Alma College Alumni Magazine | news and events for winter 2012

inside: URBAN SCOTS GETTING BACK TO AFRICA THE END OF AN ERA In need of some apparel? Explore our new bookstore Web site: accents http://bookstore.alma.edu/ Winter 2011

editor Mike Silverthorn designer Our roadmap for the future Aimee Bentley features photographer Devin Brines ’12 Tim O’Brien 6 Capitol gains fter several months of spirited discussions, students make the connection between an contributors After growing up on a farm, Stacy Kowal ’05 stepped onto Alma College’s campus looking for the kind of personal at- focus groups and surveys, the Alma College Alma liberal arts education and their career Jeff Abernathy tention that came along with a small college. What the triple-scholarship winner found was a world of empowerment. community has come together to adopt an goals. It identifies how we will measure Ellen Doepke A Lou Ecken ’95 exciting new Strategic Plan. Presented to the campus student success, recognizing both the educa- 8 World traveler in August and endorsed by the Board of Trustees in tion they receive in the classroom and the Cory Embrey October, this is a flexible plan — a roadmap for the experiential opportunities they have outside Angela Flynn ’12 “As you grow a business, there’s always something new around the corner,” says Bryan Segedi ’81, a global executive future — that will enable us to respond both to new the classroom. Mike Hanson for Ernst & Young LLP. His main office is in London, but he spends time traveling throughout the world. Emily Havelka ’12 opportunities and to unanticipated challenges in the The second section, titled “Growing the Col- years ahead. lege,” identifies a set of goals for providing a alumni notes compiled by 11 Returning to Africa I encourage alumni and friends to review the plan. richer and more diverse intellectual environ- Emily Havelka ’12 By returning to West Africa 37 years after completing an Africa Fellowship, Mark Wangberg ’75 fulfilled a dream that You can access it on our Web site at: ment for our students. It also sets strategies printing he thought had been long lost. He and his wife, Connie, recently traveled to Ghana and worked at a school, where he http://www.alma.edu/strategic_plan for broadening the College’s visibility beyond taught art and creative writing. to new markets and setting an Millbrook Printing Many contributed thoughts and suggestions over these aggressive enrollment target of 1,700 students past months as we worked on this plan, and I am 13 A destiny of helping others by fall 2017. board of trustees extremely grateful for all the contributions we received. A 14-year civil war in their African homeland has not deterred Sophie Mends-Cole Williams’ 68 and her sister from It affirms what I already know — that our alumni The third section, titled “Creating a Sustain- Candace Croucher Dugan, Chair Stephen F. Meyer ’80, Vice Chair contributing to Liberia’s social and economic growth and modernization. are deeply devoted to their alma mater and want it to able Campus and Community,” commits the Larry R. Andrus ’72, Secretary continue to thrive as a place where education, experi- College to a path that cultivates an environ- Bruce T. Alton 22 ‘Do unto others…’ ence and opportunity merge to provide fulfillment for ment of responsible growth that ensures the Merrill Armstrong ’57 a lifetime. I especially want to thank the Strategic Plan- College will thrive for many years to come. Eric Blackhurst ’83 At St. Mary’s Parish School in Alma, no child is too young to learn how to serve others. “We teach our students ning Task Force that spent many hours in conversation It includes strategies for reducing the impact C. David Campbell ’75 that our community is a family,” says school principal Lisa Seeley ’97, who carried lessons learned from her and contemplation. on the environment, engaging even more David K. Chapoton ’57 James C. Conboy Jr. Alma College experiences to her career in education. alumni in the life of the College, and creat- We have developed a plan that builds on the strengths Gary W. Fenchuk ’68 ing a seamless environment between the and values that have sustained Alma College for 125 John C. Foster ’67 campus and City of Alma. 24 The end of an era years. Yet it also recognizes the demand for change Nancy E. Gallagher ’80 Glenn D. Granger ’83 Adopted in tandem with the Strategic Plan Jim Cole ’74 treasures the relationships he has built with the hundreds of student-athletes who have played for given economic and demographic challenges. Most im- Greg Hatcher ’83 portantly, the plan supports a central idea that all have is a campus master plan that provides a di- Richard P. Heuschele ’59 the Scots’ all-time winningest football coach. affirmed from the beginning — that students must be rection and set of priorities for the develop- David R. Hubbard ’60 the centerpiece of everything we do. ment of the physical campus. I hope to share Kevin R. Johnson more about the goals of the master plan in David P. Larsen ’84 Indeed, while the plan is new and fresh, our mission is upcoming issues of Accents. As well, the next Donald A. Lindow unchanged. We will continue to proclaim that Alma John McCormack issues of Accents will take a closer look at the College’s mission is “to prepare graduates who think Thomas J. McDowell three themes of the Strategic Plan. critically, serve generously, lead purposefully and live James T. McIntyre ’69 responsibly as stewards of the world they bequeath to These are exciting times at Alma College. Roger L. Myers Antje Newhagen ’67 future generations.” As we proceed ahead with this roadmap for Marcia J. Nunn ’73 the future, we can be confident of success Three themes emerge in our plan. David T. Provost ’76 URBAN SCOTS given our commitment to the core values Ron R. Sexton ’68 The first section, titled “Developing the Person and that have sustained Alma for 125 years. Our D. Michael Sherman ’74 accents is published in October, February The Alma College campus may the Professional,” addresses how the College will help desire is to build on Alma’s great legacy of Lynne Sherwood and June for alumni, parents, students and oth- be nestled within the rural offering a vibrant, relevant education and er friends of Alma College. Send comments to area found in the middle of the life-changing experiences to future genera- tions of students. Mike Silverthorn, Accents editor, Alma College, mitten but some of our alumni President Abernathy can be reached in several ways: mission 614 W. Superior St., Alma, MI 48801-1599, or go on to settle into more urban Type: [email protected] Alma College’s mission is to e-mail: [email protected]. locations. Message: facebook.com/almapresident Tweet: twitter.com/jeffabernathy prepare graduates who think critically, serve generously, lead Click: www.alma.edu/about/offices/president Jeff Abernathy alumni.alma.edu/accents Ring: (989) 463-7146 President purposefully and live responsibly as stewards of the world they @ bequeath to future generations.

www.alma.edu 3 campus news Like

<< Below: The Alma College Tartan marched proudly on the sreets of Alma as the WE ASKED: campus welcomed back friends and alumni in celebration of Homecoming weekend. A photo recap of the festivities can be found on pages 20-21. What was the best part of Homecoming?

YOU SAID: Laura Wonacott Asiala ’83: “The Home- coming concert was the highlight of a wonderful day. What talent! What fun! So proud to be an alum.” Natalie Barlas ’12: “Cheering at my last Homecoming as a cheerleader… ever!” Liz Rito ’05: “My son meeting his future roommate! Class of 2033… Wow!” Jan Merz ’75: “Having my first ride on the Alumni Board ‘float’! Also, attend- ing the first Legacy Brunch and speak- ing to alums and future Scots!”

CAMPUS NEWS Something to toot about On October 29, members of URBAN the Alma College Pipe Band The Alma College campus may be nestled within the rural traveled to Doswell, Virginia, to area found in the middle of the mitten but some of our participate in the 2011 Meadow Highland Games and Celtic alumni go on to settle into more urban locations. Festival where they placed first SCOTS in the Grade Five level. Their No ‘routine’ in this job performance in Virginia marks From intern to secretary and now manager of Kim Taylor ’83. Alumni in the area have been a great their second competition since clearing services, Tom McGuire’s Alma College help to me, and I’ve been extremely lucky to have had the band was formed. connections have guided him throughout his ca- these opportunities.” reer at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. Each morning at CME, McGuire, a 2008 alumnus, is The band takes a photo break “The connections I’ve made through Alma have faced with a new set of problems to solve — and new after crossing into Pennsylvania. >> been important in my life,” he says. “As an Alma solutions to create. As a result, he says his job has no student, I was able to intern at CME, thanks to real “routine,” which keeps his work exciting. (continued on page 6)

4 accents www.alma.edu 5 (continued from page 5) (‘Capital gains’ continued) URBAN SCOTS “It’s an interesting job that keeps me motivated,” he says. While at Alma, Kowal, who studied math- “Just as I did at Alma, I’ve learned a lot about myself. I’m ematics and public health, excelled. She won constantly discovering new things about myself.” three nationally competitive scholarships: the British Marshall, Truman and Udall. As he manages a small team of people, McGuire also calls Despite being valedictorian of her high on other aspects of his Alma experience, including the school, however, she insists that she was nev- communication skills he learned. He says across the dis- er a go-getter before Alma. ciplines, this was an area where all Alma professors held high standards. “I would have never gone up to Dr. Hulme and said that I wanted to apply for a schol- “I noticed a dramatic difference in my communication skills arship,” she says. “Fortunately, professors between freshman and senior year,” he says. “The tipping at Alma recognize the individual talents point was when Dr. Furlong wrote between every line of of students. They’re invested in your per- a paper that I wrote explaining how something could have sonal story.” been written better. Being able to write and communicate effectively easily differentiates you from the rest of the pack.” Kowal says these scholarships allowed her to try things that she might not have oth- McGuire, who studied history, French and economics, has erwise tried. She studied at the London a long list of other professors and former professors who School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine have shaped him as a person: Bob Cunningham, Kris- before pursuing a second master’s degree ten Olbertson, Michael Yavenditti, Julie Arnold, Kate at London School of Economics and Po- Blanchard and Jamie Smith, to name a few. litical Science. “They all are great professors who had a really engaging “It was the first time in my life that I didn’t way of teaching,” he says. “They’ve impacted how I do have to work one or two jobs while going things. Sometimes when I explain things to people, I feel to school,” she says. “It was a wonderful like a shadow of Dr. Cunningham.” experience, and I met a lot of inspiring — ELLEN DOEPKE people and developed my character.”

<< Left: McGuire attends the Nov. 26 game between Michigan State and When Kowal’s parents were unable to Northwestern at Ryan Field with his current roommate, Earl Elowsky ’09. make the flight overseas for her gradua- tion, Political Science Professor Derick “Sandy” Hulme flew out and walked across the stage with her. She says this sort of support has helped her achieve success. ABOUT CHICAGO: “I have a book of reference letters from ABOUT D.C.: <<

Alma professors, and if I’m in a bad mood, Above: Something that you could only know about Chicago by living there: If I only had $20, I would: My favorite tourist attraction is: I look at that!” she laughs. “I don’t think I “the Lake Michigan lakeshore.” “It’s an amazing city in the summer – and it’s extremely bike-friendly!” “get a coffee and a pain au chocolat from Kafe Stacy Kowal ’05 would be where I am today without Alma.” Leopold and then stroll around Georgetown and takes a moment to My favorite restaurant is: With only $20 to spend, I would: the Key Bridge area in the morning (before all pose near a waterfall Today, Kowal is in Washington D.C., during her travels. “Chicago Brauhaus.” “buy a ticket for a cheap seat at Wrigley Field!” where she is a consultant who specializes the tourists flood in!).” Stacy, who studied in the application of decision analytics and Favorite restaurant: “Kafe Leopold.” in London post- mathematical modeling to inform policy or Alma, now enjoys business needs for clients around the world. Must-do activities: travel as a part “My brother is coming next weekend, and we of her position in Her expertise is in the development of plan to go scrambling (mix between hiking and Washington, D.C. economic models that simulate patient climbing) on the Billy Goat Trail in Great Falls, outcomes and care delivery in interna- have Turkish tapas in Logan Circle and then see tional settings. In the past two years, she some jazz on U Street.” Triple scholarship winner develops economic models in Washington, D.C. has published two manuscripts and over a dozen abstracts and presented at confer- Living in D.C. is great because: “it’s a melting pot for smart, outgoing people.” Capitol gains ences in Boston, San Antonio and Prague. “In order to respond to a question, I have to Little-known fact: After growing up on a farm, Stacy Kowal ’05 stepped onto Alma Col- Thinking she would choose a major that she sift through academic journals and see what “Many embassy events are open to the public. lege’s campus looking for the kind of personal attention that came along didn’t hate and make a career out of it, Kowal has been done before,” she says. “Com- If you look at embassy Web sites, you can go with a small college. What the triple-scholarship winner found was a thought her calling involved a path to pre-med- ing up with innovative ideas is intellectu- to some great events: concerts at the Swedish world of empowerment. icine Then Alma opened her horizon, she says. ally stimulating. I’ve also been enjoying the embassy, wine-tasting events at the French em- “I remember sitting down with Dr. Grimnes and discussing my future “I took a mathematical modeling class with Mel travel opportunities. Just this year, I’ve been bassy and beer-and-sausage happy hour at the when I first got to Alma,” she says. “Like every 18-year-old, I wanted to do Nyman, and I found myself staying up until to Istanbul, Munich and London.” German embassy.” 80 different things. She had me look up the difference between ‘avocation’ midnight, working on class projects, because I — ELLEN DOEPKE and ‘vocation’ in the dictionary, and we discussed what a calling meant.” liked the work so much,” she says.

