accenAlma College Alumni Magazine News and Events for Fall 2009 ts
Celebrating 60 Years of the Barlow Trophy accents Fall 2009
editor Mike Silverthorn designer Beth Pellerito photographer Skip Traynor printing Millbrook Printing contributors Candace Dugan Susan Heimburger Klotylda Hartshorn Phillippi ’64 Saundra Tracy Amanda VanLente-Hatter alumni notes compiled by Anna Dysinger ‘11 board of trustees Candace Croucher Dugan, Chair Ron R. Sexton ’68, Vice Chair Larry R. Andrus ’72, Secretary Bruce T. Alton Sarah Sarchet Butter ’88 C. David Campbell ’75 David K. Chapoton ’57 James C. Conboy Jr. Gary W. Fenchuk ’68 John C. Foster ’67 Nancy E. Gallagher ’80 Glenn D. Granger ’83 Greg Hatcher ’83 Richard P. Heuschele ’59 Kevin R. Johnson David P. Larsen ’84 David F. Lau Donald A. Lindow John McCormack Thomas J. McDowell James T. McIntyre ’69 Stephen F. Meyer ’80 Roger L. Myers Antje Newhagen ’67 Marcia J. Nunn ’73 David T. Provost ’76 D. Michael Sherman ’74 Lynne Sherwood
honoring the bishop The memory and spiritual ideals of the late Bishop Thomas Mar Makarios remain alive in a figurative campus sculpture that was unveiled and dedicated last May. Above, Father Chacko Lazarus, brother of the Bishop, speaks at the dedication. See page 22 for the full story. features
6 The Barlow Trophy winners: Where are they now? Since 1949, sixty-one graduating seniors have won Alma’s most pres- tigious student award for academic achievement and contributions to campus and community.
12 Joel Barlow ’29: ‘Kind, generous, enterprising, witty’ As a tax lawyer, Joel Barlow never lost a case representing many of the nation’s top corporations. He entertained presidents, became a partner in one of Washington, D.C.’s, most prominent firms, raised a family and cherished the memories of his alma mater. The Johnsons are this year’s Homecoming Grand 16 A passion for service Marshals. Read about it on page 13. Jim McCarty ’69 doesn’t seem to know the meaning of retirement. The recipient of the 2009 Distinguished Alumni Award continues to serve his community with his special blend of quiet leadership and passion for service.
19 Highland dancer demonstrates value of supporting community causes departments Bree Brownlee ’04, recipient of the 2009 Young Alumni Award, does more than just teach her students how to dance. She shows them how to support causes close to their hearts — notwithstanding her own battle 6 great scots with cancer. 21 thistle & pipes 21 Alma welcomes national merit finalists 24 highland games Efforts to attract nationally recognized students are increasing not just the 26 tartan tidbits quality of the student body, but also, little by little, diversity on campus.
24 Changing of the guard Charlie Goffnett, who led the 1991-92 Scots to the Division III women’s basketball national championship, has retired after 22 years. His re- accents is published in October, Febru- placement is Keisha Brown, a former student-athlete at Tulane Univer- ary and June for alumni, parents, students sity and a highly successful high school coach. and other friends of Alma College. Send comments to Mike Silverthorn, Accents editor, Alma College, 614 W. Superior St., Alma, MI 48801-1599, or e-mail: mission [email protected]. Alma College’s mission is to prepare graduates who think critically, alumni.alma.edu/accents serve generously, lead purposefully and live responsibly as stewards @ of the world they bequeath to future generations.
www.alma.edu 3 ‘Celebrating our Barlow recipients is a celebration of all Alma alumni’
Each spring, I retell Joel Barlow’s story at the This year’s Barlow recipient is Will Allen, a President Saundra Tracy Honor’s Day convocation. This story describes 2009 alumnus from the thumb of Michigan. Mr. Barlow’s desire to honor the role Alma Will is the first Alma recipient of a Jack Kent College played in his own successful career by Cooke Graduate Scholarship that provides establishing the student Barlow Award. The 61 him full support for up to five years of study at recipients of the Barlow Award are testaments Oxford University. What a delight to read Will’s to the impressive accomplishments of Alma name as this year’s recipient, though as is typical, College alumni. The Barlow recipients represent there were three very worthy finalists. a wide range of professions. They have made a The morning I am writing this article, I had difference in businesses, classrooms, churches, coffee with Barlow recipient Tim Throm ’04. non-profit organizations and communities. You Tim was a first-year student when I interviewed will see in their stories profiled in this issue of for the Alma presidency. At that time he was Accents that they, like Joel Barlow ’29, used their unsure of his future and, I believe, a bit home- Alma College experience as the catalyst for what sick; Tim is now a successful lawyer in Chicago they would do in the years ahead. and already giving back to his alma mater so I have had the opportunity to announce the that other students like him might have access to winners of this prestigious award the past several an Alma education. years and to get to know even more of these The Barlow recipients highlighted in this edi- impressive individuals. One Barlow winner tion of Accents are indicative of the success is now a member of the Board of Trustees — and contributions of the broader community of Richard Heuschele ’59, a radiologist in Saginaw. Alma alumni across the years. Although each His experiences since Alma have taken him to Barlow recipient took a different path, they the medical profession, as president of various share a commitment to making the world a bet- regional medical societies and to serving his alma ter place. Celebrating our Barlow recipients is a mater as a trustee. celebration of all Alma alumni. David Buhl, Barlow 1979, recently assumed the I look forward to adding one more Barlow position of vice president for finance and admin- name to the list before I retire next summer. istration at Alma College. He is the first Barlow These remarkable individuals are a strong testa- winner to return to Alma College in a profes- ment to Alma’s success in preparing graduates sional role. Like many of his Barlow colleagues, who “think critically, serve generously, lead his career traverses different professional sectors. purposefully, and live responsibly as stewards of He comes to Alma from an executive position a world they bequeath to future generations.” with Comcast and is tapping his strong liberal arts skills to quickly make the transition from the corporate world to higher education.
4 accents Dr. Tracy announces retirement, effective June 2010
Dr. Saundra Tracy, Alma College’s 12th president, has announced her retirement effective in June 2010. “The timing is right for Alma College,” says A message from the Board Chair Tracy. “My decision to retire next summer is based not only on the desire of Doug and Presidential search to proceed myself to spend more time with our children and grandchildren, but also because the Col- from a position of strength lege is at the right place and time to enter a presidential transition. “By the end of next year, I will have served Many years ago, I was struck by John F. The Board’s Executive Committee has a as Alma’s president for almost a decade,” she Kennedy’s words carved into the walls of Presidential Search Committee in place and says. “We will have accomplished most of the the Kennedy Center on the banks of the functioning under the chairmanship of Da- goals in our current strategic plan, completed Potomac. His words were inspirational as vid Provost ’76, past Board chair. The Board the Open Windows Campaign and gained they praised the arts. It wasn’t that I had has retained Dr. R. Stanton Hales, former re-accreditation for the next 10 years. It will not at some unspoken level appreciated president of The College of Wooster and be time to develop a new strategic plan and leadership; rather, it was that I had not now with Academic Search, to support the campus master plan and to begin thinking fully appreciated the power of strong lead- Committee’s comprehensive national search. about the next campaign. It is the right time for a presidential transition so the next presi- ership nor had I understood its rarity. We have worked with Dr. Hales to estab- dent can lead these important efforts.” More than once in Alma College’s history lish a plan that will thoughtfully engage all constituencies of the College in the selec- Tracy enters the final year of her presidency have we experienced the benefits of good, as the College completes several major solid leadership. In the next few months, tion process. The process as well as the final selection will honor the Alma College liberal facility improvements, brings its largest- Alma College will be celebrating both the ever fund-raising campaign to a success- arts traditions, as it will honor the spirit and gifts President Saundra Tracy’s leadership ful closure, and implements its innovative has bestowed upon the College over the intent of our powerful mission statement. collaboration with Equatorialis University last eight years and the leadership we are We expect to embark upon an inauguration in Ecuador. confident our next President will bring to process in 2010 that will sustain the hope, “It is a privilege to serve as Alma College’s our community. excitement and confidence that Dr. Tracy, president,” says Tracy. “We have an excellent As Chair of the Alma College Board of the faculty and the staff have worked so Board in place and a strong senior leadership team. The campus community is working Trustees, I recognize that first and foremost hard to create over these past years while well together and is committed to the Col- among the Board’s governance duties is the simultaneously embracing new possibilities as Alma College greets its 124th year. lege’s mission. I anticipate that the presiden- appointment of the College’s President. It tial transition will be a very smooth one. is a task overflowing with responsibility Candace Croucher Dugan “I have greatly appreciated the support and to our vision and mission and opportunity Chair, Board of Trustees friendship of the Alma College community to renew the same. This Board and this throughout my presidency,” she adds. “This College are well positioned for this transi- is a special place that my husband Doug and tion. Our search will go forward from a I will miss greatly.” position of strength and will benefit from Retirement plans include a move to Bloom- Dr. Tracy’s and the Board’s shared devotion ington, Ind., where Doug and Saundra will to a dignified and graceful presidential suc- be closer to their adult children and grand- cession process. This is not to suggest that children. Their son Steven and wife Leslie Dr. Tracy’s legacy is set. As is her wont, she and daughter live in Indianapolis. Daughter will be working hard and long to advance Elaine and husband Brian and their two the promise of Alma College through the boys live in Chicago. 2009-10 academic year.
www.alma.edu 5 The Barlow Trophy winners Wh e r e a r e t h e y n o w ?
Since 1949, sixty-one graduating seniors have won Alma’s most prestigious student award for academic achievement and contributions to campus and community. The Barlow Trophy winners are listed here, with original hometowns and updates on what each has accomplished since leaving their alma mater.
6 accents 1957 Paula E. Bare Acton, Midland A former schoolteacher in Battle Creek and Clawson, Acton, who resides in Clarkston, worked for and retired from Goodwill Indus- tries of Greater Detroit as a case manager and later a supervisor of a day and work activity program for mentally ill adults. She learned Christian fundamentals and principles from Dr. Ross Miller and scientific principles from Dr. Howard Potter and appreciated friendship and mentoring from Dr. Ernest Barker and Charles Skinner. “Alma College gave me a McCall Howrey Bare Acton great basis in faith, academics and fundamental human relationships,” she says. 1960 Mary L. McCall Howrey, Alma +1949 Kathleen Shaw Meadows, 1958 Henry A. Bova, Garden City A retired certified public accountant who now Plymouth A retired professor of modern languages resides in Ann Arbor, Howrey owned a small +1950 Margaret C. Powers, Saginaw at Beloit College, Bova taught for 36 years, CPA firm for 20 years and held other accounting “Peggy” was a speech teacher at schools in primarily French but also some Italian and positions. At age 64, she swam, biked and ran Muskegon, Saginaw and Chicago before retir- German. “Alma was just right for me,” he says. two triathlons, including the Michigan Senior ing in 1985. Her accomplishments included a “I had a weak secondary school background. Olympics. The mother of four children, her master’s degree from the University of Michi- At a small and caring institution, I was able to oldest child, Patricia Ghekas, is a graduate of gan and election to Who’s Who in American catch up fairly quickly, satisfy my intellectual the class of 1985. “Steve Meyer was very good at Colleges and Universities. She had a passion for curiosity, and grow.” After Alma, he earned teaching the concepts and principles of account- directing theatrical productions. An avid trav- a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin- ing,” she recalls. “Dr. Gazmararian was one of eler, she was proud that she had visited several Madison and did post-doctoral study at several the most personable and accessible professors.” countries in every continent in the world except European universities. He resides in Evansville, Antarctica. She died in August 2007. Wisconsin. 1951 Joseph J. Thibedeau, Newberry 1959 Richard P. Heuschele, Alma A retired mathematics teacher, Thibedeau This University of Michigan Medical School taught and coached for approximately 40 years graduate and current member of the Alma in public schools in Michigan. He was a long- College Board of Trustees is a part-time staff time active member in the Michigan Associa- radiologist with Advanced Diagnostic Imaging tion of Public School Mathematic Teachers and in Saginaw. He is past president of the Saginaw attended many of the organization’s annual County Medical Society, the Saginaw General conferences. At Alma, he played football, Medical Staff and the Michigan Radiological basketball and baseball and later coached in all Society. He recalls that professors Arlan Edgar, three sports in high school. “My wife Doris and Lester Eyer, Charles Skinner and Howard Pot- I and family are celebrating our 60th wedding ter “instilled a love of laboratory science.” anniversary this year,” he says. +1952 Janice E. Bleil Sullivan, East Detroit
+1953 Robert A. Willits, Caro Frevel 1954 Peggy J. Smith Stuckey, Alma A retired schoolteacher living in Alma, Stuckey 1961 Linus K. Frevel, Midland “spent a lifetime teaching and helping many children learn and grow.” Her Alma memories 1962 Margaret L. Emmert Neal, include singing in the a cappella choir, serving Walled Lake in the Alpha Theta sorority, and attending Peggy Neal, a former “Kiltie Lassie,” is retired mandatory chapel twice a week. She cites and living in Pittsburgh but continues to serve among her greatest accomplishments raising Heuschele as Webmaster for the Homeless Children’s four children “to be independent and who are Education Fund, a local homeless shelter, her college graduates, have successful careers and church and a condo blog. Career accomplish- are raising their children to value education.” ments include teaching first-year and develop- mental English as an adjunct at three colleges, +1955 Edna M. Lee LaFleur, Detroit directing membership and external affairs +1956 George H. Spriggs, Redford for a D.C. higher education association and serving as a technology specialist at Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind. Alma prepared her to “do the unexpected professionally and find adventure and satisfaction wherever we lived.”
