spring 2007
The magazine of aquinas college
Hitting the High Notes p. 10
Editor’s Note….
It was an historic beginning to the New Year for Grand Rapidians. It was one of those “Remember where you were when…” In this case, it was downtown for the final goodbyes for President Gerald R. Ford, who died December 26. In early January 2007, he returned to his hometown to be laid to rest on the grounds of the presidential museum that bears his name. For a period of almost twenty hours on January 3 and 4 in Grand Rapids, nearly 60,000 people waited in line, some for up to eight hours, to pay their final respects as Ford’s casket lay in repose inside his museum. It was a time to remember all that he had done for a nation in crisis in the mid-1970s and for the service he rendered to those he represented as their Congressman here in West Michigan for 26 years (1948-1974). It was a time, too, for Aquinas College to remember when it honored Ford with the Emeritus Award in June 2000. That wasn’t his only visit to the campus. He came in the mid-1990s to speak to members of the freshmen class about how one’s childhood environment can impact and influence them in adulthood. As the New Year began, the nation said goodbye to Gerald R. Ford during the national funeral in Washington, D.C. The news media was replete with coverage of all three funerals for the former President as well as the motorcades and military salutes. For those of us living in Grand Rapids, his final homecoming was especially important, not only for Ford family members, but to his West
Editorial Team Marty Fahey MM’06 Laura Bennett Kimble ’95 Rene Palileo ’98 Sally Reeves Julie Ridenour Contributing Writers C. Edward Balog, Ph.D., Interim President Courtney Bender ’07 Laura Bennett-Kimble ’95 Terry Bocian ’70, staff Eric Bridge ’92, MM’05 staff Cecilia Cunningham, staff Michael Cushion, Ph.D., faculty Ken Czop, junior Cindy Dorman, staff Marty Fahey MM’06, staff Linda Nemec Foster ’72 Brenda Hennink ’96, staff Marjorie Kindel MM’06, staff Crystal (Lubbers ’01) Laska, staff Kristin Leamon ’93, staff Connie Kowalsyk ’99 Tom Mikowski ’89, staff Barbara Witham McCargar ’77, faculty Noddea Moore, staff Linda Nash, staff
Michigan family. In this issue, we offer a brief glimpse at how those of us living in Grand Rapids said goodbye to the nation’s thirty-eighth president, Gerald R. Ford. Elsewhere in this edition, Aquinas realized its largest bequest ever. You’ll learn about those who made it happen and how many students will benefit from the financial support the bequest makes possible through new scholarships. At press time, the College had yet to select its next president. The Presidential Search Committee diligently continues its efforts to identify qualified candidates for the post. It is the Committee’s hope that a finalist would be selected this spring so that he or she could begin presidential duties in July. In the meantime, there’s a genuine sense of gratitude for Interim President Ed Balog, whose wisdom and guidance has ably brought us through this academic year. Since taking the helm last July following the retirement of President Harry Knopke, he has been wearing multiple hats: provost, president and fundraiser. The campus owes him a great deal of thanks for his leadership and help in preparing the way for the College’s sixth president. If you have any comments you would like to share with our readers, please forward them to me at faheymar@aquinas.edu. Marty Fahey, Editor
Rene Palileo ’98, staff Sally Reeves, staff Sarah L. Swart ’89 Monica Tyler ’98, staff Ronda Varnesdeel ’01, staff William Weitzel, staff Sr. Catherine Williams ’62, O.P., faculty Sr. Alice Wittenbach ‘60, O.P., Ph.D., staff Layout/Design D&D Printing, Grand Rapids Silvija Visockis, staff Design/Photo Archive Silvija Visockis Photography Eric Bridge ’92, MM’05 staff Michael Cushion, Ph.D., faculty Courtney Fahey ’07 Marty Fahey MM’06, staff Grand Rapids Community College Brian Kelly Noddea Moore, staff Katy Moore McAvoy ’01, staff Arturo Ortega, student The Grand Rapids Press Andris Visockis, staff Silvija Visockis, staff
Aquinas magazine is published in March and August by the Aquinas College Office of College Relations. It is created for alumni, friends and benefactors of the College as well as parents of enrolled students. Aquinas is a private, four-year Catholic Dominican liberal arts College. Letters, comments and suggestions are encouraged. Change of address requests can be made through the channels listed below. E-mail: collegerelations@aquinas.edu Mail to: College Relations Department 1607 Robinson Road, SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506-1799 Web site: www.aquinas.edu Alumni news: www.aquinas.edu/alumni Main number: (616) 632-8900 x 2844 / (616) 632-2844 Fax: (616) 459-2563
OUR APOLOGIES…. Picture identifications got the better of the Editor in the last edition. In the fall 2006 edition (P. 47, “The Arthur R. and Elizabeth Snell Scholarship – A Gift to the Future”), we inadvertently misidentified two of the scholarship recipients. The student on the left is James Wahmhoff, Jr. and the student on the right is Joshua Wilford. Hilary Atkin is the student pictured in the middle. We apologize for the mix-up.
And….our most sincere apologies to the Most Reverend Walter A. Hurley, Bishop of Grand Rapids who was misidentified as William Hurley, (P. 46, “Enchanting Evening of Elegance”).
spring 2007 vol. 6 no. 1
The magazine of aquinas college
TABLE OF CONTENTS PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE........................ 4 CAMPUS NEWS
Aquinas College Receives Largest Bequest........ 5 President Gerald R. Ford Remembered............. 6 Feature: Music Department.............................. 8 Earth Day Founder Selected for Wege Speaker Series.................................... 11 Campus Sustainability Charges Forward......... 16 2007 College Hall of Fame Honorees Identified..................................... 19
STUDENT NEWS
ADMISSIONS
Integrated Enrollment Plan See Results........... 47
EMERITUS COLLEGE
Lyle Morrison ’52 to Receive Emeritus Award........................................... 49
ADVANCEMENT
Aquinas Names Interim Director of Advancement.............................................. 51 2007 Evening of Elegance............................... 52 AQ Fund Marches Toward New Goal............. 58
Rwandan Student Finds Opportunity at Aquinas................................................... 28 SIFE Students Unveil Life-saving Product....... 29 Continuing Education: Making the Transition.................................. 31
ATHLETICS
FACULTY NEWS
TRUSTEES
Pedaling for fun............................................... 34
ALUMNI
2007 Alumni Award Nominees....................... 37 Alumni Association: Saints are Everywhere..... 38 Alumni Survey................................................ 40 Alumni Receptions......................................... 42
Music Dept p.8
MISSION STATEMENT
Mohler Gift p.5
AD Terry Bocian Recognized as Region Eight AD of the Year....................... 60 2007 Athletic Hall of Fame Candidates Selected.................................... 65
Profile: Patrick Miles, Jr. ’88............................. 70
CLASS NOTES...................................... 74 Cover Photo: The Aquinas College Choir, under the direction of Mark Webb, performs at St. Isidore’s Church during one of its many concerts throughout the year.
Rwandan Student p.28
Emeritus Award p.49
John Wheeler p.71
Aquinas College, an inclusive educational community rooted in the Catholic Dominican tradition, provides a liberal arts education with a global perspective, emphasizes career preparation focused on leadership and service to others, and fosters a commitment to lifelong learning dedicated to the pursuit of truth and the common good.
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
President’s Message
C. Edward Balog, Ph.D.
As we look back at the months since my
numerous descriptions of him as decent, honest and forthright. But very little was said about comments in the last Aquinas Magazine, several other qualities that enabled him to confront events spring to mind. Homecoming was a striking success, providing opportunities to renew the extraordinary challenges facing him when he assumed the presidency. President Ford friendships and to experience firsthand recent was an educated man, with a sense of history, campus developments. On this same weekend we celebrate current students who qualify for the an understanding of our constitutional form of government and faith in people to do the right Dean’s List and alumni from recent graduates to thing. These characteristics were sharpened Golden Saints, and we welcome back emeritus and focused by his education, and these values faculty. It is both a time of renewal and are inherent in a liberal arts education. The life recommitment to the Aquinas experience. The annual Scholarship Reception in November of Gerald Ford reminds us that the values of learning, community and service, which form the provided the opportunity for both students core of an Aquinas education, are really universal. and benefactors to get acquainted and for the College to recognize the generosity of those who Students of today cannot hope to be trained support scholarships for our students as well as to in specific techniques which they can use throughout their careers since the technical celebrate the achievements of those students. aspects of modern life change so rapidly. They We also dedicated the new Grace Hauenstein can expect, however, to learn to think, to analyze, Library, first with a reception for the campus community and then in December with a formal to adapt and to live moral and ethical lives. ceremony for the broader community. Grace and These concepts are really at the base of the Ralph Hauenstein and Peter Wege, another major celebratory events I mentioned earlier. College is a unique opportunity to devote time at a critical supporter of the library project, participated point in one’s life not just to the accumulation in the ribbon cutting, thus officially opening of knowledge, but to learning and thinking about this wonderful facility to the campus and the that knowledge and about how we will use it to community. confront the future. When we return to campus All these celebratory moments are but the or celebrate the opening of a new library, we are public manifestation of the larger purpose of Aquinas College. New students continue to enroll really affirming our participation in the larger community which also believes that to adapt, in record numbers, alumni return in increasing to apply and to create knowledge will make the numbers, and emeritus faculty maintain their ties to the College because they all recognize the world a better place. Aquinas is having a good year, thanks to all the value of an Aquinas education. people mentioned above. We look forward to It is difficult to look back over the last seeing you at Commencement. several months without noting the passing of President Gerald R. Ford. We all heard
Aquinas Receives Its Largest Bequest
Marguerite and Dennison Mohler
Last fall, Aquinas College learned that it would soon
benefit from its largest bequest ever. The College was named as a beneficiary of proceeds from trusts established by three members of the Mohler family, Dennison and Marguerite Mohler of Grand Haven (Michigan) and Dennison’s sister Audrey Mohler of Grand Rapids. Aquinas will receive proceeds from about $3.9 million contained in two family trusts. “The Mohler Foundation bequest is a significant contribution to scholarship support for music and science students,” stated C. Edward Balog, interim president of Aquinas. “The College is engaged in a major effort to promote undergraduate research so the science grant, in particular, will enhance the capacity of our science majors to engage in independent research projects with faculty mentors.” Aquinas will receive approximately $190,000 annually from two trusts which will be used for large scholarships for students in natural sciences, mathematics and music programs. The College will create the Mohler Scholar Program, which will be designed to attract the most talented students interested in music and the sciences. Students majoring in natural sciences and mathematics who are selected for the monetary awards from the Dennison and Marguerite Mohler
Presidential Search Continues Editor’s note: The following comes from Monsignor William H. Duncan, vice-chairman of the Board and chair of the Presidential Search Committee of the Board of Trustees,which began its work in February 2006.
The Aquinas presidential search committee, comprised of trustee, faculty, staff, student, alumni, and community representatives, has been working for the past several months on identifying potential candidates for the position of President of Aquinas College. In November and December several qualified applicants from across the nation were reviewed by the Search
Trust will be identified as “Mohler Scholars.” Students majoring in music receiving scholarships from the Audrey Mohler Trust will be known as “Mohler Music Scholars.” In addition, approximately $25,000 of the trust proceeds will fund summer research fellowships to cover costs associated with student/faculty research activities. The first scholarships to be awarded to qualified students will be made this spring to prospective and current students who will attend Aquinas in fall 2007. The College plans to recognize the Mohler scholars at an annual recognition ceremony. The main trust held by the Mohler Family Foundation was established by Dennison and Marguerite Mohler. Dennison was an electrical engineer who taught physics and mechanical drawing at Catholic Junior College (1934–1936), now Aquinas College. He went on to work for the Rural Electrification Agency, later Consumers Power Company, until his retirement in 1972. He was 86 at the time of his death in December 1996. Marguerite Mohler died in August 2006 at the age of 98. As the last surviving family member, her death prompted notification of the bequest. The second trust was created by Dennison’s sister, Audrey, who was a public health nurse for the City of Grand Rapids until her retirement in 1975. She was an accomplished pianist who taught the blind to play. A member of St. Cecilia Music Society, she also attended musical performances by students and faculty at Aquinas College for many years. Audrey established an earlier music scholarship in her name at the College that has already benefited many of the College’s music students. She died in 1997.
Committee and invited to campus for general interviews with trustees, faculty, staff, students, and alumni. The high level of participation by the College community in this process is indicative of the interest and commitment of the AQ family to work together to call forth the best person to provide such important leadership for the College. This process will continue through this semester as additional candidates are interviewed for consideration. It is the hope of the committee that it will be able to recommend a finalist to the Board of Trustees before the end of this school year. —Msgr. William H. Duncan
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Grand Rapids Bids Farewell to Its Hometown Hero: President Gerald R. Ford
President Gerald R. Ford speaking at Aquinas after receiving the Emeritus College Award in June 2000.
It’s been said that an individual’s success can be
measured in those lifetime achievements that have contributed to making the world a better place. Gerald R. Ford was one of those rare individuals whose success was measured not only by his contributions and achievements, but by the love he had for humanity and his genuine desire to do what was right. During the last several months of 2006, Ford’s health began deteriorating and on December 26, the thirty-eighth president of the United States died at his Rancho Mirage, California home. The 93-year-old former president, whose hometown was Grand Rapids, was returned to West Michigan where he was laid to rest at the Gerald R. Ford Museum. On the heels of his death came eight days replete with full military honors and motorcades, not only in Washington, but in Grand Rapids as well. Nearly 60,000 people in West Michigan came to view his casket lying in repose for 18 hours at the presidential museum. It took only a few seconds to walk past the flag-draped casket. Still, many waited for as many as eight hours – half of that in a January cold – for an opportunity to walk past Ford’s casket to pay their final respects. On January 3, a final service for Ford was held at Grace Episcopal Church in East Grand Rapids, where in 1948 then-Congressman Ford married Betty Bloomer. Following the funeral service during which Ford was eulogized by former
President Jimmy Carter, Donald Rumsfeld and Presidential Historian Richard Norton Smith, Ford’s casket was brought back to its final resting place on a grassy slope on the northern section of the museum grounds. Much was said about Gerald Ford and his brief presidency, both by the media and those who eulogized him in the many funeral services. They spoke of his unwavering loyalty to his country, his sincerity, his compassion for his fellow man, his integrity, a dedication to public service unrivaled by others, and a love for God, country and family. Those were the same characteristics that brought Ford to Aquinas in June 2000 when he was honored with the Emeritus College Award, which states, “Emeritus College salutes you, President Gerald R. Ford, recognizing in you the enormous civic enrichment and a spirit of service sustained over a lifetime you have brought not only to our country, but also to the city of Grand Rapids.” The Emeritus Award is given annually as a tribute to those whose leadership, generosity, spirit of service and dedication to the welfare of all citizens serve as a light to guide those who follow. The former president visited Aquinas on several other occasions, including once in November 1995 when he was invited to speak to the freshmen Inquiry and Expression classes. Students were debating the question, “What effect do the people and places of our childhood have on our lives as adults?” Ford recounted stories of growing up in Grand Rapids and described how the West Michigan area shaped his life and values. He was a true American in every sense of the word. He worked hard to make our nation stronger. In the end, most would argue that he did, indeed, leave the world a better place than he found it. Farewell, Mr. President.
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Musically Speaking… Barbara Witham McCarger ’77, Chairperson/Associate Professor of Music Sr. Catherine Williams ’62, O.P., Associate Professor of Music
This past year, you would have had a difficult
time keeping up with all of the marvelous concerts that our ambitious directors, student recitalists and guests brought to public performances in West Michigan. The pictures that accompany this article tell a piece of the story. From the many Homecoming Weekend events, including a tribute concert by Tim Froncek and Company to kick off the scholarship endowment honoring the memory of Rupert Kettle, to the popular end of the year Christmas concert in the new Aquinas College Performing Arts Center, 2006 was packed with music, music, music! With your indulgence, here are a few more: an Odyssey in Opera, a Masterclass with tenor David Ronis, Jazz at the Moose Café, a dozen or more student recitalists, the Battle Creek appearance of our College Chorus in Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, the Summer Jazz Camp, adjunct faculty member Roger MacNaughton’s CD Release Concert (AQ Adjunct, see article p.10), and the lovely Service of Lessons and Carols at East Congregational Church with scripture readers from among AQ administrators, staff and faculty. Our students have many opportunities. A highlight has always been the Spring Concert of the Music Department, when all manner of performing groups (with the addition of a guitar trio in 2006) take the stage one last time before leaving campus for a well deserved summer break. Several alumni and donors (and even parents of our alumni) were on hand and enjoyed the top quality of musical selections from the 100 plus students, including more than
40 majors! That production brought home just how much those of us associated with the Music Department of Aquinas College have to be proud of and thankful for. In addition this past year, several students received financial support from two newly established scholarships: The Maxine G. Hattem Memorial Music Scholarship and the Chuck and Stella Royce Music Scholarships. To assist student learning, we have been building the quality and number of fine new and refurbished instruments used in practice and performance. Recent acquisitions include a Young Chang upright, Steinway and Baldwin grands, a Bassoon and a new Steinway L grand. Through our annual piano sale held in early 2006, we have the matching funds to purchase one more new Steinway or Boston practice piano. Thank you to all alums and donors for the assistance that has brought these gifts to the department! We are blessed! With plans to refurbish Kretschmer Recital Hall shaping up for this summer (a new wood floor for the stage, new lighting, a rerouted sound system, choral risers and paint) and in welcoming many more guest presenters, performing artists and audience members throughout 2007, the Music Department is on course for another marvelous year. Ah, but seeing a dozen or more uniquely qualified music students complete their studies and join the AQ alumni ranks in May…priceless!