6 accents www.alma.edu 7 URBAN SCOTS Her role also could be de- scribed as college admissions representative. On annual field trips, KIPP students always “I never thought I visit a college campus. Thomas says every child is aware of the would be a teach- importance of a college educa- tion. Ask any of her students ‘As you grow a business, er, so it’s still a lit- what year they graduate high ABOUT D.C.: school, and they also will tell there’s always something you what year they will gradu- Best part about D.C.: tle bit baffling. I go ate from college. new around the corner.’ “After eight years, I’m still in awe every time to work everyday “For our students, it’s not ‘if,’ — Bryan Segedi ’81 I drive or walk by the but ‘when’ they go to college,” monuments, memorials knowing that I am she says. “I always tell stu- and classic buildings. dents that an education gives D.C. also has great pub- them options, so even if they lic amenities: the bike From boardroom doing something don’t want to become a doctor and running trails in and to classroom or teacher, don’t you want to around the D.C.-metro meaningful, and have that option?” As a management consultant area are endless!” Having gone from the board- in Washington, D.C., Leighton room to the classroom, Thomas Thomas ’04 was traveling al- I feel lucky to be Little-known fact: recently received her master’s most as much as she was work- “D.C. has the largest degree in educational policy ing. Though she was on the able to say that.” World traveler population of Ethiopi- from American University. fast track, she could not shake ans outside of Ethiopia She says she hopes her teach- When he was sitting in a classroom the feeling that she should be – and the food is AMAZ- ing experience will make her a at Alma College, Bryan Segedi ’81 doing something more with Knowledge is Power Program ING! Dukem on U Street better policymaker, just as her never dreamt that he would be where her career. (KIPP) public charter school is the place to eat. I rec- Alma experience has made her he is today. As a global leader for the << to teach math. Though she no

ommend a veggie plat- Advisory Services Practice at Ernst Above: “I always thought that I longer wears a suit and car- a more daring person. ter and a kitfo – rare.” would leave the firm, experi- & Young LLP, his main office is in Brian Segedi ’81 chats with students at the 2011 Career Explo ries a briefcase full of business “I have an experiential per- ence something new and then London, but he spends time traveling during Homecoming weekend. Segedi, whose office is in cards, she says her consulting sonality, but Alma perpetu- London, took time out to participate in the event planned by With only $20, I would: come back,” she says. “Even throughout the world. experience isn’t lost in the ated it,” she says. “I knew I the Alma College Academic and Career Planning office. “browse Eastern Mar- though I was open to leaving, classroom. could do anything I wanted “Paris, Prague and Hong Kong are ket for the latest local I really enjoyed the work that among my favorite cities,” he says. artsy goods and pick to do at Alma because the cul- athletics, however, he says he had a ABOUT LONDON: I did there.” “A lot of skills I learned in “I love exploring different places and up lunch from one of consulting have transferred ture at Alma encourages you well-rounded Alma experience. While visiting family dur- to think outside the box and learning about different cultures. I’m Favorite tourist attraction: the several great food over to teaching,” she says. “I blessed to have had the opportunity “At Alma, I had the opportunity to trucks nearby.” ing Christmas, Thomas came have to sell kids on each new try new things.” “Windsor Castle” across a Time magazine article to do this in my career. I’ve had a re- try different roles, and as a result, lesson we do and get them to For Thomas, however, leaving that discussed the need for ally great run.” I sharpened my critical thinking Best-kept secret: become as passionate as I am her successful consulting ca- With only $20, I would: teachers in D.C. public schools. skills,” he says. “You learn how to “Technically not in D.C.- about learning.” reer to become a teacher is still Prior to his current position, Segedi “go to a local pub, order As she read on, she began to learn as an Alma student.” proper, but oh-so-close: a thought far outside of any spent six years as the vice chair for fish and chips and a pint wonder if she could be part of In addition to being a sales- Great Falls on the Mary- box. She says it’s a move that Ernst & Young’s Americas Assur- Friendships also shaped Segedi’s and watch an English pre- her city’s educational reform. person, teachers like Thomas mier soccer match.” land side preceded (or makes her laugh sometimes ance and Advisory Business practice. Alma experience. He met his best followed) by a hike on often play other, more signifi- He oversaw businesses in North and friends the first week he was on cam- “I got online and searched cant roles in their students’ when she thinks about it. one of the Billy Goat for a way to become a teacher South America and Mexico. pus. But it’s not happenstance that Little-known fact: lives: big sister or brother, “I never thought I would be Trails. Great views of the without having to go back to this happened, he says. “At every intersection they friend, social worker and a teacher, so it’s still a little “What I love about Ernst & Young is Potomac!” school, found the D.C. Teach- have painted on the street sometimes parent. bit baffling,” she says. “I go to that every day is a new learning expe- “I’ve crossed paths with a lot of peo- ing Fellows and completed my which way to look to see work everyday knowing that rience,” he says. “As you grow a busi- ple during the last 30 years, but Alma Best place to take out- application,” she says. “In June, “We teach more than just how oncoming traffic. Given I am doing something mean- ness, there’s always something new has some of the finest I’ve ever met,” of-towners: “A night- I quit my job to accept an Eng- to read and write, multiply and they drive on the opposite ingful, and I feel lucky to be around the corner. You really hone he says. “While I was on campus for time walk of the monu- lish language learners teaching divide,” she says. “There are side of the road as com- able to say that.” your management skills.” homecoming weekend, one of my pared with the U.S., this ments and memorials. position. By August, I had a other battles: poor nutrition and former professors drove an hour to has certainly saved my life My favorite is the FDR classroom full of kids.” proficiency issues. As a teacher, — ELLEN DOEPKE Segedi’s interest in business blos- Memorial.” somed at Alma College, where he meet me. There’s something special more than a few times!” your impact can be hard to see. about this place.” After spending her first year When you do see that spark go was a business administration major. at a traditional public mid- As a participant in Greek life and off in a kid, though, it’s incred- — ELLEN DOEPKE dle school, Thomas joined a ibly rewarding.”

8 accents www.alma.edu 9 REFER A STUDENT Refer a student — a neighbor, family member or acquaintance — to the Admissions Office. Call 1-800-321-ALMA or refer a student on the Web at: https:// secure.alma.edu/alumni/refer.

POINTS OF PRIDE Arm yourself with Alma “points of pride.” A comprehensive list appeared in the Fall 2011 Ac- cents. To review, visit the online Accents at: http://www.alma.edu/ alumni/accents.

OPEN INVITATION If you live close to Alma, invite a high school student to attend a performance, art show, lecture or sporting event with you. If you can get the parents to come too, even better!

Engaged alumni: Finding new, great Scots MR./MS. AMBASSADOR We need your help in getting great students to us Join the Alumni Ambassador program. Alumni Ambassadors Recruiting students is a team effort. And, of course, all alumni can talk pledge their availability to spon- about the experience of living on sor applicants, attend receptions and college fairs, and call or write While faculty, coaches, staff mem- Alma’s campus and the interactions bers, current students and Admis- prospective students. Contact Jes- they enjoyed with faculty and staff. sie DeHaan, 1-800-321-ALMA, sions staff strive to bring the annual We know how important these GETTING classes of new students to Alma [email protected], for more messages are to prospective students information. College, alumni also can — and and their parents. must — play a vital role in reaching prospective students. As I meet and greet alumni around SHARE YOUR STORY BACK TO the country, I reinforce this key Draft a personal “Alma Impact” Each of you has an Alma experi- message: We need your help in get- statement that describes your ence to share. When you tell that ting great students to us. College experience and the value story, you add a new dimension to of your education. Have it ready AFRICA the recruiting message that cannot Enrollment is of key importance to pass along to parents and be found in even the best recruit- for a school like Alma, not only be- students. “Earlier this ing materials. You know what it is cause we believe that Alma College year, reading like to take the College’s mission, provides students with an amazing ROAD TRIP! values and experience into the next learning experience, but also be- Do you work with teens in some a book about step of your life. cause student tuition, room, board way? Plan a field trip, schedule a Africa brought and fees accounts for 87 percent of summer camp experience, attend For example, graduates who re- our overall budget. Increased stu- a concert, or take a local team tears to my ceived a teaching degree at Alma dent numbers help decrease indi- to an athletics event. Call the can discuss the hours of classroom eyes...and I vidual costs and allow us to improve Admissions Office to schedule a Returning to Africa placement that provided them ex- and expand academic programs campus visit. realized that perience working with students and residential experiences. By returning to West Africa 37 years after completing an Africa Fellowship, long before they were ready for stu- AC ON YOUR CV Mark Wangberg ’75 fulfilled a dream that he thought had been long lost. I had never dent teaching, helping to confirm Most importantly, we want to assure Include Alma College in your given up the an early decision to pursue an edu- that extraordinary, talented students professional biography. Let oth- “I had planned to go back immediately after my fellowship, but one thing cation degree. continue to choose Alma College, ers see where you got your start. led to another that led to another,” he says. “Earlier this year, reading a book desire to go maintaining the high caliber of our about Africa brought tears to my eyes, though, and I realized that I had never Or alumni who took pre-medicine alma mater that we enjoyed. ALMA PRIDE given up the desire to go back.” back.” courses can talk about the prepa- Make Alma College visible: Wear Wangberg and his wife, Connie, recently traveled to Ghana and worked at a ration they received at Alma as How can alumni help? We all have an Alma sweatshirt, keep a decal compared to those of their medical different gifts and interests — only on your car, fly a pennant, or use school, where he taught art and creative writing. He says the biggest thrill was school peers. After all, not every one’s creativity limits your involve- an Alma College mug at your getting his students to share their personal stories despite the language barrier. small college can boast about a ca- ment. The list to the right includes office or in your classroom. “I opened up to them and shared how I had received the news through a daver lab! a few ideas to get you started. telegraph while in Nigeria that I had lost my grandfather,” he says. “In turn, — LOU ECKEN ’95 (continued on page 12) Director of Alumni Engagement

10 accents www.alma.edu 11 GETTING BACK TO AFRICA <<

From left: Rose Mends-Cole (Kingg) Sherman and Sophie Mends-Cole Williams ’68

A destiny of helping others Liberian sisters assist with rebuilding their African homeland

