Films. said Tyson. “It is crucial to created the report in 2007 to Tyson is particularly known preserve and share black show that the university is a for her commitment to only history, because it hasn’t been photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker good steward of its resources. portraying strong, positive taught in the schools.” She The report is online at www. Cicely Tyson records narration images of black women. Her also met with students during for a GVSU documentary about gvsu.edu/accountability. credits include “Roots,” “The her visit to Grand Valley. African Americans who migrated Rosa Parks Story,” “Fried from the South to Muskegon.

6 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu CAMPUS news

Campus mourns death of Muskegon leader Edward I. Schalon, a Muskegon-area economic leader, died on December 27 at home in St. Joseph. He was 88. “Ed Schalon made a mark on Muskegon, and his family made a mark on Grand Valley,” said President Thomas J. Haas. “His leadership helped strengthen Grand Valley’s regional perspective, and he was very supportive of our efforts in engineering and with the Lake Michigan Center in Muskegon.” Schalon was the former chairman of the board of SPX, the Fortune 500 manufacturing company formerly headquartered in Muskegon. He served photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker as chairman of the “New A GIS Day participant takes a group photo using a GPS camera during the event on the Allendale Campus that Muskegon” campaign for drew more than 200 middle school students. economic recovery and expansion in the 1980s. As an advocate of higher GIS games help students better education, Schalon was one of the founding members of the Grand Valley understand world University Foundation and ore than 200 middle school a tool for important tasks,” been bringing her students to an avid supporter of Grand Valley. He was a GVSU students from Grand Foote said. “We want them to this event for six years. “My M Hall of Fame Honoree, Rapids Public Schools spent the see the benefit of historical students loved ‘hot linking,’” honored at the 1984 day on the Allendale Campus mapping or the mapping of said Heyboer. “By using Google Enrichment Dinner. November 19 for part of the facilities and utilities.” Earth they learned how to find Schalon and his GIS (Geographic Information Edwin Joseph, associate their home online; even get a wife, Marcella, were Systems) Day 2008: Our professor of geography and street view. Another favorite benefactors of Grand Shrinking World conference. planning, said this was the was having the opportunity to Valley, providing major The students, from three seventh year Grand Valley has create 3D shapes on computers.” support for the Padnos different schools, learned hosted the conference. “GIS Participating schools were CA College of Engineering Geocaching, played capture is predicted to play a major Frost Environmental Science and Computing. The Mr. the flag using GPS, conducted role in geographic education Academy, Martin Luther King and Mrs. Edward I. Schalon GPS mapping and used GPS in today’s global economy,” Jr. Leadership Academy, and Plastics and Metal Forming cameras and photolinks, said Joseph. “Learning to Crossroads Middle School. Lab was named in their among other activities. solve problems using GIS, The event was sponsored honor in the college’s Keller Grand Valley senior GPS, and Internet technology by Geography and Planning, Engineering Laboratories. Johnathan Foote was one of the can increase the amount College of Education, University Schalon was a former student volunteers who helped of information available to Bookstore, Regional Math and trustee of the Michigan the visitors use GPS cameras students, and provide new ways Science Center, and College Colleges Foundation and to take pictures of campus to to incorporate this information of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the Citizen’s Research upload on the Internet and map into learning activities.” along with the Michigan Space Council of Michigan. through GPS systems. “The Colleen Heyboer, an Consortium and Environmental goal of this exercise is to show eighth-grade teacher from Systems Research Institute. the students how GPS can be Crossroads Middle School, has

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 7 CAMPUS news

Study abroad program ranks 10th he number of Grand Valley Padnos International Center, T students who study abroad said while the increase is continues to grow, pushing the encouraging, he is more pleased university into the top 10 in with the number of students terms of student participation. who participate in semester- Grand Valley is ranked long or longer programs. Last 10th among U.S. master’s March, the IIE recognized degree-granting institutions the Padnos International for total number of study Center with a best practices abroad students, according to award for its innovation in the Institute of International encouraging long-term and Education in New York. IIE independent study programs. issues an annual Open Doors “When students go abroad report that tracks international for five or six months, or longer, education. For reporting year they are on their own and can 2006-07, the latest statistics enjoy a richer, broader cultural available, Grand Valley had 600 experience,” Schaub said. students study abroad. Elon For 2006-07, 85 Grand University in North Carolina was Valley students spent at least a ranked first, with 1,063 students. semester abroad. The previous In the previous Open Doors year, 71 students participated report, looking at the 2005-06 in long-term study programs. academic year, Grand Valley Regardless of program photo courtesy of Padnos International Center was ranked 12th, with 499 length, the top destinations Grand Valley student Bryana Hopkins is pictured at the University of students who studied abroad. remain the same for Grand Western Cape in Cape Town, South Africa, during a study abroad trip. Mark Schaub, executive Valley students: Spain, Italy, GVSU ranks 10th among similar-sized universities in terms of study director of Grand Valley’s Great Britain and Australia. abroad participation.

New space for student centers opens in Kirkhof Speaking at the grand opening purposeful. “It will enable the of three student services centers to collaborate with centers, Dean of Students each other and truly live out the Bart Merkle said it was fitting university’s values of diversity that they were located in the and community,” he said. building that serves as the hub Connie Dang, interim of student activity on campus. director of OMA, said student The Women’s Center, Office traffic in the center has of Multicultural Affairs, and increased dramatically over LGBT Resource Center formally last year when the office celebrated new spaces in October was in Lower Commons. during a luncheon and open “When we were in the house in the Kirkhof Center Commons, students had that drew hundreds of students, to seek us out,” Dang said. faculty and staff members, “Now that we’re in center of and community partners. campus activity, more people The Women’s Center and are stopping in and taking OMA are housed in the new advantage of our services addition of Kirkhof, while the and our space, with the TV LGBT Resource Center has its and computer stations. photo by Amanda Pitts first office suite in room 161. “Now we are really Guests mingle in the new LGBT Resource Center in the Kirkhof Center. Merkle called the centers’ serving all the people in the It was one of three student centers that were celebrated during a grand proximity to each other campus community.” opening in October.

8 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu ARTS

Gallery hopping Discover exhibitions on each campus

— by Mary Isca Pirkola behind the staircase, on the opposite side from the river he Art Gallery, located in view. During fall semester it T the Performing Arts Center featured a collection of paintings on the Allendale Campus, by Carolyn Fehsenfeld, a noted recently hosted ceramic regional artist whose work artists from Korea and 19th reflects views of the streets and Century French prints from neighborhoods of Grand Rapids the Hoskins-Raible Collection. and surrounding rural areas. Yet, there are also a number Many of her subjects could be of interesting small galleries recognized in the view from and exhibitions to discover in the windows surrounding the Allendale and on Grand Valley’s gallery area. Her exhibition other campuses. was presented with the The George and Barbara support of LaFontsee Gallery. Gordon Gallery, located in “We’ve added some exhibition the DeVos Center on the areas on other campuses to Pew Grand Rapids Campus, make our collections more houses many of the works by accessible,” said Director of Michigan artist Mathias Alten Galleries and Collections photo by Amanda Pitts that have been gifted and Henry Matthews. “We’ve loaned to Grand Valley. (See also enjoyed rotating some A student pauses to enjoy artwork exhibited in the West Gallery, on the second floor of the Eberhard Center on the Pew Grand Rapids Campus. related story on page 10.) exhibits between campuses A small exhibition space is to provide more people the the Kirkhof Center. Likewise, Center, will organize an also located in downtown Grand opportunity to view them.” a collection of watercolors by exhibit in celebration of the Rapids, on the second floor of For winter semester the regional artist Jon McDonald Month of the Young Child, the Eberhard Center. Known Fehsenfeld exhibit was moved was moved from the dining a national advocacy and as West Gallery, the cozy area to another exhibition area, the room to the Eberhard Center’s awareness campaign. is all but hidden in an alcove, Faculty/Staff Dining Room in West Gallery. Both exhibits will A similar exhibit space, remain in place through April. tentatively referred to as A similar rotation with new the Blue Wall Gallery, is Gallery Guide exhibits is planned for next year. being planned for the Meijer The main corridor of Campus in Holland. Allendale’s Lake Ontario Hall A very active artistic Allendale Campus: Pew Grand Rapids hosts a variety of changing community is found in the exhibits on the Red Wall Gallery. Calder Fine Arts Center and GVSU Art Gallery Campus: Located near the Padnos Calder Residence on the 1121 Performing Arts Center George and Barbara International Center, some Allendale Campus, where art exhibits have had a notably and design students live and Red Wall Gallery Gordon Gallery Lake Ontario Hall, first floor Richard M. DeVos Center, international theme and focus take classes. Students have main hallway 401 W. Fulton St. on diversity. Senior Chloe opportunities to exhibit their Skidmore’s “Finding Balance art in the Padnos Student Art Faculty/Staff Dining Room West Gallery in Guatemala” exhibit shared and Design Gallery. The gallery 72 Kirkhof Center L.V. Eberhard Center, second her experience as part of a offers a series of changing floor, 301 W. Fulton St. Global Citizenship class. The exhibits each semester. Stuart B. and Barbara H. current exhibit provided by While each individual Padnos Student Catherine Frerichs, director of gallery is fairly small in size, Art & Design Gallery Meijer Campus: the Pew Faculty Teaching and their collective presence on Alexander Calder Fine Artwork is displayed Learning Center, features her Grand Valley’s campuses Arts Center throughout the building commentary on photographs provides an abundance of located at 515 S. Waverly taken by her father from 1941- viewing opportunities. Road, Holland. The addition 50, during his 40 years as a For more information about of a secure Wall Gallery is missionary in New Guinea. In Grand Valley’s galleries and planned for fall 2009. April, Sharalle Arnold, director collections call (616) 331-2563, or of the Children’s Enrichment visit www.gvsu.edu/artgallery.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 9 DONOR impact

Gordon gifts expand gallery, learning

opportunities — by Mary Isca Pirkola

eorge and Barbara annual DeVos Art Lecture. A GGordon’s gifts to Grand major construction project, Valley have grown from a made possible by another generous sharing of works by generous gift from the Gordons, a renowned Michigan artist added 723 square feet to the to a legacy that will provide gallery and doubled its size. The countless learning opportunities expansion provides a beautiful for generations to come. exhibition space devoted to In 1998, the Gordons donated Alten, including 10 paintings 36 paintings from their private not previously on display. collection of works by Mathias “Mathias Alten is our region’s Donna Brooks, Board of Trustees member and a co-chair of Grand J. Alten. Many of the paintings connection to the Impressionist Valley’s ‘Shaping Our Future’ capital campaign, enjoys paintings by have been exhibited in what movement, which swept the Mathias Alten in the Gordon Gallery. was once a high-profile meeting world in the early 20th century,” room in DeVos Center, on the said George Gordon, a leader personal favorites will now Michigan’s cultural identity. Pew Grand Rapids Campus. in the oil and gas industry be more directly accessible to He is often referred to as the President Emeritus Arend D. and member of the Grand the public and to university dean of Michigan painters. Lubbers renamed the space Valley University Foundation’s students, faculty and staff. The Gordons’ donations in 2000 as the George and Advisory Cabinet. “To me, this Alten, born in Germany in have inspired Alten gifts from Barbara Gordon Gallery in expansion turned a room with 1871, moved to Grand Rapids as others, including the Alten recognition of their gift. paintings hung on the walls a teenager and lived there until family. In addition to loaned The gallery was rededicated into a true gallery, and it brings his death in 1938. During his and promised paintings, and reopened in November out the best of Alten’s craft and lifetime he became a celebrated Alten’s granddaughters, Gloria during a Mathias Alten color.” Barbara added that they American regional artist and Gregory, Dianne Boozer and celebration that included the are pleased so many of their the great figurehead of West Anita Gilleo, have given the university his many personal and professional papers. Donated last year to the Special Collections and University Archives, the papers document his life and career, and support the collection of Alten paintings owned by the university. “The Gordons are proof of what passion can achieve,” said President Thomas J. Haas. “George and Barbara have celebrated this artist for many years and helped us attract other support. Their generosity provides many more people the opportunity to enjoy Alten and find new enrichment in his art.” The gallery is now open to the public with free admission on Fridays and Saturdays, from 1-5 p.m., except holiday weekends, and also by appointment. photos by Amanda Pitts Prior to visiting, call the GVSU President Thomas J. Haas and Marcia Knapp Haas, left, join Barbara and George Gordon during the ribbon- Art Gallery at (616) 331-2563 cutting opening of the expanded Gordon Gallery. to verify open hours.