The Aquinas College Choir, directed by adjunct faculty member Larry Biser, performs at the AMC.
Jazz Ensemble performs in the Art and Music Center last fall.
The Valenti Handbell Choir perform at St. Robert of Newminster Church in Ada.
Students jazz it up at the Moose Café in the Cook Carriage House.
Music Department members (l-r): Barbara Witham McCargar ’77, Chairperson/Associate Professor; Sr. Catherine Williams ’62, O.P., Associate Professor; Kathy Zimmerman, Administrative Assistant; Mary Hurd, adjunct faculty; and Paul Brewer, Ph.D., Associate Professor.
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Campus News
10
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
AQ Adjunct Receives Top Honor in International Music Awards Pianist/composer Roger MacNaughton accompanies Barbara Witham McCargar, Chairperson/associate Professor of music.
Grand rapids composer Roger MacNaughton, an adjunct
assistant music professor at Aquinas, received first place honors in the United States for his composition “Charlevoix Keepsake” from the International Music Aid Awards. Performed by MacNaughton on piano and Steve VanRavenswaay on cello, the winning composition is one of six original instrumental pieces written by MacNaughton and recorded on the 2006 Acoustic Arts CD release Winter Canvas. Music Aid was launched in 1998 in England to “use the power of music to help brighten the lives of everyone – including the world’s poorest children and others in need,” according to a press release on MacNaughton’s award. Initially created as a seven-day Art of Music Festival held in London, the event has grown over the years. The 2006 event featured art exhibits and live performances and was attended by more than 100,000 people. Signed guitars and album covers from musicians including Paul McCartney, John Lee Hooker, Oasis and Bono helped to raise funds for village children in Southeast Asia. Music Aid continues to provide free international support to bona fide music-related charities and projects. Recently expanded to include the International Music Aid Awards, Music Aid annually recognizes the Best Composition, Best Band, Best Male and Female Solo Artists, and Best Production. MacNaughton’s “Charlevoix Keepsake” won Best Composition in the United States. Music Aid offers award winners international support in developing their careers.
Spring Concerts & Events Schedule Unless otherwise noted, all events will take place in Kretschmer Recital Hall. Spring Choral Concert Sunday, March 18 at 4:00 p.m. Aquinas College Chorus, Chamber Choir & Valenti Handbell Ensemble Basilica of St. Adalbert, 701 Fourth St., N.W. Folias Latin Dance Project Monday, March 19 at 7:30 p.m. A concert of new works by percussionist Scott Harding and guitarist Andrew Bergeron for Flutes, Guitar and Percussion. $5 /person. Band and Chamber Strings Concert Sunday, March 25 at 4:00 p.m. Student Honors Recital Saturday, March 31 at 7:30 p.m. Bach-Around-the Clock VI Wednesday, April 11 at 10:00 a.m. Performance by Aquinas College Music Department at 1:05 p.m. Cook DeWitt Center – Grand Valley State University Carl Orff’s “Carmina Burana” Saturday, April 14 at 7:30 p.m. The Aquinas College Chorus joins the Battle Creek Symphony with the Battle Creek Community Chorus, Boys Choir, and Girls Chorus, Lakeview High School Chamber Choir, Battle Creek Central Chorus and Albion College Choir. W.K. Kellogg Auditorium, Battle Creek Spring Jazz Night Thursday, April 19 at 7:30 p.m. World Premiere Performance of “Contemplating the Heavens” Friday, April 20 at 8:00 p.m. A collaborative concert featuring the works of poet Linda Nemec Foster and Steve Talaga, jazz composer and arranger. Call or e-mail for ticket information. $7 – adults, $5 – seniors/students Spring Concert Sunday, April 22 at 2:00 p.m. Read more at www.aquinas.edu/music/events.html 1607 Robinson Road SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 (616) 632-2413
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American Environmentalist/Founder of Earth Day to Speak at Aquinas
Denis Hayes
A leading environmentalist and the founder of
the first Earth Day in 1970 will speak at Aquinas College Tuesday, March 27, 2007 for the 11th annual Wege Speaker Lecture. The public lecture will be presented in the Performing Arts Center beginning at 4 p.m. Denis Hayes, a proponent of solar power, is the president of Bullitt Foundation and chairman of Earth Day Network. By mobilizing the resources of the Foundation, Hayes intends to make the Pacific Northwest the best-educated, most environmentally aware, most progressive corner of America – a global model for sustainable development.
From 1983 to 1988, he was an adjunct professor of engineering at Stanford University. He also practiced law for several years in Silicon Valley. During the Carter Administration, he served as director of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. In 1979, Hayes received the national Jefferson Medal for Greatest Public Service by an Individual under 35. He has also received the John Muir Award from the Sierra Club and the highest honors awarded by the National Wildlife Federation, the Humane Society and the Interfaith Center for Corporate Responsibility. Time magazine selected Hayes as one of its “Heroes for the Planet;” and the National Audubon Society included him in its list of the 100 Environmental Heroes of the 20th century. He has been profiled as “Newsmaker of the Week” by ABC News and as “Today’s Person in the News” by the New York Times. (Some information for this article was found at www.library.thinkquest.org/)
Save the Date Pianos will be on campus to view and purchase special arrangement by Steinway & Sons and Hammell Music. AQ Music Department (616) 632-2413 Hammell Music (800) 286-6708
Nov. 9, 2007
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Campus News
12
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
New Library Receives Warm Welcome Laura Bennett-Kimble ’95 Contributing Writer
It’s been a few months since the Grace
Hauenstein Library opened its doors on the east side of campus. We asked Francine Paolini, library co-director with Shellie Jeffries, how the Aquinas community has responded to the new location. “The feedback, so far, has been positive,” she said. The building itself has been very well received. Patrons have commented on the great views of the campus from each floor, the relaxing color schemes and the comfortable group study space for students. Students have also enjoyed checking out DVDs and music CDs, something they couldn’t do at the previous, smaller library. “We have received
lots of positive feedback from students regarding this new policy,” Paolini added. While concrete statistics aren’t available yet, usage patterns clearly have changed. “In our old location, we were more of a pass through; a place for students to check their e-mail and move along. Now, we are a destination point and we notice that we are being used more hours of the day and on a much more consistent basis,” she said. “The library staff dedicated many hours to make this facility a reality, and to have such an overwhelmingly positive response has been a blessing.”
Ralph and Grace Hauenstein
Ralph and Grace Hauenstein are surrounded by dozens of people making their way in for tours of the new library following a dedication ceremony December 3.
Student Ambassadors provided library tours for the dozens of people who turned out for the dedication ceremonies. Pictured are: (l-r) Don Freeman, former AQ Trustee; Student Ambassador Kathleen Pollock, Dr. Tony Foster ’73; and Student Ambassador Jessica Bonner.
Ralph and Grace Hauenstein (left) help to officially dedicate the new library. Pictured with the Hauensteins (l-r) are: Gary Eberle, Department Chairman and professor of English and member of the Library Committee; Francine Paolini, Library Co-Director; Pat Miles, Jr. ’88, chairman of the Board of Trustees; Dr. Ed Balog, interim president; and Peter Wege, benefactor.
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2007 Commencement Honors Three in Education and Public Service Aquinas College’s 66th Commencement ceremony will take place Saturday, May 5, 2007 in the Field House. In addition to the presentation of degrees to students, three individuals with life-long involvement in education and public service will be recognized with honorary degrees.
Bert Bleke, superintendent of the Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS) from July 1, 2002 until his retirement June 30, 2006, will receive a Doctor of Education (Ed. D.) degree, honoris causa. He served 38 years in education. During his tenure as GRPS head, Bleke helped to boost student test scores within the district and championed the redesign of the district’s comprehensive high schools, including the creation of a set of smaller schools within the high schools that offer rigorous and relevant curriculum in an environment that fosters positive relationships. He also helped restore community trust in the district; and won passage of a $165 million bond issue for school facility improvements.
Mary Alice Williams, retired president and CEO of Arbor Circle, a behavioral health care and human services agency, will receive a Doctor of Public Service (D.P.S.) degree, honoris causa. Williams, who recently joined Aquinas as the interim director of Advancement, has served the community in many capacities: as a city commissioner, as head of the Eastown Community Association, as president of the Advisory Center for Teens and as director of Recipient Rights for Kent County Community Mental Health. She has been recognized with many awards for her lifetime of advocacy, both locally and nationally.
Kathleen Keller Muir, retired eighth grade math/science teacher for the Forest Hills Public Schools, has been devoting much of her time recently volunteering as a math and reading tutor at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership Academy (Grand Rapids), formerly Henry Paideia Acadamy. Kathy volunteers her time with the Early Childhood Children’s Commission, chairs the Keller Foundation and serves on the Foundation Advisory Board for Clark Retirement Community. For 13 years, she was the volunteer coordinator for the Henry Paideia Academy Partnership and has served on numerous community boards. For her continuing commitment to community service, Kathy will receive an honorary Doctor of Public Service (D.P.S.) degree, honoris causa.
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Campus News
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
AQ Recognizes December Graduates December 2006 brought some extra holiday
cheer to those students who completed their undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. They were recognized in a special ceremony held December 4. The ceremony, initiated in 2004 by the Student Senate, was created as a way to recognize graduates who might otherwise not be able to attend the traditional ceremony held at the end of the academic year in May. C. Edward Balog, Ph.D., interim president of Aquinas, talked about the responsibilities of an education and its benefits: “There certainly (are) benefits – if not rights and privileges. We all know that the primary material benefit is monetary. A college graduate, on average, earns about twice what a non-graduate makes throughout a lifetime.
Interim President Dr. C. Edward Balog delivers remarks to several dozen gathered for the annual midyear event.
A second benefit is less tangible – it involves your ability to analyze, to understand information, and to discriminate between and among options. This means having the intellectual background to determine your own choices rather than accept someone else’s.” Nearly three dozen graduates, their families and members of the faculty, staff, students and Board of Trustees came together in the Wege Student Center Ballroom for the ceremony and reception that followed. Students completing their graduation requirements at midyear are also eligible to participate in the traditional ceremony, which will take place Saturday, May 5, 2007.
Graduates and guests are treated to hors d’oeuvres and refreshments at the midyear reception.
Graduate Ronald Welch receives his diploma from Interim President Balog.
Christmas Tree Lights Up Carriage House
Faculty, staff and students gathered for the official lighting of the College’s Christmas Tree located outside the Carriage House. Those gathered shared holiday cheer, sang holiday carols and enjoyed many cups of hot chocolate.
Among those gathered for the Christmas Tree Lighting were (l-r): Dr. Ed Balog, interim president; Alan Plum ’98, Alumni Association Board Member; Connie Kowalsyk ‘99, president of the Alumni Association; Santa Claus; Damon Bouwkamp ’00, admissions representative; and Tony Nolan ’66, campus safety director.
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Q & A with Marnika Brown, AQ’s New Director of Diversity Initiatives Noddea Moore, Program and Building Coordinator for Campus Life, sat down with Marnika to chat about diversity at AQ. NM: Marnika, you interned with the Campus Life Department last year while you were in your master’s program at Grand Valley State University. What was most exciting about coming back to AQ in November to work full time? MB: Working with the staff, students and faculty of AQ has been very exciting for me and has kept me coming back. Upon the completion of my graduate internship, my professor asked what would be the one thing that I would change about the experience. I answered him by saying the length of time that I was there. I enjoyed the internship so much that even after I completed it, I came back for about two weeks to continue working on a few projects. I also visited during the AQ and You program over the summer. Returning full-time has been a very rewarding experience. NM: Why is diversity education and programming important at a college like Aquinas?
Marnika Brown
and feasibility of higher education in their future. AQ and You is a week-long residential summer program. The students engage in challenging liberal arts coursework, workshops on college planning and ACT preparation, as well as enjoyable extracurricular activities. NM: Diversity can be defined in numerous ways. How do you define it? MB: I define diversity as a collection of unique characteristics, beliefs and values. Diversity is so much more than race. It includes important and inter-related elements of human identity such as ethnicity, nationality, gender, socioeconomic status, citizenship status, religion, sexual orientation, ability and age. NM: What’s one aspect of your job that you truly enjoy?
MB: These experiences prepare students with the skills necessary to collaborate with all people effectively. Our students will not remain here forever, so this is preparation for their futures.
MB: I enjoy interacting with the students of AQ. A large part of what I do is to assist them in their development by helping to optimize their experience at Aquinas through various programs, events and initiatives. This allows me to take an active role in promoting academic, social, cultural and professional development.
NM: Tell me about one Diversity Initiative program that really has you excited.
NM: What’s one goal that you wish to accomplish regarding diversity at AQ?
MB: I am excited about the AQ and You initiative. The purpose of the program is to expose first generation college students to a collegiate experience while instilling the value
MB: To network, establish and maintain working relationships with the Grand Rapids community and other organizations whose focal point is diversity.
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Campus News
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
AQ’s Sustainability Initiative: A Redesign for Campus Sustainability Deborah Steketee, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Center for Sustainability at Aquinas College/Assistant Professor of Sustainable Business Guy Bazzani (center) with Center for Sustainability staff (l-r) Jessica Eimer and Megan Cramer. Bazzani delivered the keynote presentation at the National Campus Sustainability Day celebration on October 26, 2006.
Sustainability, at its roots, connects us to
our place. While AQ’s academic program in Sustainable Business continues to grow, the spirit and practice of living “the triple top line” – economic, environmental, and social – is gaining hold across the Aquinas campus. Building upon a process initially suggested by Steelcase Foundation Professor of Sustainable Business Dr. Matt Tueth, AQ students, staff, faculty and alumni have begun the effort to infuse sustainability into all of Aquinas’ practices and principles. This “redesign for sustainability” process is embedded in three new sustainability committees, including that of the student senate, faculty assembly and staff assembly, of which all actively steward a campus effort characterized by innovation and personal responsibility. AQ’s Sustainability Initiative (SI) offers an opportunity for individuals to propose practical and value-producing ways to transform a conventional “business as usual” approach to one which restores the environment, offers longterm prosperity and builds strong and healthy communities. Students, staff and faculty have all offered ideas ranging from a green roof on Brink Hall, energy-saving devices on vending machines,
Aquinas students, staff, and families enjoy a little pumpkin carving at Fall Fest on October 25, 2006. The event was held in association with National Campus Sustainability Day.
redesign of the campus recycling program, a polymer-based campus newspaper, toxin-free cleaning, and a free campus bike program, among others. AQ Sustainability intern Ben Van Gessel has been working with Center for Sustainability Program Director Jessica Eimer and AQ staff to gather data for a baseline inventory to better measure progress in our sustainability efforts. Campus education and information has been the focus of Sustainability Initiative intern, senior Megan Cramer. In partnership with the newly formed Students Striving for Sustainability group, the Center for Sustainability hosted a two-day focus on campus sustainability on October 25-26, 2006, including participation in AQ’s annual Fall Fest and a campus-wide event featuring urban redevelopment expert Guy Bazzani. Please look for more information regarding the AQ campus sustainability initiative at http://www.aquinas.edu/sustainability or contact us at (616) 632-1994.
Center for Sustainability workstudy student Chris VanHorn weighs food waste from the Aquinas cafeteria during an April 4, 2006 food waste audit.
Students Striving for Sustainability Club “knuckle deep” in trash at the Mayor’s Third Annual Grand River Clean-up on October 7, 2006.
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NPR’s Diane Rehm Visits Aquinas Laura Bennett-Kimble ’95, Contributing Writer
NPR talkshow host Diane Rehm spoke to an appreciative audience in Aquinas’ Performing Arts Center.
She visited, she enchanted, she conquered. Diane Rehm, beloved by many National Public Radio listeners, was in Grand Rapids in October for three Aquinas events. Some 900 people saw the personable radio host over two days and she was so popular that dozens of people were turned away from her packed afternoon talk in the Performing Arts Center on Oct. 24. At that event, Rehm focused on her background and how she got into radio. Her next presentation, held that evening at Cascade Hills Country Club, was primarily a question-andanswer session moderated by the ebullient Grand Rapids 63rd District Court Judge Sara Smolenski. The third appearance, an informal talk at the Donnelly Center on Oct. 25, was scheduled to accommodate people who weren’t able to see her the day before. Appearing prior to the hotly contested midterm elections, Rehm heard plenty of political questions and comments at all three of her talks, and she always had a thoughtful answer. In her opening at the evening event, she stated, “Here is my definition of a liberal: Someone whose mind, eyes and ears are open to all possibilities and to all ideas. In that sense, I proudly declare myself a liberal.” She said her NPR program, “The Diane Rehm Show,” is heard by 1.7 million listeners in the United States, not including the reach of satellite radio. “It is a way of establishing a national
town forum,” she noted, because listeners are so inclined to contact the program with their two cents’ worth. “I get it from all sides and I love it.” Rehm’s visit, part of the “Women Make a Difference” lecture series, kicked off the 20th anniversary year for the Jane Hibbard Idema Women’s Studies Center. Funds raised at the evening dinner event will go toward a scholarship being developed by the Center. Founders Trust and Bank was the major sponsor behind Rehm’s appearance. “I was absolutely delighted to have her here,” said Susan Haworth-Hoeppner, Ph.D., director of the Center. “She is truly a model for women, particularly young women. [Her visit] was wildly successful. I think we reached more people than we ever have before.” Diane Rehm (right) signed autographs for numerous fans. Pictured (from left) is Susan Haworth-Hoeppner, Ph.D., director of the Women’s Studies Center, Sr. Alice Wittenbach ’60, O.P., Ph.D., Alumni Office; and Katharina Gross, Ph.D., assoc. professor of German and event committee member (next to Rehm). Grand Rapids 63rd District Court Judge Sara Smolenski served up some lighter moments as hostess for the Diane Rehm evening event at Cascade Hills Country Club.