With the best of intentions, Rose Mends-Cole (Kingg) sisters Rose and Sophie left Sherman, who attended their African homeland in Alma in 1961-62, was the Liberia, traveled across the first Liberian with a mas- ocean, and settled at Alma ter’s degree in social work College, where they hoped (from the University of to achieve an American Pittsburgh) and developed education. the country’s social work training program. She has It was the 1960s. Like other worked extensively with Liberian students who agencies that deal primarily came to America, they with development, refu- believed their “destiny” << gees, the mentally ill, the Clockwise from facing page: was to eventually return to they opened up to me and existence for 25 years when I degree in book arts, first Years later, Wangberg, who homeless, education and their country and con- had the opportunity to write visited as an Alma student.” discovered his passion for calls himself an “art coach,” Mark Wangberg ’75 and one of his high school students, Louis Lafferty (back poverty, both in the U.S. in a way that they normally art as an Alma College stu- continues to be as enthusias- row, left), pose with students from the Heritage Academy in Ghana. Lafferty tribute to Liberia’s social accompanied Wangberg as a teaching assistant. and Africa. don’t. We videotaped them Not until his Africa Fellow- dent during an introduc- tic about sharing art with his and economic growth and ship was Wangberg, who A typical classroom with dirt floors, no electricity and glassless windows— ­ modernization. Sophie Mends-Cole Wil- reading their stories — first tory art class. Despite writ- students. He says as a teach- this image was shot on the day of their arrival. has been a high school art liams, a 1968 graduate of in their own language and ing poetry for a long time, er, he is able to help kids find Two workers haul wood with the assistance of carts pulled by donkeys. But their efforts were dra- teacher in Pennsylvania for Alma College, went on then in English. It was in- he says he never thought he their power as people. A portrait of Wangberg’s wife, Connie Grauds, author and Shaman. matically interrupted. credible.” the last 24 years, positive would have been someone to earn advanced degrees about pursuing teaching as who would go into art. “I always remind them that A bloody civil war in in guidance and applied Though the trip proved to a career. He says the experi- they have something to say the1980s and ’90s devas- human development from have some thrilling high- ence taught him that teach- “Thanks to [former Eng- that no one else in the world Columbia University. She lights, it also came with chal- ing is legitimately powerful. lish professor] Jim Tipton, can say,” he says. “If they tated Liberia, with more lenges. Wangberg says his ex- I got very involved in let- claim that they don’t know than 250,000 people killed has spent her career in perience in Ghana was a stark “There were 250 students, terpress printing, paper how to draw, I tell them, Alma in Africa and thousands more flee- workforce development, contrast from his fellowship and I loved working with making and book binding, ‘Can you write your name? ing the fighting. Rose, education, management, in Nigeria, where he taught at each and every one of them,” which marked the begin- Then you can draw.’ That Alma students have long sought to impact Africa in Sophie and their families career development, coun- the Mayflower School. he says. “The fellowship ning of a longstanding in- line is from one of my pro- meaningful ways. The Books for Africa campaign in left Liberia and established seling, employment and was majorly life-changing. terest in book arts,” he says. fessors at Alma, and I use it 1959 and ’60 resulted in a donation of 60,000 books their homes and careers in training. She is currently a “There was no running wa- I took thousands of photos “At Alma, I was able to have on my students to this day.” to start Central Africa’s first circulating library. From the United States. director with Goodwill In- ter or electricity, and while and wrote about 100 poems. hands in many pies and com- dustries in Richmond, VA. — ELLEN DOEPKE 1964 through 1993, 32 Africa Fellows served teach- The desire to help Libe- we knew that, the reality I would not have gone into bine the arts in meaningful ing internships in Africa. Today, through programs In 2006, Rose and Sophie, was striking,” he says. “The teaching otherwise.” ways, something [former art ria never faded, however. school wasn’t nearly as es- like the Posey Global Leadership Program and Stu- After the war and political with other Liberians liv- Similarly, Wangberg, who education professor] Ed Ja- tablished as the Mayflower dents in Free Enterprise (SIFE), students continue to ing in the U.S., formed a has a Master of Fine Arts como mentored me about.” chaos ended, the sisters School, which had been in serve in ways that impact the world. resumed their commitment non-profit organization to rebuilding their country. — Africa Community

12 accents www.alma.edu 13 GETTING BACK TO AFRICA GETTING BACK TO AFRICA (continued from previous page) Exchange (ACE) — to assist with Ministry of Education on education Their Alma experience the social and economic redevelop- policies and procedures. ment of Liberia after the destruction Rose and Sophie’s strong connec- The recovery from the civil war has of the civil war. Sophie is the chair of tion to Alma College began when a been a slow and expensive process, the ACE board of directors. Presbyterian pastor from Michigan, says Sophie. Even though Liberia has Doug Trout, visited their home and ACE has focused much of its efforts a policy of free compulsory elementa- church in Liberia and encouraged in three areas: education, health and ry and secondary education, the eco- them to attend Alma. consultation. Sophie saw firsthand nomic conditions are so limited that the need for education and health this might not be a reality for decades. Rose enrolled at Alma for one year, when she returned to Liberia in 2007 It will take organizations like ACE rooming during the 1961-62 year — her first visit to her homeland in and others to help fill the gap. with Mary Arnold Peterson ’65. After LIBERIA — nearly 25 years. a year, Rose married and transferred “The same is true for the health to Youngstown State University. Before and after the war “All of us had been living and work- infrastructure and services,” she ing in Liberia when the war started says. “For example, before the war, “I always remember the first football and had to leave the country for our the Liberian government employed game I attended at Alma,” says Rose. safety,” says Sophie. “We had all more than 400 medical doctors who “Not only did the game make abso- been supported in our education by provided services in hospitals and lutely no sense to me, I just could not the Liberian government and felt clinics. At the end of the civil war, understand how adults could get so Liberia, slightly larger than the state of Ohio, is lo- that it was our civic duty to try and there were fewer than 40. The socio- excited about these big guys falling cated on the west coast of Africa. Founded in the give something back.” economic conditions of the average all over each other every few min- 1820s by free slaves from the United States, the utes. I was chilled to my very bones person in a third world country are country established a system of government mod- often weighted with multiple chal- and everyone was saying that it was such a nice fall day. After 50 years, eled after the United States. Liberia’s major need — lenges, such as lack of education, health and income. I still can’t stand the cold, and I will “There is Liberia before and Liberia after the war,” education pass on football anytime.” says Rose Mends-Cole (Kingg) Sherman. “Liberia “The task is daunting for Liberia,” The Ann Sandell International she says. “Any assistance to the Rose recommended Alma to her before the 1980 coup was a poor African country School has become the organization’s country will be a step forward, and younger sister, and Sophie attended with all the usual ills that entails, but there was major project. ACE has supported it is amazing how far-reaching each three years, graduating with a major peace and people lived what was for them normal the school with teacher salaries, small contribution is.” in biology. lives with hope for a better future.” instructional materials, facility improvements and teacher training. In addition to her involvement “My college experience at Alma was Enrollment has grown from 500 to with ACE, Rose initiated in 2009 excellent,” says Sophie. “I enjoyed Everything changed in 1980 more than 1,000 students. Teach- Each One Teach One, a volunteer the mental challenge, the warm and ers work in classrooms of 40 to 100 grassroots program that encourages caring faculty, staff and students. when civil war erupted. literate Liberians as a moral and students with no electricity, no text- “I still tell people that the History of “If you have not experienced it, it is almost impos- books, no desks and a chalkboard to civic duty to teach at least one illiter- Western Civilization class was one sible to comprehend what happens after two de- display the lessons. ate Liberian to read and write. of the best well-rounded educa- cades of physical destruction, deterioration of so- “The growth and expansion of the “The literacy rate, like every other tion experience I’ve ever had,” she says. “The various lectures and cial values and basic services, untold emotional and school has been a great success,” says development index, fell after the mental trauma, and a severe brain drain out of the war,” says Rose. “During the war small group discussions were quite Sophie. “The school is tuition free, country,” says Rose. and the students are mostly war most of the schools were shut down, impactful. I will never forget Dr. orphans or from families who could which left a whole generation of Kapp in the biology department. His “Life is a real struggle for the poor in Liberia, and knowledge and patience helped me not afford tuition fees. The need children without opportunity for that is the vast majority of the population,” she survive.” is overwhelming, but with limited education. In the schools that we says. “They need jobs, health care, schools, safe resources, the school has had to cap support, many children are starting Because of their Alma experience, water and sanitation, decent housing, roads, trans- kindergarten at 12 years or older. its expansion and focus on reduction Rose’s son, Jesse Kingg, attended portation, but most of all they need help to learn of class sizes.” “An illiterate population cannot Alma and graduated in 1985, major- how to get these things for themselves and how to ing in physics. He later recieved an To learn more about Africa In 2010, ACE shipped medical develop a country or sustain devel- Community Exchange, the sustain them. This is Liberia after the war that we MBA from Stanford. After a Navy equipment and supplies to the opment,” she says. “My goal is to get organization the sisters helped are faced with the task of rebuilding. every Liberian involved, either as a career, Kingg served in the subma- to found in 2006, please visit << Ministry of Health in Liberia, which Above: Liberian children in attendance at the Ann Sandell distributed them to hospitals and student or a teacher, and double the rine service as a nuclear physicist and them on the web at “The good news is that Liberians are resilient, and International School where class sizes range from 40 to 100. clinics throughout the country. ACE literacy rate in a few years. There are received his jet fighter pilot wings. www.africomexchange.org we have the leadership of a powerful woman presi- also has offered free consultation to not enough literacy classes or teach- He is now a vice president of a medi- dent, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who recently received government entities to assist with re- ers to get the job done, and we can- cal device firm in Atlanta, Georgia. the Nobel Peace Prize,” she says. cruiting professional staff and to the not afford to wait until there are.” — MIKE SILVERTHORN

14 accents www.alma.edu 15 campus news news campus

Student success is the key goal of KCP opportunities grant 1 Alma College has received a 0 six-year, $700,000 grant from the 4 0 State of Michigan that will pro- vide academic, social and financial support to students from economi- cally disadvantaged backgrounds. The King-Chavez-Parks Select Student Support Services Grant will establish an Opportunities and Connections (OAC) Program on campus. “Students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds often need more support in terms of understanding what opportuni- ties exist for them in college,” says Provost Michael Selmon. “We want them to be able to anticipate the choices they will face in col- lege and overcome the challenges. This grant will help provide them with the support they need to be successful.” Alma College’s Public Affairs Institute and the Center for Responsible The grant will provide funding to Enrollment exceeds 1,400 students Leadership partnered to organize a national conference assessing assist students in identifying off- what has been achieved in 500 years of human rights advocacy. campus opportunities for scholar- for third straight year 500 ships, work-study support and paid internships while also offering A 6.5 percent increase in new students and a total headcount of more than 1,400 Held in Washington, D.C., in December, the in order to improve leadership and protect mentoring support with other students for the third straight year highlight Alma College’s 2011 enrollment. 500th Anniversary Conference on Universal- human rights more effectively.” students, faculty and staff. ity in Human Rights celebrated the anniver- The total headcount of 1,417 students continues a positive enrollment trend. years With the creation of formal human rights sary of Antonio de Montesinos’ sermon in The grant hopes to recruit 75 Only eight times in Alma College’s 125-year history has the school achieved a statements and enforcement institutions, Santo Domingo that called for the reform of freshman participants, or roughly total enrollment over 1,400. of human rights progress has been made in areas of human half of Alma’s incoming Pell Grant Spanish policy toward the indigenous. New students total 424, with a larger percentage of new students from out- rights protection. Lorenz says the issue re- eligible students, and 35 sopho- of-state — an increase from four to eight percent. In addition to Michigan, advocacy “Montesinos is a model for how people today mains a relevant area of concern, however. mores. Selmon says he wants these ought to be taking on human rights,” says Ed first-year students choosing to attend Alma have come from 16 states and four Conference sponsors included the Berkley students to know that Alma is a Lorenz, public affairs institute director. countries. Center for Religion, Peace and World Affairs place for them, even if they’re from While focusing on current approaches to pro- at Georgetown University; George Mason an economically disadvantaged Alma College has recruited four of the five largest classes in Alma College his- tect human rights, the conference also brought University’s School of Conflict Analysis and background. tory in the last five years, says Karen Klumpp, vice president for enrollment. together international scholars, attorneys, civic Resolution; the Osgood Center for Inter- “Higher education is an immensely “Strong faculty, new academic programs, improved facilities, the addition of new leaders and other experts to discuss how to national Affairs; the Aquinas Institute; and important opportunity on which athletic teams, and a continued commitment to providing an exceptional student build on the legacy of people like Montesinos. the Washington Theological Consortium, in students shouldn’t close the door,” experience all have contributed to our enrollment success,” says Klumpp. addition to global partners. “The goal was to think about the future,” says he says. “Alma is a place where Lorenz. “We discussed what needs to be done — ELLEN DOEPKE they can succeed.”