+ Deceased
www.alma.edu 7 1966 William E. Brown, Midland 1967 Keith W. Bird Jr., Peru, Indiana 1968 Edward R. Garrison, Huntington East, West Virginia Since 1983, Garrison has been a faculty member at Dine College, the “institution of higher education of the Navajo Nation,” at the campus in Shiprock, N.M. He taught biology in the early years but more recently has focused Garrison on public health workforce development in the Navajo Nation. This fall he has transitioned Trade Organization in Geneva. He also was a Bird into a new position as executive director for negotiator of the NAFTA agreement with Can- the Dine Institute of Health, which will focus ada and Mexico. “Alma gave me the knowledge on both academic and research services among and skills to pass the Foreign Service Exam 1963 Ethel F. Smith Leichti, Holt the Navajo people. He was greatly impacted by — the pass rate in those days was less than two 1964 Thomas A. Bailey Jr., Dearborn his experience at Mayflower School in Nigeria percent — and become a U.S. diplomat,” he A professor of computer science at the Uni- where he was the Alma College Africa Fellow says. He resides in Denver, Colorado. in 1966-67. versity of Wyoming for nearly 30 years, Bailey 1972 Kay Consolatti Anderson, Paw Paw taught physics and mathematics at Alma 1969 John W. Becker, Clyde, Ohio 1973 Richard C. Scatterday, Plainwell College in the 1970s before achieving his Ph.D. Pastor Becker has led his “flock” at First Pres- from Michigan State University in 1978. He byterian Church in Vassar, Mich., from 1972 1974 Dala Beld, Alma now serves as department head and chair of the until the present. “The first church I was called “In one way or another, I have spent my profes- faculty senate at UW, residing in Laramie. He to serve is the only church I have served,” he sional life helping others get their ideas across has eight children (four adopted, two guardian- says. “Anything I have accomplished derives in English,” says Beld, an English language ships), plus more than 30 foster children. When from that unusual fact and from the gracious specialist in Spain who teaches English, busi- he’s not teaching, he most likely is patrolling a partnership I have had with the people of First ness communication and academic writing in ski hill; he has served as a national ski patroller Presbyterian Church of Vassar.” Alma memo- a university program for administrative assis- for 20 years. ries include “getting a paper back from Profes- tants. “I am afraid I disappointed some of my +1965 Jerry G. Smith, Nashville sor M.J.J. Smith that had so much red ink on it, mentors with my initial postgraduate choices. The atrium on the second floor of the Swanson I thought his pen must have broken.” Rather than pursue a Ph.D. program in history or law school, I became a ‘lowly’ teacher. As Academic Center is named for Smith, who 1970 Louise E. Hamel, Mt. Pleasant was a TKE, biology major and Alma’s first that teacher, I have never stopped learning. My Africa Fellow (now the Jerry G. Smith Global 1971 Larry A. Nelsen, Milan classroom is my laboratory, and every day I Service Fellow). Following graduation, Smith A retired U.S. diplomat in the foreign service, learn something.” Nelson, a former college debater, served in Eu- went on to earn a Ph.D. from the University of 1975 George R. Thompson, Goodrich rope, Africa, the Middle East and Canada. He Michigan and was a member of the Alma biol- A partner with the law firm Thompson, was one of the U.S. negotiators of the Uruguay ogy faculty from 1969-71 prior to his untimely O’Neil and VanderVeen, P.C., in Traverse City, Round trade agreement that created the World death in 1972. Thompson has been cited a “super lawyer” each year the list has been published. He also has received commendations for public service and served as an adjunct college lecturer. His favor- ite professors “are hard to limit but certainly in- clude M.J.J. Smith, Mike Yavenditti and Henry Klugh, along with Wes Dykstra and Tracy Luke,” he says. Among his favorite memories was a trip to Washington, D.C., with friends in 1973 to protest the Nixon Inauguration. 1976 Edward L. Kain, Bad Axe A sociology professor at Southwestern Univer- sity, a small liberal arts college in Georgetown, Texas, Kain has published more than 70 books, chapters and articles on family change and in the scholarship of teaching and learning. He won the American Sociological Association’s top national teaching award in 2007. “My edu- cation at Alma transformed my life,” he says. “A third of a century later, there are still faculty members, now retired, whom I see regularly, and fellow students with whom I regularly celebrate holidays.” Smith
+ Deceased
8 accents 1977 Martha Dasef Buckberger, +1980 Lisa Cresswell Combs, Ann Arbor Grosse Pointe Combs, a biology major, was a science resource Dr. Buckberger is an associate professor teacher at Occidental College in Los Angeles of mathematics and computer science at at the time of her untimely death due to cancer Randolph College in Lynchburg, Va., and in 2007. After Alma, she went on to study president of Gateway Regional Rescue Inc., physiology at the University of Michigan. She a newly formed dog and cat rescue in central was one of 17 students from around the world Virginia that has save more than 4,000 animals to study in the Jackson Laboratory Summer to date. Among her greatest accomplishments Research Program in Bar Harbor, Maine, dur- are “getting a Ph.D. in mathematics and being ing the summer of 1980. a role model to other young women who wish 1981 Julie M. McKay, Utica to pursue a career in a male-dominated field.” Dr. McKay, a former cheerleader, AZT mem- Her four years at Alma “were some of the best ber and biology major at Alma, is now an inter- in my life,” she says. nal medicine physician in Ponte Vedra Beach, 1978 Dan S. Dosson, Midland Fla., focusing on geriatrics. She has completed 10 years of academic medicine at the University of Florida, 13 years in private practice and one year as a federal physician caring for veterans. Olson Finnorn “I loved learning from Dr. Edgar,” she says. “One semester, he paid me to collect ‘daddy- 1985 Joanne M. Olson Finnorn, long-leg’ spiders for his research. It was a great Escanaba lesson in patience and courage.” A resident of Bloomfield Hills, Finnorn is 1982 Lynn D. McLellan Krauss, Warren vice president and general counsel for OnStar. “Over the past nine years, I have had the 1983 Eric P. Blackhurst, Midland incredible opportunity of participating in This the growth of OnStar’s business, building its corporate alliance strategy and, more recently, leading lawyer with its legal operations,” she says. Previously, she The Dow worked for General Motors Corp. “My claim Chemical to fame is that I lived in Berlin when the wall Company fell,” she says. “The German language skills received the I acquired at M.J.J. Smith’s urging and under company’s Dr. Arnold’s tutelage enabled me to get an 2008 North internship at the Deutsche Bank in Berlin.” American Blackhurst Regional Genesis Award for Excellence in People Devel- opment. He has held various legal assignments within Dow and is currently chief legal counsel Beld for the global Performance Products Division. Favorite Alma memories include producing weekly issues of The Almanian under deadline 1979 David V. Buhl, Lansing and “terrific ideological and political debates” This former TKE has come home to his roots; among history classmates. “We were an intense he was named vice president for finance and group unafraid to challenge each other, and administration at Alma College effective June history professors M.J.J. Smith, Mike Yaven- 2, 2009. Prior to his new position, Buhl held ditti and Jim Schmidtke loved to stir us up.” various managerial positions with Ameritech/ Michigan Bell in Detroit before joining Com- 1984 Thomas J. Hill, Battle Creek cast Corporation in 1996, eventually serving This former fraternity president and student as senior vice president. He decided to return trustee is now an interventional cardiolo- to his alma mater because, “After 30 years of gist and president of West Shore Cardiology managing in the business world, I am ready Consultants in Muskegon. He also directs the to do some work that has more meaning to catheterization lab at Mercy Health Partners; future generations and provides more personal the lab was recently recognized as having the satisfaction,” he says. top angioplasty program in the state. Favorite professors include Richard Bowker, who “had an incredible enthusiasm for teaching and discovery”; Larry Wittle, who made “com- plex concepts very understandable”; and John Arnold, who added a second year German class Hill that enabled Hill to meet the requirements for membership in Phi Beta Kappa.
+ Deceased
www.alma.edu 9 1986 Donald C. Wheaton Jr., St. Clair Wheaton is an attorney and president/owner of his own solo general practice in St. Clair Shores. “I have been able to litigate cases involving difficult engineering processes, complicated medical issues, and numerous other knowledge areas a lot more easily, given the broad base of information and tools for research I acquired at Alma,” he says. He has served 16 years on a public school board of education, worked with hundreds of youth as a Boy Scout leader, backpacked 65 miles in the New Mexico backcountry, became a certified scuba diver, and is the father of two sons. 1987 Grace E. Hannon Flood, Sterling Heights Flood has a variety of titles at the University of Wisconsin, including clinical assistant profes- sor in the department of family medicine and assistant medical director in the department of Hardwick care and quality innovations at the UW Medi- cal Foundation. She credits biology professors Larry Wittle, Richard Roeper and Arlan Edgar 1988 Charles B. Hardwick Jr., Beaver 1991 Todd Klesert, Parchment for teaching her to “persevere through a re- Creek, Ohio A resident of Minneapolis, Klesert is an search study even when all my subjects (newts) “Chip” is senior pastor at Second Presbyterian ophthalmologist/retina surgeon, an assistant were dying,” and to understanding “that a bog Church in Bloomington, Ill. — the largest professor at the University of Minnesota School is not only an incredible ecosystem but a great PCUSA church in Illinois outside of Chicago. of Medicine, an author of numerous peer- place to hang out with friends.” She lives in Among his greatest accomplishments are “inte- reviewed research articles and textbook Sun Prairie, Wisc. grating what I learned at Alma into three dif- chapters, and principal investigator for several ferent careers — accounting at Dow Corning, clinical trials. He lists among his greatest ac- management consulting at Bair & Company complishments climbing Mt. Rainier and earn- in Madrid, and pastoring within PCUSA,” ing his Ph.D. At Alma, he competed in sports, he says. He has preached in seven different wrote for The Almanian, and took a Spring countries — U.S., Spain, England, Guatemala, Term to Jamaica. “It is the sum of all these ex- Mexico, Canada and Honduras. At Alma he periences, more than coursework, that shaped majored in Spanish and international business. me personally and professionally,” he says. He has a Ph.D. from Princeton Seminary. 1989 Karen Gaffke, Port Hope 1990 Kelly Spalding-Hall, Manton This self-described “small-town girl” went on to earn a law degree and become an attorney for Consumers En- ergy Company, spe- cializing in rate and regulatory litiga- tion. Currently, she Spalding-Hall is a stay-at-home mom of five school-aged children. “My favorite Alma memories include four great years on the women’s basketball team, including an MIAA championship my junior season, and a Spring Term research seminar in London led by Drs. M.J.J. Smith and Burnie Davis,” she says.
Hannon Flood
Klesert
10 accents 1992 Louis Cubba, Utica to anticipate the reactions of others. “I learned from him that the essential part of advocacy is 1993 Kathryn Hribar, Eastpointe understanding the motivations behind those on 1994 D. Aaron Howald, Lima, Ohio the other side,” he says. 1995 Mary Kay Ecken, Caro 2005 Shabnam Mirsaeedi Farahani, A physical therapist at St. Vincent Hospital Midland in Indianapolis, Ecken is a member of the “Alma prepared me for the potential of great Alma College Alumni Board. She has traveled opportunities in my life,” says Farahani, who extensively, gone on several medical missions, left Alma to pursue master’s degrees at the serves on the Indianapolis Jingle Bell Run University of Cambridge and the Institute planning committee, took a sabbatical to work d’Etudes Politiques in Paris. She currently on her Spanish, and has tried several hob- resides in Hamburg, Germany, and works for bies, from swing dancing to musical theatre to OC&C Strategy Consultants, an international Hong crochet. “Alma prepared me for grad school, management and strategy consultancy in the but it also gave me a thirst to learn and do new private sector. Her top accomplishments: 1) in- things,” she says. “I still have good friends 2000 Melissa A. Desjarlais, Otisville ternships and publication by the Organization from my time at Alma and love coming back of Economic Cooperation and Development, to campus.” 2001 Jennifer M. Gibson, Saginaw 2) publishing an essay on international energy 1996 Kristina Markstrom, Cheboygan 2002 Alicia A. Halligan, Flushing negotiations, and 3) convincing OC&C Strategy Consultants to start pro bono projects. Markstrom lives in Raleigh, N.C., where she is 2003 Shannon J. Finnegan, Lake Ann director of client services for Performance Im- With a POE in environmental policy and pub- 2006 Cameron J. Ray, Colorado pact, an organizational learning company. She lic advocacy, Finnegan works in Washington, Springs, Colo. credits professors Jacques and Gazmararian D.C., as an analyst for the U.S. Government Ray is a deputy sheriff for El Paso County, for her understanding of “the nuts and bolts of Accountability Office. She is assigned to a work Colorado, after completing a POE in music business,” and Dr. Palmer for the “inspiration team that is evaluating the American Recovery technology. His favorite memories include fall and direction” he gave to her writing. “Alma and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Before GAO, football games with the Kiltie Marching Band, was the launch pad to my career,” she says. she served as a presidential management fel- long hours and rehearsals with the percussion “Through my connections at Alma, I had in- low at the U.S. Federal Air Marshal Service. ensemble, and the vibrant campus community. ternship and career opportunities that I might “Alma’s liberal arts program has been ex- He learned to enjoy life from faculty mem- otherwise not have had.” tremely beneficial to my federal career because bers Ray Riley, David Lawrence and Bishop 1997 Monique Averill, Greenville the greatest challenges our country faces are Makarios and that “literature doesn’t have to be multidisciplinary in nature,” she says. complicated” from Robert Vivian. “I wouldn’t 1998 Brandon Miller, Saginaw trade the [Alma] experience for anything else Following graduation, Miller, with an interest 2004 Timothy J. Throm, Menominee in the world,” he says. in international diplomacy, served in the Peace Throm, a first generation college student from 2007 Marcus A. Hong, Charlotte, N.C. Corps for four years in Ethiopia and Madagas- the Upper Peninsula who went on to earn a This former homecoming king, Pine River car. He also was a press aide to Ambassador law degree at the University of Michigan, is Anthology editor and student ministry coordi- Madeleine Albright at the U.S. Mission to now a mergers and acquisitions attorney in nator is entering his senior year at Princeton the United Nations. He eventually enrolled Chicago with Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Theological Seminary in the master of divinity at Harvard Law School. He plans to move Flom LLP. Among his favorite Alma profes- program. He has interned at three churches to Washington, D.C., in September 2009 to sors was Michael Yavenditti, who taught him in New Jersey and Pennsylvania developing continue his legal career with an international worship experiences, visiting parishioners, law firm. “My Alma experience was definitely preaching and designing Christian education the launching board for getting a kid from curriculum. Favorite campus memories include Hemlock High School all the way to Harvard Sunday evening worship in the Chapel, the Law School,” he says. Shakespeare Spring Term to London with Dr. 1999 Amanda Schafer, Mt. Pleasant Ottenhoff, and the East Coast choir tour with An active advocate for community service, Dr. Nichols and Tony Patterson. Schafer is director of evaluation for the 2008 Terra Lynn Teague, Monroe Michigan Nonprofit Association. She previ- Teague recently completed her first year with ously served as the director of research and Unilever as the sales analyst on the national evaluation for the ConnectMichigan Alliance, Walmart account for Frozen Indulgences-Ice as well as the associate director of the Michigan Cream and Frozen Desserts. She also is helping Campus Compact (MCC). While working for analyze the impact of a new Walmart test store MCC, she created two national service pro- layout. Since graduating, she has finished her grams — the Michigan Service Scholars and first marathon, enrolled in culinary school and AmeriCorps*VISTA programs — that benefit is learning the guitar. “Alma has instilled in college campuses and their surrounding com- me the value of determination, the success that munities. Already, participants in these two follows a diligent work ethic, and most im- programs have earned more than $1.7 million portantly, true authenticity — be who you are in college scholarships. Teague always and stand proud for what you believe,” she says.