Rehm spent a good deal of her time taking questions from members of an overflow audience.
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Campus News
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Contemporary Writer Series Celebrates Ten Seasons
Poet Li-Young Lee
The contemporary writers series (CWS) at
Aquinas continues the highly successful program with its 2006-2007 season, marking the Series’ 10th anniversary. Promoted as the CWS’ Greatest Hits, this year’s schedule is unique since each of the season’s four authors is a Series favorite who has read on campus before. The fall semester program included Kurtis Lamkin (September 21), a remarkable performance poet and musician, and Li-Young
Lee (November 7), one of the country’s most honored poets. In the spring, the campus will host Linda Pastan (March 20), former poet laureate of Maryland, and Marilyn Nelson (April 12), a finalist for the prestigious National Book Award in Poetry. All readings are free and open to the public and take place in the Wege Center Ballroom at 7:30 p.m. Plans for the next CWS season are underway. For 2007-2008, the coordinating committee plans to invite a roster of acclaimed Michigan poets and writers to read. Tentatively scheduled are Thomas Lynch, Jack Driscoll, Janet Kauffman, and Laura Kasischke. For more information, contact Series director Pamela Luebke at (616) 632-2127 or visit www.aquinas.edu/library and click on the Contemporary Writers link.
Musician Kurtis Lamkin received a warm welcome from those who came to listen to him during his second visit to Aquinas.
AQ Alumna Authors Poetry Book Aquinas alum and CWS co-founder Linda Nemec Foster ‘72 recently published a new book. Listen to the Landscape (ISBN 0-8028-2898-1) is a collaboration of Foster’s poetry and the hand-colored photography of Dianne Carroll Burdick. Acclaimed by prominent poets and artists alike, the book has been described as luminous, remarkable and hauntingly beautiful. Published by Eerdmans, it sells for $16 and can be ordered at any bookstore or online (www.eerdmans.com, www.amazon.com, etc.).
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Three Educators to be Inducted into AQ College Hall of Fame Three former educators will be honored for their contributions to the field of education, including years of service to Aquinas College.
Ralph Bennett, Ph.D. is a former faculty member and founder of Career Action, the forerunner of the Continuing Education program. He holds five graduate degrees, maintained a heavy teaching load while at Aquinas and was always available to students. Recognizing a need to educate those in the prison system, Bennett initiated classes at the Ionia prison. He also served as a colonel in Michigan Air National Guard and won the Sears Roebuck Foundation Award for Teaching Experience and Campus Leadership.
Rosemary F. Deen ’46, Ph.D. is an Aquinas alumna as well as a distinguished teacher who recently retired from Queen’s College, City University of New York. She co-authored two composition texts (one the recipient of a national award): The Common Sense and Beat Not The Poor Desk ; authored a book of essays published in Creative Nonfiction Series Naming the Light: A Week of Years (University of Illinois Press); was poetry editor of Commonweal magazine for many years; and has authored numerous articles and delivered many lectures.
In 1937, Sister M. Mildred Hawkins, O.P. [†] became one of the first Grand Rapids Dominicans to gain a doctorate abroad (University of Munich in Greek). She was registrar at Catholic Junior College (now Aquinas) and directress of studies. Later, she was dean at Aquinas and a professor of Classical Languages (19491963). Sr. Mildred was a visionary, a “maker and shaker.” She worked to enrich academic programs and to increase faculty and students. She also engaged faculty members in European music and languages. She died May 4, 1988 at the age of 10l.
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Campus News
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Aquinas Inducts Four Into College Hall of Fame
The fifth annual Hall of Fame Gala on
September 29, 2006 proved to be another successful event as the College honored four alumni for their service to Aquinas and inducted eleven others into the Athletic and College Halls of Fame. In 2002, the College combined the Alumni Awards celebration with both the College Hall of Fame recognition and the inductions into the Athletic Hall of Fame. It has proven to be a winning formula. “The Hall of Fame gala, from its inception, was intended to celebrate the extraordinary tradition of AQ alums and mark the start
of our Homecoming weekend,” said Julie Ridenour, former vice president of Institutional Advancement. “With the addition of Aquinas reunions to the Homecoming schedule, the Hall of Fame now is the first point of contact for returning alums – and a fitting recognition of the wide array of accomplishments that we now recognize as the Aquinas tradition.” Each year, remarks by those being honored have been nostalgic, emotional and heartwarming. This past year’s event was no exception Here are some excerpts from those inducted into the College Hall of Fame in 2006.
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Joseph ’50 and Mary Beth (Beckwith ’50 †) Hansknecht Recognized for their service to their community and efforts toward improving human relations in the Detroit area “It’s hindsight, I think, that gives me knowledge of the wonderful experience that I had as an Aquinas student. Mary Beth and I were uniquely blessed. We worked together on so many projects in the fifties and sixties….when race relations were a tinderbox. Unfortunately for all the work we’ve done, it’s too common (today that) there are too many ‘they’ and not enough ‘we.’ We seem to see them
and how they are different. They are not we; they are not a part of us. The Catholic Church has a priority for working with poor and minorities. While I see improvement, it’s very limited improvement; there’s so much that each of us, individually, can do. It’s not necessary to go out and march. Sometimes a little prayer will help.” —Joseph Hansknecht
Sr. Malachi Laithwaite, O.P. † First college librarian “As the College’s first librarian, Sr. Malachi built the foundation that set into place resources necessary to equip students and faculty with the tools needed to achieve excellence. Today, she must be looking down with delight on
a new facility (Grace Hauenstein Library) where generations of learners and teachers and friends can share her love for books, periodicals, films, sound recordings and storytelling.” —Sr. Jean Milhaupt ‘45, O.P.
Paul Nelson President Emeritus; as the College’s fourth president, Nelson served during a period of difficult financial pressures. He thanked those who helped Aquinas get through those tough times. “The faculty and staff, just incredible people who during times of difficulty stepped forward and did the best they could. They always served students admirably, always cared about them, loved them, helped them grow and develop into the people they have become. “The Dominican sisters, the soul of this institution, their blood is in the bricks and their inspiration in each of our souls. “The Board of Trustees, which during my time, went through a lot of (committee) chairs. Their leadership, their generosity and caring about Aquinas College and its future brought us through some really challenging times.
“And especially, Peter Wege. We would not be here tonight without his leadership and generosity.” —Paul Nelson An appreciative Nelson mused that he liked to remember the era of his presidency as one when “we robbed Peter (Wege) to pay Paul,” which drew audience laughter and applause and a smile from Wege, a major college benefactor who attended the Gala.
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Campus News
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Honoring Life Monica Tyler, Staff/Students for Life Advisor
Since 1997 Aquinas College Students for Life
has been an active voice on campus, committed to educating on human life issues including abortion, assisted suicide, embryonic stem cell research and capital punishment. We work on behalf of defenseless human beings, born and unborn. We strive to protect all individuals from conception until natural death. Each year, Students for Life holds a Pro-Life Awareness Week. The crosses erected on the Aquinas grounds represent abortions performed during the previous year and serve to set the tone for a week of educational information. Past speakers have included faculty at Aquinas, as well as local speakers from Project Rachel, medical doctors from St. Mary’s Health Care and staff from Grand Rapids Right to Life. We have brought in national speakers including Feminists for Life, Mark Pickup (end of life issues), Monsignor James Lisante (“Defending Life in Death Defying Times”), and Gianna Jessen (a nationally known speaker who was aborted in the third trimester of pregnancy and lived). Annually, a group of students from Aquinas travels to Washington, D.C. for the March for Life. It has been the dream of Students for Life to raise funds to establish a memorial for the unborn on campus. On October 27, 2006, this dream became reality. Numerous donors contributed to an inspirational granite memorial, located in a beautifully serene area next to Bukowski Chapel. This memorial stands as a reminder of the 43 million lives that have been taken in the United States alone since Roe v. Wade. Since college-age women are more likely than any other age group to have or consider an abortion, the monument serves a particularly important purpose here at Aquinas College. It is a place where all can mourn the tragedy of abortion and remember the loss of any unborn life. Furthermore, the memorial is an enduring reminder to all students and visitors of the sacredness of human life.
Pictured at the newly established Monument to the Unborn is Karen Tallman, the student senate representative for the Students For Life organization, who designed the monument.
Deacon Denny Williams ’67, a College Trustee, officiates at the monument dedication ceremony.
Students for Life Officers President Jeannie Sokolowski Vice President Emily Rushmore Secretary Lorae Sokolowski Treasurer Mike Miller
Senate Reps Mary Carlson Karen Tallman Past Presidents of Students for Life Carmen Waldron Carolyn Doehring Marie Hahnenberg Tricia Worrell (Tyler)
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Aquinas Alumnus and Current Student Honored with Hispanic Excellence Awards
Aquinas College student Jesus Martinez-Cruz (center) was honored by Dr. Juan Olivarez ‘71 (GRCC President) and Lupe Ramos-Montigny (Chairperson, Committee to Honor Cesar E. Chavez) with the Hispanic Excellence Youth Award.
Aquinas College Alumnus Francisco Vega ‘50 (left) was honored by Dr. Juan Olivarez ‘71 (GRCC President) and Lupe Ramos-Montigny with the Hispanic Excellence Gold Citizen Award.
Jesus Martinez-Cruz, an Aquinas senior, was
Francisco Vega ’50 received the Gold Citizen
honored with the Youth Award at the First Annual Cesar E. Chavez Hispanic Excellence Scholarship Gala held at Grand Rapids Community College on October 4, 2006. The award recognizes an inspiring Hispanic student who is a positive role model for other youth in school and the community.
Award, which recognizes a Hispanic senior citizen who has fought segregation and discrimination. Vega was one of the founders of the Hispanic Center of West Michigan and has been an advocate for “diversity at a time when this community was not open to diverse populations,” according to the Committee to Honor Cesar E. Chavez. Vega is a business entrepreneur and has developed many businesses while mentoring Hispanic youth.
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Campus News
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Aquinas Is Testing Center for Prestigious International Certification Exam
Dr. Michel Pichot
Aquinas college has been recognized as one of
only about a dozen testing sites in the United States for international certification in the French language. Dr. Michel Pichot, an associate professor of French who came to Aquinas in 2002, managed to reach an agreement with the Paris Chamber of Commerce to have the College recognized as an official exam site. “It’s very important for students who want to work in businesses where French is spoken,” said Pichot, who attended a three-week workshop in 1997 that certified him to teach business French and establish examination centers. He teaches the preparatory class for the exam at Aquinas. Since 2004, 18 students from Aquinas, Eastern Michigan University and Lake Superior State University have taken and passed the Diplome de Francais des Affaires, 1er degre of the Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de Paris. Last May, six AQ students, including Sarah Camblin, Kathleen Fleet, Megan Fleet, Trista Mausolf, Tyler Nethercott and Reney Vesey passed the exam.
Pichot says having a regional exam site located here “puts Aquinas on the map” in the eyes of the Paris Chamber of Commerce. Pichot hastens to add that there is a need for qualified French language professionals not only in France, but wherever French companies establish themselves, including Quebec, Canada. This French diploma is highly respected in the U.S., Canada and Europe. Students who succeed in obtaining the diploma are considered to have an in-depth knowledge of the French language and can work in any business-related field where the language is spoken. The exam has four parts: understanding business conversations in French; analysis of various French business documents; business letter writing; and an interview in French regarding articles from the French and English business press.
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Employees Recognized for 25 Years of AQ Service Aquinas College will honor several dozen of its employees this spring for their years of service to the school. Among them will be about half a dozen who have reached their 25th anniversary.
All will be recognized during a special luncheon in May. Among those being honored for a quarter century of service are:
Pam Luebke Public Service Librarian
Ron Pederson Professor of Art and Department Chair
Len Smith Associate Professor of Computer Information Systems
Gary Eberle Professor of English and Department Chair
Jeanine Weber Inter-Library Loan & Serials Librarian
Steve Schousen Professor of Art
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Campus News
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Aquinas College Calendar of Events—Spring 2007 MARCH Feb. 18-Mar. 23
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Aquinas College Annual Student Art Show AMC Gallery Monday-Thursday, 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. Friday, 10:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 2:00–6:00 p.m. Note—Gallery closed Saturday, March 3– Sunday, March 11
Aquinas College Music Department Concert Basilica of St. Adalbert, 701 Fourth Street NW. 4:00 p.m., Free Spring Choral Concert featuring the Aquinas Chorus, Chamber Choir and Valenti Handbell Ensemble
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Aquinas College Music Department Event Kretschmer Recital Hall, AMC 7:30 p.m., $5 per person Folias Latin Dance Project – new works for flute, guitar and percussion
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Contemporary Writers Series Wege Student Ballroom 7:30 p.m., Free Linda Pastan – former poet laureate of Maryland Sponsored by Kate Pew Wolters JHWSC Presentation Aquinas Cook Carriage House, Moose Café 7:00 p.m., Free Faculty Tandem Poetry Reading Michaeleen Kelly, Ph.D., professor of philosophy Vicki McMillan, assistant professor of English Miriam Pederson, associate professor of English
23–24,
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Wege Foundation and Aquinas College Eleventh Annual Lecture of the Wege Foundation Speaker Series Performing Arts Center 4:00-5:30 p.m., Free Reception immediately to follow
Speaker—Denis Hayes President and CEO of The Bullitt Foundation and National Coordinator of the first Earth Day (April 22, 1970) 31
Aquinas Theatre Department and Cornerstone University Production Performing Arts Center Mar. 23–Mar. 24, 8 p.m. Mar. 25, 2 p.m. Mar. 29–Mar. 31, 8 p.m. April 1, 2 p.m. “The Pirates of Penzance” by Gilbert and Sullivan For tickets, call (616) 456-6656
Aquinas College Music Department Event Kretschmer Recital Hall, AMC 7:30 p.m., Free Student Honors Recital
APRIL 1
Aquinas Theatre Department and Cornerstone University Production Performing Arts Center 2 p.m. “The Pirates of Penzance” by Gilbert and Sullivan For tickets, call (616) 456-6656
1-May 6
Aquinas College Bachelor of Fine Arts Show AMC Gallery, Free Opening Reception, April 1, 2-4 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. Friday, 10:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 2:00–6:00 p.m. Note—Gallery closed Saturday, April 6-Monday, April 9
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Aquinas College Lecture Series Wege Student Center Ballroom 12:30–1:20 p.m., Free “Sasquatch With Golden Gloves: A Memoir of Small-Town Romance in the Eleventh Grade” Brent Chesley, Ph.D., Professor of English
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JHWSC Presentation Wege Center, Loutit Room 7 p.m., Free “More than a Cure: Examining the Politics of Breast Health and the Environment” Julia Mason, Professor of Women and Gender Studies, Grand Valley State University
Fine Arts AQ Day Aquinas College for high school juniors, seniors and their families 9:00 a.m. For information, visit our Web site: aquinas.edu/admissions
29–April/1
Aquinas College Music Department Concert Kretschmer Recital Hall, AMC 4:00 p.m., Free Aquinas Band and Chamber Strings Concert
Jane Hibbard Idema Women’s Studies Center Presentation (JHWSC) Wege Center Ballroom 12:30-1:15p.m., Free “Dilemmas of Feminist Work in Political Science” Molly Patterson assistant professor of political science
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April
11
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12–15
Aquinas College Music Department Performance Aquinas Performance Grand Valley State University Event, Cook DeWitt Center 1:05 p.m. “Bach-Around-the Clock VI” (Event begins at 10 a.m.) Contemporary Writers Series Wege Center Ballroom 7:30 p.m., Free Marilyn Nelson, author of six books and co-author of books and poems for children. Sponsored by Tony Foster ‘73 and Linda Nemec Foster ‘72. Aquinas College Theatre Program April 12-15, 8 p.m. April 14 and 15, 2 p.m. “The High Rise: A Comedy in Mask” by Aquinas College students Directed by Todd Espeland and Allison Williams, creators of and participants in Commedia Zuppa
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For details, call (616) 632-2805 or email harbuell@aquinas.edu
M AY Through May 6
Music Department Concert W.K. Kellogg Auditorium, Battle Creek 7:30 p.m., Free Aquinas Chorus and Battle Creek Symphony Orchestra—Carl Orff’s “Carmina Burana”
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Music Department Concert Kretschmer Recital Hall, AMC Center 7:30 p.m., Free “Spring Jazz Night”
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AQ Day 9 a.m.–all day For high school juniors, seniors and their families; For information visit our website:
Aquinas College Bachelor of Fine Arts Show AMC Gallery, Free Opening Reception, April 1, 2–4 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. Friday, 10:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 2:00–6:00 p.m.
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Aquinas College Baccalaureate Mass St. Robert of Newminster Church 6477 Ada Drive S.E. 10:00 a.m.
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Aquinas College Commencement Aquinas College Field House, 1580 East Fulton Street 2:00 p.m.
For tickets, call (616) 456-6656 14
Evening of Elegance 6:30–9:30 p.m., $175 per person Hosted by Bob and Paulette Israels
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Aquinas Emeritus Evening Cocktails, second level, Wege Student Center Cafeteria 6:00 p.m. Dinner, third level, Wege Student Center Ballroom 7:00 p.m. $150 per person Honoring Lyle B. Morrison, ’52, Aquinas Trustee For details, call (616) 632-2430
JUNE 17-22
www.aquinas.edu/admissions 20
Aquinas College Music Department Event Kretschmer Recital Hall, AMC 8 p.m., adults $7; students/seniors $5 World Premiere of “Contemplating the Heavens” A collaborative concert featuring the works of Linda Nemec Foster ‘72, poet, and Steve Talaga, jazz composer and arranger
For details, call (616) 632-2413
SEPTEMBER TBD
Music Department Concert Kretschmer Recital Hall, AMC 2:00 p.m., Free “Spring Concert”
Reflection Award Event For details, call (616) 632-2805 or email harbuell@aquinas.edu.