10 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu DONOR impact

Honors College named for Meijer Foundation focuses on first-generation college students

hough a successful business T leader and community philanthropist, Fred Meijer does not have a college degree. And while he did not to go to college, he believes a degree today is an “absolute imperative.” His belief in education led to a gift to Grand Valley State University to support the Honors College through scholarships, faculty leadership, career development opportunities and a lecture series. To acknowledge the generosity of Fred and Lena Meijer and the Meijer Foundation, the college was named the Frederik Meijer Honors College during a celebration established for first-generation on October 29 that preceded college students; an endowed the Grand Valley University chair will be created for a Foundation annual meeting. faculty member to provide “I’ve always been a strong expertise in leadership and advocate of higher education, entrepreneurship; a lecture and we encouraged our series will be established; children to go on to college,” and career development said Fred Meijer, chairman opportunities will be created emeritus of Meijer Inc., during for graduate students, helping a news conference at the them to apply for prestigious Glenn A. Niemeyer Learning fellowships that may have and Living Center on the seemed impossible to obtain. Allendale Campus. The facility President Thomas J. Haas combines residential and said the gift helps Grand Valley classroom space and is home “reach for new heights.” photos by Amanda Pitts to the Meijer Honors College. “This generous gift for the Top, Fred Meijer laughs as he adjusts a graduation cap during the public “This university has been a Frederik Meijer Honors College announcement of the naming of the Frederik Meijer Honors College. Dan symbol of excellence, not just and its promising students will DeVos shows an ‘honors college’ coupon, a tongue-in-cheek version of here in West Michigan but allow us to offer additional the famous Meijer ‘Purple Cow’ ice cream cone coupon. nationwide. Each year, it has academic rigor and benefits,” brought new opportunities Haas said. “We will be able comprehensive campaign, even more students who are for students. We hope that to attract a broader range of said the innovations added to capable of great things, and are through this Honors College students to West Michigan the Honors College programs adding value and richness to the and our support, we have an and, as graduates, they will through the Meijer gift could program that will encourage opportunity to assist young be our future leaders in their encourage more students them to achieve,” said Jeff people and help them achieve communities and vocations. to pursue college. He added Chamberlain, director of the their goals. If this program Nearly 90 percent of our recent that increasing the number of Meijer Honors College. will create an opportunity graduates are employed in college graduates “expands The Meijer Honors College for someone, our efforts will Michigan. This gift will no the talent pool available to enrolls about 1,000 honors have been well-rewarded.” doubt have positive impacts West Michigan businesses.” students, 450 of whom live The Meijer gift will benefit for our entire region.” “With their generous gift, and learn in the Niemeyer the Honors College in four James W.F. Brooks, a co- the Meijers are helping us Learning and Living Center. ways: scholarships will be chair of the university’s extend a welcoming hand to

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 11 MODERN

Contemporary lessons from ancient times — by Mary Isca Pirkola

wasn’t the latest rock Hundreds of students, faculty Today’s audiences may be rotation of Classics students, band or sports stars and staff stopped throughout more familiar with Homer faculty and special guests. that drew standing- their day to enjoy portions Simpson, yet even that “People have been retelling room-only audiences of the non-stop reading, character’s popular television these tales for thousands for a return performance in staged by the Department of show featured a parody of of years,” said Charles Grand Valley’s Kirkhof Center, Classics, of Homer’s Odyssey, the Odyssey in one episode. Pazdernik, chair of the Classics but surprisingly, an oral tradition an epic poem composed Likewise, the plot of the Department. “We become dating back almost 3,000 years. in the 8th century B.C. movie “Oh Brother, Where Art interested in this material Thou” and Charles Frazier’s because we see something of novel Cold Mountain are ourselves in it, just as people in two of the many modern all the past centuries did. Part takes on the original story of of the very definition of Classics Odysseus, the ancient Greek is to be continually fresh, to hero making his long journey be continually relevant and home after the Trojan War. worthy of close examination.” Some students may have been Freshness and relevancy drawn to the event by mere are formidable challenges curiosity, the lunch-time discus considering that as an academic throw that mimicked Odysseus discipline, Classics embraces demonstrating his heroic the study of the civilizations prowess, or the free late-night of ancient Greece and Rome pizza. But growing numbers of from 2000 B.C. to the 8th students are discovering that century A.D. Yet during a time the history, literature, languages when some universities were and culture of the ancient having trouble defending Mediterranean world continues their Classics program as to shape our world today. relevant, Grand Valley made the Held last fall, “Homerathon eccentric decision to start one. Reloaded” reprised the Founded in 2000, it is one of the successful performance youngest and fastest-growing of the Illiad in 2007. Both departments of Classics in the events featured marathon world. Now, with seven full-time readings from dawn to dusk, faculty members, it is the second or as long as it took, by a largest Classics department of all universities in Michigan. The photo courtesy of the timing was appropriate because Classics department there is a nationwide resurgence Katrina Peshka, a double major of interest in Greek and Latin. in Classics and anthropology, Many students study Greek collaborated with participants in a and Latin to be able to read bronze casting project to cast this reproduction of a famous marble ancient text in the original relief from the Temple of Athena language. Some have gone on Nike, on the Athenian Acropolis. to seminary, while others have

12 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu — by Mary Isca Pirkola

photos by Amanda Pitts Above, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Dean Fred Antczak participates in Homerathon Reloaded, the non-stop reading of Homer’s ‘Odyssey,’ an epic poem composed in the 8th century B.C.

Kate Allen, an Honors College and classical languages major, attended an academic conference to present her paper on the ancient Latin poetry of Martial.

pursued careers in law, library Valley alumna Kristen Heise science, and teaching, or have graduated in 2006 with a become candidates for graduate double major in Greek and school in a variety of fields. Latin and is currently enrolled According to the Association at the University of Michigan of American Medical Colleges, Law School. “I seriously think students who major in Classics, I am at an advantage over my or have Classics as part of a fellow students by having an double-major, improve their education in Greek and Latin, chances of getting into medical and not just because I can rattle school over students who off legal Latin lingo,” Heise concentrate solely on scientific said. “Rote memorization just studies. A case in point is doesn’t work for law school. Michelle LeMieux, an Honors The analytical thinking skills she took an easy way out. student who is finishing her these professors want to instill For her senior project Allen Grand Valley degree in four in students is the same type studied the Latin poetry of years with a double major in of thinking I developed to Martial, who lived in the second Classics and biomedical sciences read Greek and Latin as an half of the 1st century A.D. She and will be matriculating to her undergrad at Grand Valley.” transcribed and translated top-choice graduate program Kate Allen came to Grand many of his poems from a rare in osteopathic medicine. Valley in 2004 as a writing major Renaissance edition in Grand According to Harvard and ended up in the Honors Valley’s Special Collections Magazine, Classics and math College as a classical languages located in Seidman House majors have the highest success major. She is proficient in both on the Allendale Campus. rates in law school, far ahead Greek and Latin and loves that With encouragement from of political science, economics she didn’t need to speak them. her advisor, Peter Anderson, and pre-law majors. Grand Don’t think for a minute that assistant professor of

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 13 said. “In the 21st century, we departments. Personal attention attracted notice in some need to use an interdisciplinary from faculty, innovative surprising places. A few years approach and prepare students teaching methods and many ago, a friend was walking for a variety of careers.” opportunities for hands- through Central Park in New An innovative program in on learning are appealing York City and saw three Classics, she also wrote classical tradition emphasizes to students. Students have benches in a row, engraved a paper on themes the the literary, artistic, intellectual, prepared authentic Parthian with Rayor’s name and her poems had in common and social and political traditions of chicken and Alexandrian squash translation of a poem from presented it at an academic other cultures. The opportunity for an annual Roman banquet on Sappho’s Lyre. “I had no idea conference in November. to design individual programs campus, gone on archaeological they were there. My family and “I first got interested in to fit students’ interests, talents excavations abroad, and I visited New York and went to Classics through a Latin class and career goals has been studied in Rome and Athens. look for them,” she said. “We as a freshman,” said Allen. “I another draw. For example, For example, Associate found the benches in the zoo, learned more English grammar Loretta Lanning graduated Professor Melissa Morison as is fitting with the mention in that class than any previous last year with a double major has included students as of animals in the poem.” classes in English. As a writer, in Classics and music. She participants in a summer Her translations of Sappho I found that very valuable.” now has a studio of 25 private international archaeological in particular have been very After a class in the history of piano students and also teaches excavation at Kenchreai, in celebrated and will include ancient Greece and Rome, Allen Latin, music, writing and Greece, where she serves as one recently discovered, which was hooked and has decided speech in various schools in the the ceramics specialist. She will be published in the Norton to go on to graduate school, greater Grand Rapids area. also teamed up with Professor Anthology of Greek Poetry in perhaps in the specialized Norwood Viviano from Art and Translation later this year. field of papyrology, the study Design for an interdepartmental Recently, an editor at Cambridge of manuscripts preserved on Dedicated faculty project last year, “Lost Wax/ University Press asked Rayor papyrus (ancient paper), which Found History.” Students if she was willing to translate continues to yield discoveries Classics courses are open to from both departments cast Antigone, one of the most- of otherwise lost sources. students from any academic bronze statuary inspired taught plays in high school and “While language studies are discipline and complement by classical models. college curricula. “‘Antigone’ is the heart of our program, we interdisciplinary choices Many of Grand Valley’s essentially about the conflicts do so much more,” Pazdernik in many other colleges or Classics faculty members have between family and state, been involved in the translation religion and state — all areas of ancient texts into modern that are as real today as in any languages. For example, past era. In the play, Antigone Professor Diane Rayor has made does the right thing, but ends literary translation her area of up dying because of how she expertise. She is internationally goes about it,” said Rayor. known for her four books, Rayor’s work on the play including an anthology with will include collaborations all the Greek women poets with native Greek poets and (Sappho’s Lyre), and her most translators. It also will bring recent, The Homeric Hymns. the challenges of producing “When I was an the translation specifically for undergraduate there were no the stage. “It will be tested accurate poetic translations and adjusted in Grand Valley’s of Sappho, the first female Classical Theatre Workshop, a poet of ancient Greece,” said team-taught course devoting Rayor. “A professor gave me a full semester to rehearsal, a Sappho poem she wanted tweaking and performance me to translate because she of the play,” she said. Karen knew I wrote poetry. I did it Libman, associate professor and a light bulb went off that of communications, will ‘oh, this is what I’m meant to direct the production, which do.’ I got interested because will make its world premiere I wanted to read them. I when performed at Grand went to graduate school to Valley in April. Rayor and learn to be a better translator the students will be credited and also became a teaching in the publication for their photo courtesy of Hoon Lee assistant. Then I learned how input. The publication will Participants in the Honors Classical World Greek Ceramics Project much I loved teaching.” be an indispensable guide for research, design and create vessels modeled on ancient Greek pottery. Her translations have teachers, and Jenison High

14 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu photo courtesy of Diane Rayor Three consecutive benches in the New York Central Park Zoo are engraved with Classics Professor Diane Rayor’s translation of a poem by Sappho, the first female poet of ancient Greece.

School has already expressed association of classicists in an interest in doing its own North America. In April, performance next year. 2011, Grand Valley and Calvin College will co-host the 107th National Annual Meeting of the Classical recognition Association of the Middle West and South. The international of a stellar conference will bring some 500 be citizens of the world. Cicero program classicists to both institutions recognized this back in 62 B.C. When Rayor was hired by during the academic year Etenim omnes artes quae Grand Valley in 1991, as the that will celebrate the 10th ad humanitatem pertinent university’s first classicist, it anniversary of Grand Valley’s habent quoddam commune was to teach classical literature Classics Department and the vinculum et quasi cognatione and mythology in the English 50th anniversary of Grand quadam inter se continentur. department. Then Bill Levitan Valley as an institution. “Indeed, all the kinds of was hired to teach Latin and Famous students of the training that belong to liberal Rayor taught Greek. From this Classics are found throughout education share some common humble beginning a Classics history, from Jane Addams link and are connected one department was developed and Sigmund Freud, to Ted to another as if by some that has received national Turner and J.K. Rowling. As the family relationship.” recognition for its remarkable successful program at Grand growth from the American Valley has shown, Classics can — Cicero, Pro Archia poeta Philological Association, be a launching pad for many oratio (“Speech in defense the principal professional areas of study and a vital way to of the poet Archias”) 2

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 15 Exxon Valdez Challenging crisis develops president’s leadership style — by Brian J. Bowe