16 accents www.alma.edu 17 ALMA COLLEGE proudly presents campus news

Liu uses Fulbright experience to interact with German colleagues

olly Liu was awarded a Ful- German and Swiss universities, lis- “We discussed in detail how to teach bright grant to attend an aca- tened to presentations and participated German film and culture to our stu- demic seminar in Germany in discussions. dents and how we can challenge them Hlast summer — an experience she de- to think critically. It’s important to me “As we teach, we read and write about scribes as “mind-opening” in her quest that Alma students are successful.” the German language and culture, to prepare students to understand and but to experience it and hear directly While in Germany, Liu also had an- communicate with other cultures. from our German colleagues was really other mission: explore German study At the Baden-Württemberg Seminar helpful,” she says. “We not only got to abroad programs for Alma students. for American Faculty in German and see how they teach German to their She says it was important to her to a celebration of the performing arts German Studies, which was coordi- students, but we also got feedback identify programs that were inexpen- nated by the University of Tübingen, from the students.” sive but gave students a total immer- American faculty were given the sion opportunity. Liu also had the opportunity to evalu- opportunity to interact with their Ger- ate German textbooks that are used to “I found some great programs that SUNDAY, MARCH 4, 2012, 3:00 P.M. man counterparts. help students meet language proficien- will allow students to study German At the historic Detroit Opera House in downtown Detroit With colleagues from other colleges cy tests. This activity made her more and take classes in English as well,” The Alma College Choir, Percussion Ensemble, Pipe Band and Highland Dancers join guest high school and universities, Liu, an associate familiar with the European testing and she says. “Study abroad helps students performers from the Detroit area for an exhilarating performance in one of Detroit’s most elegant venues. professor of German at Alma Col- grading system, she says. mature, so I want them to be able to lege, studied the Bologna Process and have this experience.” Join us for an exciting concert that will resonate with our alumni, friends and future students. Tickets on “It was mind-opening to see what its impact on European educational sale now at all Ticketmaster locations (http://bit.ly/resonance2012), the Detroit Opera House and at other colleges are doing,” she says. — ELLEN DOEPKE www.alma.edu/resonance. development. The group also visited

18 accents www.alma.edu 19 HOMECOMING 2011

HOMECOMING ROYALTY

Midland senior Mark Stuart and Alma senior Alexa Gilbert were crowned Homecoming 2011 king and queen. Stuart, a member of and president of the biology club, plans to pursue a graduate degree in veterinary medicine with hopes of becoming a veterinary pathologist or laboratory veterinary clinician. Gilbert, who is majoring in education, is a Center for Responsible Leadership fellow and a four-year member of Colleges Against Caner. She serves as chair of the Relay for Life Committee.

HOMECOMING WEEKEND 2011 OCTOBER 14-16 <<

Above: Football versus << Far Left: The Alma College Pipe Band marches in the parade, Alumni award winners, Reunion class of 1986 Left: Scholarship luncheon; Alma fans in the stands — GO SCOTS!; Class of 1961 reception at the President’s home; alumni and their college-bound children enjoyed the first annual Legacy Brunch at the President’s home; Career Explo in the Stone Rec Center

FAMILY, FRIENDS AND FUN!

20 accents www.alma.edu 21 SCOTS YOU SHOULD KNOW

DO UNTO OTHERS…’

At St. Mary School in Alma, no child is too young to learn how to serve others. Even kindergarteners participate in in-school service projects such as managing the lost We teach our and found of the school. students that “St. Mary’s brings in high expectations of both academics and behavior,” says Lisa our community Seeley ’97, school principal. “We teach the children all through the day to think of is a family. We’re others first, and in any given situation the first thing the children ask is ‘what can we teaching them that do?’ It is important for the kids to see the message that it’s not about them, it’s about we need to turn to service to others, and that one person can make a difference.” our faith, family, Though Seeley majored in exercise and “When I left Alma I worked as an exercise After earning a teaching certificate, morals and values, health science and minored in business ad- physiologist at a fitness and rehab facil- Seeley spent one year teaching until ministration at Alma College, it was the re- ity,” says Seeley. “I developed exercise and she became the principal of St. Mary and we teach them lationships she developed at Alma that gave nutrition programs and really enjoyed the Parish School, where that sense of I can’t her the necessary skills and the supportive teaching aspect of my job, but it became community and connection lives on. community to succeed when she returned to how to do that.” clear to me that I wasn’t working with the “My husband and I decided to raise imagine academia to pursue a teaching certificate. population I wanted to. So I began to take our children in the Alma family working — Lisa Seeley ’97 “I was fortunate to attend Alma,” she says. teaching courses while I was working. environment because there are always “Its sense of community and values proved “The relationships I developed at Alma ways to be involved,” she says. “After anywhere to be invaluable to me later on.” with friends, coaches and faculty helped college there is that desire to leave, but that what seems to bring people back are Seeley says that interpersonal connection guide me through this process,” she says. the roots of the family. and a unified sense of community are vital “The sense of community I had at Alma wouldn’t parts of both her curriculum and her per- always made me feel listened to and helped “We teach our students that our com- allow sonal faith. St. Mary’s students participate me to make decisions based on what I was munity is a family,” says Seeley. “We’re in yearlong community outreach programs saying and feeling; it helped me decide teaching them that we need to turn to hugs.” — food drives, Toys for Tots, adopt a which path to take with my life. Those our faith, family, morals and values, family, pen-pal programs with local elderly relationships taught me what to look for and we teach them how to do that.” patients, and attending masses at Schnepp to establish new connections and meet my Health Care Center in St. Louis and Ma- own goals.” — EMILY HAVELKA ’12 sonic Pathways in Alma.

22 accents www.alma.edu 23 athletics news from the archives

1985 Coach Cole THE poses with the 1985 women’s END track team

OF AN 1988 working with the “Coach Cole has taught generations of young men the ’88 football team value of teamwork and leadership, and his legacy will live long at Alma College and in all of the alumni he has helped to learn and grow here at the College.” — Jeff Abernathy 1991 ERA Cole named head football coach assistant and head coach was the lon- Schmidt Memorial Scholar-Athlete gest stint at the same school of any Award in two out of the 10 years the active collegiate coach in Michigan. award has been given out. Several other players were honored as Aca- 1993 “Jim Cole had an outstanding run as demic All-Americans and NCAA Coach Cole head coach of our football program,” Post-Graduate Scholarship winners. and his family said Alma College President Jeff Ab- ernathy. “I am grateful for his ser- In addition to football, Cole also vice to the college and community. enjoyed success coaching women’s Coach Cole has taught generations track at Alma. His women’s track of young men the value of teamwork teams won or shared seven straight and leadership, and his legacy will MIAA titles from 1985-91. live long at Alma College and in all Before becoming Alma’s 27th head of the alumni he has helped to learn football coach, Cole put in seven sea- and grow here at the College.” sons at the high school ranks at Mid- 1994 Cole led the Scots to MIAA titles and land and New Baltimore-Anchor berths in the NCAA Division III na- Bay and eight years as an assistant tional playoffs in 1999, 2002 and 2004. under Phil Brooks at Alma. JIM COLE RETIRES Cole, after 21 years as head football nurture the dreams and goals of the Under Cole’s tutelage, 63 Alma A former All-MIAA and All-Dis- coach and 30 years on the Alma Alma student-athletes and work to players earned first- trict for the Scots, Cole College sidelines, announced his further the mission of Alma College team All-MIAA honors. In addition, drew on the championship experi- Jim Cole ’74 treasures the retirement following the conclusion in new and different ways.” Alma had a win- ences of playing for the 1970, ’71 and relationships he has built of the 2011 season. ner in Josh Brehm in 2006, honoring ’72 MIAA co-champions and coach- Named Alma’s head football coach the top player in Division III football ing the 1988 co-champ’s defense. He 1998 “I entered Alma College as a fresh- in 1991, Cole achieved an overall and the equivalent to the Heisman was a graduate assistant for Central with the hundreds of stu- Cole leads the Scots man in 1970 and have been blessed record of 114-90, earning his 100th Trophy at the DI level. Michigan University’s 1974 national under the banner dent-athletes that have with my association with this place,” career coaching win in September championship team and a volunteer Three Scots won MIAA Most Valu- at Homecoming said Cole. “I will always treasure 2008. His 21 years as head coach coach during CMU’s 1990 Mid- able Player awards during Cole’s played for the Scots’ all-time my relationships with my players was the third-longest tenure of any America Conference title run. and colleagues. I will continue to football coach in MIAA history. His years as head coach. In addition, winningest football coach. celebrate the accomplishments and 30 years on the Alma sidelines as an Alma student-athletes won the Pete — MIKE HANSON

24 accents www.alma.edu 25 athletics news news athletics

THEY’RE BAAACK! Alma College wrestlers get back to the mat with a little help December 7, 2011, marked the first home match for the Alma College wrestling team in 27 years. In attendance were some of the alumni who made that night possible. Women’s soccer team wins MIAA title President Abernathy and Wrestling Coach Todd Hibbs The Alma College women’s soccer team experienced a historic 2011 season, win- honored these dedicated wrestling alumni at a special ning its first MIAA Tournament Championship and advancing for the first time reception that evening. in school history to the NCAA Division III Tournament. Last fall, the Scots played in the MIAA Tournament Championship game for << Clockwise from facing page: Wrestling Head Coach Todd Hibbs the third time in four years, defeating for the league title. The presents an award of appreciation to Greg Hatcher ’83; the team celebrates on the sidelines; Coach Hibbs paces the floor during an Scots then played Capital College in the NCAA Tournament, losing 1-0. Alma intense match; Alma College wrestler Conrad Bovee ’12 competes finished with an 18-4-1 season record. for his weight division; from left - President Abernathy, Greg Hatcher ’83, Rick Belle, Coach Hibbs and Bruce Dickey ’74. The 2011 campaign marked the fourth consecutive season in which the Scots, coached by Jeff Hosler, finished among the top three teams in the league. In addition, the 18 victories for the Scots is a school record.