28-30 22
Music Department Jazz Camp
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Homecoming Weekend Hall of Fame Gala
Campus News
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Student News
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Rwandan Refugee Finds Home at Aquinas Laura Bennett-Kimble, ’95 Contributing Writer
Yvette Nkunde-Bose settles into her dorm room on her first day at Aquinas.
How students end up at Aquinas College varies from person to person. For some, it’s the first and most logical choice in a family with an Aquinas tradition. For others, it’s the ideal place to finish or begin a Continuing Education program. And for a few like 18-year-old freshman Yvette Nkunde-Bose, it’s a world apart from the devastation left behind. “I cannot tell you how much I love this school,” Yvette said. “The people are so nice. You can get help when you need it. I like the small classes. I think I belong to this school.” Yvette, who was born in Rwanda, has only been in the United States two years. Her route here was circuitous and painful. The civil war in Rwanda that left one million people dead began in 1994,
Back to Africa
Laura Bennett-Kimble, ’95 Contributing Writer
Amy Shepard
as we reported in the fall 2005 issue, Amy (Venn) Shepard ’87 visited Rwanda in June 2005 as part of a missionary team from Mars Hill Bible Church in Grandville. Since then, she’s become even more involved. As the Mars Hill East African point person, Shepard has attended meetings with World Relief, a Christian organization representing 49 denominations, in Burundi and Baltimore. She has met with African refugees who now live in the Grand Rapids area. And she returned to Africa in November for a two-week tour of Rwanda, D.R. Congo and Burundi. While there, Shepard and another Mars Hill representative met with World Relief leaders and pastors from the three countries.
when Yvette was just five years old. She ultimately lost her father, mother, a sister and two brothers, and has lost track of her only known living relative, a sister. Summarizing her experiences, she said, “I have a lot of personal issues from my past. I saw the guns and killing and rape.” Half Tutsi and half Hutu, Yvette found herself in danger wherever she went, and endured both physical and mental harm. She traveled from Rwanda to Zaire and finally Zambia, where a priest helped the then-sixteen-year-old find transportation to America. Before being placed with foster parents in Rockford, Yvette spent several months in children’s homes in North Carolina and Georgia. Because of the war, Yvette had no formal education prior to coming to the U.S. She carried 16 credits her first semester, including biology, English and math. Yvette knows 11 languages and has chosen pre-med as her major. “I grew up seeing people suffer,” she said. “I grew up having a wish to be able to help people. African people don’t have money to buy medicine. I want to go back so I can help them.”
Traveling in a land ravaged by war, AIDS and other adversities, Shepard saw much work to be done. Through the World Relief collaboration, Mars Hill and five other U.S. churches are doing what they can to help with programs including clean water initiatives, refugee relief, child survival programs and HIV/AIDS training. “Many in the rural areas of Burundi do not know what AIDS is, or why their people are dying in the prime of their lives. Or, if they have heard of AIDS, they still believe it to be a curse and cast out those who are infected,” Shepard wrote in a report after her recent trip. Shepard saw positive signs during her visit, too, including a World Relief program in Kigali, Rwanda. This program allows women who lost their husbands to AIDS or in the 1994 genocide to earn income by cultivating and processing geraniums for perfumes and medicines. Programs like this are designed to help the African people help themselves – and as a result, to give them hope for the future.
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
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Ken Czop, junior, SIFE/NaviLife Team Member Editor’s Note – Like 1,500 other colleges/universities nationwide, Aquinas College has an organization composed of student business majors known as Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE). The students work together on developing solutions to various problems and new product ideas.
As the dust settles after a long fall semester at
Aquinas College, the SIFE NaviLife team is just beginning its work in what will be a great project for all those involved, including the Grand Rapids community. Since last school year (2005–06), the team has undergone many changes. With the departure of Tim Muma (to graduation), NaviLife has had to recruit new members. Joining the team this year are Lindsey Skinner (junior), Blaire Baker (junior) and Sarah Bedford (senior), in addition to returning members Katie Seastrom (senior) and Ken Czop (junior). Not only has the team upgraded the amount of members, they also have formulated a new name to define the brand identity of their new product: NaviLife, which is a combination of “navigation” and “life,” showing consumers what this product does before they even see it. A tentative logo has also been designed, using a range of blues to represent being on the “cutting edge” of technology. The internal excitement of the Aquinas community for NaviLife has spilled over into Grand Rapids also. In April and December 2006, the team held press conferences to unveil the
The SIFE NaviLife team shared details about NaviLife at a December 8 press conference.
product to the media and possible investors. The December press conference was highlighted by a full demonstration of the system, requiring artificial smoke that filled a small area, masking an overhead “Exit” sign and drawing attention to flashing lights (NaviLife) along the baseboard that, in a real emergency, would provide perhaps the only hope of escape from a smoke-filled building. The session received extensive media coverage. As the media buzz about NaviLife continues to grow, the team is seeking funding to continue to develop this product and find a manufacturer. Currently, the team is working on securing “seed money” from smaller government-based technological shops. The student NaviLife team and its advisor, Masato Yamazaki, Ph.D., would love to see this product developed locally and are working with area business people to make that happen. The NaviLife system will travel with the other Aquinas SIFE teams to compete at the SIFE Regional Conference in Chicago, Illinois in March 2007.
The SIFE NaviLife team demonstrated the system for area architects, contractors, insurance and media representatives.
Student News
AQ Students Market Life-Saving System
Student News
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Mexico: Service, Learning and Fun Aquinas Style! Courtney Bender ’07
Photo by Arturo Ortega
The Aquinas group - Casey Wearing, Kerry Quirk, Courtney Bender, Hilary Atkin, Daniel Costie, Carina Marquez and Eric Bridge with local families in Mexico.
From December 28 to January 6, six Aquinas
students and one staff advisor went to Cholula, Mexico as part of the College’s servicelearning class. We worked in collaboration with Community Links, a non-profit organization. In years past, the class had normally traveled to Oaxaca, but due to increased violence and political unrest there, the trip was moved to Cholula, a city located about an hour and a half east from Mexico City. The purpose of our trip was to immerse ourselves in the community and to learn more about the culture and ourselves. Our first few days brought new surroundings, new friends and hard work. On Friday, December 29, the group spent the day meeting the director of Capulli de los Ninos, an organization that helps underprivileged youth by getting them off the streets. We spent the day baking cookies for the community, shucking corn for animal feed and touring the area while learning firsthand about the effects of globalization. That evening, we attended a Christmas play put on by local children. The next day was spent raking and baling alfalfa on a local farm. The local farm owner, or campesino, told us that the workers work from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day and make only about ten dollars a day. We celebrated
our hard work by meeting new friends and dancing. We spent New Year’s with the family of Community Links’ director Arturo Ortega. We ate lentils and the traditional Mexican New Year’s meal and spent the night dancing. On January 2, we returned to Capulli de los Ninos and participated in an indigenous ritual steam ceremony. The end of our trip was spent experiencing cultural sites, such as the mountains and pyramids of Mexico. We also visited a Franciscan monastery in the mountains and assisted with a clean-up project there. The last two days we spent in Mexico City. We visited Teotihuacan and the Basilica of Guadalupe. The trip wrapped up on January 6 as we said goodbye to new friends and new experiences. The trip taught us a lot about life and about ourselves. The group quickly bonded and we had experiences that we would never forget. We learned a lot about the communities we served and about Mexico in general. I found that the people are generous, unassuming and completely genuine. This trip made such a positive impact on my life. I cannot wait to share my experiences, take what I learned and put it into action back at school.
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AQ Director of Adult Student Recruitment Brenda Hennink ’96
C olleges, universally, expend a great deal
of effort and money on attracting traditional age students to their campuses. Still, there is a growing trend of adults returning to the classroom to complete a degree or just for the fun of learning new things. Many of these colleges have stepped up their efforts to help those adults comfortably transition back into the classroom. Aquinas’ Adult Student Recruitment Office, headed by Brenda Hennink ’96, reconstituted a CE Orientation program aimed at helping to make that transition back to
college a good one. “Adult students often indicate they feel a sense of apprehension about returning to school,” says Hennink. “It is really a fear of the unknown. Our goal is to help them start their Aquinas career with ease by acclimating them to the campus, its people and its services on the very first day. The feedback has been extremely positive from attendees as well as from the Aquinas faculty and staff.” This past fall, more than 50 new and prospective Continuing Education (CE) students attended an orientation specifically for non-traditional aged learners. Attendees had the opportunity to meet several faculty and staff members as well as other CE students while learning more about the many services Aquinas offers. An optional campus tour was also on the menu for the evening. Aquinas conducts the CE orientation twice each academic year —the first night of the fall and spring semesters.
Would you or anyone you know benefit from attending a future CE orientation? Contact Brenda Hennink at 616-632-2923 for more details.
Orientation attendees learn about the many opportunities Aquinas offers to its CE students.
Aquinas Professor Paul Bieneman conducts a campus tour during the Continuing Education orientation.
CE Student Receives Athena Scholarship On september 26, 2006, Aquinas Continuing Education student Bridget Moore (second from left) received an Athena Scholarship from the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce. Kelly Hutchings of LaSalle Bank (at podium), chairperson of the Athena Scholarship committee, presented the scholarship awards. Since 2000, the Chamber has awarded scholarships as part of their annual Athena Award Program to women over the age of 30 who return to college.
Photo courtesy of Tim Motley, The Motley Cat Studio
Student News
AQ CE Orientation: Making the Transition
Student News
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
AQ’s Largest Freshmen Class Engages in 13th Annual Project Unite Eric J. Bridge ’92, Coordinator of Service-Learning
The 2007 freshmen class, the College’s largest
ever, provided many more hands for the annual Project Unite effort. Last fall’s project, sponsored by Educational Community Credit Union, was held at City High/Middle School on August 18, 2006, as part of Aquinas student orientation. During the day, more than 400 Aquinas students, faculty and staff joined community members and Grand Rapids Public Schools staff for a service project to meet the needs of City High and Middle School students.
The aim of Project Unite is for new Aquinas students to work with a community school to clean, paint and repair the school, playground and surrounding area. The day consisted of completing indoor projects such as moving classrooms, setting up the theater and media center, and outdoor painting and landscape work. Through Project Unite 2006, new students interacted with each other and with members of the Grand Rapids community. In addition, students learned about City High/Middle School and the local community.
A group of freshmen prepare to jump into their tasks at Project Unite.
Some freshmen work on a landscaping project during Project Unite.
Aquinas students move supplies into the new City High/Middle School.
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
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The Aquinas Lecture Series Laura Bennett-Kimble, ’95 Contributing Writer
Since 1991, the Aquinas community has been
Dr. Michelle DeRose, associate professor of English, played the piano for her presentation.
Co-coordinator Dr. Dan Brooks, professor of English, introduces one of the series’ speakers.
Dr. Stephan Davis, assistant professor of Theology, presented “The Theological Rehabilitation of the Pharisees” during a talk on November 14 in Wege Center Ballroom.
Faculty News
enjoying the Aquinas Lecture Series, a lunchtime program that regularly delivers welcoming speakers and exceptional topics. The brainchild of English professors Dan Brooks and Brent Chesley, the series has covered everything from traditional academic research projects to toy trains, oncampus bird watching and Star Trek. The origins of the series are a little fuzzy. If you talk to Brooks, it was Chesley’s idea. If you talk to Chesley, he gives the credit to Brooks. Regardless of how it began, there’s no doubt it’s been successful over the years, with good audience attendance and enthusiastic speakers. “This presents a great opportunity for people at Aquinas who want to share the things they are pursuing,” Brooks noted. “Brent and I often joke about how hard it is to organize this,” he continued. “But really, we make a few announcements and people contact us. We already have a few volunteers lined up for next year.” The 1991-1992 series included talks by Gary Eberle, Mary Clark-Kaiser, Andrew Jefchak and Chesley, all of whom are still involved with the College. The first lecture, given by Becky Stewart, reflected the initial intent of Brooks and Chesley
to present academic topics: “Comparing Levels of Moral Development, Critical Thinking Skills and Self-Concept of College Students Today.” That original purpose soon broadened to include diverse topics of general interest. Presentations have included poetry readings and music department offerings, “Exercise: It Doesn’t Have to Hurt” by Dave Cutton; Shirley Lewis discussing “Women and the Holocaust;” Ralph Vunderink’s “Thomas Aquinas Revisited;” “Building the Nest Egg: Issues in Retirement Planning” by Tom Dooley; and Brenda Hennink’s “Destination Alaska: A Pictorial Journey of the National Parks.” “The series shows that the community is pretty vibrant,” Brooks said. “People seem to think of the series as a fixture on campus.” With representation from departments across the College, the lectures help to keep the AQ community connected. “We have a chance to find out about things we would otherwise never find out about,” Chesley said. The Aquinas College Music Department will present “Women Composers” on March 27 (12:30pm, Wege Ballroom) as one of the final lectures for the 2006-2007 academic year.
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Pedaling Along…A Long Way Faculty News
Michael Cushion, Ph.D., Department Chairman/Associate Professor of Sociology with Penny Avery, Ph.D., Department Chairperson/Associate Professor of Communication
Michael Cushion enters camp at the end of his 92-mile ride on the fourth day.
Department. Penny and I crossed paths in Beal City on day two of the trip. She has completed the DALMAC four times. Typically, she rides with her brother, Rick, his wife, Christa, and sister Patty. Rick says he flies all the way from California to ride. “We’ve made many lasting friendships over the years,” says Avery. “We look forward to this year’s (2007) ride over Labor Day weekend.”
“Are you doing the DALMAC?”
“No, I did it last year.” WHAT THE HECK is the DALMAC? It’s the acronym for the Dick Allen Lansing to Mackinaw bicycle tour. Allen, a former state representative, and a group of friends started the tour in 1971. It has been running ever since over the Labor Day weekend. Nineteen hundred bicyclists joined in the fun for the 2006 ride. Why would anyone want to ride their bicycle 340 miles from Lansing to the Mackinac Bridge? I called it my “post-fifties denial of death” tour. “Not only did I do the DALMAC, I recently ran the Detroit Marathon,” said Cushion. My cholesterol was climbing and my doctor said to get in better shape. Since I had always wanted to do this, I felt it was the perfect incentive. All routes started from Michigan State University in East Lansing. My route had overnight stops in Mount Pleasant, Lake City, Central Lake and Mackinaw City. I averaged about six hours of riding per day, with my longest stretch of 92 miles on the fourth day. It was a wonderful experience and I would do it again. However, I would replace my 25-year-old bicycle and do a bit more training. You’ll see many father-son, husband-wife and sibling groups on the trip. Some do the DALMAC for more social reasons, including Penny Avery, chairperson of the Communication
Faculty members Michael Cushion and Penny Avery stand next to her recumbent bike.
Michael Cushion crosses the Big Mac with a new friend, Bob, from Illinois, whom he met during the ride.
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FACULTY NOTES…
Lisa Anne Morgan, Ph.D.,
an assistant professor in the School of Education and the director of English as a Second Language Program, is spending the second half of the academic year in Belarus. Dr. Morgan was selected last fall to receive a prestigious Fulbright Scholarship to teach English to future English teachers and/or English translators at the Minsk State Linguistics University. Morgan said it’s a “wonderful opportunity.” She’ll be in Minsk from February to July 2007.
Becky Stewart-Gross, Ph.D.
Building bridges, a Green
Bay, Wisconsin based business specializing in customdesigned communication and leadership training, received national certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Women’s Business Development Center – Chicago, a regional certifying partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). Building Bridges, founded in Grand Rapids in 1987, is owned by Becky Stewart-Gross, Ph.D., a former Aquinas College professor.
Congratulations to Dr. Mary
Orlicki, assistant professor of Spanish, who was honored with the Michigan Campus Compact (MCC) Faculty/Staff Community Service-Learning Award. The prestigious award is the highest MCC bestows on faculty and staff in the state of Michigan. It was presented at MCC’s 11th annual Institute program held February 8 in Livonia, Michigan. Dr. Orlicki was designated by peers as the faculty/staff person on campus who has made the most outstanding contributions in service-learning and community service. This award recognizes her influence on and engagement of students to be involved in community service or service-learning through modeling, instructing and/or special projects.
Faculty News
Lisa Anne Morgan, Ph.D.
Mary Orlicki, Ph.D. (center), is pictured following the MCC Award ceremony with her daughter, Angelica Leone, and mother, Catherine.