Nestled on the southern coast “This was going to be absolutely because the Coast Guard was of Alaska, Prince William Sound huge, we could see that.” looking at an evolving mission is a place of great beauty, with Because of the scope of into environmental protection.” towering trees and wildlife. It the disaster, the Coast Guard That background meant was pristine, but 20 years ago, it assigned two-star Admiral Haas was an attractive became forever linked with one Clyde Lusk to oversee the candidate to help the Coast of the biggest environmental transportation. At the time, Haas Guard’s effort in Alaska. disasters of the 20th century was a lieutenant commander “Admiral Lusk had to bring — the Exxon Valdez oil spill. teaching chemistry at the Coast together staff and experts so As an officer in the Coast Guard Academy in New London, that we could coordinate the Guard, President Thomas J. Connecticut. But Haas was activity around the spill cleanup,” Haas played an integral part an early expert in the field of Haas said. “The admiral and of the cleanup, putting his hazardous materials — hazmat — maybe one or two others on chemistry background to the test cleanup. Prior to his time at the his leadership team called the and learning important lessons academy, Haas spent four years Coast Guard Academy and about leadership. Those lessons in Washington, D.C., in the Coast asked if we would send some have followed Haas through Guard’s division of hazardous cadets from the marine science the rest of his professional life. materials transportation. program for six-week periods. “That experience was very “What happened was I was That way, they could be on the important and has informed me stationed in the Great Lakes and ground, actually involved in as I have gone through my career. I had a chemistry background,” staffing some of the needs we One of the most important parts Haas said. “One of the division had, using their expertise and of leadership development chiefs called me up and asked really getting to know about is being adaptable and doing me if I wanted to go to graduate this part of the Coast Guard.” things the right way for the right school in chemistry and then reasons. Sometimes you’ve got come to Washington to be part to take some risks,” he said. of this relatively new branch On March 24, 1989, the of hazardous materials. I said Exxon Valdez spilled 11 million that sounded pretty good.” gallons of oil in Prince William Haas enrolled in a master’s Sound — the equivalent of 125 degree program in chemistry Olympic-sized swimming pools, at the University of Michigan. according to the Exxon Valdez “While I was there I was Oil Spill Trustee Council’s Web encouraged to really push myself site. The cleanup lasted four into getting a second degree, years and cost some $2.1 billion, since I had the time,” he said. polluting 11,000 square miles of Haas chose environmental ocean and wreaking long-term health sciences in U-M’s School havoc on a fragile ecosystem. of Public Health for his second Haas said he initially heard degree. “I really got intrigued about the spill on the news then in industrial hygiene, in like many others. But he toxicology, in the interactions photo courtesy of Thomas J. Haas quickly knew it would be a big of chemicals on biological During his long Coast Guard deal for the Coast Guard. systems in the environment, and career, Thomas J. Haas (left) was “It hit the Coast Guard pretty I still enjoyed my chemistry as known as an expert in hazardous dramatically because of our well. That’s how I got into the materials transportation and cleanup. Haas is also pictured on responsibilities for responding hazardous materials world,” the back cover (color photo, on to hazardous materials incidents Haas said. “It was exciting at the right) with a colleague from his or for oil spills,” Haas said. that time too, the early ’70s, days in the Coast Guard.

16 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu AP Photo/Rob Stapleton The smaller Exxon Baton Rouge attempts to off-load crude oil from the Exxon Valdez on March 26, 1989. The Valdez ran aground in the Prince William Sound, spilling more than 270,000 barrels of crude oil off the coast of Alaska.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 17 Haas was reassigned to So with that in mind, we then population because of that food photo courtesy of the Exxon Valdez Oil the Valdez cleanup for the created this new set of software source, and these indigenous Spill Trustee Council summer and deployed from that included some new ways bacteria were also then able to Crews spray water on the shoreline the academy to Alaska, where to rid oil following the 1989 Exxon to measure spill cleanup,” he consume oil. We were able to see Valdez oil spill. President Thomas he was named data manager said. Part of his work included if that type of bioremediation J. Haas was a Coast Guard officer for the cleanup. It was a busy verifying that the software was going to be effective. And in at that time and was sent to Alaska time, right from the get-go. “We corresponded with the reality on some parts it was.” as data manager for the cleanup. were putting in 18-hour days the ground. After the summer, Haas or more because of the long “I was able to get on some of returned to the Coast Guard hours of sunlight in Alaska in the flights on helicopters with Academy. The databases he these years later,” he said, adding the summer,” Haas said. “It was the admiral and helped that he hopes to get a firsthand just expected that we do that.” some others create were look this summer with a return His duties included on his staff to “I think that later used trip to Prince William Sound. coordinating the efforts, see if in fact in litigation Haas said the spill also measuring the progress of the what we were lesson cemented surrounding had long-lasting effects on spill cleanup and creating a monitoring in in me the the disaster, his career, instilling in him a database to be used in future our database and he belief in strategic thinking and spill cleanups. Right away, was aligned understanding used his contingency planning. “More he faced a big challenge with what we that it’s OK to experiences importantly, I was able to use my with computer software. saw on the to help the technical background,” he said, “I really had no expertise shorelines,” change courses.” Coast Guard “but we had to adapt. Some tools in computer operations and he said conduct weren’t going to work, so we had things like that,” Haas said. One of the — Thomas J. Haas disaster to find other tools that did. We “The Coast Guard did have main challenges contingency had to adjust, think strategically, a standard workstation that was that planning. implement and measure. we tried to use, but — quite the cleanup Haas said “I could have been very honestly — after about 36 hours happened on a variety of the Valdez disaster reinforced frustrated trying to get a we knew that platform was terrains — rocky soil, sandy the Coast Guard’s long-standing particular system to work, not going to give us the output soil, wetlands. Each required culture of coordinating across a when I knew at a certain point we needed for the media. We a different approach, and diverse — and at times competing it couldn’t anymore,” Haas tried our darndest to use this frequently crews had to work in — group of stakeholders. That added. “But I had to be open workstation, and we finally went uncharted territory. culture was seen again in the to finding alternatives. I think to the admiral and said, ‘This “We were watching steam, response to Hurricane Katrina. that lesson cemented in me the isn’t going to work,’” Haas said. we were watching hot water, Haas returned to Alaska four understanding that it’s OK to With the admiral’s blessing, to see what might be effective years ago when his son Gregory change courses. Haas and his team set up a or not,” Haas said. “We did was an executive officer on the That philosophy is serving me new Macintosh-based system. one experiment with the EPA Coast Guard cutter Hickory. in my role as president of Grand “What was really important which was kind of neat. In He plans to return this year Valley. You have to be flexible — was that it be user-friendly and certain soils we were able to get and visit Gregory, who will still keeping the end results that that it had graphics, so that we a fertilizer that we could put out be commanding a patrol boat. you want, those outcomes in could demonstrate our progress on the shoreline, and indigenous “Reports say there are still some mind — but realize that there are to numbers of stakeholders. bacteria would then grow into a scars left over from the spill all different ways to get there.”

18 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu undreds of Hstudents, faculty and staff members cheered and hugged as they witnessed the historic presidential inauguration of Barack Obama at a campus- wide event on January 20 (see page 5 for more on this story). “America United: A Grand Valley Celebration” was held in the Fieldhouse Arena on the Allendale Campus. Remarks were made by President Thomas J. Haas; Jeanne Arnold, vice president for Inclusion and Equity; Gleaves Whitney, director of the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies; and faculty members Mark Richards and Louis Moore before the start of the inauguration. Haas told the crowd he had just returned from Washington, D.C., and saw the preparation for the inauguration. “The preparation for this historic event really started many, many years ago, many decades ago, many centuries ago,” Haas said. Whitney called the day “glorious for our nation” and told the crowd, “We are participants, not just witnesses of one of the most interesting and HISTORIC consequential developments in our nation’s history.” A live Webcast of the speakers and a link to the inauguration was made available on Grand Valley’s homepage. In addition to the Allendale Campus, viewing locations were set up at the Eberhard Center, Cook-DeVos CHANGE Center for Health Sciences, Run for the White House Holland Meijer Campus, energizes students and keeps photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker Grand Valley experts in the news Students gathered in Area 51 of the Kirkhof Center on election night to track the election results. — by Dottie Barnes

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 19 Township, said he voted for John McCain because he believed McCain had a better has done extensive research economic plan. Yanalunas said in the area of religion McCain ran a good campaign, and politics, said McCain but following Bush hurt him. instantly picked up three to Jessica Carter, a senior from six million evangelical votes. Grand Rapids, said she waited “Evangelicals make up about in line for two-and-a-half 25 percent of the American hours to vote. “I’m a woman population,” said den Dulk. and I’m black,” said Carter. “In 2004, Bush got nearly 80 “This historic election made percent of evangelical voters me believe I can be president and McCain needed those if I want. New doors have votes to win the election.” suddenly opened up for me.” King and Moiles were regular Janomia Smith, a senior from guests on the local NBC Detroit, said Obama represents affiliate’s political talk show, photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker change. “Obama understands “To The Point,” and Danielle Danielle Wiese (far left), assistant professor of communications, appears the needs in middle class Wiese, assistant professor of on the local ABC affiliate to give updates on the presidential race. communities and represents communications, was tapped the change that actually by the local ABC affiliate to Muskegon Regional Center and distinctive. Whitney said young affects me,” said Smith. “You provide weekly comments Traverse City University Center. people were more tuned-in to have to understand your public on the presidential race. Several Grand Valley the election than ever before. and that’s why he won.” Wiese also created an students traveled to the “Secretaries of state reported innovative course, Presidential nation’s capital to watch the more young people registered In the news Campaign Communication, inaugural events, including to vote than ever in history,” Grand Valley’s News and to teach students about civic four political science students said Whitney. “Pollsters Information Services office participation during election who were selected to attend predicted 75 percent of young created an online election time. Student projects included an academic seminar through people would vote for one center, a Web site featuring creating and facilitating The Washington Center. One of candidate, Barack Obama.” faculty experts who offered Debate Watch programs for those students, Selma Tucker, The Secretary of State’s insight on the election itself the Grand Valley campus a senior from Buchanan, was mobile van came to the and on a wide range of and for East Kentwood High interviewed by the Washington Allendale Campus for two topics related to the election School; designing a Voter ABC television affiliate. “We’re days and dozens of students including the economy, Information Project with the enjoying the splendor this registered to vote. education and health care. Spring Lake Public Library; country is going through,” said These experts were routinely and working with the local Tucker. “It’s a moment that GV got out the vote tapped by local and statewide ABC television affiliate, I’ll share with my children, my Voting was made a little media for expert analysis. WZZM, to prepare a weekly grandchildren, and my parents. easier for Grand Valley Faculty members from the news segment, two-hour I’m just excited to take some of students who registered to political science department, Web chats and daily Internet this home with me.” vote locally. The Student including Erika King, Roger blogs on student perspectives Senate provided a shuttle Moiles, Whitt Kilburn, Kevin about the campaign. On Historic and Unique bus to transport students den Dulk and Don Zinman, Election Day, students The presidential election from the Allendale Campus provided weekly audio served as guest journalists was unique in that both to the Allendale precinct, the soundbites on the Web stationed throughout the candidates were after the Second Christian Reformed site that were also used by community providing youth vote, and with nearly Church on Lake Michigan area radio stations through election coverage that ran 24,000 students, Grand Drive. About 500 students the election season. They on the WZZM Web site. Valley had the right audience. used the free shuttle service, offered reaction to the The candidacy of Obama, comprising one-fourth of all conventions, weighed in on Political issues along with the introduction of votes cast at that precinct. the debates and discussed and debates Republican vice presidential On election night, about 200 what went right and wrong About 25 students in Copeland candidate Sarah Palin, people filled Area 51 in the for each of the candidates. Living Center gathered in sparked excitement around Kirkhof Center. Student Senate, “It was a tough year for the lobby to watch the third the country and on campus. College Republicans and Republicans,” said King. presidential debate with Students were kept informed College Democrats sponsored “They were certainly at a Moiles, a political science about the historic presidential the event, offering students disadvantage because of instructor. After the debate, race through a variety of free food and a big screen to the struggling economy.” As students questioned Moiles speakers and campus events. watch the election results. for John McCain’s surprise about negative advertising, the The power of young people Brad Yanalunas, a pick of Sarah Palin as a candidates’ policy proposals in this election made it sophomore from Commerce runningmate, den Dulk, who and the mortgage crisis.