www.alma.edu 11 Joel Barlow ’29 was a man of extraordinary insight, ability, intellect and accomplishment. As a tax lawyer, he never lost a case representing many of the nation’s top corporations. He entertained presidents, became a partner in one of Washington, D.C.,’s most prominent firms, traveled the world and raised a family. “Daddy cherished his years at Alma College,” says Eleanor “Poesy” Barlow, Joel’s oldest daughter. “He got a truly fine education at Alma and was set on a direction for life. When it was time to give back, he created the Barlow Award in honor of his mother, who was such an influen- tial person in his life. She told him he could do anything he wanted.” The Barlow Trophy is Alma’s Allen most prestigious award for a grad- uating senior. Established in 1949 2009 William Allen, Unionville and presented at Alma’s annual Alma’s most recent Barlow winner is enrolled Honors Convocation, the Bar- at Oxford University in England after receiv- low Trophy recognizes academic ing the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Founda- achievement for a graduating tion Graduate Scholarship, which recognizes high-achieving, lower-income students. He is senior in the top 10 percent of the focusing his research and studies on connect- class. The award is determined by ing immigration with local development. “I am humbled to represent Alma College as its first JKC Scholar,” he says. “There’s a unique sense of community found among the faculty, students and staff at Alma that motivates me to Joel Barlow ’29: give back and represent Alma as best I can.” ‘Kind, generous, enterprising, witty’ Editor’s note: Many thanks to the Barlow recipients who responded to our survey request for informa- Barlow Trophy creator never lost a case as a prominent tion on their career and life accomplishments. tax attorney in Washington, D.C.
His commitment to serving the needs of his students was uncompromising. Help continue his legacy.
Make a gift to the Dr. M.J.J. Smith Collaborative Research Endowment. Contact Carol Hyble, Vice President for Advancement, at 1-800-291-1312 or [email protected]
12 accents a vote of Alma’s Student Con- prominent corporate law firm gress and faculty members. of Covington and Burling, But more than just academic working for future Secretary achievement, the award also rec- of State Dean Acheson. ognizes contributions to campus “Acheson liked Daddy very and community. much and gave him good “He valued citizenship, honor, cases to work on,” recalls contributions to others and Poesy. “In the 1930s, Acheson doing good to others,” says advised him to go into tax Poesy of her father. “He law, which at that time was believed in the whole person. the ‘Siberia” of the law. He That’s what he found and followed the advice, became treasured at Alma.” a partner in the firm and rep- resented all of the country’s Sixty-one seniors have received great corporations, including the award since it was first pre- General Motors and Dupont.” sented in 1949. The recipients form a prestigious group of He had unusual access to the some of Alma’s most accom- country’s great leaders, accord- plished alumni. They include ing to Poesy. He golfed with Grand marshals: Mart and teachers, preachers, physi- Dwight Eisenhower, sang with cians, attorneys, accountants, Harry Truman and advised Dottie Johnson analysts, foreign diplomats, John F. Kennedy. corporate executives and more. For his last case, he was hired Two of Alma College’s closest friends will serve as “He believed very much in the to defend the Catholic Church liberal arts,” says Poesy, who against attempts by the federal grand marshals of the 2009 homecoming parade. government to tax local church- describes her father as “kind, F. Martin “Mart” Johnson and his wife, Dottie, have es for certain operations. been long-time supporters of Alma in a variety of ways. Mart was a member of the Board of Trustees for more than three decades and most recently chaired the Open Windows Campaign Cabinet, a group of volunteers providing leadership for the College’s largest fund- raising effort. generous, loving, involved in “The case took him to Rome, everything he did, enterprising where the Vatican allowed Despite not attending Alma, Mart feels a special link to and witty.” him to work on the case even Alma. He grew up in a Presbyterian family. His sister, Esther Johnson Frandsen, attended Alma, and his “He would sit at the dinner though he wasn’t Catholic,” mother and father always were supportive of the College. table and recite poetry,” she recalls Poesy. “He had an audi- says. “He knew music compo- ence with the Pope and worked “Mart and Dottie have been part of the Alma College in the Vatican library. He en- sitions. He was a wonderful family for more than 30 years,” says Carol Hyble ’78, joyed the experience immensely barbershop quartet singer. He vice president for advancement. “Their relationship and eventually won the case.” believed in the educated man with Alma is as close as any alumnus. They just love the and woman.” Joel Barlow died in 1997 at the College, and we’re so pleased that they will be back on After graduating from Alma age of 89. Surviving him are campus Oct. 10 as our homecoming grand marshals.” in 1929, Joel Barlow went into his three daughters: Eleanor Johnson is retired chairman of the board and former teaching but soon realized he “Poesy” Barlow of Friendship, CEO and president for JSJ Corporation. He and Dottie would have difficulty support- Maine; Jae Barlow Roosevelt, ing a family as an educator Cambridge, Mass.; and Grace live in Grand Haven. during the Great Depression. Barlow Bowman, McLean, So he went to George Wash- Virginia. ington Law School, graduat- — Mike Silverthorn ing in 1935. He joined the
www.alma.edu 13 Visit www.alma.edu/alumni/homecoming for events, schedules and more
14 accents An Alma institution: Pizza Sam Ortisi receives third annual Community Service Award
One thing most alumni agree on about Sam around the corner to his present location in of homecoming weekend and then took Ortisi: He makes a great pizza. 1962. Ever since, Alma students and Gratiot the idea to Sam. At first, he was reluctant For nearly 50 years, “Pizza Sam” has pre- County residents regularly dine in his because we wanted him to come to campus pared and sold his special brand of pizza restaurant or order takeout. Most Friday or and talk with the alumni, and he didn’t want and Italian food. One would be hard pressed Saturday nights, patrons wait in line before to do that. to find a single Alma College alumnus who a table is available. “But we talked him into it, and Pizza Sam has not visited his restaurant on Superior Make no mistake: Sam is a character. He Night has been a great tradition ever since,” Street, just a few blocks from campus. says what is on his mind. He demands that he says. “The alumni love it. It’s a great way “When it comes to food, I want the best,” his employees work hard and up to his stan- for them to get together in one place and says Ortisi. “I buy the best flour, cheese, pep- dards. But he also has a strong sense of fair enjoy Pizza Sam pizza.” peroni and anchovies. I don’t buy junk. The play and doing what is right. The Community Service Award recognizes food has to be right.” “I don’t cheat people,” he says. “ If I make a Sam’s strong ties to the community and “Pizza” Sam Ortisi is the recipient of the mistake, I will make it right.” Alma College. third annual Alma College Community Ser- In 1996, former alumni director Bob “Sam has been a fixture in the Alma com- vice Award, presented during the College’s Eldridge ’71 had the idea to schedule an an- munity and has served Alma College and its Community Day festivities on Sept. 12. nual Pizza Sam Night at the College during students for decades,” says Brent Neubecker A prime example of Pizza Sam’s reputation homecoming weekend. ’95, alumni relations directior. “You do not with alumni occurred at last May’s Maroon “Pizza Sam is such an institution in Alma,” get an event named after you at Homecom- and Cream Gala at Orchard Lake Country says Eldridge. “Every time alumni come ing if you have not reached out to the many Club in metro Detroit. With two of Sam’s back, whether it’s for homecoming or the students who have attended Alma. He is frozen pizzas up for auction, a table of golf outing or some other reason, they go to very deserving of this year’s Community alumni outbid several others and purchased Sam’s because they spent so much time there Service Award.” the pair for $400 and then promptly baked as students. — Mike Silverthorn and consumed them on site. “We started bantering around the idea Sam came to Alma in 1960, setting up with the Alumni Board about scheduling a his pizza shop on State Street. He moved campus Pizza Sam night on Friday evening
www.alma.edu 15 Distinguished Alumni Award Jim McCarty ’69
16 accents A passion for service
Jim McCarty ’69 doesn’t seem to have etched in my memory the sight and the 2007. As a Saranac native and high school know the meaning of retirement. moment in time as we gathered around Old athlete, McCarty jumped at the chance Main watching her burn to the ground.” to chair the “Light Up The Fields” drive, After working almost 40 years in the print- raising about $25,000 for new lights at the ing business, he retired only to be named Between his junior and senior year of col- football and baseball fields. president of the Ionia County Community lege he married his wife of 41 years, Teresa. Foundation. He serves on the board of the The couple dated in high school and recon- In 1974 he co-founded the Saranac Lions Independent Bank Corporation, founded nected in college. Teresa graduated from Club, serving as president, editor of the his local Lions chapter and stays involved in Western Michigan University. They have Lions of Michigan magazine and was named his church. two daughters and two grandchildren. Lion of the Year. He served as a member of the Davenport University Foundation McCarty was awarded the Distinguished Board for over a decade. He was named to Alumni Award for his special blend of “Winning this award came the Board of Directors of Independent Bank quiet leadership and passion for service. as a big, big surprise. I Corporation in 1993 and currently serves as This is the highest honor given to alumni certainly feel unworthy chair of the compensation committee. and recognizes graduates whose service and professions have set them apart. of this wonderful honor, As a member of Saranac Community Evan- gelical Covenant Church, he has served in Coming from a small town, McCarty was recognizing that there are a number of capacities, including as chair drawn to Alma because of the size, the qual- so many, many deserving of the church council, campaign chair of ity of education and the opportunity to play alums over the past four the church building program, chair of the basketball and baseball. An English major, decades. I feel very humble church growth task force and stewardship he was the sports editor of The Almanian committee, and member of two pastoral and a writer for the yearbook. and grateful.” search committees. “I covered the infamous ‘Snow Bowl,’ when After graduating magna cum laude, Mc- In 1995, McCarty volunteered as a member the day after a surprising October snow Carty planned to earn his master’s degree in of the Board of Directors of the Ionia Coun- storm the ‘maroon and cream’ completed a journalism. Instead he went to work for his ty Community Foundation, also serving as perfect gridiron season and claimed its first father’s printing and graphic design firm, marketing and development director and MIAA football championship in 16 years McCarty Communications, when his father vice president. The foundation has awarded with a 34-0 domination of previously unde- started having heart problems. more than $1.4 million in grants to non- feated Olivet College on Homecoming Day profit organizations and scholarship funds in 1967,” he says. “I did a lot of writing for my dad during the summers while in college, and the firm itself throughout Ionia County. In May 2009 he He also was active in the Delta Sigma Phi handled a lot of writing,” he says. “I took was named president. Fraternity. some classes at Davenport University and “My four-year experience at Alma prepared “I remember as a freshman living in Mitch- read some books to learn the business side of me in so many ways for what life had in ell Hall, walking to the commons for dinner things, but most of what I learned was from store for me in the years to come,” he says. with friends, several of whom remain so my father.” “I am realistic to know that I have most as- even to this day, and hustling back to our He became owner and president of the suredly not made a world of difference. But rooms to anxiously catch the news about the company and was named Saranac Business I am convinced that Alma College enabled Vietnam War,” he says. “And I shall always Person of the Year. He and Teresa retired in me to make a difference in my world.” — Amanda VanLente-Hatter
www.alma.edu 17 Hebert Service Award Duffy Duncan ’72
Sage advice: ‘Never forget who butters your bread’
Why Alma? on April 9, 2005 I quit smoking. I started a In 1977 he became a buyer and merchan- ‘bucket list,’ and I wanted to get together diser for the Wickes Corporation, and then For some, it’s the promise of a quality with my fraternity brothers.” became a manufacturer’s representative in education, small class sizes and interaction the Christmas industry. While traveling he with professors. For others, it’s the chance to What started out as a gathering of fraternity met his wife of 28 years, Jennifer. He joined compete in collegiate sports or the welcom- brothers has exploded into a 2010 Home- State Farm and has owned a State Farm ing campus. coming event. With the help of Gary Stano ’83, Duncan has collected information for agency for 29 years. For Duffy Duncan ’72, it was the challenge. about 900 alumni and hopes to bring them “I finally found a career where I could help “I decided to go to Alma because my high all in as part of homecoming in 2010. people every day and get paid for it,” he school adviser was rather firm in his rec- Duncan is the 2009 recipient of the George says. “When I attended Alma, I was some- ommendation that I not choose Alma,” he Hebert Service Award, which recognizes what of a free spirit, continually challenging says. “I had been accepted to attend CMU alumni who give back to Alma College and ‘the establishment.’ I learned very quickly and Michigan State, but he thought I might the Alumni Association. The award was what it meant to be held accountable for not succeed at Alma, and I wanted to prove created in 1961 in memory of George He- your choices. I learned discipline and time him wrong.” bert ’20 to honor his service to the College. organization very quickly as well. This has He did. Duncan graduated with an English served me well in my career.” “Duffy is an accomplished business owner major and minors in education and phi- but always finds time to serve his alma Duncan and his wife have two children — losophy. While at Alma he was a member mater,” says Alumni Director Brent Neu- John Duncan ’07 and Jeff Duncan ’10. His of Delta Gamma Tau (now Sigma Alpha becker. “He is always happy to hear from family ties to Alma extend to his sister, Janet Epsilon) and performed with Alma bands. you and his loyalty, passion and service Duncan Sweet ’74, her husband Dave Sweet “One of my memories was when I raised my toward Alma makes him an ideal recipient ’74 and their son, Jeff Sweet ’07. hand in an English writing class to inform for the Hebert Award.” In addition to his job with State Farm, Professor Mason that I smelled smoke,” he After graduating from Alma, he spent Duncan volunteers as a high school swim says. “At the time we were on the second four years in Montana learning the lumber coach and has a passion for photography floor of Old Main. Approximately 60 min- industry in hopes of becoming a lumber bro- and walleye fishing. utes later it had burned to the ground.” ker. He worked as a lumberjack and a mill “My father was my greatest mentor, and Recently, Duncan organized “The Great worker for the St. Regis paper company. he would continually tell me ‘Never, ever Reunion of 2005,” when he gathered 68 “I was one of the guys you see who would forget who butters your bread,’” he says. alumni and their families from all over the walk on the huge logs in the lumber mill “My education at Alma provided me with United States. ponds, as the logs were being led to the mill the knife I use to butter my bread. For that I “Between Feb. 6 and April 8, 2005, I had at- to be turned into the lumber you buy in a am extremely grateful.” tended the funerals of nine friends,” he says. store,” he says. — Amanda VanLente-Hatter “I started looking at my own mortality, and