Alumni News
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Dear AQ Alumni,
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Letter From the Alumni Director
After about a week of phone calls, alumni visits and a few hundred e-mails, I sat back in my office chair gazing at an aerial photo of our campus taken in 1987. To me it was a quick view of a place that really can’t be described in a thousand words, as the saying goes. I looked at it with three thoughts. The first (which was very fleeting) was that this view is how AQ would look if I was a Quidditch player in a Harry Potter novel. Second, I couldn’t believe that I was looking at the same campus I attended. It just didn’t seem like there was everything on that encompassing view of Aquinas’ campus that was supposed to be there, so I got up and took a really long look at the photo. The third thought that came to mind was, “What if we took a true aerial view of what Aquinas College encompasses?” So, read the following and then close your eyes to visualize how beautiful the view really is. —If we put a red dot for every AQ alumnus that walked on campus, we’d have more than 17,800 red dots on more than 100 acres of land. —If we connected those dots to where people live today, we’d have lines that connect to almost every state and over 25 different countries all over the world. —In 1987, there were 21 buildings on campus. Today there are 28. And a soccer field! What it really comes down to is that as wonderful and contained, and maybe a little quirky, as the campus is, the College is alive and well with you! The College is a living entity in your professions, your family and your life. As you begin to reconnect with Aquinas, by receiving either a friendly note and phone call from Sr. Alice about your class reunion, or an invitation from me to meet up for a regional reception, open up your mind to the campus you helped create and continue to grow. The Aquinas College experience is not contained in an aerial view of more than 100 acres or during a four- or five-year time span. It is the excellent teaching our faculty continues to provide; it is the good work our staff continues to turn in and it is the good life you continue to live. Thanks for continuing the good work that has begun. Proudly, an AQ Alumnus~ Rene Palileo ’98, Director Alumni & Parent Relations
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2007 Alumni Award Honorees The longest standing awards that have been given
Paul Winchester ’75 Outstanding Alumni of the year 2007
Paul ’75, a graduate of Aquinas College is a
retired senior vice president for Irwin Seating. His commitment to community and professionalism propelled Irwin Seating into the outstanding position it is in today. His character and sense of service that he has brought to Irwin Seating is a trademark all Aquinas alumni strive to attain, and his quiet, humble manner while achieving global results has been a staple in his life.
Dr. Lee E. Jacokes ’61 Distinguished Service Award 2007
Dr. Jacokes dedicated 40 years of his professional
life to Aquinas College. A graduate of the class of 1961, he returned to Aquinas as a member of the faculty after completing his graduate work. Over the next four decades, he made countless contributions to the College as a faculty member and administrator. Dr. Jacokes retired three years ago, but has maintained active involvement in the College. He continues to assist Aquinas in fundraising and development activities. He was recently appointed to serve on the Board of Directors of the Emeritus Center. He continues to teach at the Emeritus Center and last academic year served as advisor to several psychology majors as part of their required research methodology coursework. His continued contributions over the past two years are particularly noteworthy because he has maintained active involvement in the Aquinas community despite significant health and physical challenges.
‘Yearbook’ is back on the shelf On behalf of Aquinas College and the yearbook staff, please accept our most sincere apologies for the unpublished 2005 AQ yearbook. While the very diligent and determined yearbook staff, led by Aquinas Graphic Specialist Lisa Klynstra-Yarost, collected hundreds of photos and compiled dozens of pages of event copy and text, the demand fell far short of the minimum order to create and publish a yearbook.
The yearbook is a piece of AQ history we hope to restore as part of the institution in the future, and we will continue to work toward a stronger base of support for making it become a reality.
Alumni News
out on behalf of Aquinas College have been the Alumni Awards. The Outstanding Alumni Award and the Distinguished Service Award have been awarded to alumni and friends to the College for almost 40 years. This year, we’ve had a huge increase in nominations for each award through email, phone message and letters. The Awards & Nominations Committee of the Alumni Association has the difficult task of selecting the recipients out of so many outstanding nominations. This year’s recipients are:
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Alumni Association Update: Saints Are Everywhere Sarah L. Swart ’89, Alumni Board Communications Committee Chair
Alumni News
The Aquinas College Alumni Association Board
of Directors represents all alums from Aquinas. The Board launched a strategic planning process to enhance the mission of support to Aquinas and represent all alumni. This process involves a four-phase Cycle of Renewal method that was developed by the Hudson Institute and is taught in the Master of Management program. The four phases are Fully Aligned, Out of Sync, RePurposing and Exploring New Directions. This model will serve as a springboard to explore the development of a plan for the Alumni Association to better serve you. The benefits of being an Aquinas alumnus include, but are not limited, to: • Credit card with rewards based on purchases going back to Aquinas • Special discounts (15%) from Liberty Mutual Insurance with incentives back to the Alumni Association for more alumni activities • Regional receptions and events in your local area
• Annual bus trips to Chicago for shopping, museums and fun (usually scheduled in November) • Summer Golf outings (June 4, 2007) • Ability to support your alma mater both financially and by volunteering (the committees listed in this article are looking for volunteers) • Receipt of this Aquinas magazine twice a year and the AQ Leaflet by e-mail more frequently Visit the Alumni Website at www.aquinas. edu/alumni/ for the latest updates. We are working hard this year to keep the site fresh with new information. We hope you create your own account on this site and keep your information current, so we can easily stay in touch with you. Twenty-one alums serve on the Aquinas Alumni Association Board with seven new members elected every year to serve three-year terms. All alumni are invited to serve on the committees and are encouraged to share ideas that can help expand our vision. The board is organized into six operating committees and an executive committee. The committee structure and chairs are listed below: • Admissions/Alumni Involvement – John Rice ’99 (jrice@greenridge.com) • Awards & Nominations – Ryan Smith ’00 (ryansmith@htk.com) • Campus Life/Spirituality – Barb Selesky ’87 (oldtoo@voyager.net) • Communications – Sarah Swart ’89 (swartsar@aquinas.edu) • Development – Douglas Dooley ’96 (douglasdooley@gmail.com) • Special Events – Tony Nolan ’66 (nolanant@aquinas.edu)
Web Address: www.aquinas.edu/alumni/
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The new Board members all report a common heartfelt theme of their love for their Aquinas experience and desire to give back as Aquinas advocates. Here is a little about each of them.
Paul Greenwald ’72 currently is an attorney with Varnum, Riddering, Schmidt & Howlett .
Frederick O. Bw´Ombongi ’04 is currently finishing his masters in Health Care Administration degree at Grand Valley State University and participating in an internship at Spectrum Health.
Sarah Swart ’89 recently retired from the University of Detroit Mercy as director of Instructional Technology and has returned to the Grand Rapids area. Sarah is also a Sisters of Mercy Associate.
Greg Pfent ’70 is a retired English teacher and the men’s and women’s tennis coach at Kelloggsville Public Schools in Grand Rapids. Marietta Cole ’86 currently works as training and education coordinator at Spectrum Health Care Corporation
Please consider how you can get involved in the Alumni Association. It’s your association, so let us know what kind of association you want!
Ireland Alumni Reunion Friday, March 16, 2007 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. You and your guest are invited for a pre-glow party with fellow Ireland alumni. Following the reunion the annual Aquinas Saint Patrick’s Day party will begin. Open bar and buffet dinner from 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. RSVP to harbuell@aquinas.edu or call Ellen Harburn at (616) 632-2805
e t n i Slá
Alumni News
David Hebstreit ’93 serves as teacher/coach/ advisor at Livonia Churchill High School
Kristi Pavlak ’03 is development specialist for The Detroit Institute for Children, a nonprofit serving physically disabled children in the Metro Detroit Area
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Aquinas Alumni Interest Survey
Alumni News
Instructions: This survey is available electronically as well as in print. Please ONLY submit in one format, preferably electronic. The advantage is that the data can be aggregated automatically in electronic form. However, if you can only reply in print, we would rather have your feedback than miss it. Demographics Questions: 1. Are you an Alumna/us of Aquinas College? Yes No 2. During what period did you graduate? (checkbox) 2004-2006 1980-1984 2003-2004 1975-1979 2000-2002 1970-1974 1995-1999 1965-1969 1990-1994 1960-1964 1985-1989 prior to 1960 3. Where do you live? (city, state) __________________, ______ 4. What is your field of work? (If you are retired or not currently employed, list that as your field of work) _________________________________________ 5. When is the last time you returned to Aquinas? Mo/yr ________ / _____ 6. What kind of events would make you want to return? Circle as many as interest you, plus add your own ideas in the space below the list. Golf
Cultural events
Chicago Bus trip
Museum Tour
Stratford-on-Avon tour
Kayaking
Canoeing
White Water Rafting Fall
Color Tour
Volunteer Day (soup kitchen etc)
Lakeshore bike trip
Bowling
Other Ideas:
7. Indicate the best day(s) of the week for you to attend: __Monday __ Tuesday __Wednesday __Thursday __Friday __Saturday __Sunday ___None 8. Indicate the time of day best for you __Morning __Afternoon
__Evening
9. Please login or register to update or create your own alumni account! Please keep your profile current at http://www.aquinas.edu/alumni/ Thank you for participating in our survey!
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Four Honored with Alumni Awards The Fifth Annual Hall of Fame Gala on September 29, 2006 proved to be another successful event as the College honored
four alumni for their service to Aquinas and inducted eleven others into the Athletic and College Halls of Fame.
Alumni News
Mike ’86 and Kiki (Hieshetter ’87) Lown Distinguished Service Award
Kiki: “We are honored and humbled. Mike and I were raised by loving families in which service and giving were a part of our everyday lives. At a very young age, we were taught that God expects us to share the gifts that he has bestowed on us with others.” Mike: “One cannot force people into service, but we can only hope that through our own actions and deeds, we inspire more people to become involved to benefit and change the lives of others.”
Brigadier General James Brunson ’71 and wife, Diane Outstanding Alumni Award
“This award means a great deal to me. No one accomplishes things in life by themselves. I certainly have had the strongest partnership in my wife, Diane.”
Barbara Selesky ’87 2006 Board Member of the Year
(On thanking fellow Board members who selected her for the honor) “Thank you to my posse, my pack, my paisanos, my amigos and our team who have shared the enthusiasm of successful service to the Aquinas family and to our beloved school.”
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Alumni Gatherings
Alumni News
Thanks to Gary Johnson ’86, president and CEO
Pictured above (l-r): Mark Maniaci ‘98, Gary Johnson ‘86, Kristi Paulak ‘06 (back left), Sr. Alice Wittenbach ‘60, O.P., (front center) Beth Lowe ‘02, Tim Lowe ‘02, Rob Tubman ‘88 (back row) and Tony Nolan ‘66 (right front)
of Plante, Moran Trust in Southfield, Michigan, proud Aquinas alumnus and avid bocce ball player, the Detroit Area Leadership team held an alumni reception at Palazzo Di Bocce in Auburn Hills in November 2006. Johnson teamed with the Alumni Association to sponsor a wonderful event where alumni reconnected with Aquinas while playing one of the fastest growing sports in America, bocce ball! The Detroit Area Alumni have held several receptions and will begin hosting at least two annually in various venues. If you’re interested in getting more involved in the planning process, email alumni@aquinas.edu with your name and contact information.
Sr. Alice Wittenbach ‘60, O.P., (right), alumni office staff, watches as Bocce Ball participants enjoy an evening of fun and games in Detroit.
Pictured above (l-r): Julie Ferstle ‘06, Sr. Alice Wittenbach ‘60, O.P., Liz Petzke, Lars Petzke ‘03, Sarah Carter Conklin ‘02, Matt Conklin, Annette Scheid ‘87, Richard Allen ‘73
Southwest Michigan Area Alumni gathering Sr. Alice Wittenbach ’60, coordinator of Alumni Reunions, came up with another great idea… again! She decided to give alumni who live in southwest Michigan a call to see if they were interested in having a party. Julienne (Chadwick) Elias ’82 responded to Sr. Alice with a suggestion to have the reception at Santaniello’s Restaurant in Stevensville by the Benton Harbor/St. Joseph area. The very enthusiastic inaugural group left with AQ goodies and comments like, “We can’t wait for the next event. Please let us know when we can attend!” Thus, the beginning of the Southwest Michigan Area Aquinas Alumni Leadership team was formed. If you live in the Southwest Michigan area and would like to be more involved with future reception, or just have some ideas, please email them to alumni@ aquinas.edu with your name and contact information.
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Homecoming/Reunion Weekend 2006 Connie Kowalsyk ’99, President, Aquinas College Alumni Association
Alumni News
There is no other event quite like an Aquinas
Homecoming. Despite a bit of nippy and inclement weather, the 2006 event harkened us home to visit with those old friends, cherished staff and much beloved faculty members we have missed. A virtual kaleidoscope of smiling alumni faces across a myriad of class years celebrated seven reunions and decided to mix up old tales, lore and legends (yes, Sister Alice has recorded the identity of all of our legends – for posterity, of course). The Homecoming weekend kicked off with the annual Hall of Fame Gala on Friday evening. The bright light of Saturday dawned with the annual meeting of the Alumni Association’s Board of Directors, only to be followed by those moments we Tommies and Saints wait one whole year to enjoy: the soccer games, the parade, the presentation of our Homecoming Court, the tours, the darling future AQ Saints with painted faces, the food booths and the fun
we have reuniting under that main stage tent. Sunday brought the bittersweet culmination of the weekend, greeting the Golden Saints with a hearty morning repast and program that rekindled the sweetness of shared memories. This past Homecoming, all alums and students had the opportunity to tour the newest gift to our campus, the beautiful Grace Hauenstein Library. This new facility offers our students virtually unlimited possibilities for study, research and a host of other endeavors. The views from the building of the wooded campus, soccer field and Cook Carriage House are nothing short of breathtaking as they create the perception of being in one of the nicest tree houses in the world! Planning has already begun for the 2007 Homecoming festivities (Sept. 28-30). The Aquinas College Alumni Association invites you to bring your heart back home to good old AQ.
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Reunions – Keep ’Em Coming! Sr. Alice Wittenbach, O.P., Ph.D., ’60, Alumni Office
Alumni News
As we prepare for a record number (nine) of
reunions in September 2007, I ask myself, “Why go through all this preparation one more time?” The answer comes easily, since the reunion memory bank from the past few years is filled with positive responses. These comments revolve around the wonderful experiences alums have had renewing special friendships from the past, making new friends, admiring the new buildings (Performing Arts Center and Grace Hauenstein Library), taking part in tours of the academic departments on campus and celebrating the liturgy at the Bukowski Pastoral Center. Another reunion highlight has been a signature event for each class, ranging from a sit-down dinner for one class to pizza and beer for another. This event also includes the AQ president, photo ops, lots of prizes and great fun and cheer throughout. Last year’s reunion is reflected well in this letter which came from Eileen Manza ’66, who lives in Kansas and works at Savior Pastoral Center within the Archdiocese of Kansas City. Thank you for a fabulous weekend for us ’66 graduates! Pete and I enjoyed every minute of our time on campus and of course it flew by all too fast! It is such a pleasure to know you. We are still in awe over the growth and outstanding vision at
Aquinas and are still telling the wonderful story of our weekend to our friends here in KC. Our Archdiocese has six high schools, one is St. Thomas Aquinas, whose campus ministry people schedule seven Kairos retreats at the pastoral center where I am program director. I am carrying your great news to their leaders and wore my new Aquinas golf shirt when they were at the center last week. Warmest wishes and continuing blessings on your work and on Aquinas College. That letter expresses so well the feelings of most reunion participants. So, will I keep on working with you marvelous alums throughout the years? Why not? And will you keep coming and taking part in our planning sessions? I hope so. I have discovered that it’s often “people needing (and calling) other people ” that makes all the difference. I look forward to seeing you in September. Reunions are being held for alums from the classes of 1962, 1967, 1972, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997 and 2002. Homecoming Weekend is September 28-30, 2007.
40th Anniversary—Class of 1966 Back row (l-r): Maurice Farhat, Tony Nolan, Jeanne Cusick Perry, Joe Burns, Judy Longcore, Dan Lee, Frank Spica, Gail Stratton Walsh, John Otterbacher, Bill Zoeller, Dr. Ed Balog Middle row (l-r): Gerry Mauer Orzula, Kathy Hoover Butkiewicz, Mary Jane Gazella, Judy Fudold Doyle, Cheri Mann Seamon, Eileen Stickney Manza, Marge Lucas Mote, Patricia Steve McCabe Seated (l-r): Mike Smolenski, Terry Walsh, Bill Bolget, Anne Locke Wall, Eleanor Schick Silva, Patricia Omillian Nolan
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50th Anniversary—Class of 1956 Back row (l-r) Polly Noble Decker, Ruth Vargas Drummond, Elaine Randall Bordoshuk, Doug Miles, Al Rieder, Fr. Fred Hoesli O.P., Ron Miller Front row (l-r): Margaret Mayan Glinke, Betty Grandy Bice, Mary Schmidt Robach, Anne Palazzolo Rossi, Leora Boucher Williams, Angie Adomaitis Riley, Carol Zamow Averill
30th Anniversary—Class of 1976 Pictured (l-r): Ann Conroy Fielder, Mary Beth O’Neill Weber, Ann Thelen Clark, Ruth Helen Heckman, Cathy Geno Cox, Dr. Ed Balog
10th Anniversary—Class of 1996 Standing (l-r): John Niedzielski and Dr. Ed Balog Seated (l-r): Rosalyn Risdon, Eric VanGessel, Melissa Guzenda VanGessel, Laura Niedzielski and son, Jeff Maloney and Sue Stephan Maloney
Alumni News
Class of 1957 Back row (l-r): Doug Budzynski, Fred Platte, Gary West, George Gersch, M.D., Joe Janik, Dick Averill, Ron Russell, Roger Neper, Tom Quinn Front row (l-r): F: Joseph Foy, Carlos Wee Tom, Adeline Drumm Murphy, Sr. Ann Porter O.P., Clara Collligan Egeler, Mary Jane Stachowick Kelley, Sr. Mary Lucille Janowiak O.P.
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Golden Saints Brunch
Alumni News
On sunday, October 1, 2006, over 90 alumni
and guests representing graduating classes from 1930 to 1957 gathered in the Wege Ballroom for the annual Homecoming Weekend Golden Saints Brunch. The Golden Saints (alumni for at least 50 years) celebrated the induction of the classes 1956 and 1957 with a program featuring Mary McHugh Hieshetter ’53. The Emeritus Players “starring” Audrey O’Brien Witham ‘48
wrapped up the event with rousing cabaret style entertainment. The Golden Saints Brunch is one of many events enjoyed by alumni throughout the year. For more information or to volunteer for alumni events, please contact the Alumni Office at (616) 632-2806.