20 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu Students also inquired about William Ayers, an anti-war activist with ties to Obama, with the private sector,” and the importance of “Joe said Seidman. “We have the plumber,” who is actually two candidates who are Samuel Wurzelbacher, a highly qualified but neither plumber cited as an example of them have ever been in of middle-class America. business, nor do they have “Most thought Obama any experience that can help won the debate,” Moiles said. guide them in problems with “Many thought McCain came the private sector. Neither off as angry while Obama is prepared to deal with the was calm. The students felt financial panic we’re facing.” character issues distracted But, as Moiles contends, while from more important issues.” the American public looks for A series of three noon events change that will affect their in October, co-sponsored lives in a positive way, Obama’s by the Women’s Center and victory has inspired people and Health and Wellness, made opened up a system to those for lively lunch discussions. who thought they couldn’t Grand Valley political science compete. “Only five years faculty facilitated the talks. ago, I think few Americans On Constitution Day, would have believed we had September 17, the Hauenstein yet progressed enough for an Center for Presidential African American candidate Studies and Seidman College to win the presidency, of Business hosted two even within a generation Michigan politicians. Sen. or two,” Moiles said. Buzz Thomas, D-Detroit, supported Obama’s candidacy, while Republican politician G.J. Rusty Hills supported McCain. The economic crisis and education reform were hot topics for debate. The Hauenstein Center co-hosted additional events, including a panel discussion on how the election would impact Michigan. One forum featured scholars from around the country offering an assessment of George W. Bush’s presidency. Another featured a visit by L. William Seidman, one of the founders of Grand Valley and CNBC’s chief commentator. During the event, co-sponsored by the Seidman College of Business Alumni Association, Seidman said he compared the economic plans of both candidates and told the crowd of more than 350 that neither candidate had defined photos by Bernadine Carey-Tucker a “memorable” program. Above: President Thomas J. Haas greets students as they board a free shuttle bus that transported student “I wish they had more voters to the Allendale precinct on Election Day. Students, attending a gathering in Area 51 in the Kirkhof Center experience in the real world on election night, react as results are announced.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 21 focal point

Neil MacDonald, professor of biology and natural resources management

It’s second nature for Neil they enjoy going outdoors for MacDonald to put on hip class and tramping through waders and stand in Sand the woods regardless of Creek, near Grand Valley, the weather,” he said. on a cold fall morning. The MacDonald will spend more professor of biology and time indoors this summer natural resources management when he takes over as chair has turned his passion for the of the biology department. outdoors into a profession. “It will be something new and a veteran faculty member, different, but I like to renew MacDonald teaches courses myself in different ways,” in watershed management, he said. Yet some things will forestry, and resource be familiar. “With either a measurements and mapping. group of students or faculty, He laughed when discussing a I’ll try to help advance them key difference between NRM toward their goals,” he said. majors and other students. “You can pick out natural photography by Adam Bird resources students because

22 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu RESEARCH news

Students conduct research in Peruvian

Amazon — by Dottie Barnes

he days were hot and the long hours spent getting T the mosquitoes were sweaty and sticky. “We would relentless as five Grand Valley travel five miles into the forest in students trekked through heavy a straight line to see what kinds vegetation in the rainforests of of palms were growing,” Guel Peru. The students spent July said. “We also assessed area studying the distribution and gardens to see if villagers were economic value of several palm getting the fruit they need.” species. The local residents use Students studied the palms for fiber, fruits, thatch distribution, abundance and and other materials. population characteristics Jim Penn, assistant professor of the palms and conducted of geography and planning, forest censuses, measured has traveled to the Peruvian and marked trees of different Amazon since 1984. He takes age classes and mapped the groups of students each census quadrants with the summer to track growth help from local residents. and take inventories of the Penn said researchers forest. “We work directly and villagers continue to be with the local people and the concerned about the amount government,” said Penn. “It’s of Chambira being harvested a cooperative effort. They from the rainforest. “Women understand that through the rely heavily on fibers harvested data collected, we can better from the Chambira palm to help them manage the forest.” weave hammocks, handicrafts The 30-day trip was spent and artwork that they sell to in the rainforests and villages help support their families,” of the Tahuayo River and said Penn. “We gave our results Quebrada Blanco, located to people in the rainforest about 80 miles southeast of communities, because without Iquitos, Peru. Two students precise knowledge of the from the university in Iquitos population density and harvest also helped conduct research. levels in the forest, they cannot Joe Burns, a junior from manage the use of the species Grand Rapids studying or sustain their trade.” international relations, said Grand Valley students had the daily rains suspended down time during the trip their work for a time, but they to catch and eat piranhas, collected valuable data. “We watch monkeys in the forest gathered information on the canopy, and sample local different palm species that dishes such as grubs from the have an economic value for rotting trunks of dead palms. the locals,” said Burns. “We Students also brought back tagged trees and documented crafts made from Chambira whether they were adult, palms. In October, they set up a mature or seedlings, in order table at the Kirkhof Center on to track growth. We presented the Allendale Campus where our findings to the villagers to the items sold quickly. The help encourage conservation money raised benefited the and a sustainable harvest.” Rainforest Conservation Fund photos courtesy of Jim Penn Anel Guel, a sophomore from of Chicago, which helps support Top, Jim Penn and students examine native plants in the rainforests of Grand Rapids, said the research Peruvian women and funds Peru. The field course group relied on a common form of travel in the was labor intensive, but worth conservation projects in Peru. area: boat.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 23 hen the U.S. economy Wdipped into crisis mode late last summer, Grand Valley’s Seidman College of Business leapt into action. The college held a series of public roundtables to help area businesses and laypeople understand what was going on. Seidman faculty members were regular fixtures in local — and even national — media. Even one of Grand Valley’s founding fathers, former FDIC chairman L. William Seidman, participated. Dean H. James Williams led the charge into action. Williams came to Grand Valley in 2004. He is a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Management Accountant, and an attorney with a wealth of practical experiences in the public accounting profession and in the legal profession. He talked with Grand Valley Magazine’s Brian J. Bowe about the crisis, its impact, and what the future holds for Seidman College of Business.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE: Seidman College of Business responded very quickly to the economic crisis in September with public events and educational Q&A H. James williams

24 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu outreach. Why did you Everybody’s concerned. and how will we make sure and educating leaders of think that was important? I have the honor and the that we are right in line with the type that this country WILLIAMS: I thought it was privilege of working with a them as a business college? is going to need in order to important for us for a couple lot of great business minds That’s one of the concerns move forward in the future. of reasons. First, there is a in this community, the kinds we have. We’ve been talking You worked with Bill mutual respect and support of conversations I’m getting a lot lately about how broadly GVM: Seidman on a pair of events in here between the university are really scary. People are we reach across the Midwest Washington and Grand Rapids. and the community that I really concerned about the and nationally. We’re working What was that like for you? haven’t seen in other places. ability of their businesses to on having a national presence, I think the community feels withstand the recession that a nationally recognized brand. WILLIAMS: It was fantastic. Bill a certain responsibility to has hit us — and probably When our students leave here, is an expert of experts. He is support Grand Valley, and has been with Michigan from we want the whole nation at considered to be the patriarch we feel that same kind of the early 2000s. People least — and the whole world at of financial analysts. It is a responsibility to make sure are really concerned that best — to be open to them and great boon for this community that we’re providing what we the next couple of years to understand the quality that and college of business to ought to be providing for this are going to be tough. Grand Valley and the Seidman have him so aligned with us, community. So for that reason College of Business represent, so supportive of what we’re What kind of impact will alone I thought it was critical. GVM: so they know they’re getting trying to accomplish and so this crisis have on Seidman committed to his hometown. As the business school and good quality folks to work College of Business? He has worked tirelessly university of this region, we with their companies. It affects us along two to make sure our name is had a responsibility to make WILLIAMS: dimensions. First, it affects GVM: One of your current recognized around the nation. sure that this unique historic us tactically. As we work to priorities is to increase I know that if I need him, I can business issue was brought deliver an effective business the profile of the Seidman call him. forward in a way that allowed education, now we have a MBA. Why do you think The kind of experiences for this community to be as world laboratory like we have that’s important? he’s had over the years, the informed as possible. We not had before. As we try to I believe that the kind of thought he’s put into are endowed with experts WILLIAMS: deliver the messages, we can country will continue to these matters, and his ability in economics, finance and reference what’s happening require leadership from to bring it home plainly, to accounting and business right now in a way students people who have a really lay it out in ways that even that really put us in the can appreciate. We can good understanding of laypeople can understand best position to be able to use this time to make the business functions and is just beyond comparison, conduct a conversation that’s learning experiences even how to recognize business and we know that we never informative, touches the entire more meaningful for students. opportunities and how to have to worry when we have community, and brings to Faculty are referring back to take advantage of them. I Bill Seidman here — folks are bear not only our resources, what’s happening — I know believe that our MBA degree, going to come to listen. but those resources we can that’s true in my teaching, in particular, is especially tap in the community. So I and I hear from my colleagues appropriate for training thought we were uniquely that they’re doing the same positioned to respond, and things in their classrooms. I think we did a good job. It’s also affecting us GVM: What are your thoughts strategically. We’re asking about the economic crisis? ourselves what happens in Are we really in the middle of the long term, how must our something unprecedented? strategic plan change given WILLIAMS: I think it is clearly what has happened and an historic event. Folks talk what we expect to happen about this being as bad as in the next year and a half. any time we have experienced Some significant adjustments economically, going back to will have to be made. For the Great Depression. In the example, we pride ourselves ’80s and ’90s when things on keeping our graduates got tough, I don’t think folks here in this region and in had this kind of concern. the state. Well, if jobs here There wasn’t this overall loss are going to be dwindling of confidence by the public like they’ve dwindled in the — and I’m talking about the last few months, what are business public as well as the implications for how we the lay public. I think it has make sure our students have made a big difference to the opportunities to be gainfully photos by Bernadine Carey-Tucker business community that employed once they finish this program? Who are H. James Williams, dean of the Seidman College of Business, looks on we’re suffering through what as former FDIC chairman and Grand Valley founding father L. William H. James williams we’re suffering through now. those potential employers, Seidman delivers a breakfast lecture in the DeVos Center in October.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 25 ATHLETICS

Boyce follows longtime coach, puts own stamp

on Laker program — by Michele Coffill

If Andy Boyce’s pedigree has trained to get a lot of strokes. more this year.” The men’s team He also managed the Cascade anything to do with it, he may So we focus on cleaning up finished 21st at nationals in 2008 Hills Country Club and coached be Grand Valley’s men’s and their style and helping them be and the women’s team was 16th. its swim teams — connections women’s swimming and diving more efficient in the water.” Boyce said the Lakers will that would prove valuable for coach for many years to come. Apparently the method wear the new, high-tech LZR a head coach. “The people Boyce was named head coach works. The Laker men won the racing suits for nationals. I coached on the club team last May. He replaced Dewey GLIAC Championships last Manufactured by Speedo, the I’m now recruiting,” he said. Newsome, who retired after season and the women finished suits were prevalent during “West Michigan swimming 23 years of serving as the first second. Boyce said both teams the 2008 Summer Olympics. has really grown in the last 15 Grand Valley swimming and should not only finish at or The full-length suits create less years. There are a lot of good diving coach. Boyce had served near the top again during the drag in the water, thus making swimmers locally, and that as assistant coach since 2004 conference championships, times faster. “If things go for makes it easier for recruiting.” and was named interim coach and he expects to send more us the way they did during the Boyce said while it is, at during the 2007-08 season, Lakers to the NCAA Division Olympics, we could have nine times, difficult to secure a when Newsome stepped down II Championships in Houston, or 10 records fall,” he said. foothold in the shadows of because of health problems. Texas, in mid-March. Boyce has set a few of his own two legendary coaches, he During his college years, “We sent 16 to nationals last records, including two at Ball is carving his own niche. He Boyce swam butterfly and year,” he said. “At the beginning State and a top five finish just created new team-building freestyle sprints at Ball State of this season, we set a goal at a two years ago when he was 29. events for preseason meetings University in Indiana. Several team meeting of sending 20 or Competing at the Masters World and found a new site in Florida years after graduating, Boyce Championships at Stanford for winter training. Some things returned to his alma mater and University, he finished fifth remain constant, though. served as a graduate assistant in the 100-meter butterfly. “What I take from Dewey is to Bob Thomas, who has His parents, though not his emphasis on academics. His been the head coach at swimmers themselves, took big concern was always how Ball State for 30 years. Boyce for swim lessons when team members were achieving “There are a lot of he was 3. He took to the water in class; he always said because similarities between like the proverbial fish, then that is what will help you most Dewey and Bob in continued lessons and was down the road,” Boyce said. their coaching styles,” swimming for a community Last year, the women’s Boyce said. “They both team in northeast Grand Rapids team was ranked as the ninth teach quality swim at age 8. He then swam for top Academic All-American strokes. Depending on the Forest Hills club team and team in Division II by the an athlete’s high school Northview High School. College Swimming Coaches program, some swimmers An elementary education Association of America, while have an inconsistent major at Ball State, Boyce the men’s team narrowly stroke because they’re taught at a charter school in missed the GPA requirement. Walker after graduation before returning to his alma mater to earn a master’s degree and gain coaching experience.

photo by Bernadine Carey-Tucker Head swimming and diving coach Andy Boyce looks to prepare more Lakers for the NCAA championships in March.