26 accents www.alma.edu 27 UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS alumni survey Feb. 3: Speed Interviewing at Alma Feb. 9: Masonic Pathways Tea in Alma It is very important to us to keep accurate informa- Feb. 15: Arizona Events (Phoenix lunch, Tucson dinner) tion for our alumni and friends. We appreciate your notes Feb. 18: Women’s Basketball Championship Team Reunion at Alma Feb. 18: Beer Tasting at Alma assistance as we work with the PCI Alumni Survey Feb. 28: Lansing Event project! We know that there have been challenges alumni Feb. 29: In-City Interview Trip Alumni-Student Reception in Chicago in collecting the data and we thank you for your pa- 1933 Mary Louise Peters Hughes ’33 1958 Mary Ann Hagley ’58 is alive ALUMNI BOARD Mar. 1: Florida Reception in The Villages tience. Please contact the Alumni Relations Office Mar. 2: Florida Reception in Sarasota reached the ripe age of 100 on Sept. 20. and well in Florida. She would love to hear President - Jeffrey Leestma ’78 on campus if you prefer to update your informa- She wonders if there are any of her age from her college roommate, Gerri Bishop. Vice - President - Dana (Grant) Catania ’95 Mar. 4: Detroit Opera House RESONANCE Event Past President - Carolyn Schultz ’84 Mar. 8/9: Pacific Northwest Events (Portland/San Francisco TBA) tion independently. We want you to stay connected group around. Secretary - Alisha (Majszak) Baker ’02 Mar. 24/25: Relay for Life at Alma and engaged with your alma mater. Our number is 1961 Carolyn Keyes Bradshaw ’61 Devon Anthony ’09 Mar. 31: Alumni & Friends Yoga Retreat in Indianapolis 1-800-291-1312 or [email protected] . 1949 Elmer Coon ’49 received an writes, “Hi to my old friends and classmates! Brian Bartes ’87 Apr. 5: Honors Day at Alma Virginia (Cloutier) Blandford ’02 honorary doctorate from Mid-Continent I have many happy memories from those Robyn (Paige) Carr ’04 Apr. 21: Commencement at Alma Thomas Davey ’07 May 26: Highland Festival Alumni & Friends Reception at Alma University on Oct. 2, 2011. He taught 28 four years. I’ll always remember Dr. Sam Duffy Duncan ’72 Thank you! years in the Lakeview School system and Cornelius’ selfless kindness in driving me Kay Ecken ’95 Jun. 2: Klenk Open in Alma Louis Ferrand ’64 was well known for directing musicals home to my family the day my father passed Barb (Loomis) Greer ’61 at Lakeview High School and Flat River away. Thanks, and God bless.” • Bert ’61 Dale Greer ’65 Lisa Knowles ’94 Players in the Greenville area. The doctoral and Jeane Dugan ’64 attended this year’s Robert Longstreet ’92 >> Do you want to travel to Scotland with Alma College alumni and friends? Get more information at www.alma.edu/alumni/involved/travel Christopher Lowry ’07 hooding took place in Silver City, NM. homecoming. Bert was a recipient of the Bill McHenry ’83 “Golden Thistle.” Jeane reports that the Jan (Knapp) Merz ’75 Dale Nester ’75 1950 Charles Schoenhals ’50 has been campus looked great, the events, wonderful, Jesse Ramirez ’09 retired since 1995 after practicing general and the food, delicious, so “please start plan- Krista (Schroeder) Ried ’94 Gary Stano ’83 surgery in Fort Wayne, IN, for over 30 years. ning now for OUR 50th reunion in 2014!” Troy Taylor ’84 He and his wife enjoy good health and still • Madeline Coleman Ehlert ’61 wishes she Scott Timmreck ’02 Sheri Tulloch ’95 ALUMNI GREETINGS spend their summers in Michigan. Charles could attend homecoming, as it has been 50 Dana Weston ’01 Elizabeth Wheat ’02 also enjoys boating and riding his motorcy- years since she graduated from Alma. Julie Williams ’95 cle. The couple’s five children live in Dallas, Deborah Zannoth ’73 Alumni events are posted on the new alumni. We’ve highlighted ways to get Orlando and Michigan. Their remaining 1962 Steve Engel ’62 threw out the Alma College events calendar, where you involved and specific services for alumni family includes three dogs and a cat. first pitch at the Tigers vs. Royals game at WEST MICHIGAN ROUNDTABLE can search for alumni events or review along with providing links for hiring Comerica Park before a crowd of 33,572 on Chair - Larry Roslund ’70 all of the campus events as well —­ visit Alma College students/alumni or refer- Vice Chair and Chair Elect - 1955 Bonnie ’55 and Alberto Amaya August 31st. “What a thrill!” He planned Brook Bisonet ’04 events.alma.edu. Other ways we com- ring a prospective student. Check it out at ’56 are leaving their home of 55 years in to attend his 15th Fantasy Secretary- Avis Groath ’08 municate Alma information and events www.alma.edu/alumni. Grand Rapids Events Director - Flint and moving to the University House, Camp in Lakeland, FL, in January. “Love Chris Dawson ’99 are through the Alma College Alumni The bottom line: This alumni association a retirement community in Issaquah, WA. to hear from any of my classmates. My e- Lakeshore Events Director- Paul Winter ’85 Kalamazoo Events Director - Association Facebook group, through tar- belongs to all of us. You are the constitu- The move brings them closer to their two mail address is: [email protected].” geted e-mail blasts and mailed invitations. Carolyn Schultz ’84 s this winter issue of Accents hits our ents served by the alumni office. I want to sons, Connell ’79 and Nathan, a University Admissions Director - Maggie (Taylor) Lancaster ’96 mailboxes, many of us are looking We also are looking for opportunities to hear your ideas and suggestions to be sure of Michigan alumnus, and their families. • 1963 Sue Hodgson ’63 restarted play- ArtPrize Director - Megan Sloat ’03 forward to the return of spring. For revitalize our tartan clubs. In alignment that we are providing services that are of Carol Kutzner ’55 is still traveling: Jordan ing the French horn upon retirement and Marketing Director - Dannielle Poulson ’03 A Picnic Director - Kyle Travis ’09 the Alumni Office, that means looking with the alumni engagement focus, we are most interest to our alumni and friend in April, National Square Dance Conven- now plays everyday. She studies with a working on a model for regional groups population. ahead not only to warmer weather but to tion in Detroit in June, Western National teacher and enjoys both bands and or- METRO DETROIT ROUNDTABLE opportunities to engage alumni in both to get involved with the areas of student Parks in September, and Venezuela in Oc- chestras. She reports that she retains fond Wishing you a wonderful 2012! Co-Chairs - Chris Hunter ’92 and traditional and new ways. recruitment, student and alumni career tober. Next, it’s mingling with the whales memories of the Kiltie Band and Alma Nancy Abney Duncan ’81 development, philanthropic activities, and, Planning for events is an ongoing process and babies in Baja, CA, in March. Symphony Orchestra. Board of Directors of course, social opportunities. With this Steven Wisinski ’97 in the Alumni Office. In addition to the revitalization, we would be open to the Lou Tony Catania ’94 activities that are coordinated by our office, Lou Ecken ’95 1956 Esther Arnold ’56 reports, 1964 Laura Huyssen Kracke ’64 re- Jeffrey K. Leestma ’78 idea of finding a new name, so please do Brian Bartes ’87 we are eager to hear about your visions Director, Alumni Engagement “Homecoming was great! I brought my tired from her job as the children’s librarian let us know if you have suggestions. Todd A. Emerson ’89 for spring, summer and fall events. We wel- two youngest grandchildren, who are both and assistant branch manager with the Chi- Don Fullenwider ’65 Sybil Hunter ’92 come your ideas; our staff will do its best to In addition, we have updated the alumni [email protected] in high school: 9th and 12th grade.” • Rob- cago Public Library at the end of March. facebook.com/groups/almacollegealumni Tom Macfarlane ’83 help in publicizing events even if we aren’t portion of the Alma College Web site to ert Saxton ’56 has been the director of the In May, she reunited with Jeane and Bert Kevin Main ’95 www.alma.edu/alumni Brian Simmons ’85 able to attend all of the opportunities. better reflect our ways of connecting with (989) 463-7245 Laingsburg Food Bank since January 1992. Dugan at their home in Albuquerque. She Karen Wollenhaupt ’87 He recently received his 25-year certificate and Jeane enjoyed a week learning about from the Laingsburg Lions Club. the birds of the area in a Ghost Ranch pro-

28 accents www.alma.edu 29 ALUMNI NOTES ALUMNI NOTES

gram. • Jane Martin ’64 loves retirement. • math and physics at San Juan College in Greater Europe Mission. In addition to the United States Agency for International she is working on her Master in Occupa- in Employee Benefits/ERISA. She also is Klotylda Phillippi ’64 enjoys teaching at the Farmington, NM. He also is involved with leading the communication department Development, the project will connect tional Therapy. included in The Best Lawyers in America and being grandma a renewable energy program. • Robert for 10 years, he helped start and/or lead rural farmers with urban markets using 2012 in the area of employee benefits law. to two terrific 8-year-old grandsons. von Oeyen ’66 enjoys hiking with his wife four evangelical churches in Austria. He mobile phone apps. 1975 Judy Hollenbeck Kuehl ’75 in the Blue Ridge Mountains, with the and his wife, Lee, now live in Monument, retired from Midland Public Schools in 1980 Kimberley Jones ’80 is the May 1965 Marie Brucker ’65 is on the execu- deer, bears, the green, the colors, the rocky CO. You can find him on Facebook, or at 1970 Ron Butler ’70 is retired — or 2010 after 35 years teaching speech, the- 2011 recipient of the Outstanding Faculty tive committee of the Michigan Association outcrops and the vistas of the Shenandoah [email protected]. maybe on an indefinite sabbatical, as he re- ater, video communications and English Award at her higher institution of learning for Gifted Children. • Cornelia Schorr ’65 Valley, but he misses Michigan’s lakes and ports that he “can’t be old enough to retire!” at middle and high school levels. She is in Virginia. lives in Ann Arbor, “a wonderful town.” streams, including the Pine River. 1969 Roger Frayer ’69 attended the — after 31 years in banking and nearly nine enjoying semi-retirement teaching public Her son, Ben, is in Denver, and daughter Senior Olympics to defend his team’s last years as the executive director of the United speaking as an adjunct at . 1982 Darryl Schimeck ’82 has been Gwenyth is back in Ann Arbor. Cornelia’s 1967 Renee Badertscher ’67 writes, two gold medals in senior softball. • Helen Way of Genesee County. • Ben Thomas ’70 appointed president and CEO of Veolia activities include teaching piano and the “Let’s hear it for retirement!” • Richard Os- Reber Keupper ’69 lives in Escanaba and is enjoying retirement with his wife and two 1976 Polly Meyers Bachrouche ’76 ES Industrial Services in Chicago. He recent pleasure of working on her 50th high burn ’67 reports that he failed at retirement would love to hear from classmates! E- grandchildren, ages 3 and 5. accepted a new position with the Farm- is responsible for managing the overall school reunion. She also holds two church and still works as a clinical social worker. He mail [email protected]. • Don Tobias ington Public Schools as coordinator of operations of the largest industrial cleaning organ positions. • Curtiss Wall ’65 retired is looking to set up a possible gathering for ’69 continues his work as executive direc- 1971 Jill Smith Goodell ’71 practices her district’s International Baccalaureate services company in North America. Sept. 1 from Norfolk State University after those who lived in McDuck House. If inter- tor of the Research and Extension Office law in Grand Rapids. Her first grand- Programme. Her eldest son completed 20 years of service and 45 years in education. ested, e-mail him at [email protected]. for Cornell University in New York City. daughter, Kyle Eilidh McClintic, was born his master’s degree in sports management 1984 Jeffrey ’84 and Lori Wiest He recently returned from Ethiopia, in August to daughter Stephenie “Katie” from . Having Finn ’87 are proud to announce that their 1966 Michael Clark ’66 retired from 1968 Devere Curtiss ’68 retired in Rwanda and Bangladesh, where he con- McClintic ’03. She reports that life is graduated from the University of Virgin- daughter, Erin, won the Michigan High the Presbyterian ministry. He teaches September after 35 years of service with ducted a research project. Sponsored by good. • Christina Clark Martzke ’71 and ia, her middle daughter will continue on School Athletic Association State Division husband, Richard, have two sons serv- for her master’s degree while training to I Cross Country Championship with a ing in the military. Major Adam Martzke represent Lebanon in the 2012 Olympics first place time of 17:22. She is coached by flies Ospreys for the United States Marine in swimming. Her youngest daughter Nathan Belill ’05. • Sandra Hamilton ’84 Corps while Lieutenant Nathan is a naval plays basketball for . joined the Clark Hill, PLC as a member dentist. Eldest son, Justin, is a teacher. • Beth Eaton Budreau ’76 retired from in the litigation practice group. She most Christina retired from teaching in 2010, teaching in 2010. She enjoys the flexible recently was in private practice in Grand the same year Jacob James, their first schedule and time with her three grand- Rapids, representing financial institutions, grandchild, arrived. • Peggy Book Thies sons, ages 2 and younger. Continuing to businesses and governmental units that ’71 reports that her daughter, Abigail Lyn, work for Weight Watchers, she also is a involved bankruptcy, collection, creditor’s was married on Oct. 15 to Rodney Sriniva- consultant for Tastefully Simple. • Randy rights and contractual disputes. san in a beautiful ceremony at New York Goodman ’76 finished his 32nd year of Avenue Presbyterian Church in Wash- teaching and coaching at Perry High 1985 Polly Vedder Rapp ’85 moved to ington D.C. The newlyweds will reside in School. His son, Nick, is a freshman at Steubenville, OH, with her husband and New York City, where Rodney serves as Alma, class of 2015. daughter for Eric’s year as a vicar (pastor- ALUMNI BRIEFS the deputy military advisor for the Austra- intern) at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church. His lian Mission to the United Nations. 1977 Jean Modrynski Skalski ’77 first sermon was Aug. 14. Lamar hires Holly Bruder ’99 retired in December 2010 after 32 years of as softball coach 1972 Craig Wesley ’72 is retiring to service with the Department of Human 1986 Brian Campbell ’86 received Photo credit: Pat Murray, Lamar University Poulsbo, WA, after spending 36 years in Services for the State of Michigan. Her his Master of Divinity in May from university administration. He plans to con- husband, Felix, retired in June 2010 after 33 the Lutheran Theological Seminary in tinue operating his consulting business. years as a guidance counselor with Three Gettysburg, PA. He has been ordained Lamar University has hired Holly Since leaving Alma, Bruder found coaching success at Denison Rivers schools. Daughter Hilary, who as a Lutheran pastor and called to two Bruder ‘99 to resurrect its softball University in Granville, Ohio, and Morehead State. Under Bruder, 1973 Robert Jacobson ’73 reports that graduated from Three Rivers High School churches in Greenwood, WI. He plans to program. The school last fielded a Denison won four league titles and reached the NCAA Division his son, Christopher, graduated in May in June 2011, is a freshman at Grand Valley attend homecoming this year. team in 1987 and plans to resume III tournament three times in six seasons, compiling an overall 2011 with a Master in Tax Law from State University. Daughter Lizzy is a junior play in 2013. 145-105 record. At Morehead State, she coached the Eagles to Wayne State University. at Three Rivers High School. 1987 Zabrina Santiago Lindsay ’87 three straight top-three finishes in the Ohio Valley Conference, has been appointed by The General As- Bruder played softball and soccer compiling a 114-96 record. 1974 Jackie Seibert Thompson ’74 1978 Cynthia Redmond Moore ’78 is a sembly on Ecumenical Relations of the at Alma College and helped Alma to reports that her daughter, Katie, is at the member and practice department manager Presbyterian Church (USA) to serve as a the Division III World Series in 1999. University of Southern California, where at Dickinson Wright, PLLC. She has been commissioner to the Justice and Advo- named a 2011 Michigan Super Lawyer cacy Commission of the National Council