18 accents Young Alumni Award Bree Brownlee ’04
Highland dancer demonstrates value of supporting community causes
At Alma, many people combine two of not only my family, but who I am. I never through the St. Andrew’s Society of Detroit. seemingly unrelated passions into thought that at 26 I would have nine kids — Called “Queen of the Highlands,” the one experience. A prime example is Bree but I feel as though I do!” program crowns a queen and court that rep- Brownlee ’04, who continues to pursue her But Brownlee doesn’t stop at teaching her resent the Society and promote their Scottish passions for communications and highland students how to dance. She’s also teaching heritage at its annual highland games. dancing in her career and her community. them how to give back to the community Originally drawn to Alma because of Her commitment to service in her commu- and to support causes close to their hearts. dancing, Brownlee attended the Highland nity and Alma College has earned her this Her students participate every year in the Festival for years. The small campus and year’s Young Alumni Award. Juvenile Diabetes Walk in support of a class- friendly atmosphere made it a perfect fit. By day, Brownlee works as a senior account mate diagnosed with the illness. She was involved with the Alma College executive for the advertising firm Leo Bur- For the past three years, the group also has Dance Company, Pi Delta Chi, Gamma Phi nett Detroit. A temporary assignment on the walked in Relay for Life and the Making Beta, Panhellenic Council, Order of Omega Cadillac team doing events and promotions Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk. Brown- and the cheer team. turned into an assistant account executive lee was diagnosed at 23 with a rare form “My senior year we were performing ‘Cop- position working on various projects for of breast cancer, and during the same time pelia’ while the softball team played at Na- GM brands. In her current position she period her father, Keith, was diagnosed with tionals,” she says. “We had a radio on back- works on the ACDelco parts brand. prostate cancer. Both are now in remission. stage so we could listen to the game, and By night, she and her mother Sheila own “With cancer so heavily influencing my life while we were on stage and ‘mingling in the and operate the Queen of Scots Dance and the lives of my young dancers — some town’ we would get updates from whoever Academy, teaching students of all ages com- were only four when I was originally diag- had just come on stage,” she remembers. petitive Scottish Highland dance. nosed — we decided to get involved so that “The support we all had for each other was awesome to not only see, but to feel and be a “We pride ourselves on not only providing they could feel as though they were doing part of. Alma was so much more about the world-class dance instruction, but also a fun something to give back and help Ms. Bree relationships and building yourself personal- atmosphere where kids can find life-long and ‘Big Daddy,’ as my father is lovingly ly, than just a great education. These things friends, learn life lessons and values and called by my dancers,” she says. helped me become who I am today.” make wonderful memories,” says Bree. “My Brownlee also started a scholarship program dancers and their families are an extension for local young women with her mother — Amanda VanLente-Hatter
www.alma.edu 19 In January of 1986, after asking a police of- ficer to help him find the Chicago Mercan- tile Exchange, he walked up to traders and clerks in the lobby, asking each of them for a job. He was hired at E. F. Hutton. Three months later he joined Chicago Research and Trading, at the time one of the largest options trading firms in the world. He re- mained at the Merc until 1994, trading both futures and options. In 1995, he received his real estate license and has been selling both commercial and residential real estate in Chicago and on the North Shore since. “Real estate affords me a lot of freedom, allowing me to attend Alma events and meetings on and off campus, create new re- lationships with faculty, students and recent graduates, and foster existing relationships with those I was on campus with,” he says. Smith Distinguished Service Award McDonough and his mother, Eleanor, work together raising funds for the Glen Patrick McDonough ’85 McDonough Music Scholarship, started by
Alma relationships spark continued service to alma mater
Patrick McDonough ’85 still enjoys the has visited campus to attend events,” says the Beaver Island Club of Grand Rapids experiences that Alma gives him and looks alumni director Brent Neubecker ‘95. “Pat- in 2004 to honor his father. This past July, back fondly on those from the past. rick is all of this and more.” he and his mother organized a concert on the front lawn of RedDeer, his cabin on From his first days on campus he realized McDonough, a current member and former Beaver Island, raising enough money for “that never again would I be able to walk president of the Alma Alumni Board, two scholarships. Past recipients include two out the door of my dorm room, or move graduated in 1985 as a business administra- young violinists enrolled at Crooked Tree from table to table in Hamilton, and have tion major with plans of earning his MBA Arts Center. nothing but peers who are friends at every or becoming a stockbroker. Instead, the turn. I still think of my time spent in Hamil- day after Spring Term ended he headed to “My Alma experience has proven to be ton when at dinner.” Mackinac Island with Todd Wynne-Parry invaluable, both professionally and socially, ’87, where he worked for the summer at and I marvel at the number of professors, McDonough is the 2009 recipient of the The Inn at StoneCliffe. students and alumni who continue to inspire Smith Distinguished Service Award. me at all times,” he says. Named in honor of Art ’38 and Carra “In addition to being extraordinarily beauti- Jones ’42 Smith, the award is given an- ful, the Mackinac experience taught me “I am honored to be receiving the Smith nually to an alumnus who continuously something very important,” he says. “Many Distinguished Service Award and am eter- serves Alma College. of the folks that I met that summer had very nally grateful to my parents for affording unconventional career paths. The knowl- me the opportunity to be a part of the fam- “The Smith Award is given to an alumnus edge gained from those relationships has ily, the tribe, the clan known as Alma.” who constantly helps students, alumni and made a number of career decisions much friends with connections in their field and — Amanda VanLente-Hatter more informed and enlightened.”
20 accents Alma welcomes national news merit finalists Efforts to attract nationally recognized students are increasing ca m p u s not just the quality of the student body, but also, little by little, diversity on campus. For the past three incoming classes, Alma has awarded a lim- Barlow Award recognizes ited number of full scholarships, including tuition, room and board, and fees, to National Merit, National Achievement and faculty excellence National Hispanic Scholar finalists. Patrick Furlong and Carrie Parks-Kirby were the 2009 re- “Most of these students are in our top scholarship tier, but by cipients of the Barlow Award for Faculty Excellence at Alma bridging the gap we are demonstrating Alma is a rigorous College. institution that values high scholarship,” says Evan Montague, assistant vice president for enrollment. First presented in 1982, the Barlow Awards recognize faculty members for excellence in teaching; scholarly, creative or per- To become a National Merit finalist, students must score high forming work; and college and community service. Recipients on the PSAT and complete an application process. The Nation- receive $1,000 cash grants. al Achievement program is a subset of National Merit, recog- nizing African American students. National Hispanic scholars Furlong, professor of must go through a nomination and application process. history and a scholar of African history and fas- Other colleges offer some kind of aid for these students, says cism, was nominated for Montague, but for many large state schools the aid is only the quality of his teaching between $1,000 and $5,000. Alma is one of a few colleges that and his commitment to offer these students full scholarships. research and service. “When we make that initial call to parents and students, many “His dedication to his of them believe it’s too good to be true,” he says. “This is a way students is exemplary,” to attract the best and brightest students who might never have wrote one of his nomina- looked at Alma otherwise.” tors. “His lectures are not It’s also a way to draw in a more diverse student body. Accord- merely informative but ing to the 2008 Fall Term Enrollment Report, there was a 1.9 witty as well, instilling in percent increase in minority enrollment from 2007 to 2008 with Furlong his students an awareness the largest growth in Hispanic and African-American students. and grasp of the intel- The 117 minority and international student enrollment com- lectual concepts and investigative procedures appropriate to prised 8.5 percent of the total enrollment last fall, with new their discipline of choice.” students accounting for 37 percent of the overall minority en- Parks-Kirby, rollment. The previous five-year average had been 6.6 percent professor of or 85 students each fall. art and design, “We expanded beyond National Merit finalists to include was recognized National Achievement and National Hispanic scholars as a way for her artistic to present Alma as an attractive environment for students of creativity, color,” Montague says. teaching and devotion to her The scholarship is what drew Tennessee junior Aysha Abiade students. She to consider Alma. She was looking for a small, private school teaches ceram- but was having a difficult time finding scholarships. Remem- ics, sculpture, bering a letter from Alma, she decided to visit and was drawn drawing and by the friendly atmosphere. 3-D design. Pennsylvania junior Catalina Martinez had a similar experi- “Her ceramics Parks-Kirby ence. After receiving the letter from Alma, she applied, adding and drawings it to a list of 14 other schools. She was admitted to Notre Dame, draw rave reviews, and she is now among a small number of her top choice. ceramic sculptors whose works are included in the major pic- “I visited Alma thinking it would be a joke,” she says, “but torial anthologies of her field,” wrote one of her nominators. when I got here, I just knew it was right. Notre Dame had always been my dream school — it was very hard to admit that it just wasn’t the right fit. But it didn’t ever feel like it would be home. Alma did.”
www.alma.edu 21 DDT Conference receives news national endorsement The consensus statement drafted by a panel of experts campus that convened at Alma College in March 2008 to review the link between DDT and human health has received national exposure. Campus sculpture remembers After a review of nearly 500 epidemiological studies, the conference researchers developed a consensus statement the Bishop calling for increased efforts to reduce exposure to DDT and to develop alternatives to using DDT for malaria The memory and spiritual ide- control. als of the late Bishop Thomas Mar Makarios remain alive in The consensus statement was published in Environmental a figurative campus sculpture Health Perspectives, the premier academic journal in envi- that was unveiled and dedicated ronmental health. Articles about the statement appeared last May. in the online versions of Environmental Health News and Scientific American. The Bishop was a prelate of the Malankara Orthodox Church “This is great news,” said Ed Lorenz, director of Alma of India. He was founder of the College’s public affairs program. “Alma College and the American Diocese and the first greater Alma community participated in a remarkable Metropolitan Bishop of Canada, public health event, whose merit has now been endorsed UK and Europe, and South by a peer reviewed academic process.” Africa. The consensus statement emerged from the Eugene Ke- He began teaching at Alma naga International DDT Conference, jointly organized by College in 1983, launching a 25- the Pine River Superfund Citizen Task Force and Alma year association as professor of College’s Public Affairs Institute and Center for Respon- religious studies, committed to sible Leadership. More than 200 participants attended the introducing students to differ- conference, which was held near St. Louis, Mich. where a ences between Eastern and Western modes of religious thinking. chemical plant leaked massive levels of DDT into the Pine River. In 1983, the area was named a Superfund site by the “Alma College provided a nest for him as he worked tirelessly to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. build a foundation for his church in the Western world,” said Fa- ther Chacko Lazarus, church priest and the Bishop’s brother. Father Lazarus welcomed a crowd of approximately 150 people to the dedication ceremony, many of whom drove long distances to view the sculpture and share memories of their former family member, spiritual leader, teacher, colleague and friend. “Every day he reached into the hearts and souls of millions of people from Alma College,” he said. “He taught us to love and respect others, regardless of race and gender. “He had a passion to teach, and he left an impression on his stu- dents,” he said. “He was a father figure to them and enjoyed the time he spent with them. He loved Alma College dearly and was a goodwill ambassador for Alma College.” The 13-foot high clay sculpture cast in bronze by Michigan artist Mark Chatterley depicts a central figure with wings standing, arms raised and palms together in a prayerful gesture. The wings, at close inspection, are made up of figures that get progressively smaller. The sculpture is located at the center of the Alma College campus along a sidewalk amidst a grove of evergreen trees. Video highlights of the campus ceremony were broadcast in India and throughout the world on Malayala Manorama TV News and AsiaNet TV.