26 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu ALUMNI news

Alumni Association honors Clanton, ’76, and Tyson The Grand Valley Alumni for the English department, was Association bestowed its two honored with the Outstanding most prestigious awards during Educator Award. The recipient is the December commencement selected by a survey of alumni in ceremony held at Van Andel their fifth year after graduating. Arena in Grand Rapids. Deborah She has authored various L. Clanton, ’76, received the publications on critical theory, Distinguished Alumna Award, literary analysis, and American and Lois Tyson received the literature. Her text, Critical Outstanding Educator Award. Theory Today: A User-Friendly Clanton serves as district Guide, is in wide distribution court magistrate and director of and has contributed to Tyson’s probation services for the 62-B recognition as one of the District Court of Kentwood; nation’s preeminent authorities she is also the new district on the subject. Tyson was magistrate trainer. Clanton was commended by students for named the city’s first magistrate utilizing her many talents to in 1992, and was the first African personally connect them with American magistrate appointed literature and critical theories. in the Grand Rapids area. She is She earned a bachelor’s a dedicated community activist degree in French from Rutgers and was instrumental in bringing University in 1972, and double the issue of HIV/AIDS to the master’s degrees in education forefront in Grand Rapids. and English from Ohio University She earned a bachelor’s in 1982 and 1984. She earned a degree in criminal justice doctorate in English from Ohio from Grand Valley in 1976 and State University in 1989. a master’s degree in public Clanton and Tyson also were photos by Adam Bird administration from Western honored during a reception Top, Deborah Clanton, ’76, is pictured with, at left, Jeff Weatherall, ’78, Michigan University in 1992. and dinner at the Alumni Alumni Association president, and President Thomas J. Haas. English Tyson, professor of English and House on December 5. professor Lois Tyson is pictured with Kevin Schafer, ’98, first vice faculty-development coordinator president of the Alumni Association and Haas.

All-Alumni Benefit Golf Outing Community Outreach Week planned Mark your calendars… 2009 All-Alumni Benefit Alumni volunteers are in the community and to Golf Outing growing a greater Grand learn about agencies that Saturday, July 11 Valley, and a greater are in need of volunteers. The Meadows at community. Visit www.gvsu.edu/alumni Grand Valley We invite you to join us to view and register for Shotgun start at 1:30 p.m. during Community Outreach coordinated service projects. For more information Week, March 21 -27, which If you have a project close contact the Alumni will offer a different to your heart and would like Relations Office at volunteer experience every to lead a group in your area, [email protected] or day. During this week please contact Susan Proctor 800-558-0541. of service, the Alumni at [email protected] or Relations office will provide 800-558-0541. opportunities to volunteer

illustration by Jacqueline Cuppy, ’87

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 27 ALUMNI news

Lakers in the House Alumni in the Capitol — by Susan Proctor, ’98

hough they may hold with significant cognitive, T different party affiliations emotional and behavioral issues. and views on legislative issues, He is an ordained minister and Representatives Terry Brown, is associate pastor of Bay Port ’95, Brian Calley, ’00, and Bob Community of Christ Church. Genetski, ’04, were sworn in He said he decided to run as Michigan State House of for office while working in Representatives in January with a job he loved because he at least one common bond as saw first-hand an erosion of Grand Valley alumni. necessary services to students Brown and Calley are and their families. “My area returning legislators; Genetski of the state has experienced will begin his first term. They all a significant decline in the photo by Brian Charles Watson said the economy will continue school-age population,” Brown to play a dominant role as they said. “Our educational system The Michigan State Capitol in Lansing is pictured. Three state representatives who graduated with degrees from Grand Valley are get ready to shape state policy. is threatened. People were, among the Laker contingent in Michigan’s Legislature. and are, asking for a change Rep. Terry Brown in the way the government (D-Pigeon) Brown and his wife Carol have key tax incentives to improve responds to our needs.” been married for more than 25 the state’s struggling economy. Brown began his second He said his priority in 2009 term in office and sits on years. They have three children. Last summer, he was named will be helping to create Legislator of the Year by the five House committees: Rep. Brian Calley good paying jobs and “getting Small Business Association of Agriculture, Education, Michigan back to work.” (R-Portland) Energy and Technology, Michigan for his strong advocacy “Improving the economy and Calley also began his second to strengthen the state’s Military Veterans Affairs finding money in the budget term as state representative. and Homeland Security, and economy and to create jobs. during these difficult times are A Republican representing He said jobs and job creation incredible challenges. We need to Barry and Ionia counties in the will continue to be a main focus put aside our partisan differences 87th District, he serves on the during his second term. “When and work on both short- and Banking and Financial Services, (the Legislature) considers long-term solutions,” he said. Health Policy, Tax Policy, and taking up issues, we need to Brown earned a bachelor’s Retiree Health Care Reforms ask one simple question, ‘Will degree in social work and committees; he is vice chair of this help with job creation?’ psychology from Graceland the Community College Caucus. If the answer is no, then it’s University in Iowa. He earned a Calley spent more than a not the time to work on this master’s degree in social work decade in the banking industry from Michigan State University and assisted hundreds of small and a master’s degree in businesses in Michigan. Prior education from Grand Valley. to his election in 2006, he was Like many people, he said vice president for commercial that higher education will play loans at Irwin Union Bank. He a significant role in helping to said he entered the political remedy the state’s economic arena because he saw too many Rep. Terry Brown crisis. “Higher education is the government policies focusing Tourism, Outdoor Recreation key to moving more people of all only on large business. With his and Natural Resources. The ages into good-paying jobs and experience and background in a Democrat represents the creating a top-notch workforce rural community, Calley wanted 84th District, which includes that will attract high-tech, high- to become an advocate for small Huron and Tuscola counties. quality employers to Michigan’s business and concerns facing Prior to joining the struggling communities,” people who live in rural areas. Legislature, Brown worked for Brown said. “We have to During his first term, Calley the Huron Intermediate School keep working to make these was instrumental in fighting Rep. Brian Calley District for 23 years as a social opportunities accessible and for a reduced tax rate for worker and, most recently, as affordable for more residents, Michigan small businesses. He issue,” said Calley. “The current principal of the Huron Learning and help them move from authored a bill to allow start-up budget problems are symptoms Center, a school for children education to employment.” businesses to continue receiving of unemployment and under-

28 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu/alumni ALUMNI news

employment, which create, in Grandville to join the College of Education’s Dean among other things, higher Legislature this year. Prior to Search Committee in 2004. He Congratulations crime rates and an increased teaching at-risk students at said he is aware Grand Valley December graduates! need for social services.” Orion, Genetski taught and is among the fastest growing Calley, who earned a coached soccer at Otsego High universities in Michigan, Welcome to the GVSU bachelor’s degree in business School in Allegan County. although it receives the lowest administration from Michigan per student appropriation of all Alumni Association State University and a 15 public institutions. He said master’s degree in business he will call for a restructuring The Alumni Association administration from Grand of the state university system. congratulates the December Valley, said that higher education When not working, Genetski 2008 graduating class! We is integral to retraining enjoys spending time with his wish each of you luck as Michigan’s workforce for the family and playing hockey for you embark on a bright new jobs of today and tomorrow. Wally’s Whalers, a Saugatuck- future as a Grand Valley “Grand Valley is not only based ice hockey team. graduate. You now join excellent academically but more than 68,000 proud and Other Laker legislators also remains very affordable. successful GVSU alumni. Genetski joins the state Universities in general have The Alumni Association Legislature as alumnus and a key role to play in retooling provides a lifetime of long-time House Democratic our workforce, and GVSU, continuing support to help leader Michael Sak (D-Grand particularly, because of its you maintain the friendships, Rapids) leaves due to term limits. affordability,” he said. interests and associations that Sak earned a master’s degree The low cost of tuition Rep. Bob Genetski you made as a student. We from Grand Valley in 1995, and was a major factor in Calley’s will serve as your link to the With more than 10 years of was first elected to serve Grand decision to attend Grand university, bringing you many experience in teaching, making Rapids’ 76th District in 2002. In Valley. He credits much of his exciting events, programs, a career shift was not easy 2006, he was elected to his third success to his advanced degree, benefits and communications. for Genetski. “I understand and final term to the Michigan stating that his career really For more information challenging times. Five days a House of Representatives, accelerated after obtaining it. or to request your week, I saw the effects a tough and later that same year, was “Most of my professors worked membership card, visit Michigan economy has on voted into a new leadership in the industry and prepared www.gvsu.edu/alumni. struggling families,” he said. role as Speaker pro tempore. me well for my career in “In teaching at-risk students, State Sen. Bill Hardiman banking and beyond,” he said. I was on the front lines of the (R-Kentwood) joins the More than 88 percent of all war on poverty, the culture Grand Valley contingent of GVSU graduates currently war, No Child Left Behind, representatives. Hardiman, employed work in Michigan. the state budget crunch, and who is currently serving his Calley again touted Grand the frustration those who second and final term in the Valley’s efficacy when he are disadvantaged feel in a Senate, earned a bachelor’s was asked how to keep more state with a terrible economy degree in behavioral science graduates in Michigan. “Grand and little opportunity. from Grand Valley in 1977. He Valley is specifically teaching “It was hard to leave a position was elected in 2002 to represent its students to help support the I was so committed to but, the 29th State Senate district, local and regional economies. ultimately, nothing will help my including the cities of Grand It’s not just teaching well, but students like a strong economy.” Rapids, Kentwood and Lowell teaching relevance,” he said. The economy and job and the townships of Cascade, Calley and his wife Julie creation will be a major Lowell, Vergennes and Grattan. have been married for focus for Genetski during his His committee appointments more than 12 years and inaugural term. He said that include State Appropriations, have two small children. his top three priorities are Commerce Labor and Rep. Bob Genetski “building a strong economy Economic Development, Higher (R-Saugatuck) where businesses can create Education, Capital Outlay, photo by Heather Dixon, ’05 Genetski is beginning jobs and make profits, reducing Family Independence Agency, A new graduate celebrates at his first term in office wasteful government spending, and the Senate Committee on GradFest. representing Michigan’s 88th and cutting college tuition.” Families and Human Services. District, which encompasses He earned a bachelor’s degree Hardiman has served on most of Allegan County. from Auburn University and a Grand Valley University’s He left his position as an master’s degree in education Foundation Board of Trustees English teacher at Orion from Grand Valley. Genetski and was named GVSU’s Alternative High School served on Grand Valley’s Distinguished Alumnus in 1993.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 29 ALUMNI news

Homecoming 2008 Something Old, Something New, Many Things Laker Blue

Thank you to the thousands • Alumni Expo and Tailgate: who came back to Allendale Hundreds of guests flooded the for Homecoming 2008. The Alumni House for the Expo and October 10-12 activities brought Alumni Tailgater. Attendees alumni, students, and friends enjoyed an all-you-can-eat together for a celebration BLUE-B-Q, inflatable games of all things Grand Valley. and family activities, prizes, and performances by the Laker Weekend highlights Marching Band, Cheer and included: Dance teams. Donations of new • College of Liberal Arts and or gently used coats, clothes Sciences (CLAS) Distinguished and blankets were collected for Alumni-In-Residence Program distribution to needy people and Luncheon: Each year, in West Michigan through departments within CLAS invite Mel Trotter Ministries. outstanding alumni back to • Laker Football Game: campus during Homecoming The night came to a fitting week to share their post- close as the Lakers routed graduation experiences with Hillsdale College, 41-10. 1 the campus community. A luncheon was held on October 10 to celebrate the honorees. • 5K Run/Walk: Homecoming festivities began early on October 11 with an annual Homecoming 5K Run/ Walk and Laker BLUEberry pancake breakfast. • Golf Outing: Golfers enjoyed campus from the links of the Meadows during the Homecoming Golf Outing. Visit www.gvsu.edu/homecoming for a list of event winners. • Mindgating: Movie fans headed to the Kirkhof Center for the CLAS Mindgating Film Festival. Participants enjoyed exclusive alumni-produced films and an interactive tribute to the legacy of the 2 William James College.

30 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu/alumni ALUMNI news

3 5

Save the date! Homecoming 2009 will be October 16-18.