30 accents www.alma.edu 31 7 arrival of Mark, Jr. (a.k.a. Mack) who weighed in at 10 pounds, 1 ounce, and was 22 inches long. His three big sisters love him to bits. The family’s second ALUMNI NOTES year of homeschooling is going well, and they could not be happier. Staci will go ALUMNI BRIEFS of Churches (NCC)). The NCC is the Melissa Weber ’91 reports that Carol Cummings Kutzner ’95 back to work part-time in acute care in leading force for ecumenical cooperation 1991 1995 her editing business continues to grow. recently traveled to Jordan, where she January. • Jade Sims ’97 joined Michigan Author identifies factors that have among Christians in the United States. She is excited to edit a manuscript for her felt very welcome and safe. She especially State University’s International Business • Matthew Vicari ’87 was appointed to former roommate, Julia Robinson-Harmon enjoyed Mount Nebo (of Moses fame), the Center as an international trade special- the greatest impact on success the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre Board ’91, that will be published in early 2012 by Jordan River Valley, Petra and seeing the ist. She is involved in all efforts to con- of Directors. A Miller Johnson attorney, Wayne State University. Sea of Galilee in the distance. nect the Michigan business community Brian E. Bartes ’87 shares important lessons for Matthew chairs his firm’s Fraud & Em- with the resources of the Center and the achieving success in life in his recent book Life bezzlement Recovery Practice Group and Victor Lebedovych ’93 and wife, Josh Sellers ’96 and wife, Broad College of Business, focusing on Lessons: A Guide to Creating and Living Your Best Life. White Collar Crime Group. He’s listed 1993 1996 Karen, have had a busy couple of years. The Heather, welcomed their fourth son, Ga- export promotion. She lives in Lansing. • in “Best Lawyers in America” for general The book has been 25 years in the making, as Bartes couple welcomed their son, Tristin Jacob, briel Joshua, on Sept. 30. He joins broth- Christopher Trebilcock ’97 was selected commercial litigation as well as personal has read about and observed hundreds of people who is 15 months old and “loads of fun.” ers Cameron, 4, Cooper, 3, and Nathan, to Michigan Super Lawyers “Rising injury litigation. who have achieved greatness. In addition to his own They enjoy parenting and watching their 18 months, in Chattanooga, TN. • Peggy Stars” of 2011. experiences, he has spoken through the years with son grow. In addition, Victor has opened Norquist Wilson ’96 announces the birth of 1989 Mary Weitzel Bailey ’89 has famous athletes, celebrities and business leaders to a second office location for his surgery her third child, Oliver, who was 11 pounds. 1998 Karly Schultz Melkonian ’98 been an elementary physical education see how they accomplished success in their lives. practice. • Leslee Lewis ’93 is a member and Her book, The Naturally Frugal Baby, was married Michael Melkonian on Dec. 18, Cover concept 9: 2/14/11 teacher for the past 20 years. She recently practice department manager at Dickinson recently published. 2010, in a beautiful winter wedding. Nicole “I read a book called ‘Think and Grow Rich,’ by Napoleon Hill that sparked received an award for her contribution Wright, PLLC. She has been named a 2011 Bartell Fisher ’98 was a bridesmaid. The as a youth sports leader in the Northern my interest and enthusiasm for the study of success,” he says. “I began Michigan Super Lawyer in Real Estate. Staci McKeon ’97 and husband, couple resides in Ann Arbor. Michigan area. 1997 reading books, attending seminars and workshops, and studying Mark, are excited to announce the Oct. successful people, in all areas of life.” 1999 Holly Bruder ’99 became the head softball coach at Lamar University Though Life Lessons was initially written as a way to share important in Beaumont, TX. Previously, she had lessons with his children, its principles are applicable to people of all ages. successful stints at and “I received an e-mail from a woman in Ohio who read the book and purchased Morehead State University. two additional copies — one for her grandson, who had just graduated from 2000 Laura Camann Lewis ’00 mar- high school, and one for her 83-year-old mother, who had just graduated ried Brad Lewis on June 17, 2011. Laura magna cum laude from college,” he explains. “That was a great testimonial teaches 8th grade at Mason Public Schools for the idea that it’s never too early to start learning these lessons, and it’s while Brad is a recruiter for the Hantz never too late to begin applying them in your own life.” Group. The couple lives in Okemos. • Bartes has applied the lessons he has learned to his own life. He also has Brent Moeggenborg ’00 and Jeanette published Life Excellence: Treasury of Quotes, which contains quotes with ALUMNI BRIEFS Watripont Moeggenborg ’01 report that life a message that he hopes inspires his readers to “do something that will in Alma has been wonderful! Their son, make a positive impact in the world.” Rev. Hardwick ’88 holds key Presbyterian position Graham, will be 3 years old in January, and Jackson will celebrate his 1st birthday in At the age of 23, Bartes became the chief financial officer of Wolverine The Rev. Dr. Charles B. Hardwick ’88 has been appointed Hardwick has served since 2007 as Pastor/Head of December. The family sends best wishes to Packing—a $100 million company—and helped it grow to nearly $1 billion in to a key position in the Presbyterian Church (USA). He Staff at Second Presbyterian Church in Bloomington. their Alma College family and a big “hello” revenue. He lives in Plymouth, MI with his wife, Heidi, and their four children. was named Director of Theology, Worship and Education He previously served at Montgomery Ministries, a new to their ZE and AZD brothers and sisters! Their oldest son, Andy Bartes ’13, is a junior at Alma. for the General Assembly Mission Council (GAMC). church development in Montgomery Township, New • Danielle Stoddard Samyn ’00 announces He attributes his success to the constant application of the 14 powerful life Jersey; Centerville Presbyterian Church, a medium sized the July 29, 2010, birth of second son, Gar- lessons he includes in his book. “We were looking for a convener of conversations suburban congregation in Fremont, California, and North rett William Samyn. Big brother, Jared, is – someone to connect and engage Presbyterians in Avenue Presbyterian Church, a large congregation in 18 months older. “As I’ve moved through life, I’ve tried to identify the factors that have had issues of theological concern to the church’s life and downtown Atlanta, Georgia. the greatest impact on my success in each area of life, then integrated witness,” said Linda Valentine, executive director of 2001 Sara Brockdorf Kassen ’01 and those things into my everyday living,” he explains. “Ultimately, I attribute the GAMC, in a PC (USA) news release. “Chip will help Along with his undergraduate degree from Alma College, Sean Kassen ’02 and big sister, Lydia, wel- my own success to the extent to which I’ve been able to apply the lessons us draw on the great wealth of theological resources in Hardwick holds a Ph.D. in Homiletics and a Master of comed Neve Erin Kassen on Sept. 2, 2011. contained in the book to each area of my life.” the PC (USA), bringing our seminaries, universities and Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary. He earned “She is a blessing!” • Melinda Messmer pastor/theologians together to address the presenting his Master of Theology from Candler School of Theology Leonardo ’01 and husband, Samuel, are For more information, go to www.lifelessonsthebook.com. issues and questions of theological importance to at Emory University. He also holds a Master of Business thrilled to announce the July 19, 2011, congregations and the denomination.” Administration degree from the Kellogg School at — ANGELA FLYNN birth of their second son, Christian Rob- Northwestern University. ert. Big brother Benjamin loves his new playmate. “We are having so much fun 32 accents www.alma.edu 33 ALUMNI NOTES ALUMNI BRIEFS with our beautiful boys!” • Susan Vander 2005 Dan Rito ’05 and Liz Reeves loving married life. • Emilee Syrewicze ’08 Putten Tuladziecki ’01 and Andrew Tu- Rito ’05 announce the April 22, 2011, birth graduated in May 2011 from Vermont Law ladziecki ’02 announce the June 23, 2011, of their son, Aidan Paul, who weighed School and accepted the position of execu- birth of daughter Erin Rose. She joins 7 pounds, 12.5 ounces and was 20 inches tive director at the Foundation for Mental Diehard Scots brother Landon, 4, and sister Allison, 2. • long. He joins big sister, Emma, who start- Health in Traverse City. Indiana company has strong ties to Alma College Athletics Katherine Wibby ’01 received Interlochen ed pre-school this fall. Dan is a third-year Arts Academy’s Oil Can Award, which is pediatric resident at St. John Hospital in 2009 Will Allen ’09 recently complet- given annually to a faculty or staff mem- Detroit, and Liz works for Baker College. ed his Master of Philosophy in development ber who keeps the Academy “well-oiled” • Sherri Vanden Bos VanderMeulen ’05 studies at the University of Oxford. Cur- and running smoothly. and husband, Mickey, announce the May rently working for the Centre on Migra- 23 birth of their second daughter, Bethany tion, Policy, and Society in Oxford, he is Greatthanks Scot, a lot! 2002 Sarah Seiler Wetmore ’02 and Renee. Sherri teaches Spanish at Algoma looking forward to staying in the UK for her husband announce the July 4 birth of Christian School. further research and consultancy work on You’ve all seen the requests for their second son, Bode. Big brother Levi, pressing development and migration issues. referrals in past Accents and we’d like to say THANKS! for who is 22 months old, has adjusted nicely, 2006 Aaron Chamberlain ’06 teaches all of the incredible students you and everyone is doing well. The family high school social studies at Millington 2010 Amanda Carlson ’10 married have passed along to us over the lives in Interlochen, so if any alums are Community Schools. He also is active in Steve Ogdie on June 10, 2011 at Allen Park years. There is no better way for coming north, look them up, and come by extra-curricular activities as a coach for Presbyterian Church. The couple lives in the College to find the next great for a visit! football and girl’s basketball and soccer. • Louisville, KY, where Steve is attending Scot than from our proud alumni — keep them coming! Ashley Sawatzke ’06 completed her Master Louisville Presbyterian Seminary. • Martin everal “diehard Scots” are making their marks as “At the time, I viewed it as a prac- 2003 Aaron Bell ’03 and Angela of Arts in theatre and film at Bowling Kuustik ’10 was accepted to the Estonian executives for a major Indiana steel fabrication tice interview; I thought I would At this time we are working with Banet Bell ’03 married at the Inn at St. Green State University. She has begun Business School graduate program and company that builds components for recreation graduate from Alma and head to more than 55 legacy and referred Johns in Plymouth, MI, on May 20, 2011. work on a Doctorate of Fine Arts in theatre began his master’s studies in finance this vehicles and manufactured homes. Chicago for work,” says Falk, who students, 38 of whom are 2012 S played quarterback on the football graduates. All senior referrals Travis Powers ’03, Ryan Lueker ’03, As student-athletes in the 1990s, Todd Driver ’98 and Ja- at Texas Tech University in Lubbock and fall. After graduating from Alma College, have received an application with son Falk ’96 were driven self-starters, active in the Greeks, team. “But Doug Lippert convinced Jeff Snow ’05, Ross DesNoyers ’04, Brad hopes to graduate in 2014. he rekindled his relationship with YFU a fee waiver from the alumnus and leaders on the football field. Today, they each hold the me to do otherwise. I entered the Zuiker ’03, Steve McIntosh ’03, Angela (Youth For Understanding) Estonia, for who made the referral, along with title of vice president for operations for Lippert Compo- trainee program and have been Wilcox ’03, Renee Sandberg Canavos ’03 a packet of information pertaining 2007 Kelly Barber ’07 graduated which he currently serves as the vice-chair- nents, stationed at the company’s corporate headquarters with the company ever since. I have were in the wedding party. Joe Phillips to their interests. magna cum laude from Thomas M. man of the board. in Goshen, IN. no regrets.” ’03, Andrea Ballinger Purrenhage ’03 Cooley Law School. After passing the Joining Driver and Falk at Lippert Components are fellow Driver and Falk have helped Again, thank you for your contin- and Mary Hakken Phillips ’03 attended. ued support of recruitment and Michigan Bar Exam, she was sworn in to 2011 Chelsea Clark ’11 is studying Alma alumni Scott Mantyla ’99, general manager; Rob advance the company’s incentive- enrollment at Alma College. As Aaron and Angie live in South Bend, IN. practice law in May 2011. She recently ac- international development, humanitar- Nelson ’99, national sales manager; Steve Slowke ’03, plant based pay program that has been you continue to meet great Scots • Dan Joyce ’03 and Amanda Dusendang cepted a position as an administrative law ian relief and environmental policy at the manager; Andrew VanSchuick ’01, service and warranty initiated in all of Lippert’s manu- be sure to let us know about them ’03 are moving back to Evart after spend- director; and Gene Ross Jr. ’03, quality manager. facturing facilities. specialist with the State of Michigan at University of Denver. In January, she will by completing our online form: ing eight years at Princeton University in the Michigan Tax Tribunal. In addition, travel to Malaysia through the Fulbright “In the past 14 years, we have recruited Alma College “Basically, the faster you work, and media and IT. • Leslie Hohlbein Smith she will be teaching law as an assistant Scholarship to teach English and work with strongly,” says Driver. “We look for individuals who are a the more parts you produce, the https://secure.alma.edu/ more you get paid,” says Driver. ’03 and husband announce the April 26 instructor at Cooley. • Caitlin Borchard community development projects until the good fit for our company — individuals who are self- alumni/refer birth of Lexi Ann. She weighed 8 pounds starters, self-motivators, have a strong work ethic and are “Lippert has 3,800 employees, with ’07 graduated from Michigan State following November. • Daniel VanDyke 27 plants in 12 states and Mexico, If you would like materials about and 14 ounces and measured 20 inches. willing to go through comprehensive training.” University College of Law in May 2011. ’11 married Carmen VanDyke on June 3, and every plant has the autonomy Alma College to place in your Leslie has taught third grade at Ithaca After taking the Michigan bar exam in 2011 at Rusk Christian Reformed Church The student experiences at Alma College match well with to best serve the company’s needs. home, office, classroom, church, the kind of employees sought after by Lippert, says Falk. Public Schools since 2009. July, she is searching for a position in a in Allendale. As a result, we have very diverse favorite coffee house or to give to that next great Scot, contact Jessie Michigan county prosecutor’s office. • “We all carry many responsibilities with Lippert,” says incentive programs.” 2004 Matt Funk ’04 married Michelle Falk. “With community involvement and handling the DeHaan at [email protected] Micheal Buggia ’07 received his Doctor Lippert Components supplies a or 1-800-321-ALMA. Thank you Sobieray in July 2011 in Mount Pleas- day-to-day pressures of our work, we have a lot of balls in broad array of parts for RVs and of Medicine from Wayne State Univer- ALUMNI SECTION SUBMISSIONS the air, so to speak. If you are a student-athlete involved at a for your support! ant. Kyle Lieberman ’05, Kyle Jean ’04 manufactured homes, includ- sity’s School of Medicine in May 2011. high level of higher education, involved in the community, and Luke Oostindie ’05 were all in the Alumni notes can be submitted online at: ing chassis parts, galvanized steel He will complete his residency training www.alma.edu/alumni/notes and with a full plate of college experiences — that translates — Jessie DeHaan wedding party. • Leighton Thomas ’04 roofing, RV slide-out mechanisms, in emergency medicine through Harvard or by returning the postage paid envelope in this issue; well for succeeding at a company like ours.” axles, upholstered furniture, received her Master in Education from or by addressing Director of Alumni Engagement, Alumni Medical School in Boston. Falk started the run of Alma alumni at the company, inter- mattresses, windows, doors and American University in Washington, D.C. Notes, Alma College, 614 W. Superior St., Alma, MI 48801-1599. viewing with Doug Lippert in 1996. thermoformed products. She currently teaches math at a KIPP 2008 Charlie Rockwell ’08 and Carlie Photos can be sent electronically to middle school in the District. Alchin ’08 were married in Tustin on Sept. [email protected]. — MIKE SILVERTHORN 17, 2011. They are living in Dallas, TX, and