22 accents Will Allen named Alma’s first Students study alternative energy Jack Kent Cooke Scholar in Sweden, Denmark
Will Allen, a 2009 graduate Alternative energy was the focus of an intriguing Spring Term from Unionville, is enrolled at course last May that took 19 Alma students to Sweden, Denmark Oxford University in England and England. as the result of being one of “The Governor has a stated goal of moving Michigan to the fore- 30 scholars from around the front of developing alternative and renewable energy, and Sweden world selected to receive the and Denmark are recognized for their leadership in developing Jack Kent Cooke Foundation alternative and renewable sources of energy,” says Micheal Vick- Graduate Scholarship. ery, professor of communication and co-director of the Center for Allen was selected from a pool Responsible Leadership (CRL). of approximately 650 appli- “We also saw the course as a way to support CRL students in cants nominated for the 2009 their development of international awareness of a critical public award, which recognizes high-achieving lower-income issue and to foster the development of leadership projects,” says students. The scholarship provides up to $50,000 for edu- Murray Borrello, instructor of environmental science and co- cational and living expenses per year for up to six years of director of the CRL. graduate study. Students visited the Harvest Wind farm in Michigan and discussed At Oxford, Allen is pursuing a master’s degree at Queen Michigan’s renewable energy policy issues with the Wind Energy Elizabeth House, where he is focusing his research and Group of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. studies on connecting immigration with local development. Traveling to Uppsala, Sweden, students heard lectures from fac- “My career goal is to work for an organization like the ulty and visited the community of Hagaby to learn about its efforts International Labour Organization, conducting field to become environmentally sustainable. At the Vattenfall Energy research to ascertain migrants’ working and living condi- Plant, they learned about waste-to-power generation operation and tions,” says Allen. “Later, as a consultant or senior adviser, district heating and cooling. I hope to use this kind of experience to formulate labor and immigration policies that more accurately reflect the From there, students traveled to Stockholm, Sweden, to learn lived realities of local citizens. about the Stockholm 2030 plan for energy and environmental sus- tainability and Hammerby Sjostad, Stockholm’s first fully planned “Oxford’s Queen Elizabeth House is one of the few de- sustainable community. partments prepared to specifically research migration and globalization,” he says. “My research includes two areas — In Copenhagen, Denmark, students listened to presentations on connecting immigration with development, and enabling the Copenhagen 2015 sustainability plan, the upcoming U.N. local citizens to understand and harness these connections Global Conference on Climate Change in Copenhagen, and wind for their own uses.” power and fuel cell technology. They also visited Danish Oil and Gas for a seminar on energy issues and alternatives in Denmark, Europe and the world. The last stop was Wroxton College in England, where students heard from policy experts, including a former Member of Parlia- ment, on energy and sustainability. They also visited a new waste management plant and a successful, large, sustainable, organic, mixed-use farm. “This trip helped us realize that there are ways of addressing big issues like renewable energy by cultivating cooperation between government, universities and the private sector,” says Borrello. “It was great to see the students develop a very clear appreciation of interdisciplinary thinking and come to the realization that energy and climate problems are real and global.” In other Spring Term courses, students explored food globaliza- tion by visiting the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, Greater Chicago Food Depository, and Michigan dairy farms, while international law students went on a whirlwind tour of Europe, where they explored sights of war atrocities.
23 Students in a forest in Sweden www.alma.edu games hig hland Changing of the guard Goffnett Retires; Brown Named Women’s Basketball Coach
Keisha Brown, a former student-athlete at Tulane Uni- versity and a highly successful high school coach, succeeds Charlie Goffnett as the head women’s basketball coach at Alma College. Goffnett, who led the 1991-92 Scots to the Division III national championship, announced his retirement last June after 22 years as head coach. He continues to coach the women’s golf team. Recognized as one of the top Division III coaches in the na- tion, Goffnett led the Scots to three MIAA titles, five NCAA Tournament berths and one national championship. He com- piled an overall record of 334-217 and recruited and coached 28 All-MIAA selections and seven league MVPs. “We thank Charlie for all that he has accomplished as coach of our women’s basketball program,” says Alma Athletic Director John Leister. “He brought our program into the national spotlight and his successes are well documented.” “Each of the coaches here at Alma College work very hard with our student-athletes to be both good players, and more importantly, good people,” says Goffnett. “The champi- onship was great, but even better was working with the Goffnett athletes on the team, and I feel very fortunate to have had that opportunity.” Brown comes to Alma after coaching the Sacred Heart Acad- emy boys’ basketball team in Mt. Pleasant, leading the Irish to a 114-30 record in six seasons, including a Class D state runner-up in 2006. “Keisha brings energy, humility and a commitment to excel- lence, both on the court and in the classroom to our campus, and we are happy to have her,” says Leister. In college, Brown played at Tulane University in New Orleans, where she was a four-year all-conference player. She was inducted into the Tulane Athletic Hall of Fame and is the only player in school history to score over 1,000 career points and grab over 1,000 career rebounds. Brown is also the all-time school leader in total rebounds and rebound average. She played professionally for Tamperen-Pyrinto in Finland from 1994-1996 and averaged 23 points and 15 rebounds during her career. Brown also was named as the league’s Most Brown Valuable Player during her time in Finland.
24 accents Great things are happening with the Hogan Center renovation. We began this summer with major renovations in the existing build- ing, including the locker rooms, training room, pool, classrooms and coaches offices. As this issue of Accents goes to press, the steel foundation is being put in place for the new gymnasium/convocation center. This is an exciting time for Alma College! This is a $10.2 million project. Our goal is to raise $5.5 million, with the remainder being funded through a bond issue. As of August, we have raised $2.3 million. Thank you to those of you who have supported this project and the broad impact it will make. We encourage other alumni and friends to help us complete the funding for this impor- tant project. Contact Carol Furrow Hyble at 1-800-291-1312 to discuss how you can help. Visit www.alma.edu and click on the live Webcam link to watch the progress of the Hogan Center renovation!
Announcement of Upcoming Accreditation Visit for Alma College
Alma College For the past 18 months, Alma College has The public is invited to submit comments is seeking been engaged in a process of self-study, regarding the college to: comments addressing the Commission’s requirements Public Comment on Alma College from the and criteria for accreditation. The evalu- The Higher Learning Commission public in ation team will visit the College to gather 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400 preparation evidence that the self-study is thorough Chicago, IL 60602 for a periodic and accurate. Following their review, the evaluation by its regional accrediting agency. team will make a recommendation to the Comments should address substantive The College will undergo a comprehensive Commission regarding continuing status matters related to the quality of the institu- evaluation visit November 2-4, 2009, by a for Alma College. The action regarding tion or its academic programs. Comments team representing The Higher Learning accreditation status will be taken by the should include the name, address, and Commission of the North Central Associa- Commission itself. The Higher Learn- telephone number of the person providing tion of Colleges and Schools. Alma College ing Commission is recognized by the U.S. the comments. The Commission does not has been accredited at the bachelor’s degree Department of Education. treat comments as confidential. level by the commission since 1916. Accredi- Written, signed comments must be tation is voluntary. received by October 2, 2009.
www.alma.edu 25 Stay Connected! If you have recently moved to a new loca- Greetings, loyal Scots! tion, had a change in employment and wish to become involved with the alumni Tartan Club in your region, simply contact the Alumni Office at 1-800-291-1312 or [email protected] for You may have heard that our Alma more information. College Homecoming theme for 2009 is Happy Days. What a great idea when our country and especially our state continue to go through some truly rough financial times. Alumni notes submissions As I think back to that wonderfully Birth and wedding announcements hokey TV program, I am reminded of Due to space constraints, we are unable to publish my own “Happy Days” at Alma. Are any of you old enough to wedding or baby photos. We do not publish an- remember the great sandwiches Jimmy would create at our own nouncements of engagements or pregnancies, but “Arnold’s” — the Tyler Union? A favorite was fried egg and encourage submissions following the event. cheese — perhaps the original breakfast sandwich! Note submissions Even though we had our carefree moments — much like Richie, Alumni notes can be submitted online at
26 accents alumni notes
1939 Julia Schaafsma Bosma ’39 is not travels between Australia, Hawaii and East show how they apply to individuals today. • just surviving but living a happy life by the Bay in San Francisco visiting his kids and Michael Nestell ’70, now retired for six years grace of God. She is in good health and playing golf. from Perry Public Schools, is a sought-after hopes to see most of her nine children this 1965 Van Raber ’65 writes that remark- meet starter in the Lansing area for track year. She sends greetings to her surviving ably, everything is great. The antiques and cross country. He happily works part Jann classmates 91 years old or older. business survives, though is diminished. The time at Hawk Hollow Golf Course. Hoekje Nestell ’71 continues to work as a 1949 Maxine Miller McLeod ’49 has now occurring skin cancers (remember how I used to bake?) are treatable. Life is good. manual medicine physical therapist, treating retired from performing in various choirs babies, children and adults. She entered her after 68 years. 1968 Marlianne Mauch Midyette ’68 most recent decade by completing the Hawk 1951 Rev. James Anderson ’51 spends six fosters large dogs that are scheduled to be Island Triathlon. Their daughter, Brittany, months at his Florida home and six months destroyed and tries to find them loving is a math teacher for Perry Public Schools at his Albuquerque, NM home. He encour- homes. Almost 400 dogs have been placed and recently completed her master’s degree. ages alumni from 1947 to 1951 to visit. Ad- since August 2008. Faith Rescue Website: • Roberta “Berta” Schlosser Santoni ’70 re- dress: 2570 Ambrose Lane, Port Charlotte, faith.petfinder.com. • Gertrude Evans Reif tired June 1 from teaching French and Eng- FL. Phone: (941) 624-5979. ’68 announces the birth of two grandsons, lish. She plans to travel, visit Alma friends Augustus born Aug. 7, 2007, and Elias born and just do whatever she wants to. She has 1953 Beu Beattie Banwell ’53 and Ray July 31, 2008. • Susan Spears Rose ’68 at- no grandchildren yet. • Ben Thomas ’70 Banwell ’54 are fairly healthy and have five tended the wedding of her daughter, Alissa enjoys RV vacations all over the USA and children, 12 grandchildren and 12 great- Rose, in Louisville, KY, in May. Alissa is a welcomes any to join! grandchildren. professional opera singer and assistant pro- 1971 Don Coulter ’71 still is proud to 1954 Frank Williams ’54 and Cleo John- fessor of voice at Mansfield State University have graduated from Alma without taking son Williams ’56 were to celebrate their 55th in PA. Susan’s son-in-law, John Shanchuk, psychology, sociology, philosophy, politi- anniversary in August. Frank celebrated his is a computer tech for a large advertising cal science or English. He is completing 34 82nd birthday. agency in NYC and plans to join the faculty at MSU in January. years as an attorney in Manassas, VA with 1955 Carol Cummings Kutzner ’55 was six more years until retirement. He has planning to travel to the National Square 1969 Eilene Bisgrove ’69 is a public been married 30 years. He recently received Dance Convention in California and then to health nutritionist and United Methodist the Silver Beaver Award from the Na- sightsee in Iceland in August. Deacon. She is publishing her health promo- tional Capital Area Council of Boy Scouts of tion curricula for churches. • Steve Secrest 1957 Lotus Witham Young ’57 has a new America for adult leadership with scouting. ’69 has been retired for almost six years but address: 1021 Valley Bluff #9, Perrysburg, • Mary Gilbert ’71 is retired and doing some admits it doesn’t seem that long. He and his OH 43551. E-mail: [email protected]. home renovations. She will be race walking wife, Darlene, still live in Wixom and par- She’d love to hear from classmates. in the National Senior Games. ticipate in various volunteer activities. He is Catherine Robie O’Brian ’72 1958 Phyllis Dresbach Hedberg ’58 says active with Starfish Family Services, a family 1972 is di- Seattle is a great place to visit. Her daugh- service agency based in Inkster. However, rector of arts education grants and programs ter’s twins, Charlie and Kendall, were born they find plenty of time to travel. at the New Hampshire State Council on the in March. Arts in Concord, NH. She lives in North 1970 Karen Burgess ’70 has two Suiton, NH. • Craig Wesley ’72 attended a 1959 Lauralee Shaft Barton ’59 is no grandchildren, Harriet, 4, and Matthew, reception at the Chinese consulate in New longer active in the classroom. She continues 22 months. She soon will have three more York City May 23 hosted by Ambassador to work with the Western Association of grandchildren. Harriet will have a brother Peng. The reception was held in honor of Schools and Colleges on visiting teams. in early July. Matthew will have a sister in 150 Chinese students returning home after 1960 Thomas L. Vaillancour ’60 of- late July, and Karen’s youngest daughter spending the year studying in New York. ficiated his last sporting event in a boy’s JV will have her first child in early November. Craig served as advisor to four students from baseball game at Williams High Field. It “Being a grandparent is the greatest!” • Chengdu in Sichuan Province. Kenneth Mitchell ’70 announces the publica- went nine innings and the visitors won. Mark Jacobson ’73 tion of his book, Justice and Generosity - The 1973 is retired after 1964 Jeane Dugan ’64 has been appoint- Teaching of the Bible Concerning the Poor, 28 years with Aetna. ed to the Menaul School’s Board of Trustees. by PublishAmerica. His book addresses the 1974 Deborah Johnson Panter ’74 Menaul School is a Christian independent passages of Scripture that portray a concern retired as a school social worker for Roch- secondary school in Albuquerque, NM. • for the poor, explain what they mean and ester Schools in July 2008, and her husband, Richard Hastings ’64 enjoys retirement. He