4

1 Participants in the Homecoming 3 The 2008 College of Liberal 4 Guests at the Alumni Tailgater 5 Golfers Todd, ’93, and Kirsten 5K Run/Walk make their way Arts and Sciences Distinguished get fired up for the Laker Schmitt get ready to play in the to the finish line on October Alumni-in-Residence are, from football game with exclusive GVSU Homecoming Golf 11 in the new Laker Turf left, David Szurley, ’97, James performances by the Laker Outing. Participants enjoyed Building, which was dedicated Vander Weide, ’96, Heather Cheer and Dance teams the event’s return, as 2008 later that day. Fox, ’84, Angela Mistretta, ’02, accompanied by the Laker marked the first time it has and Brian VanDenBrand, ’06. Marching Band. been offered in several years. 2 Alumni and friends from southeast Michigan head to photo by Amanda Pitts photo by Dianne Carroll Burdick the Alumni Tailgater and Expo on a bus chartered by the Alumni Association. photo by Dianne Carroll Burdick

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 31 ALUMNI news

Young Alumni programs draw new crowds More than 60 young alumni around campus experiences, members gathered at the and had opportunities Pew Grand Rapids Campus to win great prizes. for “Kickin’ It Old School,” The second Young Alumni the first in a series of events event drew 50 alumni and developed by the new Young guests to a Grand Rapids Alumni Council specifically Griffins hockey game on for recent graduates. November 14. Guests watched There was an energetic buzz the Griffins beat the Hartford in the room as guests networked, Wolf Pack, 3-2, from private enjoyed food and drinks themed seats in the Griff’s Nest.

photo by Amanda Pitts From left, Rosi, ’01, and Matt, ’01, Corl, and Dave Radel, ’02, were among the guests at ‘Kickin’ It Old School,’ the first Young Alumni event

CAREERS communities impacted by Amanda, ’07, and Keith Crozier get a visit from Grif during the incarceration. She had worked Young Alumni event at the Grand Rapids Griffins ice hockey game 1970s for the Osborne Association on November 14. in Bronx, New York. Mary Jean (Dodge) DeBoer, B.A., Lesa L. (Taylor) Jordan, B.S.W., 1982, 1970, retired after 38 years of received the Summit Award teaching special education, from the Zonta Club, a global Alumni volunteer to feed area needy most recently for Grand organization working to advance Rapids Public Schools. She is the status of women worldwide a field coordinator for Grand through service and advocacy. Valley’s College of Education. Thomas A. Waske, B.S., 1982, led his Phil Biggs, B.A., 1978, joined Crowe team to the 18th Golf Association Chizek as an executive with of Michigan Two-Person Net the Crowe consulting practice. Team State Championship. He He had served as executive is director of sales and producer vice president for IRN Inc. for “Michigan Golf Live,” a syndicated weekly radio and TV show on Fox Sports Net 1980s Detroit. He also owns Wazideas, a Web site design/graphic Carol F. Burton, B.S., 1982, M.S.W., arts business in Saginaw. Grand Valley alumni members volunteered on November 22 at the Second Harvest Gleaners Food Bank of West Michigan in Comstock 1984, is the executive director Pamela E. (Chartier) Ball, B.S., 1983, is Park. Alumni processed 6,367 pounds of food and personal care items of Centerforce, a California the commanding officer at Naval and helped provide 7,875 meals, or $30,727 worth of food, to those in nonprofit organization that Legal Service Office Northwest need in the West Michigan community. supports and advocates for in Bremerton, Washington. individuals, families and

32 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu/alumni ALUMNI briefs

Kathryn A. (Ponshair) Kwiatkowski, Robert F. Kurtycz, B.B.A., 1991, Robert O. Fredricks, B.S., 1996, was Rebecca K. (Veale) Sellers, B.S., B.S.W., 1983, held three art shows at joined the law firm of Sherlund, named manager of airport 1999, M.P.A., 2001, is the major Accents Gallery in Grand Rapids. Faber and Van Meter PLLC operations for Northwest gifts officer at Lawrence in its Grand Rapids office. Airlines at Houston’s George Technological University Jeffrey D. Vereecke, B.B.A., 1983, Bush Intercontinental Airport. in Southfield. She had been returned to Lenawee County as William J. Smith, B.S., 1991, was director of development for northern market president for named superintendent of Kent Stephen R. Harrison, B.S., 1997, the School of Health Sciences First Federal Bank of Lenawee City Community Schools. opened a privately-owned family at Oakland University. in Adrian. He has been with the He had served as teacher, physician practice in Grand company since 1984, and had athletic director, assistant Blanc. He had been a family Ann N. (Wilton) Tisdale, B.S., 1999, is worked in Ohio the past 25 years. principal and principal. physician at Genesys Regional a research associate for Avenue Medical Center in Grand Blanc. Robert D. Strieper, B.S.N., John R. Kowalski, B.S., 1992, opened Insight in Traverse City. 1986, graduated from the a consulting business, Babacita, Mary O. Tyler, B.S., 1997, started Andrea F. Watson, B.S., 1999, received University of Utah’s College which focuses on business a new business, Happy a master’s degree in humanistic of Law after 17 years of efficiencies centered around Heart Publishing. Her first and clinical psychology, and working as an ICU nurse. He sales, marketing and branding. release is Then Came Faith — is an infant mental health had worked for Moriarity, Tara S. (Johnson) Cladera, B.A., Unbreaking My Broken Heart. specialist at Northeast Guidance Center in Wayne County. Badaruddin and Booke before 1993, is an assistant professor of Rejeetha M. (Charoth) Gort, B.S., 1998, opening his own firm. English education at Purdue is director of undergraduate Karl K. Whiteman, B.S., 1986, is University. Her forthcoming admissions for Notre Dame 2000s senior pastor/teacher of Union book is based on her dissertation, de Namur University in Memorial Church in Milford, which won the 2007 National Belmont, California. Catherine E. (Belkowski) Iowa. He had served churches Council of Teachers of English Angela K. Gray, B.A., 1998, is associate Hall, B.A., 2000, of the United Church of Promising Researcher Award. director of peace and justice is assistant director of advising for off- Christ in several states, along Richard A. Evans, B.S., 1994, is programs at Xavier University site programs at Rochester with missionary service in the marketing manager for in Cincinnati, Ohio. She had College in Rochester Hills. the Republic of the Marshal Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids, worked as associate director Islands and the Federated which provides support to for student activities at Capital Christopher Lyonnais, B.B.A., States of Micronesia. individuals, children and University in Columbus, Ohio. 2000, is the human resources Raymond P. De Winkle, B.B.A., 1988, families impacted by cancer. Cory K. Kestner, B.S., 1998, received payroll coordinator for was named president and CEO He has worked in health a law degree from Albany Law Orchard View Public Schools. of GreaterFindlayInc. in Ohio. communications for 15 years. School in Albany, New York. He had been an admissions He had served as vice president Wallace C. King, M.S.W., 1994, After passing the New Jersey Bar advisor at Baker College. of business development for The is assistant softball coach Exam, he works as a law clerk. Andrew J. Maki, B.S., 2000, Right Place Inc. in Grand Rapids. is at Syracuse University. Raymond Fron, B.S., 1999, is the assistant coach and Gerald A. Gerard, B.B.A., 1988, is Michael T. McDonald, B.S., 1994, was head coach of the women’s recruiting coordinator responsible for SAG/chargeoff promoted to vice president basketball team at Spring Hill for the Eastern Michigan recovery at Independent of new business relationships College in Mobile, Alabama, University baseball team. Bank in Grand Rapids. at Prime Advantage Corp. after coaching 12 years at Ryan W. Selix, B.B.A., 2000, is Kelly J. Israels, B.B.A., 1989, is in Chicago, Illinois. Aquinas College. He also taught a U.S. customs officer. employed at Workspaces, a special education at Pinewood Greg F. Myers, B.S., 1995, joined Middle School in Kentwood. Daniel J. Vaara, B.S., 2000, is Herman Miller dealer serving Tri State Generation and the Phoenix and Arizona principal of North Ohio Transmission in Westminster, Benjamin J. Hunter, B.S., 1999, Elementary School in markets. He had been a senior Colorado, as senior M.S., 2003, is editor-in-chief designer for Goodmans the Gaylord Community environmental planner. He of Wide Eyed Magazine. School District. Interior Structures. had been an environmental Paul R. Jaques, B.S, 1999, works engineer at Lansing Board Nicki J. Cain-Rinckey, B.S., 2001, as an internship developer in of Water and Light. graduated from Wayne 1990s the Career Services office at State University’s School of Michelle R. Disler, B.A., 1996, is an Michigan State University. Medicine and is a resident at assistant professor of English Therese M. Hansen, M.Ed., 1991, Erin M. (Salzwedel) McClelland, B.S., DeVos Children’s Hospital at Ohio Wesleyan University. is principal of South Maple in Grand Rapids. She earned a master’s degree in 1999, received a master’s degree Elementary School in English literature from Western in counseling from Oakland Christian M. Gordon, B.S., 2001, the Gaylord Community Michigan University, a doctorate University, and is a substance is director of individual School District. from Ohio University, and is abuse therapist at Insight giving at the University of completing a post-doctoral Recovery Center in Flint. Rochester’s Graduate School fellowship at Ohio University. of Business in New York.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 33 ALUMNI briefs

Erin M. (McGrane) Busscher, B.A., Mary Epps, B.S., 2005, is a DTV Jacqueline M. Cunningham, B.M.E., Kate M. Smith, B.S., 2007, is an 2002, M.Ed., 2008, joined the project assistant for the 2006, teaches choir and band at associate scientist for Nutrilite/ Kirkhof College of Nursing Michigan Association of Fair Plain Renaissance Middle Alticor in Buena Park, California. Broadcasters in Lansing. as an academic advisor. School in Benton Harbor. Matthew P. Tilmann, B.S., 2007, is Kristen S. Hamilton, B.S., 2002, is Wesley S. Farrell, B.S., 2005, is an Kelly M. (Wright) Giffin, B.A., 2006, a loss prevention officer for an application specialist for account manager for CDW teaches eighth grade at West Limited Brands Inc. He also New World Systems in Troy Corp. in Chicago, Illinois. Ottawa Public Schools. She starred in an Ohio State Medical Center television commercial. and trains clients how to use Bryan M. McShane, M.S.A., 2005, joined has been with the district for company software. She had been Lumsden and McCormick three years, previously teaching Adam J. Zobl, B.S., 2007, designs a sales trainer for Quicken Loans. LLP as a senior accountant. third and fourth grade. graphics and animations, used Kristin L. Merrill, B.F.A., 2003, Scott M. Gillis, B.S., 2006, by lawyers, for TrialGraphix Derek E. Moore, B.S., 2005, published works is an interactive designer in Los Angeles, California. a book, Why African/African for Lawinger Consulting at Marketing Associates in American for Slavery. The book, Inc. in the student technical Catherine Conroy, B.S., 2008, is a Detroit. She had been a graphic a collection of research papers, services division, providing clinic specialist for Project designer for TMP Associates. details why African and African research and IT consulting. Access, a program conducted Michelle A. Takens, B.A., 2003, Americans were used for slavery. Christy L. Huisjen, B.A., 2006, through AmeriCorps at Cherry Street Health Services. joined Ionia Middle School as Russell P. Olcheske, B.S., 2005, teaches teaches first grade for a special education teacher for psychology and economics at Lakeshore Public Schools. Ivana Curo, B.B.A., 2008, accepted emotionally impaired students. Holt High School and coaches Kyle Layne Johnson, B.S., 2006, a position as an executive Nick A. Bild, B.S., 2004, M.S., 2007, boys varsity tennis and girls program manager for Junior assistant at Spectrum Health, is a bioinformaticist at the junior varsity basketball. Achievement of the Michigan supporting the executive vice president of medical affairs. University of Chicago. Thomas J. Van Cleave, B.S., 2005, is Great Lakes, received the Matthew S. Kucinski, B.A., a graduate student at Portland organization’s Rising Star Award. Raquel A. DeLeon, B.S., 2008, is a 2004, M.S., 2006, is the media State University in Portland, Katrina L. Richlick, B.S., 2006, is multimedia sales specialist for relations manager for Calvin Oregon. He received the Dr. a community representative WZZM-TV in Grand Rapids. Mary Kinnick Scholarship College in Grand Rapids. for the American Cancer Erin L. Murphy, B.S., 2008, is for students who show Society. She had completed executive assistant to the Angela E. Mrozinski, B.S., 2004, is outstanding dedication to two years at AmeriCorps. president at TDIC. pursuing a master’s degree social justice and equity. in environmental advocacy Ian T. Clowes, B.S., 2007, is a Andrea M. Palazzolo, B.S., 2008, Mark B. Van Dyke, B.B.A., 2005, is is a and organizing at Antioch planning technician for the first-grade teacher at Kingsbury University New England in the program coordinator at City of Pearland, Texas. Spectrum Health for a CDC Country Day School in Oxford. Keene, New Hampshire. Heather M. Gaden, B.S., 2007, grant on how to deliver essential is Jessica M. Rhodes, B.S., 2008, is Erin N. Noble, B.A., 2004, is the health care services during assistant to the AV director a graduate assistant athletic regulatory and accreditation an influenza pandemic. for Carnival Cruises. trainer at Northern Kentucky compliance coordinator for Keenya R. (Stevenson) Harris, University in Highland Child and Family Services Andrea R. (Mendoza) Bernard, B.B.A., B.S., 2007, teaches high school Heights, Kentucky. of Southwestern Michigan 2006, B.A., 2006, is the manager mathematics at Kalamazoo Inc. She has been with the of the Allendale National City Richard B. Robinson, B.A., 2008, Central High School. She company for three years. Bank. She has been with the is a publications assistant for company for four years. had taught in the Battle PLoS Biology in San Francisco, Sarah Romanski, B.S., 2004, Creek and Grand Rapids California. The publication is Christine L. Brown, B.B.A., 2006, is completed a master’s degree Public school districts. one of seven academic journals in public administration at a marketing specialist at Infor Robert T. Mitchell, B.S., 2007, joined under the name Public Library of University of Michigan-Flint and Global Solutions in Ann Arbor. VML Insurance Agency in Science. He had been an intern is the consultant to the provost She had worked for three years Grand Rapids as a personal/ for Stanislaus National Forest. at King Abdullah University in customer service and sales commercial lines property of Science and Technology, a support at Nucraft Furniture Angela M. Sasak, B.S., 2008, is a and casualty agent. graduate research university Company in Comstock Park. radiation therapist at Wilson Regional Medical Center in opening in Saudi Arabia. Kristen L. Clark, B.S., 2006, is Rachel J. Morrissett, B.A., 2007, is Johnson City, New York. She had worked in medical the donor relations and a corrections officer for the school admissions for U-M. stewardship coordinator for Allegan County Sheriff’s Office. Jeffrey S. Saunders, B.S., 2008, Melissa A. Copenhaver, M.S.W., 2005, Oakland University’s College Lindsey Muller, B.A., 2007, is teaches seventh grade science is a nursing instructor at Lake of Arts and Sciences. the grants administrator at Pelton Middle School in Superior State University. for National Heritage Pelton, South Carolina. Academies in Grand Rapids.