34 accents www.alma.edu 35 InCELEBRATING memoriam THE LIVES OF OUR FRIENDS Verne C. Bechill Professor Emeritus of Sociology Louvan E. Wood ’29, of Solomons, Md., survived by two children, three grandchil- vived by three sons and their families, seven died July 14, 2011. After receiving a dren and six great-grandchildren. grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Verne Bechill was known as a peacemaker. master’s degree in meteorology from the California Institute of Technology, he Bill Frier ’41, of Naperville, Ill., died Oct. Virginia Loughead Pierpont ’44, died at The longtime Alma College faculty member who retired in moved to Baltimore to take a job with 2, 2011. He served in the U.S. Navy from her home in Poughkeepsie, NY, Sept. 5, 1998 after 33 years of service to Alma College died peace- 1941-45, on mine sweepers in the Aleutian 2011. She attended Alma College for two fully Oct. 24, 2011, at Masonic Pathways in Alma with his Bendix-Friez, from where he retired in family by his side. 1969. Mr. Wood loved to go on long walks Islands and the Panama Canal, finishing his years and then graduated from Michigan and document them with photographs. He Navy service teaching naval mine warfare State University. She taught in Byron, MI; Bechill was a “builder” of many local and national programs has 12 patents in his name and shares four in Yorktown, VA. He was discharged in New Haven, CT, and Poughkeepsie. She and relationships, including the founding of the Pine River 1945 with rank of Lieutenant Commander. was a ruling elder and deacon of the First Friends Meeting (Quakers), Gratiot Emergency Housing patents with others. Mr. Wood loved science Corporation, Alma College’s Peace Making and Conflict and arranged for his body to be donated to Mr. Frier retired after 34 years from Presbyterian Church in Poughkeepsie, a Resolution Program, Friends General Conference National the Maryland State Anatomy Board. He Electromotive Division of General Motors member of the Freedom Plains United Couple Enrichment Program, and ACME, an international was preceded in death by his wife Violet, as manager of domestic and export locomo- Presbyterian Church, and a member of the program now known as Couples for Better Marriages. and two sons. He is survived by a daugh- tive design. In 1950 GM transferred him to PEO Sisterhood, Chapter AX. She was His family and his Quaker beliefs and practices (Religious ter and son, four grandchildren and three London, Ontario, as a member of a team the executive secretary of the Council of Society of Friends) were his highest priorities in life. great-grandchildren. Mr. Wood supported to start a new locomotive factory, General Churches, the predecessor of the Interfaith Alma College through his contributions to Motors Diesel Limited. Bill and Beverly Council. She also served on the board of Alma alumni, responding to a Facebook announcement of (Bev), his wife of 38 years, traveled to many Lincoln Center and the Association of Bechill’s passing, recalled his peace marches and silent pro- the Alma College Pooled Income Fund. tests, his inspiration as a faculty member and teacher, and his countries, most notably living in South Mental Health. She is survived by her two creativity and sense of humor. Mrs. Bernice Kemler Delavan ’32 of Alma, Africa on assignment for three months. He daughters, two “adopted” daughters and Mich., died July 30, 2011. Mrs. Delavan is survived by his wife, two sons, a daugh- several grandchildren. “He was a ‘guide on the side’ rather than a ‘sage on the taught elementary school in Alma and St. ter, a stepson and stepdaughter, and many stage’ – welcoming students into his home and sharing his Nancy Wauchek Gillard ’45, of Spruce, life with them,” wrote one alum. “He taught [students] how Louis for more than 30 years. The First grandchildren. Mich., died June 29, 2011. She was a chem- to listen – how to let others share and be heard.” Church of God in Alma was an important part of her life. She will be remembered Jeanne Speerstra Gelston ’41, of Traverse ist at Dow Chemical in Midland until 1948. Another wrote, “Dr. Bechill taught us to be human by living for her warm hospitality, love of cats, cook- City, Mich., died Sept. 7, 2011. She was a An avid bridge player, she enjoyed quilt- it with convictions that ran deep. He instilled in me a sense of longtime member of the Central United ing, traveling and pie making, and spend- justness and kindness that went beyond schools of thought.” ing and baking. Among her survivors are her son and his wife, Dr. James ’61 and Methodist Church, AAUW and was ing time at the cottage at Hubbard Lake. Bechill graduated from Dearborn High School in 1950 Marianne Delavan; her daughter, Dr. Susan involved for many years with the Girl She also was an active member of Spruce and went on to attend before transferring Delavan Cunningham, four grandchildren Scouts Crooked Tree Council. She loved Presbyterian Church, its choir and women’s to Ohio , where he graduated in 1954. and nine great grandchildren. Preceding her family and friends and enjoyed creat- association. She is survived by her husband, He married Shirley Baber in 1954. He received his master’s ing nature crafts, walking the beach and one daughter, two sons, five grandchildren degree from Emory University in 1956 and earned his Ph.D. her in death were her husband, John ’29, from Vanderbilt University in 1962. and two sons. being near Lake Michigan. She is survived and three great-grandchildren. by her three children, Bill (Kathryn) He taught sociology at Wooster College in Ohio from 1958 Helen Lelsz Cates ’35 formerly of Flint, Gelston ’65, Margo (Atam) Lalchandani, Dr. Carroll MacLeod Cave ’49, of Inverness, until 1962 and from 1962 until 1965. Mich., passed away in Grand Rapids Oct. and Kathy (Jack) Miller ’73; and five Fla., died Oct. 18, 2011. A lifelong envi- A memorial service was held Nov. 20 at the Masonic 3, 2011. She retired in 1975 after working grandchildren. She was predeceased by her ronmentalist and educator, she taught in Home’s Doig Chapel. Per his wishes, his body was donated for 19 years as a teacher in the Flint Public husband Bill ’39 in 2003. the Lee County (Fla.) School District. She to Michigan State University Medical School. School system. Mrs. Cates loved to knit and also was a member of the Buckingham Albert Eurich ’42, of Essexville, Mich. Presbyterian Church of Fort Myers and He is survived by Shirley, his wife of 57 years; four children, often donated her works to local charities. Beckie L Bechill of Alma, Bonnie J. (Mark) Thompson of She is survived by a daughter and son, three died Oct. 21, 2011, at age 91. He served in the SHARE Club walkers. She is survived Merrill, Christopher B. (Michelle) Bechill of Lowell and grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. the Army Medical Corp. from 1944-46 in by her daughter, two granddaughters and D.O. Gregory Brian Bechill (Helena) of Ariz.; five grand- Kauai, HI. After he was discharged as a three sisters. She was preceded in death by children: Jeremy (Sarah) Thompson of Midland, Adam Elizabeth “Betty” Ostler ’40, of Saginaw, master sergeant and company medical ser- her husband and a son. Thompson of Breckenridge, Nicole Thompson of Midland, Mich., died Oct. 25, 2011, at her sum- geant, he joined his father at A.W. Eurich Hannah Bechill and Christain Bechill of Lowell; five great mer cottage in Bay View. Mrs. Ostler Plumbing and Heating Company until his Charles Saxton ’51 of East Jordan died grandchildren: Austin, Dallas, Collin, Kendall, and Alivia Oct. 13, 2011. During his time as a stu- Thompson of Midland; a brother, Ronald (Betty) Bechill of taught school in Saginaw and Petoskey, retirement in 1986. Among many affili- Prudenville; nephew Robert Bechill of Mt. Pleasant; nieces completing her teaching career with the ations, he was president of Good Times dent he lettered in baseball, basketball