www.alma.edu 27 Mark, retired from GM at the same 1980 Chuck Fiebernitz ’80 still time. They enjoy the extra time for is sports editor at The Mountaineer travel and visiting daughters and newspaper in Waynesville, NC. Wife, two grandchildren now. She wel- Angie, is a professor of accounting comes contact from fellow alumni. and finance at Western Carolina • Lynette McLeod Sheldon ’74 is University. “Before we got hitched celebrating the graduations of her in 2005, I stole her from Insteel in twin daughters. Roxanne graduated Mount Airy, where she was a control- from the International Academy in ler. Her boss was Vice President Bloomfield Hills and will be attend- Mike Gazmararian, son of Profes- ing Alma College this fall. Hayley sor Gaz. It’s sure a small world. I graduated from Berkley High School made a promise to Mike Gaz. I don’t and will be attending Albion Col- tell on you, you don’t tell on me!” lege this fall. Chelsea is a junior at Chuck’s daughter, Christy, made him Georgia Southern University. Lynette a grandfather when Chloe Marie practices law in Bloomfield Hills and Stanley was born March 12, 2008. He has no impending retirement! becomes a grandfather a second time 1975 Kandra Millar Attwood when a girl is expected to be born in ’75 lives in Bonita Springs, FL. Her July. Chuck’s son, Mike, lives life as a husband, Paul, works for the State of 28-year-old bachelor in Myrtle Beach, Memorial scoreboard to honor Alma Florida managing oil and gas wells. • SC. E-mail: [email protected]. football legend Tom Jakovac Deborah Frye ’75 manages Chil- 1981 Paul Gregory ’81 hopes all dren’s Services in Oakland County. is well. • Terri Smith Thomas ’81 Tom Jakovac ’70 lost his lengthy battle with • Lynda Lowe ’75 works full-time in graduated from Oakland University cancer in April 2009. He is the only four-time the studio now after years of college in December with a master’s degree All-MIAA quarterback in MIAA history and was teaching. Upcoming gallery show- in early childhood education. She the 1968 most valuable player of the MIAA. He ings include Arden in Boston Oct. 2, teaches kindergarten at St. Peter’s also was All-American and led the Scots in back- 2009, and Gail Severn in Sun Valley, Lutheran School in Eastpointe. She to-back undefeated seasons in 1967 and 1968. In ID in summer 2010. “We find life lives with husband, Brad, and daugh- addition, he was a key component of Alma’s first very good on the Puget Sound in Gig ter Leah, 11. MIAA track championship team in 1970. Harbor, WA. We’ve lived here for 1982 Darryl Schimeck ’82 was Tom was an active member of the College com- seven years and love the NW.” Her named the new chair of the Board of munity known for his musical skills, his winning paintings and studio can be viewed at Directors and Board of Regents for smile and his infectious laugh. He was truly a lyndalowe.com. • Mark Wendorf ’75 Mercy Home for Boys & Girls. At friend to all who knew him. is coordinator for Community- and Faith-Based Projects, Mercy Hospi- the invitation of the Archbishop of After Alma, Tom returned to Lansing where he tal, Portland, ME. Chicago, Darryl has served on Mercy was a successful businessman as co-founder and Home’s Board of Directors since 2002 co-owner of East Side Deli Supply Co. 1977 Barbara Beatty Jones ’77 and on its Board of Regents since and Andrew Jones ’78 announce He is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen, and chil- 1993. A resident of Naperville, IL, the April 9, 2009 birth of their first dren, Scott ’93 and Shannon. he is the president of Atlantic Plant grandchild, Aspen, to daughter Alli- Services Inc. Tom’s friends and teammates are raising funds son Sisson. She weighed 5 lbs., 10 oz. through a two-year campaign to honor Tom with Barb attended the birth on the big 1983 Laura Wonacott Asiala a memorial on campus. The goal is to replace island of Hawaii. Andrew brought ’83 was promoted to director of the football scoreboard with a state-of-the-art his 80-year-old mother-in-law over corporate communications for Dow message scoreboard, making it the finest in the from Idaho the next day. • Karen Corning Corporation. • Dan Van MIAA, to be rededicated as the “Tom Jakovac Boehs Koehn ’77 starts her 11th year Overbeke ’83 recently became CFO Memorial Scoreboard.” as an elementary principal in Poudre of Niowave, Inc., a company in Lan- School District in Ft. Collins, CO. sing that manufactures superconduct- Contributions may be made payable to the Alma ing machines used to smash atoms. College-Jakovac Fund and mailed to: Advance- She is enrolled in the Educational Leadership Ph.D. program at Colo- He and wife, Kathy, live in Okemos ment Office, Alma College, 614 W. Superior St., with children Danny, 17, and Ali, Alma, MI 48801. rado State University. She is married with three children, two of whom 15. Danny and Ali attend Okemos “No. 14 in your program, but No. 1 in your are married; all three are graduates High School. • David Powers ’83 heart! Let’s get together to honor a great of CSU. was among 25 Michigan lawyers Scot.” honored as a “Leader in the Law” for — John Fuzak 2009 by Michigan Lawyers Weekly.
28 accents The award recognizes Michigan attorneys Glenn Fischer ’90 received an MBA de- their church in Baltimore. • Jeremiah Lee who “are astute, wise, knowledgeable and gree from the Robert H. Smith School of ’00 and Keleigh Osborn Lee ’01 have been successful,” who “win cases and solve prob- Business at the University of Maryland in living at Touchstone Cohousing for three lems with the utmost integrity,” and who May 2009. The path was long, the living years and suggest everyone should look into “are passionate and aggressive on behalf of case group assignments were challeng- cohousing. Jeremiah’s first designed board clients and the community.” He also was a ing and enjoyable, and the individually game, “Zombie in My Pocket,” published finalist for the newspaper’s 2009 “Lawyer crafted master thesis was the summit of by Cambridge Games Factory, should be of the Year” award. He is a partner in the all achievements. in stores soon. • Danielle Stoddard Samyn Bay City law firm Smith, Martin, Powers & ’00 1991 Melissa Weber ’91 recently was and husband, Tim, announce the Jan. 26 Knier, P.C. • Mary Frederick Santi ’83 and promoted to senior editor with Editor- birth of son Jared Spyker Samyn. Brother, Tom Santi ’85 moved from Minnesota to Live. “I’m so glad I took the risk and ’re- Oscar, and sister, Copper, love giving him Chicago two years ago. Daughter, Laura, treaded’ when I did; I can’t imagine trying wet, slobbery kisses — “they’re our lab and is in sixth grade and son, Mark, is in first Matthew Singletary ’00 to continue to make it in the automotive bloodhound.” • was grade. They recently adopted a dog, Lemon, industry.” accepted to the MFA Directing Program who is part Yellow Lab and part Shar Pei. at Rutgers University. • Benji Wood ’00 • Leslie Southwick Wilhelm ’83 announces 1994 Carrie McCormack Pappas ’94 and wife, Tara, announce the Jan. 29 birth her engagement to long-time partner, Larry and husband, Chris, announce the May of their first child, Alysia Marie. After four Hatch, with a wedding date of May 8, 2010, 18, 2009 birth of daughter Avery Jane. She years in television news broadcasting as a at Woodside Bible Church in Troy, where joins big sister Olivia, 4. reporter and anchor, they decided to move they attend services and are involved in 1995 Mark Gorczyca ’95 and wife, to Iron Mountain in the Upper Peninsula. small group ministries. She is a managing Lisa, announce the March 31 birth of Benji is now the executive director of a editor and writer and still loves being a mom daughter, Macy Dylan. Son, Brady, enjoys nonprofit healthcare agency spanning the 15 to her 16-year-old son, Derek. She lives in being a big brother. counties of the Upper Peninsula. Plymouth. 1997 Paul Brenton ’97 has been ap- 2001 Katie Beam ’01 married Brent 1984 Joseph Naughton ’84 is the direc- pointed principal of Putnam High School England in Indianapolis, IN, on June 26, tor of medical education for Henry Ford in Putnam, CT. • Staci Hill McKeon ’97 2009. Her matron of honor was Jen Knight Macomb Hospital and the medical director and Mark announce the March 27 birth of Cook ’00. Also in attendance were Ryan of Our Neighbors Caring for Neighbors their third daughter, Josephine Yvonne. Cook ’99, Chris Hales ’00, Emily Seman uninsured clinic. He received his MBA from She was 8 lbs., 13 oz. and 20.5 inches long. Hales ’01 and Amy Novak Wille ’01. The the University of Detroit Mercy in 2007. • Big sisters, Moira, 4, and Annabelle, 2, are couple resides in Indianapolis where Katie Louise Booker St. John ’84 is a registered excited to have her home. Staci is happy to works for the IN Department of Environ- nurse in Alma at the Gratiot Medical Center take three months off from being an acute mental Management, and Brent is a band in the psychiatric unit. Her premature twin care physician to spend time as Mom. • director at North Central High School. • boys begin first grade in the fall and are do- Mark Alan Petrocelli ’97 graduated from Megan Thurber Newman ’01 and husband, ing great. the Michigan State University College of Jeremy, announce the April 13 birth of their 1985 Polly Vedder Rapp ’85 and her Osteopathic Medicine on May 7, 2009. He first child, Maeve Grace. They are all happy husband, Eric, moved to Fort Wayne, IN, received the 2009 Michigan Osteopathic and well. in July 2009 with daughter, Lauren, so Eric Association Outstanding Graduating 2002 Elizabeth Knochel ’02 married can begin M.Div. studies at Concordia Theo- Senior Award at the hooding ceremonies. Daniel MacIntyre Nov. 8, 2008, in Pincon- logical Seminary. Email: prapp699@yahoo. 1998 Todd Nyman ’98 was named ning. Scots in attendance included Meg com. They both appear on the Leukemia Global Supply Chain Leader for PO/PG Knochel ’06, Krissy Collins ’02, Eliess Luke and Lymphoma Society benefit CD. • Amos at Dow Chemical Company. He takes Forney ’02, Susan Vander Putten Tu- Rinks ’85 received his master’s degree in art responsibility of both the global planning ladziecki ’01 and Andy Tuladziecki ’02, Ka- of teaching. and global management of all business trina Dinallo McAleece ’01, Kristy Nemec 1986 Dan Ball ’86 received his doctor- supply chain matters for PO/PG. ’01, Aaron Chamberlain ’06, Bob Fox ’02, Dylan Mandeville and coach Denny Griffin. ate in health policy from the University of 1999 Holly Bruder ’99 set a new school Liz and Danny reside in Phoenix, AZ. • Michigan School of Public Health. He is a softball record of 35 wins as head softball Jason Murdey ’02 was awarded three Juris research advisor in the Global Health Out- coach at Morehead State University. comes Department at Eli Lilly and Com- Prudence awards at the end of his first term 2000 Mike Baysdell ’00 pany in Indianapolis. and his wife, in his first year of law school at Michigan Genevieve, announce the May 27 birth State University. He was ranked first in his 1989 Kelly Kettlewell ’89 has been of their son, Michael Jr. Joe Baysdell ’05 class. promoted to senior vice president of PBM is the godfather. • Bryan Brunelle ’00 2003 Alicia Allen ’03 is finishing her operations for InformedRx, Inc., an SXC and Julie Tolles Brunelle ’00 announce master’s degree in library and information company. She still lives in Elmhurst, IL and the March 10 birth of Cara Lynn. They science. • Erin Hasty ’03 graduated from would love to hear from old friends if they are adjusting to their fun life with two Fayetteville State University in Fayetteville, are in the area. girls. Big sister, Mina, turns two-years- NC May 9 with a Master of School Admin- old in June. They are helping start a 1990 Todd Deci ’90 announces the July istration degree. She attended FSU on a Financial Peace University ministry at 27, 2007 birth of his son, Oliver John. • North Carolina Principal Fellows Scholar- www.alma.edu 29 ship, one of only 54 awarded in the state. celebrate. Both have graduated from Nova helping provide chiropractic healthcare for • Christina Leonard ’03 graduated from Southeastern University in spring 2009, people in third world countries. Nottoli, a Wayne State School of Medicine on June 2, medical school and law school respectively. cancer survivor, also is dedicating this race to 2009. She is doing her residency in infectious Amber starts her residency in Ob/Gyn this people with cancer, their families and cancer diseases at Ohio State University Hospital. • summer. survivors. Nottoli, who helps train other Theresa Miller Nagel ’03 married Kyle Na- 2005 Kristy Butts Benson ’05 and Team NPCO members, has set up a Website gel on Nov. 3, 2007, at Wrightsville Beach, husband, Tyler, announce the March 2, with a goal of raising $5,000 for NPCO: Amanda Darnell ’03 and Michelle NC. 2009, birth of their second daughter, Annie www.firstgiving.com/paulnottoli. He also Dupuis ’04 were bridesmaids. Son, Ethan Elizabeth. Kristy, Tyler, Annie and big sister, has created a training blog — http://pitaly07- Daniel Nagel, was born Nov. 4, 2008. The- Olivia, are doing great. • Kay Capasso ’05 chicagomarathon.blogspot.com — and resa got a third-grade teaching job in Cary, was accepted to the MFA Acting Program encourages his hometown community to NC. at The Actor’s Studio, Pace University, in support his cause. For more information on 2004 Claudia Eaton ’04 and Ryan NYC. • Jason Caswell ’05 graduated from NPCO and Team NPCO for Chiropractic, Ballard were married May 16 at Dunning Wayne State School of Medicine and was visit www.NPCO.org. Memorial Chapel. Other alumni in atten- promoted to a captain in the U.S. Air Force. 