34 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu/alumni ALUMNI briefs

Chapters, Clubs and Events

1 Raleigh/Durham 2 Tampa 3 Seattle Raleigh/Durham North Carolina Club Leader Tampa Florida Club Leader Tara Crow, ’97, Seattle-area alumni, including Danielle Ryan, Jackie McLaughlin, ’03, (far right) hosts her (center) hosts Grand Valley graduates at ’98, Holy Cofer, ’95, Gary Winchester, ’08, first event for North Carolina Lakers at a a Tampa Bay Lightning/Detroit Red Wings Eric Maino, ’05, Tim Major, ’08, and Paul sold-out game of the Durham Bulls on hockey game on November 14 in the St. Pete Torres, ’94, show off some of the Laker gear August 23. Times Forum. It was the first gathering for they won at the Seattle Alumni and Friends the newly formed Tampa Club. Guests Reception. Cofer, the Seattle Club leader, photo courtesy of Jackie McLaughlin, ’03 pictured are Jon and Kristy, ’95, (McGee) hosted more than 20 graduates at Seattle’s Crist, Crow, Dave Clark, ’02, and Brandon Metropolitan Grille on December 3. Avery, ’05.

photo courtesy of Tara Crow, ’97

Ryan H. Schoenborn, B.S., 2000s Ryan Baranowski, B.S., 2004, Jennifer F. Eisenmann, B.S., 2006, and 2008, teaches chemistry and Jackie Delyon on Rudy Mirelez on July 12, 2008. and physical science for September 26, 2008. Keith A. Giffin, B.B.A., 2006, Bloomingdale Public Schools. Catherine E. Belkowski, B.A., 2000, and Erik Hall on November 1, 2008. Katie L. Bauman, M.Ed., 2004, and Will and Kelly M. Wright, B.A., Alana K. Sims, B.S., 2008, serves as Schubert on October 11, 2008. 2006, on June 28, 2008. Stacey A. Przeslawski, B.A., 2000, and the administrative coordinator Andrea N. Beer, B.A., 2004, and Bryan for the Applied Arts School Curtis Hall on June 9, 2007. Angie M. Grumm, B.S., 2006, and Hammond on June 26, 2008. Matthew S. Anderson, B.S.E., 2006, in Amagansett, New York. Kelly A. Smith, B.S., 2000, and on September 6, 2008. Joshua Welge on July 5, 2008. Christina M. Parrish, B.S.N., Marriages 2004, and Cory Juntunen Katrina M. Kelsey, B.S., 2006, Meghan A. Burke, B.A., 2002, and on October 18, 2008. John Patrick Workman Jr., B.S., and Lucas Smith on 1990s Kimberly A. Bird, B.S.W., 2005, September 14, 2008. 2005, on August 30, 2008. and Joseph Verdi on Nicholas S. Szilagy, B.S., 2006, Douglas K. Heilman, B.S., 1993, Shannon Marie Krause, B.S., September 5, 2008. and Rebecca L. Moehring, B.A., Christy L. Tedrow, B.A., 2002, and and Michael J. O’Neil Douglas M. Fox, B.B.A., 2005, 2006, on August 9, 2008. 2002, on May 31, 2008. on August 9, 2008. Christen E. Hernandez, B.A., and Derek P. Weurding, B.S., 2006, Christina M. McDonald, B.B.A., Catherine A. Bain, B.S., 2003, 2007, on June 30, 2007. and Lisa M. Anderson, B.S., 1995, M.S.P.T., 2005, and Chad and Scott Meister on Steven D. Kas, B.B.A., 2005, and 2007, on June 2, 2007. September 26, 2008. Veeser on May 19, 2007. Felicia Werner on June 21, 2008. Kate L. Bell, B.S., 2007, Kathleen L. Johnstone, B.S., 1996, Lindsey J. Hugelier, B.A., 2003, M.S., and Karsten Kristen D. Plaunt, B.S., 2005, D.P.T., Hain on August 16, 2008. M.S.P.T., 1998, 2006, and Ryan R. Rodarmer, B.S., and Stephen 2008, and Ryan H. Schoenborn, Cecere on August 9, 2008. 2003, on September 6, 2008. Jennifer M. Gettle, B.S.N., 2007, B.S., 2008, on August 16, 2008. Nicholas J. Lavigne, B.S., Mathias J. Milito, B.B.A., 1997, Brooke L. Stanley, B.S., 2003, and and Chris R. Turner, B.S., 2005, 2007, Erin B. Corle, B.B.A., 2001, Matthew C. Byrne, M.S.A., 2004, on April 26, 2008. and and Jessica Kwapisz on Alfred Harris III, B.S., 2007, and Keenya on September 15, 2007. on September 20, 2008. August 16, 2008. Erin M. Salzwedel, B.S., 1999, Kenia E. Villareal, B.B.A., R. Harris, B.S., 2007, on July 5, 2008. Lauren E. Braun, B.A., 2006, and Jeremy McClelland 2003, and Alex Espinoza and Zachary Straub on Timothy A. Leber, B.A., 2007, and on August 16, 2008. on October 8, 2008. December 22, 2007. Dannielle E. McKinney on May 24, 2008.

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 35 ALUMNI briefs

Dennis J. Neumann, Jr., B.S., 2007, Kerry E. (Easterday) Olvera, Brodnicki, B.S., 2000, M.S.P.T., 2002, Patrick D. Nichols, B.B.A., 1999, and and Nichole K. Stroud, B.A., B.B.A., 1994, and her husband announce a son, Luke Ryan, born Cathleen S. (Bettendorf) Nichols, B.S., 2007, on October 3, 2008. Javier announce a daughter, July 4, 2008. Luke is welcomed 2002, announce a daughter, Lily Anna Veronica, born May 9, by brother Charles. The family Sue, born January 24, 2008. The Todd K. Penning, B.S., 2007, and 2008. Anna is welcomed by resides in Hudsonville. family resides in Spring Lake. Laurie A. Poll on June 13, 2008. siblings Lydia and Carlos. The Beth J. (Woodliff) Garbe, B.S.W., 1998, Robert J. Robrahn, B.S., 1999, Jennifer R. Roedema, B.A., 2007, family resides in Kentwood. and and M.S.W., 2000, and her husband Jessica M. (Hamann) Robrahn, B.S., Paul Fiero on August 23, 2008. Carrie L. (Montgomery) Carr, B.S., Jay announce a daughter, 2000, announce a daughter, Kristina G. Schofield, B.S.N., 1996, M.P.A., 2000, and her husband Faith Elizabeth, born July Keri Anne, born April 29, 2008. 2007, and Jeffrey Prince on Troy announce a son, Maxwell 26, 2008. The family resides The family resides in Otsego. September 13, 2008. Robert, born September 26, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 2008. Maxwell is welcomed by Amy L. (Graves) Keas, B.S., 1998, Hankondo Sibalwa, B.S., 2007, and brother Benjamin. The family her husband Joel announce a 2000s and Katherine Klein on resides in Danville, Indiana. October 24, 2008. daughter, Presley Lauren, born Heathir L. McElroy-Speet, B.S., February 27, 2008. Presley is Stephanie M. (Garfield) Dobbins, B.S.N., Juli A. Wierenga, B.S., 2007, welcomed by sisters Aubrey 1996, and Steven J. Speet, 2000, and her husband Joshua and Nicholas Holmes and Emerson. The family B.A., 1996, announce a son, announce a son, Alexander on August 23, 2008. resides in Hudsonville. Synjin Storm, born June 15, Jacob, born October 6, 2008. Kayla M. Franssen, B.B.A., 2008, and 2008. The family resides in Christeen L. (Vincent) Root, B.B.A., Beverly (Berganos) Johnson, Levi Van Manen on July 27, 2008. Charlotte, North Carolina. 1998, and her husband Damon B.S., 2000, and her husband announce a daughter, Rachel Michelle E. Hamilton, B.A., 2008, Jennifer B. (Eldred) Peterson, B.S., Ryan announce a daughter, Elle, born June 25, 2008. The and David A. LeGault, B.A., 1996, and her husband Gordon Madison Rose, born February family resides in Kentwood. 2008, on August 8, 2008. announce a son, Gavin Russel, 2, 2007. Madison is welcomed born October 2, 2008. Gavin is Roger A. Belknap, B.S., 1999, and by sister Mia. The family Curtis J. Meyer, B.B.A., 2008, welcomed by sister Rose. The Denice K. (Shaffer) Belknap, B.S., resides in Chicago, Illinois. Jessica N. Neagu, B.B.A., and family resides in Allendale. 2002, announce a son, Mitchell Justin J. Meyers, B.S., 2000, 2008, and on October 4, 2008. Melissa (Rettenmund) Hasan, B.S., 1997, Andrew, born July 25, 2008. The Stephanie D. (Helmholdt) Meyers, family resides in Cedar Springs. Brian A. Richards, B.A., 2008, and her husband Tarik announce B.S.N., 2002, announce a son, and Katherine J. Vos, B.A., a daughter, Talia Wynn, born Sara K. (Koerner) Crandall, B.S., Collin Stephen, born October August 25, 2008. The family 2008, on May 17, 2008. 1999, and her husband Mark 11, 2008. Collin is welcomed resides in Chicago, Illinois. by brother Gavin. The family Carrie L. Rottier, B.S.N., 2008, and announce a daughter, Marin Jill R. (Peterson) Schmoldt, B.S., Cynthia, born June 24, 2008. resides in Flushing, New York. Brian Wood on June 7, 2008. 1997, M.Ed., 2000, and her husband Marin is welcomed by sisters Beth A. (Hopfinger) Pentoney, B.S., Logen and Katie. The family Brian announce a daughter, Tea 2000, and her husband Rob resides in Battle Creek. Births Emily, born October 9, 2008. announce a son, Caleb Brandon, Tea is welcomed by brother Shannon (Allen) Hennessey, B.S., 1999, born March 27, 2008. The 1990s Carson. The family resides M.Ed., 2001, and her husband Ed family resides in Greenville. in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. Philip J. Seykora, B.S., 1991, M.S., 2003, announce a daughter, Allison Mike Quinlan, B.S., 2000, and Jamie Michael A. Setlock, B.S., 1997, M.B.A., Marie, born May 17, 2008. Allison L. (Petiprin) Quinlan, B.S., 2001, and his wife Martha announce is welcomed by sister Lily. The 2004, and Sarah A. (Palmbos) Setlock, announce twin sons, Michael a daughter, Ana Elaine, born family resides in Collinsville. October 8, 2008. The family B.S., 1998, announce a daughter, Christopher and Patrick Edward, resides in Hollywood, Florida. Emily Louise, born April 20, Carla M. (Derks) Huang, B.S., 1999, born October 1, 2008. The family 2008. Emily is welcomed M.S.O.T., 2002, and her husband resides in Chicago, Illinois. Steven Reed Doepke, B.S., 1992, and by brother Benjamin. The Chris announce a daughter, his wife Joyce announce a son, Chad L. Simon, B.S., 2000, and Melinda family resides in Rockford. Morgan Marie, born September Caden Charles, born September S. (Huhn) Simon, B.S., 2001, M.S.P.T., 9, 2008. Morgan is welcomed 20, 2008. The family resides Angela J. (Anderson) Wright, 2004, by brother Alex. The family announce a son, Liam in Lynchburg, Virginia. B.S., 1997, and her husband Robert, born October 17, 2008. Tony announce a daughter, resides in Dyer, Indiana. Amy L. (Placeway) Detering, B.S., 1994, The family resides in Kentwood. Cassidy Hope, born July 12, Amy S. Morris-Jones, B.A., 1999, and and her husband Todd announce Donte C. Smith, B.B.A., 2000, 2008. Cassidy is welcomed her husband Michael announce and a daughter, Lily Dale, born May by siblings Faith and A.C. The a son, Colden Michael, born April T. (Claiborne) Smith, M.Ed., 24, 2008. Lily is welcomed by family resides in Warren. April 26, 2008. The family 2002, announce a son, Aiden siblings Carrie and Luke. The Steven E. Brodnicki, B.S., 1998, resides in Twin Lake. Joseph, born August 28, family resides in Houston, Texas. 2008. The family resides in M.S., 2001, and Beth A. (Beaufait) Coatesville, Pennsylvania.