<< Katherine (John) Wyckoff of Ariz., and Patricia Bechill of Saginaw Public School system from where Dance Club for two years and Baytown and football. After graduating he pitched

Above: Dr. Verne Bechill at the 1990 Commencement congratulating his son, Greg ’90 Prudenville, plus four great nephews and four great nieces. she retired. She assisted her husband, F. Dance Club for five years with his wife in Minnesota and Canada’s semi-pro base- Jerome “Jerry” Ostler in running Jerry Lucille, and a lifetime member of the ball teams. In 1977, he was inducted into Ostler Flowers and Greenhouse. She is YMCA for more than 50 years. He is sur- the Alma College Hall of Fame. He was a dedicated teacher for 27 years at Garden

36 accents www.alma.edu 37 In memoriam In memoriam

City, Warren Fitzgerald and Warren of Divinity degree from Princeton Doug Sinclair ’69, of St. Paul, Minn., died Dr. Richard “Dick” Howe, friend and also helped Alma College with its annual Donna Nichols of Kalamazoo and friend Lincoln. Among his survivors are his lov- Theological Seminary and served as pas- April 7, 2011. He was a loving husband, supporter, died Nov. 14, 2011, at Masonic Community Fund Drive. Dr. Howe is sur- of Alma College died Aug. 18, 2011. She ing wife of 60 years, Nellie, five children tor in Presbyterian churches in Parkland, dad, grandpa and friend. He is survived by Pathways in Alma. Dick’s father Henry vived by his wife of 62 years, Donna, four earned a bachelor’s degree from Western and 11 grandchildren. PA; Lincroft, NJ; Oklahoma City, OK; and his wife, five children and four grandchil- Howe, became head of the History children, six grandchildren and a sister-in- Michigan Normal School in 1939. She was Haverstraw, NY. When he retired from the dren; and dear friend, John Kunik ’71. Department at Alma College in 1939 and law, Dorothy Swanson. a chemistry teacher for a short period then Julia (Judy) Phillips Jackson ’52, of ministry, he continued to demonstrate his moved his family to Alma. After graduat- took some time off to raise a family of five. Beaverton, OR, died Sept. 17, 2011, in generous heart by taking care of severely Lynnda Dianne Volotta ’76, formerly of ing from Alma High School in 1944, Dick Charles “Chuck” William Miller, friend When her children were in high school and Portland, OR. Born in Highland Park, disabled adults as a coordinator of care at Grand Rapids, died Sept. 22, 2011, at her attended Northwestern University and was of Alma College, died July 19, 2011, in college, she pursued a master’s degree in she was a teacher and social worker after ARC in New York for another 10 years. home in Bear Lake, Mich. Mrs. Volotta a member of the ROTC. He served in the Haslett. He leaves behind his compan- library science and worked as a librarian at graduation from Alma. In 1978, after a few Harold is survived by his wife, two daugh- worked for many years as a freelance Navy from 1947-1949. He went on to study ion, Helen (Meyer) Schweinsberg of Nazareth College. She also was a long time years in St. Louis, MO, the couple moved to ters and a brother. graphic designer in the Grand Rapids area. at Cleveland Medical School and graduat- Kalamazoo. He also is survived by his member of the Presbyterian Church. She is Beaverton, OR, where Julia worked at and In her spare time she made greeting cards, ed with his Doctors in Podiatry Medicine. three children, five granddaughters and survived by four children, 11 grandchildren retired from the Beaverton Library. She was Mary Payne Colingsworth ’62 of Plainwell enjoyed reading, knitting and sewing. Dr. Howe operated his own practice in many friends. Mr. Miller served in the U.S. and 15 great grandchildren. preceded in death by her husband Robert died Oc. 14, 2011. She dedicated much of She is survived by her two children, four Alma from 1953 to 1995. While in practice Navy and then graduated with a mechani- ’51, and son Rex. She is survived by five her life to the care of others, whether as grandsons, her parents and sister. She was he joined the staffs of Gratiot Community cal engineering degree from Michigan Ellen Wertz of St. Louis died Nov. 23, sons and nine grandchildren. mother, teacher, daycare provider or friend. preceded in death by her husband, Donald Hospital and Masonic Pathways, and con- State University in 1950. He spent most 2011. Ellen was a friend and employee of She was a life-long member of the First Stevens, on Aug. 22, 2011. tinued his practice at Masonic Pathways of his career with Consumers Power Alma College in the Registrar’s Office for Dr. John Coe ’54 of White Lake died Aug. Presbyterian Church of Plainwell, where until his retirement in 2005. Dr. Howe Company (Consumers Energy). In 1976 he 12 years. Ellen is survived by her husband 27, 2011. Dr. Coe and his wife, Margo, Kristin Stahlbush ’91 she was an elder and deacon, played hand , of Toledo, Ohio, loved being with his family. He enjoyed transferred to Alma as district manager, Michael; two children, Megan Wertz ’04 enjoyed 54 years together. Dr. Coe is a bells and sang in the choir, among other died Sept. 2, 2011. After graduation from sailing in regattas at Rock Lake, watch- retiring in 1985. Chuck and Helen enjoyed and Timothy Wertz ’06; and sister Arlene Korean War Veteran and worked in the activities. Many fond memories were cre- Alma, with majors in philosophy and his- ing Northwestern University football several summers together at Orange Ruszkowski of Breckenridge, retired Alma West Bloomfield School District from 1972- ated at the family cottage on Pine Lake, tory, she earned a Juris Doctorate from the and Alma College women’s softball. He Beach, AL. College housekeeper. 1994. He is survived by his wife, three chil- near Delton. She is survived by a brother, University of Toledo Law School in May dren, six grandchildren and four siblings. her four children and their families. 1994. Later that year she was admitted to the Ohio State Bar and began her general Ruth Anderson Cullings ’57, of David Freestone ’69 of Alma died Aug. 24, practice of law. She is survived by her life- Frankenmuth died Nov. 17, 2011. She 2011. As an Alma student, he was presi- long partner Theresa Dunlop, and their taught in the Saginaw Township School dent of Alpha Pi Omega and a member of daughter Hannah Elizabeth. District for 25 years before retiring, then . In 1972, he student- returned to the school district for the next taught history at Alma High School. Later LaVerne Hastings Craighead, of Naples, Alma Accents and your friends would like to know what you are doing these days. year as a volunteer. For 47 years Ruth that summer, he went to Kalamazoo on a Fla,, died Oct. 22, 2011. Laverne was a mem- Please use this form to send your news about promotions, honors, appointments, enjoyed square dancing. She is survived by tip from his father to apply for a manager’s ber of the Alma College Board of Trustees Letgraduations, us hear marriages, births,from travels andyou! hobbies. We will consider running photos, such as pictures of mini-reunions and old her husband, Clyde, and four children, 12 position opening with the Secretary of from 1975-1981. She was married to Detroit Alma College photographs, but due to limited space, we are not able to run baby or wedding photos. If you would like former class- grandchildren, one great-grandchild, two State. He later returned to Alma to take architect Robert F. Hastings until his death mates to contact you, include your contact information. The content of Alumni News is the responsibility of the editor. sisters, and two brothers. the manager’s position with the Secretary in 1973 and to banker Rodkey Craighead of State office in Alma where he worked from 1979 to 2008, both former trustees of the Name: ______Class Year: ______Maiden Name: ______Leona Lanshaw Earegood ’57 , formerly of for 38 years. In 1975 he became active with College. Quietly and significantly, she gave to Alma, passed away in Frankfort, Mich. on the Gratiot County Players. Mr. Freestone others. She was a PEO member, church mem- Address: ______Telephone: ______Oct. 3, 2011. After graduating from Alma, was an avid supporter of Alma College’s ber and community participant, including City: ______State: ______Zip: ______E-mail: ______she conducted graduate work in pursuit of an women’s basketball and was referred to as being a docent with the Detroit Institute of Please include my: ___ Address ___ Phone ___E-mail MA from University. As “Super Fan.” As a gift for his devotion to Arts. She is survived by two daughters, Carlyn an inspiring pianist, Leona performed at the the team, he was awarded the game ball and Cynthia, as well as five grandchildren and Alumni notes: ______music camp in Interlochen and later taught from the Division III NCAA Women’s three great-grandchildren. piano lessons to several students in the Alma National Basketball Championship vic- ______area. For several years she taught kinder- Forest Green of Riverdale died Nov. 23, tory in 1992. While employed, he was ______garten and pre-school at Republic and Pine very active in the Gift of Life organ donor 2011. Mr. Green was employed in the Alma Avenue elementary schools in Alma. She is program, where he taught other managers College Physical Plant for 25 years. He ______survived by a son and brother. Her husband, enjoyed traveling, fishing and western mov- and employees the importance of having ______Elsworth, passed away on Oct. 22, 2011. drivers mark the back of their license to ies. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn and become an organ donor. He is survived her children; a sister Margret; special sister- Return to: Director of Alumni Engagement, Alumni Notes, Alma College, 614 W. Superior St., Alma, MI 48801-1599 Harold Turner ’58, of Boones Mill, VA, by his wife of 37 years Christie McLeod in-law, Mary (Doug) Zimmerman; and died Oct. 9, 2011. He received a Master Alumni notes can also be submitted online at Freestone ’74, and son Craig ’01. many nieces, nephews and friends.

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