Mary Schmidt Robach ’56 is welcomed as a new Golden Saint by Julie Doezema Van Solkema ’51, Mary Beth Smith Walen ’51, Helen Burgstahler Boss ’51 and Kathryn Braunschneider ’50.
The Emeritus Players with Audrey O’Brien Witham ‘48 (second from right) performed for those attending the reunion.
Carl Rossi ‘53 and Dr. John Stepanovich ‘53 pore over archived material assembled by Sr. Jean Milhaupt ’45, O.P.
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Integrated Enrollment Plan Sees Results Paula Meehan ‘75, Dean of Admissions
Admissions
Increased Exposure In fall 2004, the Admissions office began implementing the Integrated Enrollment Plan. This plan was to add 150 freshmen, a 44 percent increase, over a four-year time frame, growing traditional undergraduate enrollment from 1,253 to 1,534 students for fall 2008. The plan outlined many creative initiatives that began with an overhaul of the College’s branding and marketing message. This effort produced a more targeted message with a fresh approach in both publications and on the College Web site. Outreach in our primary target markets throughout Michigan included an extensive campus visit campaign comprised of billboards, community newspapers, high school newspapers, e-mail blitzes and expanded direct mail communication. Realizing these changes could not stand alone, we also worked to cast the net farther into the marketplace to build recognition of the College and generate increased interest. Through a variety of strategies, both the prospect pool and the applicant numbers have grown to record levels.
Amplified Campus Visit Programs The traditional AQ Days program expanded from hosting not only general visit day programs but also days emphasizing the arts, science, nursing, math, leadership and athletics. These were highly successful events and brought a significant increase in the number of high school students visiting our campus. In addition, Aquinas hosted the only college fair in West Michigan in fall 2006. More than 1,000 high school students made their way to the Aquinas Field House in October to broaden their college search. The initiation of Club AQ, an overnight visit program for accepted applicants, brought both parents and students in for an overnight experience. Beginning with dinner at a favorite downtown Grand Rapids restaurant owned by alumni and culminating in a day’s worth of class visitations with some of AQ’s finest faculty, this program has quickly become a favorite of our most serious applicants.
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
www.aquinas.edu/admissions
Freshmen settling in on move-in day
Enhanced Online Experiences VIP pages are a cutting-edge approach to customizing the college search experience. By simply completing an online survey, prospective students are instantaneously supplied with information pertinent to their particular needs. This individually tailored program already has provided college knowledge of a personal nature to hundreds of students. Web videos made their debut on the Admissions Web pages, with “A View of AQ” featuring ambitious students, happy families, cool places and enthusiastic faculty. In 2006 alone,
more than 3,100 parents and students viewed our video over the Internet. Also, students may now check out our study abroad programs by simply clicking on our International Programs videos and electronically traveling to Costa Rica, Ireland, France, Spain and Germany. These videos have been key in helping prospective students visualize the opportunities that await them as Aquinas students. More than 1,400 students viewed the videos on-line in 2006. Check out these wonderful AQ vignettes at www.aquinas.edu/undergraduate/tour/video.html and www.aquinas.edu/intprograms/.
Please take a look at the graphs below. Figure 1 clearly illustrates Aquinas’ enrollment success over the past four years. Figure 2 shows that applications received as of December 15, 2006 for the fall 2007 freshmen class are FR ESHME N APPLICA TIO N (As of D ecem ber 15)
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currently running 13 percent ahead of last year’s pace. Given that tempo, Aquinas should see another record freshmen class enrolling for fall 2007.
14 0 0
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Date to D at e C o m p ari son of Fre shm en App licat ion s Received
Figure 1
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Figure 2
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Emeritus Students Tour Wine Country There’s nothing like a little experiential
learning to create some excitement in a group of students. Last October, 40 Aquinas Emeritus College students headed north to the Grand Traverse area’s finest wineries to learn about northern Michigan wines and take in the glorious fall color. Thirty-six wine enthusiasts set out on a two-day excursion that included lunch and a guided tour at Black Star Farms and wine tasting at Chateau Chantal. Participants raved about the trip, complimenting organizers for an “excellent choice” of vineyards. They visited a total of five wineries. One participant couldn’t say enough about their “lovely” hosts, who were “kind, relaxed
and especially friendly.” The students also spent a couple of hours shopping in quaint Suttons Bay; made a brief side trip to Temple Beth El in Traverse City, where Dr. Albert Lewis, executive director of Emeritus College, is a part-time Rabbi; and enjoyed a group dinner at Boone’s Long Lake Inn. To top it all off, the weather was warm and sunny both days. Kristin Karam of Black Star Farms talks to Emeritus students about the harvesting process.
Laura Bennett-Kimble ’95, Contributing Writer
Lyle Morrison’ 52
Lyle morrison has been a friend of Aquinas
College for decades. A 1952 graduate of the College, he also has a long history of community involvement. Because of this, he’s garnered many awards and honors over the years, and his most recent, the Emeritus Award, will be given to him on May 16. Morrison, with his history of leadership, generosity and spirit of service in the community, was an ideal match for the annual award. When
the nominee committee began looking for the right person to honor, “his name just jumped out,” said Dr. Albert Lewis, director of the Emeritus College. “Lyle has given back to the community in numerous ways ever since he graduated from Aquinas. He is loved by so many in the community.” Morrison, who will reach Trustee Emeritus status in May on the Aquinas Board of Trustees after serving nine years, has also been on the boards of the Catholic Development Council of the Catholic Secondary Schools, Grand Rapids Community College and Western Michigan Chapter of Chartered Life Underwriters. For information on reservations, please call (616) 632-2430 or visit the web site www.aquinas.edu/emeritus
Emeritus College
Emeritus College Honors Lyle Morrison ’52
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Emeritus College
Sr. Agnes Thiel, O.P., Remembered Sister Agnes Thiel, O.P., ’60, founder and first director of the Aquinas Emeritus College, passed away on October 17, two weeks before her 97th birthday. Most of her life, Sr. Agnes had been a teacher and strong advocate for seniors and helped older adults receive better health care, transportation and homedelivered meals. She co-founded and chaired Senior Power Day rallies at the state capitol and founded the Kent County Senior Citizens Senate. In 1987, the National Association for the Aging named Sr.
Agnes “Distinguished American Older Volunteer.” She was appointed to the White House Conference on Aging and, in 1999, she was featured in the Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council’s Exhibit of 12 Outstanding Women. She was honored with the Aquinas College Emeritus Award in 1999. Having earned degrees from Central Michigan University, the University of Notre Dame and Aquinas, Sr. Agnes served for more than 40 years as a teacher and administrator in the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw school system.
Aquinas Emeritus College Spring II 2007 Courses April 2 – 26 Day Classes Islam: History, Theologies and Geography Ghazala Munir
Worthy of Trust and Confidence: The United States Secret Service Michael Shannon
The Spirituality of Thomas Merton Fr. Patrick Collins, Ph.D.
Genes, Molecules and Disease James Resau, Ph.D.
Taking Flight: The Beauty of the Butterfly James Dunn, Ph.D.
Decisions about the News: How TV Stations Make It Happen WZZM TV 13 Staff
Basic Drawing Jim Markle, P.S.A. Hemingway in Cuba Kathleen Longcore
Night Classes Sustainable Business: The Second Industrial Revolution Matthew Tueth, Ph.D.
A Momentary Stay against Confusion: The Poetry of Robert Frost Bert Froysland, M.A.
The Life of a Criminal Case from Start to Finish Hon. William Cole
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
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Interim Advancement Director Named
Mary Alice Williams
Aquinas college has named Mary Alice Williams as Interim Director of Advancement Operations. Williams will be responsible for managing the day-to-day
operations of the Advancement Department. Williams recently retired as President & CEO of Arbor Circle, is a former Grand Rapids City Commissioner, as well as one of the early directors of the Women’s Study Center here at Aquinas. She will serve in the post until a new Vice President for Advancement is appointed later this year by the College’s next president. Williams was selected to the post following the resignation of Advancement Vice President Julie Ridenour, who left the College at the end of 2006.
Nokomis Foundation Kicks Off Women’s Studies Center Campaign at the College over the last two decades. Jane served as a director of the Encore Program, which helped women who wanted to return to college to complete a degree.
Jane Hibbard Idema (left) with Twink Frey, Chairperson, Nokomis Foundation
Gnida Music Endowment Established
As a young child, Joanne Gnida’s parents encouraged an appreciation for music. Throughout her adult life, singing in the church choir her continued joy for classical music. A graduate of a Detroit-area business school, Joanne completed her Master of Management degree at Aquinas College while employed with the Michigan Department of Transportation. In the last years of her life, she moved to Grand Rapids, where she provided support for the Aquinas Music Department. In her bequest to the College in October, Joanne made arrangements for a music endowment to provide students with music equipment and instruments.
Joanne Gnida, U.S. Navy Veteran
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The Jane Hibbard Idema Women’s Studies Center received a four-year Founders grant of $100,000 to match contributions to its “Growing the Legacy” campaign. The grant will provide an incentive of $25,000 over the next three years to increase the Center’s endowment for program activities and student scholarships. Established in 1986, the Women’s Studies Center was renamed in 2000 to recognize the contributions of Jane Hibbard Idema to the advancement of women
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Evening of Elegance
Paulette and Robert Israels
Spring is right around the corner and with
If you would like more information about Evening of Elegance, contact Julie Marchese at (616) 632-2804.
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it comes Aquinas’ annual Evening of Elegance event—whose proceeds go directly to provide support for student scholarships and programs. This year, the Evening of Elegance will be Thursday, April 26, 2007 from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. and will be held at Grand Rapids’ Fairhill Estate home of Robert (2006 Aquinas College Reflection Award recipient) and Paulette Israels. The Israels will provide a warm and sophisticated atmosphere for Aquinas College’s seventh annual Evening of Elegance.
The Fairhill Estate is a lovely Cape Cod designed by Jordan Shepard with additions added by Steve and Cindy Van Andel (Alticor Corporation). One of the most notable curiosities about this lovely home is that it is the second largest home in the state of Michigan to be moved from its original site to another side. Erhardt Construction coordinated the house move. The home, overlooking forested acres, rests on one of the highest points in Ada. Thanks to the Israels, Fairhill is the perfect environment to create the ambience of enchantment that our sponsors and guests will enjoy. Ninety percent of Aquinas students receive some level of scholarship support. This event is a significant funding source for those scholarships.
The Israels’ house after arriving at Fairhill Estate
Erhardt Construction oversaw the move of the house to its new site.
The Israels’ house with finished landscaping
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Alumni Breakfast: Fun for the Fund Take some good friends and good food, sprinkle
in valuable information from the Aquinas College trustees and the president about the positive changes at Aquinas, and you’ve got a recipe for a good time. Mark your calendar for the next alumni breakfast, scheduled for Friday, March 16, 7:30 a.m.–8:30 a.m. Please note, you do need a reservation. We anticipate more than 200 alumni will attend this year. The spring Alumni Breakfast has become a fast favorite for alumni reconnecting with each other. Paula Meehan ’75, John Osbourne ’90, Mike Zagaroli ’74 and Rosie Zant ’58 are the co-chairs this year and nearly 30 alumni are involved as table captains. “Typically, alumni are astounded by all the positive changes that have occurred with both programs and facilities at Aquinas. This is especially true if they haven’t been back to campus in some time,” said Zagaroli, former president of the Alumni Association. “This is a great event.”
Traditionally held in the Wege Ballroom, the event last year raised nearly $70,000 for student scholarships through the Aquinas Fund. Special thanks to Mark Meijer ’80 and the Meijer family, who have offered a $25,000 challenge match for attendees. For more information about how you can participate and become a table host, please contact Cecilia A. Cunningham, director of the Aquinas Fund, or Julie Marchese, coordinator of the Aquinas Fund, at (616) 632-2804.
March 2006 Alumni Breakfast
Jim McKay and Mary Caroline “Twink” Frey Reflection Award Scholarship An endowed scholarship was established in recognition of Jim McKay and Twink Frey’s receiving the Aquinas 2005 Reflection Award. Jim and Twink Frey designated their scholarship to outstanding students selected by the Jane Hibbard Idema Women’s Studies Center.
Pictured (l to r): Jim McKay, Twink Frey, Rachel Johansen, Mallory Bartz, Dr. Susan Haworth-Hoeppner, executive director of the Women’s Studies Center
Maxine G. Hattem Music Scholarship Maxine was a well-known musician in the Grand Rapids area for more than 50 years. In memory of the magic she brought to others from her accomplished piano skills, an endowed music scholarship was established in her name by her good friend, Peter Wege.
Robert L. Lalley Memorial Scholarship Bob Lalley’s service to his community spanned careers in the FBI and banking and involvement in many church and social organizations. His trustworthiness earned him the respect of his family and friends like Peter Wege, who established a scholarship for outstanding nontraditional students.
Pictured (l to r): Scholarship student James Trares, Donna Hattem, Duane Hattem
Pictured (l to r): Mrs. Bernice Lalley, Mary Ellen (Lalley) Reed, Randy Johnson (student), Rob Lalley Jr.
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New Student Scholarships
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Scholarship Reception
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On November 2, the Wege Ballroom was the
setting for the 2006 Scholarship Reception. The guest list for the evening included private scholarship benefactors and delegates and the outstanding students who are recipients of those awards. In addition to a wonderful meal, the guests enjoyed a musical program that featured performances by Aquinas students Nina Croll, Nicole Storey, Pam Norton and Lisa Barhart. Athletic Director Terry Bocian ‘70 gave an update on the Saint’s successes and then introduced softball player McCall Kleinfelt, who acknowledged the efforts of Bob Sullivan and for his support of Aquinas athletic scholarships. Parent Rick Atkin spoke about his daughter Hilary’s rich immersion in political studies
Bob Sullivan enjoys talking sports with softball star McCall Kleinfelt.
made possible through scholarships. Benefactor Margaret Idema Cheff, daughter of the late Jane Hibbard Idema, shared her mother’s commitment to women’s education and introduced Lynn Foster, this year’s Idema scholar. Peter Wege concluded the program with his quick wit and thoughtful comments. Over 250 Aquinas students receive privately funded scholarships each year. Donors can tailor their scholarships to attract students who reflect their interests and values. The Scholarship Reception provides a wonderful opportunity for benefactors and students to meet. For more information on privately funded scholarships, contact Bill Weitzel, planned giving director, at (616) 632-2820.
Continuing Education student Lynn Foster gets acquainted with Margaret Idema Cheff and Stan Cheff.
Peter Wege (left) and Music Department Chairperson Barbara Witham McCargar ’77 visit with Travis Espinoza, Shelby Kear, Jodi Dieterle and Amanda Barrons.
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A Cozy Night at the Cook Carriage House Honors the Alan Ryan Family Noddea Moore, Program and Building Coordinator for Campus Life
On a chilly evening last October 14, friends
walls are framed quotes about her from their children and a dedication in her name. On the opposite side of the wall, on the outside of the building, a newly placed plaque honors the Ryans’ most recent gift. Additional supporters of the Cook Carriage House renovation project who were at the barbeque include alumni, the Student Senate and honored guests of Margaret and Alan Ryan. David Weinandy, Ph.D., special assistant to the provost for Campus Life, conducted the official dedication, and Student Senate president Ben O’Hearn offered a blessing before the meal. The menu included barbeque pork, corn on the cob, cornbread, greens and fall-themed desserts served in hollowed miniature pumpkins and concocted from apples topped with a caramelized edible ornament. To commemorate the event, Margaret and Alan Ryan received a Swarovski crystal moose, a fitting gesture that complements a new beverage offered at the Moose Café called the “Rockin’ Ryan” – a coffee drink made with espresso, steamed milk, chocolate syrup, caramel and a hint of hazelnut.
Ampulski ’64 Wipes Away Mystery of Producing Paper Products Dr. Robert Ampulski ’64 presented the basics of his work at Proctor & Gamble to the natural sciences departments at Aquinas College last November 17 in a talk entitled “From the Forest to the Bear in the Woods.” The majority of Dr. Ampulski’s work deals with personal products, especially paper that is used in toilet tissues and paper towels. He explained the way in which the paper is re-formed from tree pulp and the factors that must be engineered into that product, such as strength, softness, texture and color. The trees are grown on plantations mostly in Brazil. The trees are cross-bred to get the best texture of wood. The first portion of the manufacture takes place near the plantations. The wood pulp is then brought to the plants in the United States where the rest of the procedure takes place. Dr. Ampulski discussed the transformation process from wood pulp to the handy package on the store shelves and then explained the marketing techniques that are used to ensure product sale from Mr. Whipple’s “please don’t squeeze the Charmin” to the newer ads using bears in the woods. Dr. Ampulski is a 1964 graduate of Aquinas College. He went on to earn a Ph.D. from Florida State University and has worked at
Proctor & Gamble since. This presentation is one of many public disseminations of Dr. Ampulski’s work including peer-reviewed papers, patents and presentations.