2006 Kathleen Lanphear ’06 graduated dance included Matthew Krieg ’04, Rachel He is a general surgery resident in Saginaw from Wayne State University with her MFA Eaton ’06, Nancy Bienz Eaton ’74, Craig and until 2014, when he will enter active duty in lighting design in May 2009. Kathleen Kristen Franz Bienz ’73, Diane Smith Wood in the U.S. Air Force. • Amanda Buck Liv- is technical director for Marygrove Col- ’74, Kelly and Jen Towns Sweet ’04, Missy ingston ’05 received her medical degree from lege Theatre in Detroit and freelances as a Ricketts ’06, Jon Barrows ’07, Amanda Buck the Chicago Medical School June 5. Her resi- designer in the Metro Detroit area. • Jason Livingston ’05, Carrie Schmidt Holka ’04, dency is in internal medicine at Brown Uni- Lootens ’06 graduated with a Master of Katie Baleja ’06 and Jim ’29 and Mary Jane versity in Providence, RI. • Paul Nottoli ’05 Social Work from Michigan State University Henne ’68 Ogg. • Annie Love ’04 graduated plans to run in the Chicago Marathon Oct. in May 2009. He is the programs coordinator from the College of Veterinary Medicine at 11, 2009, for the Non-Profit Chiropractic for the Great Lakes chapter of the Alzheim- the University of Illinois in May 2009. She is Organization (NPCO). Nottoli, in his eighth er’s Association. a large animal veterinarian at Meadow View trimester at Palmer College of Chiropractic 2007 Laura Parkes-Schaw ’07 finished Veterinary Service in Carson City and lives in Davenport, IA, is president of the Palmer her master’s degree in financial mathematics Amber Nash ’04 and Brendan in Alma. • Running Club. He didn’t plan on running a from the University of Western Ontario in Guilford ’05 were married June 7, 2009. marathon this fall, but after being contacted October 2008. • Mollie Smith ’07 gradu- Many Alma alumni were present to help by NPCO he decided to support its cause of ated from the University of Pennsylvania in May with her master’s in urban education and successfully completed her two-year commitment with Teach for America. • Do you know the next great Scot? Amanda Zielinski ’07 graduated from Mi- ami University in May, 2009 with a master of science degree in college student personnel. We’ve all met that great high school student who we immediately On May 29, 2009, she married Brian Slenski, think would be a great addition to Alma College. Maybe it’s your a 2002 graduate of Elon University and a neighbor, someone you go to church with, your best friend’s cousin or 2007 graduate of Radford University. They your nephew! married in Oxford, Ohio. Members of the We also are looking for all your legacy students. Prospective students bridal party included Breanne Harmon ’06 who are the child, grandchild, or sibling of an Alma College alumnus and Kari Dufort ’08. are eligible for our Legacy Scholarship. Be sure to let us know about 2008 Brett Knight ’08 is working on a them by completing the form at
30 accents Lester Emery Eyer ’36 In memoriam Professor Emeritus of Biology, 1946-1977 Les Eyer was known for his teaching, because we might see something, and then munity, taking Boy Scouts on canoe trips, bird knowledge, commitment to the local we would see the deer or fox or opossum.” leading bird walks, starting a summer na- community, and the dangers of DDT long Raised in Alma, Dr. Eyer graduated from ture program for school-aged children in before it was popular. both Alma High School (1932) and Alma the parks, and being active in the Michigan Eyer, a professor in the biology department College (1936). Audubon Society. at Alma College from 1946 to 1977, died May Before World War II, he taught science at In the early 1960s, Dr. Eyer initiated a 23, 2009 in St. Louis, Mich., at the age of 97. South School in Saginaw. After complet- “robin count” on the Alma College campus, “Teaching was truly his calling and his ing Officer’s Training School, he became a says Keon. happiest activity,” says his daughter, Phyllis weather instructor for pilots and bombar- “This was before Rachel Carson’s book Jane Keon of Alma. “It wasn’t enough for diers at the Army Air Corps base in Victor- Silent Spring was published,” she says. “He him to present the information. He truly ville, California during the war. He later was concerned that the DDT spraying on was desirous to observe that the person be- received his master’s degree from the Uni- the campus was deleterious for the bird ing taught was understanding the informa- versity of Michigan in 1942 and his Ph.D. population. As a youngster, I went with him tion, and developing some enthusiasm for from Michigan State University in 1954. and the other adults on the early morning the new knowledge. He was excellent at “After WWII, my dad had returned to walk, listening for the calls of robins, look- classroom teaching, and yet excelled in the teaching science at South School in Sag- ing for dead robins, and if we saw a nest, out-of-doors. inaw,” says Keon. “He and my mother and looking at the condition of the eggs.” “To be with him in nature was to begin see- my brother, who was a baby, were in Alma He was preceded in death by his wife, ing and hearing things that one never knew over a weekend, and they attended the ser- Alma, in 1994, a son, Jerry in 2000, his par- were there before,” she says. “Even though vice at the Presbyterian Church downtown. ents, Glynn and Inez (Doty) Eyer and three he was fully present to whomever he was After the service, Dr. Paul Rice, who headed brothers: Lawrence, Orlynn and Gordon. with, his ears were tuned to hear any bird the biology department at the College, called In addition to his daughter, Jane Keon, Dr. call that might be out of the ordinary, and my dad over and asked him if he’d be inter- Eyer is survived by a son, David Glynn he could distinguish between every warbler ested in teaching biology at Alma College. Eyer of Clinton, British Columbia; sisters by sound as well as by sight. His eyes would Dad said that he was, and Dr. Rice hired Doris Bemis of Newaygo and Donna spot the tip of stone that would turn out him on the spot, all but the paperwork.” Breuer of Mt. Pleasant; and numerous to be an arrowhead. He would notice the Throughout his years of teaching students, grandchildren and great-grandchildren tracks on the ground and encourage silence Dr. Eyer remained active in the com- and a great-great-grandchild.
www.alma.edu 31 of a B-25 crew that helped liberate Italy. Mr. Charles K. Ford ’44 of Bay City and Following the war, he taught and coached Clearwater, Florida, died July 27, 2009, at age in memoriam at Shepherd High School. He and his wife, 87. Prior to his retirement, he was the owner Elizabeth “Betty” Cleland Horne ’42, then of Ford Clothing Company and Lady Fords in Mr. Robert R. Cook ’38 of Saginaw died June moved to Saginaw where he and a friend Bay City as well as president and board chair- 20, 2009, at the age of 92. Mr. Cook was a started the Tiny Tot Diaper Service, which man of H.C. Weber Construction Company well-known attorney and community leader. remained successful for more than 40 years. and was co-owner of Midwest Discount Store. He served with the U.S. Navy during WWII. He was a member and officer of the Saginaw He also served as a member of the board of A graduate of University of Michigan Law Optimist Club, the Bay City Country Club, directors of First of America Bank, Superior School in 1948, he began his law business and the Germania Town and Country Club and Corporation and Superior Abstract Company, career in Saginaw with family members at the First Congregational Church. He and his and the First Presbyterian Church in Bay Cook and Cook. His business name changed wife retired to Longboat Key, Florida, 25 years City. During WWII, he served with the U.S. through the years as new partners were added ago, although they returned to Saginaw each Navy in the South Pacific. Mr. Ford also held and others retired. He spent more than 30 summer. Mr. Horne was an avid golfer with memberships in Bay City Country Club, Bel- years practicing law as a probate and busi- several “holes-in-one” in Florida, Michigan leair Country Club, and was active in many ness attorney, often assisting those for free and even in Ireland. He was most proud of local organizations. Among his survivors who couldn’t afford it. He was a member of his rare “double eagle.” Among his survivors are his wife, Morrow Ford, a daughter, two the Saginaw County Bar Association and the are his wife; three sons, including Douglas C. grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Michigan State Bar for more than 60 years. Horne ’73; one daughter; seven grandchildren Mr. Ford established the Charles K. Ford Mr. Cook also was a member of the First Pres- and four great-grandchildren. Memorials are Endowed Scholarship at Alma to assist worthy byterian Church, Junior Chamber of Com- designated for the Cleland-Horne Endowed students, and he provided for Alma College in merce, Saginaw Board of Education, Saginaw Scholarship at Alma. his estate plans. Rotary Club, Country Club and many other organizations. He actively served in positions Mrs. Verna Bernecker Myers ’42, formerly of Mr. Thomas “Tom” W. McGrain ’44 of Rock- at the Saginaw Y.M.C.A., Norman Westlund Saginaw and Ann Arbor, died April 15, 2009, ledge, Florida, and Okemos, Mich., died April Child Guidance Clinic, Saginaw Community in Fallbrook, California at age 88. Mrs. Myers 2, 2009, in Florida at age 87. Mr. McGrain Hospital, Saginaw Symphony Orchestra, Unit- was employed for 10 years at the University of was a retired USAF lt. colonel, serving in the ed Way of Saginaw and Hospice, Crippled Michigan Hospital as a medical technologist. Army Air Corps during WWII as a B-24 navi- Children’s Society, Saginaw County Drug After her marriage to Walter Myers, they lived gator. He was highly decorated and respected Treatment Center and the Timber Town in several states due to his career, and in retire- in all his military assignments; he retired in Festival. He and his wife, Naomi, were avid ment, found their home in California. She 1964 and moved to East Lansing where he travelers, golfers, skiers, boaters and enjoyed was an active member of the Zion Lutheran completed a civilian career in educational spending time at their Glen Lake cottage in Women’s Missionary League and church rep- administration. Among his survivors are his Leelanau County. Among his survivors are his resentative to Aid Association for Lutherans. wife; two sons, David McGrain ’71 and Brian wife, a brother and sister-in-law, two nieces Among her survivors are her daughter and McGrain ’72; and five grandchildren. and one nephew. son-in-law. Mr. Donald C. McLogan ’44 died March 30, Mr. Hugh E. Garrison ’41, formerly of Three Mrs. Marion E. Carter Pawlyk ’43, formerly 2009, in Flint at age 87. Mr. McLogan enlisted Rivers, Mich., and San Mateo, California, died of Rochester, New York, and Jenkintown, in the Army Air Corps in 1942 and learned to April 13, 2009, in Burlingame, California at Pennsylvania, died May 31, 2009, in Wyn- fly B-25s and B-26s serving state-side in Del age of 90. He received his degree from Stan- cote, Pennsylvania. Mrs. Pawlyk was a gifted Rio, Texas 1942-46. He was a retail merchant ford University on the G.I. Bill. Mr. Garrison teacher and tutor in remedial reading and along with his two brothers at their parents’ was a lt. colonel in the U.S. Air Force, a pilot math. She taught and tutored at German- business in Flint from 1946 until the store who began flying in open cockpit airplanes town Academy, Abington Friends, Oak Lane closed in 1967. He took his business skills to in the 1930s and finished his military career Day School, Meadowbrook School and at General Motors and was employed as a mate- flying jets in the 1950s. He served in the South her home. She was a member of St. Peter’s rial controller until his retirement in 1984. Pacific during WWII and was married in Episcopal Church in Glenside, Pennsylvania, Mr. McLogan was a member of the American Honolulu the week before the bombing of and volunteered at Sunday School in vari- Legion Post 151 (Red Arrow) and served as Pearl Harbor. He worked for many years at ous places. She was also a singer and enjoyed Sergeant-At-Arms; he received several awards Standard Oil Company in San Francisco and knitting, gardening and listening to the radio. for his dedication and contributions to the taught business courses in the 1960s and 70s. She is survived by two daughters and was programs of the American Legion. He enjoyed He and wife, Rosalie, enjoyed traveling and predeceased by her husband, Peter Pawlyk ’41 hunting, fishing, University of Michigan sports, being with family in later years. Among his in 1974. card games, traveling, playing piano, and sum- survivors are his wife, three children, four mers at the family cottage on Higgins Lake. grandchildren, one great-grandchild and his Mrs. Grace W. Stevens Elliott ’44, formerly of Among his survivors are four daughters, three brother, Douglas Garrison ’39. Rio Rancho, New Mexico, died May 5, 2009, sons-in-law, six grandchildren and two broth- in Franklin, North Carolina. She was a retired ers. He was preceded in death by his wife of 32 Mr. Andrew W. Horne ’42, formerly of elementary school teacher in Royal Oak. years, Mary Louise McLogan, in 1985. Saginaw, died June 13, 2009, at Longboat Among her survivors are a son, daughter, and Key, Florida, at age 89. Mr. Horne proudly sister-in-law, Mary Tomes Stevens ’44. Mrs. Betty WynneParry Fisher ’45, formerly of served his country during WWII in the U.S. Bloomfield Hills, died Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, Army Air Corps. He was a decorated member at her home in Lincoln at age 86. Mrs. Fisher