36 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu/alumni ALUMNI briefs

Tracey L. (Laisure) St. Pierre, announce a son, Sullivan Henry, James, born May 15, 2008. The welcomed by brother Emerson. B.S., 2000, and her husband born May 5, 2008. Sullivan is family resides in Dayton, Ohio. The family resides in Caledonia. welcomed by sister Eliahna. Brent announce a daughter, Haley R. (Nekola) Holbrook, Angela K. Remington, B.A., 2005, The family resides in Bronson. Grace Lynneé, born May 4, B.B.A., 2004, and her husband and Joseph Remington, B.S., 2008. Grace is welcomed by Samarhia S. (Bush) Giffel, B.S., David announce a son, Caden 2008, announce a son, Jude brother Nolan. The family 2002, and her husband Steven Leon, born July 9, 2008. The David, born April 23, 2008. resides in Grand Rapids. announce a daughter, Chloe family resides in Durand. Jude is welcomed by sister Jeanette, born August 30, Megan E. (Johnson) Fox, B.S., 2001, Craig Kuhn, B.S., 2004, and Annmarie Natalie. The family resides M.S.P.T., 2003, and her husband 2008. The family resides in Omaha, Nebraska. in Grand Rapids. T. (Hoffman) Kuhn, B.A., 2005, David announce a son, Hayden announce a daughter, Tessa Landry S. Coffey, B.S., 2007, and Christian, born March 26, Wendy J. (Van Dyk) Hartenburg, Marie, born April 22, 2008. The his wife Jennifer announce 2008. Hayden is welcomed by B.B.A., 2002, and her husband family resides in Saint Joseph. a daughter, Kylie Elise, born siblings Tyler and Emma. The Peter announce a son, Seth Rebecca L. (Dieterman) Patin, B.S., August 25, 2008. The family family resides in Muskegon. William, born October 25, 2008. resides in Hudsonville. 2004, Rochelle I. (Richards) Heyboer, Seth is welcomed by siblings and her husband Nicholas announce a daughter, Taylor B.S., 2001, and her husband Hannah and Nathan. The In Memoriam family resides in Stow, Ohio. Ashleigh, born July 14, 2008. The Tommy announce a son, Liam family resides in Comstock Park. Austin, born July 11, 2008. Rhonda A. (Minnema) Rus, B.S., Jeffrey A. Bart, Liam is welcomed by brothers 2002, Richelle A. (Novak) Power, B.B.A., Zeeland, Michigan, and her husband Joel M.B.A., 1982, on July 25, 2008. Lucas and Owen. The family announce a son, Gavin Mitchell, 2004, B.S., 2007, and her husband resides in Hudsonville. born July 31, 2008. Gavin is Neal announce a son, Thane William Beidler, Grand Rapids, Rebecca J. (Bajema) Paniwozik, welcomed by sister Victoria. Ryan, born May 9, 2008. The Michigan, Pioneer Faculty, family resides in Belmont. B.S., 2001, and her husband The family resides in Jenison. on September 16, 2008. Michael announce a son, Jacob Mindy R. (Thelen) Watson, B.A., 2002, Julie (Jones) Scott, M.S.W., 2004, and John H. Bultema, II, Muskegon, Michael, born September and Benjamin L. Watson, B.A., 2003, her husband LaDell announce Michigan, B.B.A., 1978, 5, 2008. The family resides announce a son, Noah Benjamin, a son, Justin Charles, born June on August 19, 2008. in New York, New York. 16, 2008. Justin is welcomed born May 29, 2008. The family Joyce Hargrove, Hastings, Matthew L. Rinckey, B.B.A., 2001, resides in Grand Rapids. by brother Julian. The family resides in Grand Rapids. Michigan, B.S., 1994, on and Nicki J. Cain-Rinckey, B.S., 2001, Katrina M. (Tessin) Dailey, B.B.A., August 12, 2008. Brandi L. (Schaefer) Berta, announce a son, Maxwell Lee, 2003, and Keith E. Dailey, B.A., James R. Hyman Jr., born February 10, 2008. The B.A., 2005, and Ricky H. Berta, Scott, Michigan, 2003, announce a daughter, M.S.T., 1986, on January 31, 2008. family resides in Wyoming. B.S.E., 2005, announce a son, Julia Marie, born July 20, Jackson William, born Shayna L. (Van Tatenhove) Smith, B.S., 2008. The family resides Michael J. Jackson, Niles, Michigan, August 18, 2008. The family 2001, Kyle B. Smith, B.A., 2002, in Bowie, Maryland. B.S., 2008, on October 11, 2008. and resides in Grand Rapids. announce a daughter, Kaley Jolanda M. (Kwapis) Nederveld, Christine, born June 15, 2008. Tina L. (Baker) Lippert, B.A., 2005, and B.A., 2003, and her husband Kirk Kaley is welcomed by sister her husband C. Byron announce announce twin daughters, Tayla. The family resides in a daughter, Avarey Joyanne, Zaya Ann and Tessa Lou, born Lake Havasu City, Arizona. born April 11, 2008. Avarey is September 22, 2008. The Kerri N. (Kaledas) Bouwman, B.S., family resides in Hudsonville. 2002, and Jeffrey R. Bouwman, B.S., Tracey J. (Kissane) Smith, B.S., 2003, announce a son, Connor 2003, and her husband Jeremy James, born September 27, announce a daughter, Veda Jo, 2008. Connor is welcomed born October 5, 2007. Veda is by sister Leah. The family welcomed by brother Owen. To serve you better, your Alumni Association needs to know resides in Grosse Ile. The family resides in Portland. where you are. Please contact the Alumni Relations staff any time your family, business, education status or address Elizabeth A. (Parnell) Canaan, Julie D. (Dieterman) Warren, B.B.A., B.A., 2002, changes. and her husband 2003, and her husband Jeremy To update your personal data: Josh announce a daughter, announce a son, Jacob Ryan, • Call 800-558-0541 Eleanor Elizabeth, born born September 22, 2008. The October 28, 2008. The family resides in Comstock Park. • Send an e-mail to [email protected] family resides in Holland. • Visit www.gvsu.edu/alumni and click on Kevin B. Delecki, B.A., 2004, and “Stay Connected.” Rebecca R. (Bocklund) Duke, B.S., Courtney L. (Stephens) Delecki, B.A., 2002, and her husband Michael 2006, announce a son, Caden

GRAND VALLEY MAGAZINE 37 OFF THE path IT supervisor earns stripes

on football field — by Michele Coffill uring the work week, Bob officiating crew consists of while occasionally picking the crew suits up in ties and DHolcomb is accustomed seven people: referee, head up some MIAA games. sport coats to head to the to receiving an occasional linesman, line judge, field To help him learn the ropes stadium. They meet with irate phone call from a judge, back judge, side judge and who’s who of Division I coaches and athletic trainers professor or administrator, and umpire. Most high schools football, Holcomb has received from each team about two complaining about a glitch in have crews of five. Holcomb great advice from a number of hours before kickoff. Then it’s their computer or asking him has always been an umpire, area former NFL and Big Ten a light lunch before preparing to magically retrieve their lost which means he stays close to officials like Carl Paganelli, Jim themselves for the game. documents. the line of scrimmage to watch Augustyn and Tom Hoffman. Holcomb said the athleticism That part of Holcomb’s the center and guards, and the He said their leadership and of elite college players took duties as supervisor in the opposing team’s defensive line. mentorship has led a number him by surprise during his Information Technology It’s usually the umpire who of aspiring officials to bigger first MAC game. “My first and better things, including game was CMU and Western department likely prepares calls false starts. “It’s really the Paganelli’s three sons who Kentucky. Those first two plays him well for his fall weekend best position; I love it. You’re call games for the NFL. at the line of scrimmage, I job as a college football always in the game,” he said. Holcomb’s routine on really backed up, and quickly,” referee — and the abuse After years of working area football weekends begins on he said. “It was ‘flight or from fans, players and high school games, Holcomb Friday afternoons with a drive fight’ for a few minutes. coaches that sometimes said he wanted new challenges or flight to one of the MAC’s “The speed and the goes with the zebra stripes. and attended several Midwest campuses. He’ll meet skills those kids have For more than two decades, collegiate officiating clinics the other officials for a group are unreal,” he said. Holcomb has donned a to (literally) earn his stripes. dinner then — much like the To keep up, Holcomb uniform, tucked flags in He started with the Michigan competing teams — the crew exercises four or five days his pocket and grabbed a Intercollegiate Athletic watches game tape. “It’s a a week. “We’re on the field whistle to run up and down Association, a Division III DVD sent by the league of the entire time. The offense the sidelines as an official conference with Hope, Calvin, good calls or bad calls from and defense get to rest at all levels of football, from Adrian and Alma colleges previous games,” he said. on the bench,” he said. elementary to high school among its members. Holcomb After breakfast on Saturday, Holcomb said he has grown to college. For the past five proved his mettle through years, he has worked as an many seasons and earned a umpire for the Mid-American spot on the officiating crews Conference, a Division I league for two NCAA Division III that includes Central Michigan, championship games, in Western Michigan, Eastern 2002 and 2005. No area Michigan and Bowling Green teams played either year. State among its members. “It was Mount Union both “I just love football, and times. They are always a wanted to stay involved,” powerhouse; the Grand Valley said Holcomb, a former of Division III,”a he said. lineman for North Muskegon Actually, the College High School. He coached Football Officials Association youth football in Muskegon, discouraged Holcomb and then got involved in from officiating Division II officiating to earn a little extra games because he works money. There were extended for Grand Valley and weeks that the games people might consider that seemed to blend together. a conflict of interest. “There used to be weekends “I’m always striving to move that we would do four up and I wanted to do Division games: freshmen and junior I games,” he said. He started varsity on Thursday, varsity as a floater for the MAC, but on Friday, then college now typically works each photo courtesy of Jeff Harwell, Zips Sports Photography on Saturday,” he said. weekend of the season with Bob Holcomb watches the line of scrimmage during a game in October at For collegiate games, an the same crew of officials, the University of Akron.

38 WINTER 2009 | www.gvsu.edu OFF THE path

to really dislike televised and his daughter is a doctoral games due to the seemingly candidate at Wayne State. endless timeouts. “I always Along with passion, officials tell them, ‘We’re selling apparently need a high pain Ford trucks here boys, tolerance. Holcomb once took take your time,’” he said. a football in the face hard His love for the sport spills enough to make ESPN’s “Not over to the living room and Top 10 Plays of the Week” has caused some family strife. and suffered a knee injury “It must drive my wife crazy. during a high school game. I’ll watch games at home What he enjoys most is from the Big Ten Network, or the camaraderie among the ESPN Classic that are weeks officials. “These are seven old just to watch the refs. I guys who, on any given watch football differently than day, are doing the best job most fans,” he said. Bob’s they can do. We count on wife, Mary Ann Holcomb, is each other continuously an administrative assistant throughout the game. for Grand Valley’s Facilities “I can’t say enough about Planning department. the friends you make along He said the best officials the way. These people are are those who fans, coaches as passionate as I am about and players don’t notice. football officiating. It’s like a While flags could be thrown brotherhood,” he said. There at nearly every play, Holcomb are several women college said the best strategy follows football officials. Holcomb that of a good poker player: said the MAC has one but he know when to throw them, has not worked with her. know when to hold ’em. “You Holcomb has worked at don’t want to get caught Grand Valley for 16 years. He up in the enthusiasm of had been a systems engineer the game. You can’t be as for IBM until he was laid emotionally involved as the off. At his office in Manitou players or coaches,” he said. Hall, Holcomb supervises When the game is over, the 22 students who repair and crew files league reports and install computers and printers then watches a pared-down all over campus. Grand tape of the game they just Valley’s growth is evident called. Holcomb said, “You when Holcomb recalled the discuss the good calls and number of students on his the bad calls, hoping you crew when he started working photo by Amanda Pitts won’t be highlighted on the for the university. It was nine. Bob Holcomb, a supervisor in the Information Technology department, ‘bad call’ tape distributed The demand to keep up stands on the bleachers at Lubbers Stadium. Although he has never to other officials.” For a with the latest computer officiated a Grand Valley game, Holcomb has been a football referee for game that kicks off at 1 p.m., technology keeps Holcomb more than 20 years. Holcomb and the other busy. As does staying officials will finally leave the current with his student stadium around 9 p.m. workers, which is somewhat “You have to have a passion similar to keeping up with “I can’t say enough about the to do this. My family has put the athletes on the field. friends you make along the way up with me being gone almost “The kids keep me young every weekend during football and on my toes,” he said. ... It’s like a brotherhood.” season. I’ve missed a lot of things,” he said. Holcomb’s son attends Central Michigan, — Bob Holcomb

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Who’s the Laker? Louie the Laker is pictured in one of these photos, as is Grand Valley’s president. Check your guess on page 16.