Pictured (l-r) Dr. Elizabeth Jensen, assistant professor of chemistry; Dr. Robert Ampulski ’64, Dr. Li-Heng Chen, professor of chemistry and Sr. Katrina Hartman, O.P. ’64, Ph.D., Chemistry Department Chairperson/associate professor of Chemistry
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of the College and Margaret and Alan Ryan gathered in the Moose Café for a festive indoor barbeque recognizing the generous contribution from the Ryan family toward renovations at the Cook Carriage House. While much of the emphasis on the Cook Carriage House renovations has been placed on the inside of the building, the Ryans are responsible for the fresh look and feel of the outside of the building: new patio umbrellas with battery-operated lights that are perfect for late-night studying, an all-weather outdoor speaker system, new landscaping, an underground irrigation system, potted topiaries and a grill for the deck. All of these new features were made possible thanks to the Ryan gift. The most noticeable feature is the large retractable awning facing the soccer field that reads “The Ryan Deck” in honor of the Ryans and their spirited generosity. The main space of the lower level Cook Carriage House was named after Alan’s late first wife, Carolyn, nearly a decade ago. Along the
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Corporate Program: Powerful Impact
Advancement
Curt Bechler, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Communication
Business leaders want to know the return on their investment is strong. At Aquinas College, the Corporate Partners Network is living up to that expectation. The Corporate Partners program is designed to recognize philanthropy for the Aquinas Fund scholarship program offers key business opportunities to executives within the companies. One recent opportunity was the stimulating presentation by Dr. Curt Bechler (left) on managing crises within institutions. Participants in our executive luncheon series gave Dr. Bechler rave reviews on the relevance of his materials within a corporate structure. Here are some of Aquinas’ strong corporate partners.
Bissell, a proud supporter of Aquinas Scholarship Programs, celebrated its 130th birthday September 2006. The company is also a very big supporter of the cycling world, sponsoring two great professional teams plus a fun and educational tour for women. Grand Rapids-based Bissell Homecare, Inc., is a floor care innovator and international manufacturer of home Mark Bissell, President/ cleaning products including sweepers, vacuums, deep CEO Bissell Corporation cleaning machines and cleaning formulas sold at retail locations nationwide. The company, headed by President and CEO Mark Bissell, representing the fourth generation of family leadership, is the seventh oldest privately held manufacturing company in the United States. Marva Donovan has led Dolphin Vacations where business truly does mean “the world is your oyster.” While Marva has worked with executives and Fortune 500 companies, it is her compassion for those less fortunate that has motivated her to utilize the world of travel to assist those in greatest need. Marva has been very active with Healing the Children, World Mission, and Luke’s Marva Donovan, CEO Society among other organziations with mission trips around Dolphin Vacations the globe. She also has an interest in young men and women pursuing a college education to better position them in the business world—the opportunity she never had. This is what first attracted the CEO of Dolphin to be a founding member of the Corporate Partners Network program. “Higher education is essential for young people to really have a chance of fulfilling their dreams. I am so glad to be an Executive Partner of the program. There is no greater privilege than knowing I am helping someone receive a solid education.” Because of its achievements in the travel industry, Dolphin Vacations recently became a new member of the exclusive luxury travel network called Virtuoso. This distinguished group is an invitation-only association comprised of 7,000 elite travel consultants. Dolphin Vacations is the only agency in the greater Grand Rapids area to be afforded this honor.
2006 – 2007 Corporate Partners President´s Circle Erhardt Construction Quixtar TDS Metrocom Executive Partner BISSELL Central Interconnect, Inc. Comerica Bank D&D Printing Dolphin Vacations Fifth Third Bank Fidelity Gill Industries Global Forex Trading Howard Miller Huntington Bank Israels Design Lacks Enterprises NETech Corporation Peter Albertini Estate Quixtar Ritsema Associates Universal Forest Products Van Dyken Mechanical Wolverine World Wide Partner Allied Electric Buist Electric Centennial Securities Chemical Bank Feyen-Zylstra Electric Independent Bank Kent Manufacturing Leon Plastics, Inc. Monarch Hydraulics Rehmann Robson Spartan Stores Swift Printing Varnum Riddering Schmidt Howlett LLP Vi-Chem Corporation
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Arlen Smith, President/ CEO Central Interconnect Inc.
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Arlen Smith, owner of Central Interconnect, Inc., is a founding member of the Corporate Partners Network program. “I believe strongly in Aquinas College. In fact, I know Aquinas College has a reputation for educational excellence. We look forward to continuing our support of Aquinas College.” Central Interconnect is a full service audio, video and telecom engineering firm. It uses cutting edge technology to design and build an entire array of systems from sophisticated large screen computer displays and sound systems for environments from the Aquinas College Performing Arts Center to small integrated home media centers. Central Interconnect has customers from Hawaii to Germany with over $60 million in installations. The company was founded in 1981 by Smith, who remains active as President and CEO of the company. Central Interconnect developed the “Teacher Access Panel” (TAP System) for Aquinas. TAP is a system comprised of a ceiling mounted projector, computer inputs, DVD player, complete sound system and a user control panel which is very easy to use. Fifty of the systems were installed throughout campus. Central Interconnect also was involved in the sound system for Wege Ballroom, updating the Circle Theatre sound system, set-up of the video conferencing and distance learning suite in Jarecki and the audio visual presentation system in the Donnelly Center.
Two with AQ Ties Honored for Philanthropic Efforts When it comes to philanthropy in West
Pictured at the 2006 National Philanthropy Ceremony are (l-r) Fred Keller, Kate Pew Wolters ’78, Interim President Dr. Ed Balog and former Vice President of Advancement Julie Ridenour
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Michigan, Jay Ediger, president of the West Michigan chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP-WM), says that two distinctive characteristics stand out: entrepreneurial spirit and generosity demonstrated by individuals and organizations. In addition, Ediger emphasizes that passion is a key ingredient to be a successful entrepreneur, which translates into a successful philanthropist. Those attributes are abundant in the individuals and organizations honored by the AFP-WM November for their contributions in the philanthropic community. According to the AFP-WM, AQ Trustee Emerita Kate Pew Wolters ’78 has exhibited “remarkable drive, insight and generosity” that has benefited many West Michigan organizations. She received the President’s Award for her “extraordinary commitment to the community.”
Fred Keller, a former AQ adjunct professor and chairman/CEO of Cascade Engineering, received the Executive Leader Award, which is presented to a corporate executive whose “outstanding leadership has marshaled business and civic support for philanthropy.” Keller founded Cascade Engineering “to reflect his belief that businesses should be sustainable and committed to realizing lasting and socially beneficial goals.”
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Aquinas Fund—an investment in students and in the Michigan economy
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With recent headlines screaming that Michigan’s
economic growth is dead last in the United States, it’s encouraging to think that there is something we can do to help. Of our 17,000 graduates, more than 7,000 are right here in Kent County and many more around West Michigan. That means that a gift to the Aquinas Fund gives to more than just a single student; it’s a gift back to the community. Aquinas alumni are working right here to make West Michigan a better place to live. According to the senate fiscal agency, the fastest growing job markets in Michigan are in education and health. The competitive demands of these disciplines often require at least a four year degree and often graduate school. With a college education, young people have nearly double the economic earning power during their lifetime. Yet, ironically, reports show that only about 25 percent of adult Michigan residents have a college degree. Your investment in the Aquinas Fund makes a good education a reality for a student. We need your help. Our enrollment continues to climb and this year Aquinas has awarded over $10 million in scholarships to bright and worthy students.
Giving is made easy by our online capabilities at www. aquinas.edu/giving or by contacting Cecilia Cunningham, director of the Aquinas Fund at (616) 632-2816.
Some alumni and friends wonder, “Will my modest gift really make any difference at all?” So far this year, over 2,000 people have contributed nearly $1 million dollars to the Aquinas Fund. Each gift combined with others makes a BIG difference in the life of a student. It parallels the story of the starfish. A child was running along the beach throwing back into the water starfish that had been washed up on the beach by the tide. There were literally thousands in either direction which would die in the baking sun. A man, watching the frenzied activity of the child, came over to ask, “The sun is rising quickly and there are thousands of starfish as far as we can see. What difference does it make? You can never reach all of them in time!” The child stopped for an instant, opened her hand to look at the starfish, and then said with a smile, “It makes a difference to this one!” Throwing it back into the sea, the child continued up the beach. Your gift makes a difference. Please invest in the Aquinas Fund today. Why give to the Aquinas Fund? • Nearly 90 percent of Aquinas students are on scholarships provided by the college. These funds are not provided by state or federal funding but by donations from people “just like you.” • Nearly 30 percent of our graduates are the first in their family to finish college. Your donation affects the lives of an entire family. • We have over 425 incoming freshmen this year – our largest class ever. • If you are a resident in Michigan, your gift is eligible for a special Tax Credit. • All gifts to the Aquinas Fund are tax deductible.
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Hundreds of alumni responding • Each new or increased gift is matched by the Wege Foundation. Your gift could be doubled and therefore the impact doubled as well. • Nearly 800 alumni have already leveraged $109,000. We need YOU to get involved today. We have $141,000 still available to be Peter Wege matched! • We are hoping to secure at least 600 new alumni donors so our alumni participation rate will top 20 percent. • Even if you have already given, a small additional gift will be eligible for matching money. • Deadline: June 2007.
“It seemed natural to me to give both personally and encourage strong corporate support by both Alumni and community executives,” asserts Jim Payne ’75, co-chair of the Aquinas Fund. The Corporate Partners Network has raised over $250,000 toward the overall goal. Many alumni are also leveraging their employers through corporate matching gift programs that major corporations have established.
A very special thank you to the Honorary Aquinas Fund co-chairs: Greg Alksnis ‘71, Karen Palmore ‘89, and Sr. M. Aquinas Weber ’58 and Co-chairs Michelle Bottrall ’97, Jim Payne ’75 Mike Zagaroli ’74, and the hundreds of other volunteers who have made this year’s success possible. Jim Payne ’75 If you would like to contribute to the Aquinas Fund or become involved, please contact Cecilia A. Cunningham at (616) 632-2816.
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The Aquinas Fund is about people – people helping people. It is opening the doors of opportunity for young men and women who want a strong Catholic liberal arts education. Another very robust component of the Aquinas Fund is the new Corporate Partners Network, which has united corporate leaders in the strong support of Aquinas Fund scholarships.
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Bocian ’70 Named Region Eight Athletic Director of the Year Ronda Varnesdeel ’01
Terry Bocian ’70, Athletic Director at Aquinas
College since 1978, this past fall was named NAIA Region VIII Athletic Director of the Year for 2005-06. This is the third time that the long-time Aquinas director of athletics has earned the honor since the inception of the award 14 years ago. He is in his second three-year term as a member of the CAA (Council of Athletic Administrators/NAIA) and as Region VIII chairperson. Bocian, inducted in the NAIA Hall of Fame in 2000, coached the Saints baseball teams for 30 years during which his teams went 1079-450-13 for a winning percentage of 71 percent. Bocian is only the 24th collegiate
coach to amass 1,000 victories. Bocian was also inducted in the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame in 2004. Under the direction of Bocian, Aquinas College has won the WHAC All Sports championship eight times in the past nine years. He now is one of 14 athletic directors nationwide to be considered for NAIA and NACDA national honors. Terry Bocian
“Compassionate and Dedicated” McCahill Dies of Cancer at 53
Athletics
Aquinas college
alumnus Ray McCahill ’74, a former basketball standout and captain of the 1974 squad, passed away in October 2006 after a four-year battle with cancer. “Ray will always be Ray McCahill ’74 remembered as a 1952–2006 wonderful person who made all those around him better people,” stated AQ athletic director and former coach Terry Bocian. McCahill was the former basketball coach and assistant principal at Grand Rapids Catholic Central before entering private business. He
was instrumental in initiating the Classic Bank Collegiate Basketball Tournament and also directly sponsored, supported, and orchestrated other sporting happenings in the Grand Rapids area. The Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame Committee has renamed its MVP award to honor McCahill: In honor of our dear friend and fellow Grand Rapid Sports Hall of Fame Trustee, the Select Bank Classic Most Valuable Player Award has been named the “Ray McCahill MVP Award.” A Chicago native and Brother Rice High School alum, Ray was part of the Chicago City Championship squad of 1970. A Ray McCahill Scholarship is currently being planned in the Grand Rapids area to benefit local youth. He is survived by his wife, Peaches, and their five children.
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
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Aquinas Softball Volunteers Help Define a Saint Ronda Varnesdeel ’01, AQ Softball Coach
Pictured (l to r): Aaran Bush, Annie Szczepanek, Casey Schweitzer, Sarah Metiva, Mike Bush, Kristen Jager, Tarin Foster, Erica Emelander, Marge Bush
When considering the definition of a Saint,
Their presence in our program has been a blessing. With the rising cost of expenses related to running a successful softball program, it is essential that we fundraise to sustain our program. It is because of people like the Bushes that we are able to produce a quality softball program. In honor of the Bushes’ support, the Aquinas softball program developed the “Mike & Marge Bush Award.” This award is presented to the Aquinas softball player who exemplifies hard work and dedication through her actions and words on and off the playing field. Last year’s recipients of the award were team members of the 2006 graduating class including Erica Emelander (Byron Center, Mich), Tarin Foster (Jenison, Mich), Kristen Jager (Grandville, Mich), Sarah Metiva (Grand Rapids), Casey Schweitzer (Hopkins, Mich), and Annie Szczepanek (Jension). The Bushes’ generosity, positive spirit and unconditional support of the Aquinas softball team have helped the squad realize the true definition of an Aquinas Saint.
Athletics
there are many different meanings to consider. One defines a Saint as “one of God’s chosen.” Another defines a Saint as “a person of great holiness, virtue or benevolence.” But for the Aquinas Women’s softball team, the definition of a true Saint has been molded and defined by the generosity and thoughtfulness of a couple close to their hearts: Mike and Marge Bush. Since 1997, Mike and Marge have donated their time in a heartfelt effort to assist Aquinas softball in its annual fundraising efforts. The Aquinas softball team has been fundraising while working at the Van Andel Arena where they staff the concession stands. In return for their work, the Lady Saints receive a percentage of the proceeds from the Van Andel concessions. Mike and Marge Bush have headed the fundraising effort as the stand leaders since their daughter Aaran’s arrival at Aquinas as an incoming freshman in 1997. Long after their daughter’s graduation from Aquinas in 2002, the Bushes have continued their support of the softball team, devoting countless hours helping them raise money.
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
AQ Tennis Goes Head to Head at ITA Championships An Aquinas foursome was invited to compete
in the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) hosted by Cedarville University (Ohio) last fall. The event hosts the top players from ten different schools in a single tournament. Competing for Aquinas were Mike Rose (Grand Rapids), Pat Bruining (Grand Haven), Pat Grashorn (Rockford) and Jordan O’Neil (Lansing). The final doubles match of the tournament paired doubles partners Mike Rose and Pat Bruining versus the duo of Pat Grashorn and Jordan O’Neil. Rose/Bruining prevailed in an 8-2 victory. The win earned Rose, a senior, and Bruining, a junior, a spot in the ITA National Championship hosted by Florida Gulf Coast in February. In ITA singles action, Aquinas again went head to head in the championship match. Mike Rose defeated his doubles partner Pat Bruining in a 63, 6-1 match. The win qualified Rose for a spot in the ITA National Championship in singles as well as doubles play.
Michael Rose, senior
Athletics
Patrick Bruining, junior
Freshman Golfer Cards First WHAC Conference Hole-in-One Freshman Brad Hall of Cadillac has written
his name into the Saints history books. Hall became the first player in the 14-year history of the WHAC to card a hole-in-one in conference competition. He recorded the historic shot last September 23 during a WHAC match at Fellows Creek Country Club. It happened on a par three, 233-yard hole and helped AQ finish second in the event. Coach Tom Gunn said that it was the first hole-in-one that he could remember in an NAIA event in his 28 years of coaching.
Brad Hall, freshmen
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
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Women’s Basketball Team Goes Full Court for Paralyzed Youth The Aquinas college women’s basketball program, under the helm of Linda Nash, has made a commitment through the years not only to focus their energies on the basketball court, but to reach out in the community. Last October, the team returned a day early from fall break and loaded up for a two-hour drive to Ludington to lend a helping hand to Zach Willis. Zach, a junior at Mason County High School and a member of the boy’s basketball team, woke up on Thanksgiving Day 2005 and discovered that he didn’t have any feeling in his leg. A blood test detected that Zach had leukemia. To complicate matters, a 14-inch tumor was discovered in his spine, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. The women’s basketball team team spent the day working on projects that would make the Willis home
handicap accessible for Zach. As the team witnessed this past fall, Zach is a brave young man. He continues to battle the disease and is an avid follower of the women’s basketball team. Used with permission of Ludington Daily News
Women’s Basketball Coach Linda Nash and members of her team pitched in to help renovate the home of Zach Willis, a paralyzed Ludington boy, during fall break.
Zach Willis, center in wheelchair, gets plenty of attention during a fundraising activity in Ludington last fall.
Charity Tennis Classic Created to Help Coach’s Family Fight Cancer noticed a pain in her left knee. Despite the pain, Ashley continued playing through it. By mid-July, the pain was increasing significantly and the Hendrick’s sought medical attention for Ashley. Following physical therapy, the pain became worse. In August, an MRI revealed a large mass at the top of Ashely’s tibia bone, just below the knee. An eventual biopsy of the tumor took place. The resulting diagnosis was osteogenis sarcoma (bone cancer). During Thanksgiving week, Ashley and her family decided to proceed with the amputation of her leg. Ashley will undergo chemotherapy this spring to rid herself of the cancer. Despite the disease, Ashley has a fighting spirit and counts on the prayers and support of those close to her to help her battle this disease. In support of the Hendrick family, Orchard Hills, East Hills and the Michigan Athletic Club in Grand Rapids have initiated the “Charity Classic” (February 9-11, 2007) to help benefit Ashley and her family in their time of need. Contact the Athletic Department at (616) 6322474 if you would like to contribute to the effort.