32 accents was a homemaker and musician, and served Mrs. Mary Anne Stevenson Aldrich ’52, tration from Central Michigan University. She formerly in the First Presbyterian Church formerly of Grand Rapids, died May 22, 2009, began her teaching career in Wheeler, then at of Birmingham and presently in the Spruce at her home in Tucker, Georgia at age 79. Breckenridge schools, followed by eight years Presbyterian Church near Lincoln. Among She earned her master’s degree from Mercer teaching the mentally challenged. She was also her survivors are her husband, two sons, a University in Atlanta and taught kindergarten the special education administrator and con- daughter and five grandchildren. for 10 years at St. Bede’s Episcopal Church tinued that position as she became elementary followed by 15 years in Dekalb County School principal for the next 21 years, retiring in 1991. Mr. Robert W. Dixon ’46, formerly of Pontiac, System. After retirement, Mrs. Aldrich spent She then went to CMU and taught student Lewiston, Sylvan Village and Key West, several years tutoring with Sylvan Learning teachers for seven years. Mrs. Clingenpeel was Florida, died May 17, 2009, in Traverse City Centers. She was active in various community named Principal of the Year for the State of at age 84. Mr. Dixon served in the Marine organizations and was interested in genealogy, Michigan and was involved in the Edgewood Corps as a small arms specialist in the Pacific travel, reading, playing bridge and spend- Church of God as organist, soloist, music during WWII. Prior to his retirement, he was ing time with family and friends. The family committee member and lay council. In the president of Dixon Distributing Company. traveled together frequently with a favorite community she was on the library board and He was a former director of the Traverse City trip being a two-week cruise to Alaska. She the Historical Society. Among her survivors Chamber of Commerce and the Michigan loved animals and had a great passion for are her husband of 52 years, Dale Clingenpeel; Beer and Wine Wholesalers Association, dogs. Among her survivors are two daughters, four children and 14 grandchildren. plus being active in many local organizations two sons and several grandchildren. She was including Traverse City Elks Club, Masonic predeceased by her husband of 35 years, Dean Mrs. Carolyn “Karen” A. Erdman Riker ’57, Lodge, Shrine Club and as a Little League L. Aldrich, in 1988. formerly of Battle Creek and Mt. Pleasant, coach. Among his survivors are his wife, three died May 17, 2009, in Mackinaw City at age sons, a daughter, seven grandchildren and four Dr. David G. Hollar ’53 of Fenton died Dec. 73. She was active in the Girl Scouts in the great-grandchildren. 5, 2008, in Ann Arbor at age 77. Dr. Hollar Mt. Pleasant, Alma and Mackinaw City areas was a dentist in Fenton for 45 years. He served for more than 33 years. Her memberships Ms. Margaret “Peg” Woodley ’49 of Rosebush in the U.S. Army and was a member of the included the Mt. Pleasant First Presbyterian died April 25, 2009, in Mt. Pleasant at age 82. First Presbyterian Church of Fenton. Among Church, Alma First Presbyterian Church and Ms. Woodley was a college administrator for his survivors are his wife, two daughters, five the Church of the Straits in Mackinaw City Western Michigan University, Cornell Uni- grandchildren, a sister and a brother. He was where she was active in church circles. Mrs. versity and Central Michigan University. She predeceased by a brother-in-law, Ralph Gies Riker volunteered at schools in Alma and was also an avid reader, golfer and knitter and ’51 in early 2008. Mackinaw City helping children practice their enjoyed time with family. She is survived by reading. Among her survivors are her husband many adoring cousins. Ms. Woodley provided Ms. Nancy H. Stockham ’54 of Fenton died of 48 years, Richard Riker; three children, for Alma College in her estate plans. May 6, 2009, at age 78. Ms. Stockham was very four grandchildren, a brother and two sisters. active in the Fenton First Presbyterian Church Alma College was one of Mrs. Riker’s memo- Mr. James “Jim” H. Nesbitt ’51, formerly of and in many community organizations. Over rial designations. Pontiac, died May 10, 2009, in Pittsford, New the years, she was employed at the Genesee York at age 79. After serving in the army, Mr. County Welfare Department, in several Gene- Rev. Woodrow “Woody” Choate ’58 of Nesbitt enjoyed a 30-year career at Owens see County hospitals and then as a caseworker Brunswick, Georgia, died Feb. 13, 2009, Illinois, Inc., a Fortune 500 company specializ- with the Friend of the Court until her retire- at age 74. He attended the University of ing in container glass products. He was active ment in 1989. She served as a caseworker in Dubuque Theological Seminary. Formerly in his church and various charities. He loved the Fenton area for more than 35 years. Ms. from Tennessee and Michigan, Rev. Choate coaching and being involved in family events. Stockham also started the Genesee County served Presbyterian churches in Illinois, Iowa, Among his survivors are his wife of more than Wrap-In for the needy at Christmas, founded Georgia, Minnesota and Wisconsin for more 50 years, Mona Nesbitt; four sons, five grand- the Fenton Area Resource & Referral (FARR) than 30 years. In later years he was interim children and two siblings. Memorials were in 1998, and founded the charity, God Re- pastor at several churches including the First designated to the soup kitchen where he and wards All Caring Endeavors (GRACE, Inc.), Presbyterian Church at Darien, youth minister his wife volunteered for many years. which was operated out of her home. For her at Northern Michigan University and hospice many endeavors, she was the recipient of many chaplain in Brunswick, Georgia. Among his Mr. William L. Waldrop ’51, formerly of local, county and state awards. Among her survivors are his wife, Jean Molyneux Choate Cleveland, Ohio, and Petoskey, died March 28, survivors are her sister-in-law and two neph- ’58, four children, four sisters, two brothers 2009, in Homossasa Springs, Florida, at age 84. ews and their families. She was predeceased by and six grandchildren. He joined the Air Corps during high school her brother, David Stockham ’56, in 2007. and served in Europe in WWII. While attend- Mrs. Beverly Y. Eicholtz Siegel ’59, formerly ing Alma, he met and married Audrey Kneal Mrs. Marieta I. Aumaugher Clingenpeel ’57 of Dearborn, died April 7, 2009, in Sara- ’50. He started teaching sixth grade at the of Breckenridge, died June 29, 2009, at the age sota, Florida, at age 71. Mrs. Siegel received Sheridan School in 1959 and retired in 1986. of 74. Mrs. Clingenpeel graduated from Ithaca her master’s degree from Eastern Michigan He also was secretary manager of the Emmet High School in 1953, received her Bachelors of University and taught in the Dearborn public County Fair for many years. His final years Music Education degree from Alma, received school system for 30 years before retiring to were spent at their home in Florida. Among certification from Michigan State University Florida in 1992. Among her survivors are her his survivors are two children, a grandson, to teach and administer special education, and husband of 49 years, Charles, a daughter and two great-grandchildren and a sister. He was received her master’s in educational adminis- a grandson. predeceased by his wife, Audrey, in 2007.
www.alma.edu 33 Mrs. Beverly Charlesworth Fogo ’62, formerly Mrs. R. Catherine “Cay” Eldredge DeYoung, through an annuity, which benefited the Betty of Royal Oak and Troy, died July 20, 2009, in friend and retired administrative assistant at E. Morris Endowment for Ballet, established Bellaire at age 69. She grew up in Royal Oak Alma College, died April 25, 2009, in Alma at in memory of his wife. Among his survivors is and graduated as valedictorian of Kimball age 84. Mrs. DeYoung lived in St. Louis and his son, Thomas Morris, associate professor of High School. Mrs. Fogo served as a volunteer retired from the College in 1985. She enjoyed theatre and dance at Alma College. at Beaumont Hospital in Troy for more than gardening, traveling, reading, going to the op- 20 years; she enjoyed spending her time sur- era and boating. She was active in her church, Mrs. L. Jane Napieralski, friend and former rounded by family and friends. Among her including helping to make prayer quilts, and employee, died June 30, 2009, at age 88 in survivors are her husband of 46 years, Richard; volunteered her time at Schnepps Health Care Alma. She was a 1938 graduate of Alma High five children; 11 grandchildren and a sister. Center and the Meals on Wheels program. School and went on to obtain degrees in busi- Among her survivors are a son, a daughter, ness and literature from Central Michigan Mr. Thomas J. Jakovac ’70 of East Lansing three step-sons and several grandchildren. University. Mrs. Napieralski was employed at died April 30, 2009, at age 60. Mr. Jakovac She was predeceased by two husbands, Paul Alma College in the placement office 1959- was president of Eastside Deli Supply, Inc. in Eldredge and Dr. Jacob DeYoung (professor 66 as well as being employed in other area Lansing, a business he started with his nephew emeritus of chemistry at Alma for 31 years). businesses. Later she spent time in Oklahoma that now serves more than 1,200 locations working as secretary in the Oklahoma Public in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. Previously, Mrs. Doris Duffy, friend and secretary at Schools. She retired with the Huron Valley Mr. Jakovac taught and coached football and Alma College for more than two decades, died Girl Scout Council as their purchasing agent. basketball at Resurrection Middle School May 1, 2009 in Alma at age 84. Mrs. Duffy was She was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic and Lansing Catholic Central until 1976. He born in Alma and resided in Elwell with her Church in Remus, served on the Morton was a gifted athlete throughout his school husband, Robert. He preceded her in death af- Township Library Board and was secretary for years, and at Alma College, led the Scots to ter 35 years of marriage. Among her survivors the School Section Lake Association. Among numerous titles. He was a four-time (1966- are her son, Douglas, and his spouse, Kathryn her survivors are a daughter, Christine Napi- 69) MIAA quarterback, All-MIAA District Schaeffer Duffy ’78, and two grandchildren. eralski Murray ’73; a son; four grandchildren; 23 in 1967-68, MVP in 1968, MIAA MVP in and six great-grandchildren. Mrs. Napieralski 1968, Team Captain in 1969 and Honorable Mr. George W. Etter, friend and generous sup- was predeceased by her husband, Edward, in Mention All-American quarterback in 1968. porter, formerly of Alton, Illinois, and Hast- 2007 and two sisters, including Louise Layman He also ran track for the Scots and was part of ings, died March 2, 2009, in Holland at age 91. Davenport ’32, in 1991. the 440-relay team that helped win the MIAA Mr. Etter served in the Navy Hospital Corps Championship in 1970. He was inducted into from 1942-45 with various duty assignments in Mrs. Jeane McWorkman Seeley, friend and the Alma College Hall of Fame in 1982, and in the U.S. and Guam. He then was employed by generous supporter, died April 24, 2009, in 2005 was honored by Lansing Catholic High Emerson Electric Company out of St. Louis, Ann Arbor at age 92. Mrs. Seeley graduated School Alumni Association for his academic Missouri, as a sales engineer in the Electric from the University of Michigan in 1937 with and athletic achievements at collegiate and Motor Division. He married Jeanne Marie a B.S. in chemistry, and later with an M.S. in intercollegiate levels. He was a quiet and Reig, and they were married for 56 years library science. Speaking in multiple languag- humble leader and inspired numerous athletes, until her death in 1999. A lifelong member of es, Mrs. Seeley created a business called “The students, relatives and friends with his gentle the Presbyterian Church, Mr. Etter served as Technical Library Research Service,” which manner. Among his survivors are his wife of trustee, elder and deacon in many churches. translated scientific documents for major cor- 39 years; a daughter; and a son, Scott C. Jako- Among his survivors are four children, nine porations. She also had a career as a Research vac ’93; and four grandchildren. grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Librarian at the Parke-Davis Company in In addition to his wife, he was preceded in Ann Arbor. Following her retirement, she Ms. Lynn Streib ’80, formerly of Iowa City, death by his brother and sister. Mr. and Mrs. studied to become a chaplain and then worked Iowa, died July 7, 2009, in Lewistown, Etter provided for Alma College through a as a chaplain at the University of Michigan Montana, at age 51. Ms. Streib graduated charitable remainder trust, creating the Jeanne and St. Joseph Mercy hospitals and also at from Bay City High School before coming Etter Scholarship to assist students at Alma Glacier Hills Care and Rehab Center. The to Alma; she received a master’s degree in College. First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor was education from Arizona State University. She a central part of her life, serving as a member was employed as comptroller for regional Mrs. Marjorie W. MacGregor, friend and gen- for more than 60 years, with the Session, a facilities of Moodie Implement of Lewistown erous supporter, died Jan. 8, 2009, in Advance, deacon, and Sunday school teacher. Among and enjoyed the challenges of her job and North Carolina. Mrs. MacGregor was the her survivors are her daughters, grandchildren the folks from “John Deere” she met from widow of Kent L. MacGregor ’28, Alma Col- and great-grandchildren. She was predeceased all over the country. Ms. Streib also loved lege trustee 1970-73 who died in 1993. She was by her husband, John C. Seeley, in 1986. Mrs. fashion, sewing, decorating, baking, garden- also predeceased by her brothers-in-law, Del- Seeley was a member of the Heritage Society ing and cycling. Among her survivors are her bert MacGregor ’30 and Ellwyn MacGregor and provided for Alma College in her estate son, daughter, father and two brothers. ’36. Among her survivors is a niece, Rita plans. MacGregor Jeric. Ms. Marion R. Bradford, friend and supporter from Muskegon, died March 23, 2009, at age Mr. David C. Morris, friend and generous 61. Among her survivors are her three chil- supporter, died April 17, 2009, in Grand Ledge dren, including Dr. Amy M. Cooper ’94 and at age 82. Mr. Morris was a livestock and Dr. Alan C. Cooper ’92. crop farmer. He provided for Alma College
34 accents You can be confident that a gift to the a l m a f u n d is an investment that yields amazing results for Alma students and Alma College! The a l m a f u n d is essential to the College and supports student scholarships, campus facilities and classroom equipment. Please consider your gift to this important annual fund. Call — 1-800-291-1312 Click — www.alma.edu Mail — enclosed post-paid envelope
Campus phonathons begin on October 1. Rather not receive a phone call? Please send your gift of any amount today to invest in the continued growth of Alma College. Thank you!
Redefining: investment Let Us Hear From You! Alma Accents and your friends would like to know what you are doing these days. Please use this form to send your news about promotions, honors, appointments, graduations, marriages, births, travels and hobbies. We will consider running photos, such as pic- tures of mini-reunions and old Alma College photographs, but due to limited space, we are not able to run baby or wedding photos. If you would like former classmates to contact you, include your contact information. The content of Alumni News is the responsi- bility of the editor.
Name: ______Class Year: ______Maiden Name: ______Address: ______Telephone: ______City: ______State: ______Zip: ______E-mail: ______Please include my: ___ Address ___ Phone ___E-mail Alumni notes: ______Return to: Alumni Relations Director, Alumni Notes, Alma College, 614 W. Superior St., Alma, MI 48801-1599 Alumni notes can also be submitted online at
www.alma.edu 35 Non Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 979 Lansing, Michigan
614 W. Superior St. Alma, MI 48801-1599 (989) 463-7111
p u b l i s h e d f o r a l u m n i , p a r e n t s a n d f r i e n d s o f a l m a c o l l e g e . p l e a s e r e c y c l e a c c e n t s a n d p a s s i t o n t o a prospective s t u d e n t .
c h a n g e o f s e r v i c e r e q u e s t e d
Alma’s student-athletes are enjoying the newly-completed Hogan athletic training room. See page 25 for an update on the Hogan Center renovation progress.
accents