Athletics
For the family of Jerry Hendrick, long time men’s tennis coach at Aquinas College, 2006 was a year full of highs and lows. One of the major Copyright 2007, The Grand Rapids Press. All rights reserved; used with permission lows for the Hendrick family was the diagnosis of his 16 year old daughter Ashley with bone cancer, which eventually led to the amputation of her left leg. Before the discovery of the cancer, Ashley was striving for the number one singles player position on the Grand Rapids Northview varsity tennis team after finishing her sophomore year at the number two spot. She had earned allconference honors both as a freshman and as a sophomore. Looking forward to a great year, Ashley worked hard last summer, practicing daily to improve her craft. By early summer Ashley had
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
2006 Athletic Hall of Fame The Fifth Annual Hall of Fame Gala on September 29, 2006 proved to be another successful event as the College honored four alumni for their service to Aquinas and inducted eleven others into the Athletic and College Halls of Fame. Here are the Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees and excerpts from their remarks:
Athletics
Shawn (Pearson ’90) Gleason (Volleyball) “I want to thank my husband, Pete Gleason ’89, who is my everything. He gave me so much support to complete my goals here at AQ and I couldn’t have been successful without him.” (To parents, husband and children) “I love all of you, and thank you for everything that you have brought to my life. Aquinas College and all of you have made me the person I am today.”
Mike Wilson ’89 (Track & Basketball) (On the values his parents instilled in their children) “They led by example…they had pride in what they did, they encouraged us to do our best. I’m so grateful for them, for teaching me how to love work, to love the calling. For that I’m eternally grateful.”
Bob Sakocius ’78 (Golf / Lifetime Achievement) (top left) “I’ve known my co-honorees, Greg (Alksnis ’71) and Al (Dimavicius ’62), my entire life. Besides sharing a Lithuanian heritage, they were among my heroes—people you want to emulate not only for their golf skills, but their integrity, their leadership and values. I believe those are the strong attributes, the values that attracted me and others, to Aquinas.” Greg Alksnis ’71 (Golf / Lifetime Achievement) (top center) “It wasn’t until nine years ago that a friend reacquainted me (with) Aquinas, reminding me that I had a debt to pay. During my years as a trustee, I gained a greater appreciation of what this College is all about. Aquinas is truly a very special place. We truly are blessed with a faculty and staff dedicated to educating our students and preparing them for their respective professional lives. Athletics play an important role in that development. The life lessons learned through athletics cannot be found in textbooks.” (To current students) “Cherish (your) days at Aquinas. Embrace competition. Participate in as many extracurricular activities, both on and off campus, afforded you. Your time here is limited. Cherish it and have a good time.” Al Dimavicius ’62 (Golf / Lifetime Achievement) (top right) “It is a great honor that I will cherish the rest of (my) life. My experience at Aquinas set the tone for my moral and ethical life.”
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
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2007 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees Named (Sept 29 – Oct. 1, 2007). The newest class represents five different sports and honors former student-athletes from the 1950’s through the mid 1980’s. The newest class will be comprised of:
Dave Bartels ’78 (cross country & track) was an outstanding track and cross country performer from South Haven, Michigan. Dave still holds two school records in the mile run and the 800 meter run. He also earned All American honors in 1976. Ann (Biermacher ’86) Stegehuis (women’s basketball), fifth leading scorer in AQ women’s basketball history. She’s the only guard in the top five. A starter on some of the best teams in AQ history in the early 1980’s and averaged over 13 points per game. Listed by The Grand Rapids Press as one of the top 50 prep players in Grand Rapids women’s basketball history while at Catholic Central. Dan Pupel, Sr. ’58 (golf lifetime achievement award) has compiled a lifetime of achievement in golf. He was an outstanding player at Aquinas in the 1950’s who coached the men’s squad after he turned professional. Dan coached both the boys & girls golf teams at Forest Hills Central for year while he taught there for 30 years. Dan was honored as Michigan High School Coach of the Year three times and was inducted into the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Golf Coaches Hall of Fame. He was twice elected to the Kent County Board of
Commissioners and completed a six year term on the AQ Emeritus College board. Dan has now returned to the College where he is in his seventh year as the coach of the AQ women’s golf team. Rick Vryhof ’84 (men’s basketball) was an outstanding scorer in the early 1980’s. He was the fifth leading scorer in AQ men’s basketball history, accomplishing this in just three seasons. He scored over 1,700 points and averaged 21 points per game (ppg) during that time, placing him as third all-time ppg scorer. Jesse Young ’75 (baseball) was a two-time NAIA All American as an outfielder leading the Saints to its first state championship and regional appearance in school history in 1974. He played many successful seasons with the Grand Rapids Sullivans semi-pro team winning many state NBC championships and Honkbal championships in the Netherlands. Jesse was inducted in the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Hall of Fame for his coaching exploits in golf at Rockford High School (one of three Grand Rapids people to receive this honor). “This group is representative of the many fine people who have come through our program. We are looking forward to honoring each of them in our 6th Hall of Fame class,” Athletic Director Terry Bocian stated.
Athletics
The Aquinas College Athletic Hall of Fame class has been announced. Five former athletes will be inducted during the annual Hall of Fame Gala which will take place on Friday, September 28 as the kick-off to Homecoming Weekend festivities
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Fall Sports Wrap
Athletics
Cross Country Finishes the Season Strong Both the Aquinas men’s and women’s cross country teams made the trip to Nationals again this year after strong performances throughout the season. The men took home fifth place honors and the women finished in 19th place in the NAIA National Championship. The men were led by senior Scott Assenmacher, who finished 24th overall. Assenmacher received All-American honors Scott Assenmacher, senior for his performance. The Aquinas cross country women’s team was led by Jessie Lord-Wilder, who tallied a 19:32:80. Another noteworthy accomplishment this season involved six student-athletes who were honored with NAIA All-American Scholar Athlete status for their achievement in the classroom: Scott Assenmacher, Patrick Earl, Brian Kelien, Stacey Hoffman, Amanda Strouse, and Lianne Griffiths. Men’s Soccer Awards Senior midfielder Chris Graham (Everett, Ontario) and sophomore forward Erich Jackson (Petoskey, Mich.) were named to the Region VIII All-Region men’s soccer team. Jackson, an Aquinas forward, was named to the AllWHAC men’s soccer second team as well. Jackson was the Saints points leader with 20 Chris Graham, senior points (8g, 4a). Graham, an All-WHAC first team selection, was second leading scorer on the team with 19 points (7g, 5a) in 13 games on the year. Graham and senior defender Dave Juzwiak (Kalamazoo, Mich.) were both tabbed WHAC first team All-Conference
honorees for men’s soccer. Juzwiak, a Saint’s defender, helped lead the Saints defense while starting in 14 games for Aquinas. Jackson was also named to the All-WHAC men’s Erich Jackson, sophomore soccer second team. Sophomore Chris Smith (Holt, Mich.) was named as the Saints Champion of Character representative. Senior Chris Roof (St. John’s, Mich.) and junior Goran Guzina (Schererville, Ind.) were named to the WHAC Academic All-Conference team. First year coach Joe Veal was named the “Champion of Character” Coach of Character. Veal led the Saints to an 11-6-2 overall record, improving on the Saints 4-15 from Joe Veal, Men’s Soccer Coach a year ago. Women’s Soccer Awards Senior midfielder Katie Schmuck (Rockford, Mich.) led the way for the Saints (9-8-1 overall) as she was tabbed WHAC first team All-Conference honoree for women’s soccer. Schmuck, the Saints point leader, tallied 28 points on the year while booting 14 goals on the season. Schmuck netted nine goals in conference play. Sophomore Jessica Greaney (Troy, Mich.), an Aquinas midfielder, was named to the AllWHAC women’s soccer second team. Greaney chipped in 9 points (3 g, 3 a) on the year. Senior Audrey Vanderkamp (Holland, Mich.), a key component in the Saints’ defense was named to the All-WHAC honorable mention team along with freshman midfielder Rebecca Underwood
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
(Lowell, Mich.). Senior Kami Kracht (Battle Creek, Mich.) was named as the Saints Champion of Character representative. Aquinas Duo Tabbed as Preseason Players-of-the-Year Aquinas seniors Jackie Braspenninx and Jeff Jayson were both selected as WHAC Preseason Players-of-the-Year as voted on by WHAC coaches. Both players surpassed the 1,000 point mark in their junior year, adding their names to the prestigious point list. Braspenninx is number three on the women’s list and Jayson is number six on the men’s. Freshman Pedja Lazic, who was selected to the All-Newcomer team, was also selected to the AllWHAC Preseason team, as well as junior Claire Hogan to the women’s All-WHAC Preseason women’s team. The Aquinas women’s team is picked to finish first in the league after grabbing the crown in 2005-06. The Aquinas men’s basketball team is picked to finish third in the WHAC this year.
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NAIA Scholar Athletes for Fall 2006 *notes All-American and NAIA Scholar Athlete
Seniors: Scott Assenmacher, Brighton, Mich., Men’s Cross Country* Patrick Earl, Grand Rapids, Mich., Men’s CC Brian Keilen, St. John’s, Mich., Men’s CC Stacey Hoffman, St. John’s, Mich., Women’s CC Audrey Vanderkamp, Holland, Mich., Women’s Soccer Juniors: Amanda Strouse, Williamston, Mich., Women’s CC Lianne Griffiths, Canton, Mich., Women’s CC
Alene Seiler, Conway Springs, Kansas, Volleyball
Jackie Braspenninx, senior
Athletics
Jeff Jayson, senior
Connie Rogers, Portage, Mich., Women’s Soccer
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Aquinas College Sports Schedules—Spring 2007 BASEBALL Home
Sat., Mar. 17 1:00 pm Marian
Away Tues., Apr. 10
Home Fri., Mar. 16
Home
Sun., Mar. 18 1:00 pm Marian
Home Wed., Apr. 11
Home Sat., Mar. 17
Home
Tues., Mar. 20 3:30 pm Lake Michigan Community College
Away Sat., Apr. 14
Home Sat., Mar. 17
Away
Wed., Mar. 21 1:00 pm Kellogg Community College
Home Sun., Apr. 15
Home Wed., Mar. 21
Home
Fri., Mar. 23 3:00 pm Grand Rapids Community College
Away Tues., Apr. 17
Home Fri., Mar. 23
Home Wed., Apr. 18
Home Fri., Mar. 23
Sat., Mar. 24 3:00 pm Grand Rapids Community College
Home Sat., Apr. 21
Home Sat., Mar. 24
Tues., Mar. 27 1:00 pm Goshen
Away Sun., Apr. 22
Home Sat., Mar. 24
Wed., Mar. 28 1:00 pm Siena Heights
Home Tues., Apr. 24
Away Wed., Mar. 28
Thurs., Mar. 29 3:00 pm Muskegon Community College
Away Wed., Apr. 25
Home Sat., Mar. 31
Sat., Mar. 31 12:00 noon St. Xavier
Away Sat., Apr. 28
Away Sun., Apr. 1
Sun., Apr. 1 12:00 noon St. Xavier
Home Sun., Apr. 29
Home Tues., Apr. 3
Tues., Apr. 3 1:00 pm Spring Arbor
Home Thurs., May 3-5
Away Thurs., Apr. 5
Wed., Apr. 4 1:30 pm Madonna
Home Wed., May 9-12
Home Mon., Apr. 9
Sat., Apr. 7 1:00 pm Concordia
Home Wed., May 16-18
Home Thurs., Apr. 12
Away
Home
Home
Away
Away
Athletics
SOFTBALL
Away
Home
Away
Home
Away
Mon., Apr. 9 4:00 pm Concordia
4:00 pm Calvin
1:30 pm Indiana Tech
1:00 pm Siena Heights 1:00 pm Siena Heights 1:30 pm Bethel
2:00 pm Purdue North Central 1:00 pm Madonna 1:00 pm Madonna 2:30 pm Hope
1:30 pm Concordia
1:00 pm Indiana Tech 1:00 pm Indiana Tech
TBA WHAC Tournament TBA Great Lakes Regional TBA NAIA Super Regional
3:00 pm Trinity
10:00 am Bethel
12:00 noon Robert Morris College 3:00 pm Purdue North Central 1:00 pm Grace
5:00 pm Spring Arbor 9:00 am Indiana Wesleyan 1:00 pm St. Francis 3:00 pm Hope
1:00 pm Siena Heights 1:00 pm Indiana Tech 3:00 pm Northwood 3:00 pm Madonna
TBD Cornerstone
3:30 pm Kalamazoo College
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Home Sat., Apr. 14 1:00 pm Concordia
Away Sun., Apr. 15
1:00 pm Siena Heights
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Home Thurs., May 24-26
TBD NAIA Outdoor Championships, Fresno, Calif.
Home
Sat., Mar. 17 12:00 noon Wayne State
Home
Mon., Mar. 19 3:00 pm GRCC
WOMEN’S TENNIS Home Tues., Mar. 13
Away
Thurs., Mar. 22 3:30 pm Indiana Tech
Home Sat., Apr. 21
Away Thurs. Mar. 15
Home
Wed., Mar. 28 3:30 pm Alma
Home Sun., Apr. 22
Home Sun., Mar. 18
Home
Thurs., Mar. 29 4:00 pm Hope
Away Wed., Apr. 25
Away Thurs., Mar. 22
Away
Sat., Mar. 31 1:00 pm Tiffin University
Away Sat., Apr. 28
Home Wed., Mar. 28
Home
Mon., Apr. 2 3:00 pm Grand Valley State
Away Sun., Apr. 29
Home Sat., Mar. 31
Away
Thurs., Apr. 5 4:00 pm Walsh
Away Tues., May 1-4
Away Wed., Apr. 4
Away
Sat., Apr. 7 2:00 pm Wisconsin Osh Kosh
OUTDOOR TRACK
Home Mon., Apr. 9
Home
Fri., Apr. 13 4:00 pm Olivet Nazarene
Home Thurs., Apr. 12
Home
Sat., Apr. 14 10:00 am St. Francis
Home Sat., Apr. 14
Home
Wed., Apr. 18 4:00 pm Kalamazoo
Home Sat., Apr. 14
Home
Sat., Apr. 21 TBA Taylor
Home Sat., Apr. 21
Away Mon., Apr. 23
Home
Thurs.-Fri., Apr. 26-27 TBA NAIA Regional/Ft. Wayne, IN.
Home Fri., Apr. 27-28
Home Sat., Apr. 28
Home
Mon.-Fri., May 14-18 TBA NAIA Nationals/Mobile, AL
Away Fri., May 4
MEN’S TENNIS
3:30 pm Ferris State
1:00 pm Indiana Tech 1:00 pm Madonna 4:00 pm Calvin
1:00 pm Cornerstone 1:00 pm Concordia
TBD WHAC Tournament
Away Sat., Mar. 31
TBD Grand Rapids Open
Home Sat., Apr. 7
TBD Ferris State Invitational
Home Sat., Apr. 14
TBD Saginaw Valley State Invitational TBD Northwood Invitational TBD Hillsdale Invitational TBD Aquinas College Open
Away Wed., May 9
TBD Aquinas Twilight Invitational
3:00 pm Hope 3:00 pm Alma
2:00 pm Tri-State University 3:00 pm Indiana Tech
3:30 pm Spring Arbor 10:00 am Albion
3:30 pm Spring Arbor 3:00 pm Calvin
3:30 pm Grand Valley 12:00 noon Huntington 2:00 pm Taylor
3:00 pm St. Mary’s
12:00 noon Olivet Nazarene
Home Wed., Mar. 14 TBA Calvin
Athletics
Away Tues., Apr. 17
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Trustee Profile: Patrick Miles, Jr. ’88, Chairman Laura Bennett-Kimble ’95, Contributing Writer
Trustees
Patrick Miles, Jr. ’88 Chairman of the Board of Trustees
One would think, what with his 22-year association with the College and his position as Aquinas College Board of Trustees chairman, that Patrick Miles, Jr. ’88 might have a lot of years under his belt. But this upbeat, experienced, intelligent leader is only 39 years old. Miles’ history at the College started when, as a 16-year-old graduating from Ottawa Hills High School, he asked an attorney how to become a business lawyer. The response? Go to a small liberal arts college, get to know the professors, participate in extracurricular activities and demonstrate leadership. After looking at various schools, “I decided on Aquinas,” he said. “As a student, Pat seemed to really have a sense of what he wanted to do with his life,” said Paul Nelson, former Aquinas College president. Nelson, who had known Miles previously as a neighbor and classmate of his children, said he has always been easy to get along with. “He’s always very positive. When I think of him, I see a smile on his face – but it’s not a happy-go-lucky smile,” Nelson added, because that smile was accompanied by the drive to work hard. Miles finished his undergraduate work in three years, graduating cum laude in 1988 with a B.S. in business administration and economics. Following the advice he’d received as a 16-year-old, he was a sports writer and editor of the Aquinas Times student newspaper, a Student Council senator, and, as a result of his hard work, a recipient of an outstanding senior award.
“One thing about a small college, you just can’t hide,” he said with a smile. After Aquinas, Miles earned his Juris Doctorate at Harvard Law School in 1991 and became the second Aquinas College alumnus to do so after Jerome Byrne, who had graduated from the prestigious law school 50 years previously. When he went to Harvard, Mile admits, “I was a little nervous at first, but I fit right in. Being from a private liberal arts college commanded some respect, and the preparation I received at Aquinas was great.” Plenty of Harvard Law School graduates turn to politics, including Miles’ friend and former classmate Barack Obama. And although Miles said he’s asked about once a week if he’s going to enter the political arena himself, he said he has no plans to run for public office. For now, he’s busy with his career – the Grand Rapids attorney accepted a partner position at Dickinson Wright PLLC in August 2006 after 15 years at Varnum Riddering Schmidt Howlett LLP. Miles also has numerous professional and community connections. “I’ve focused my community service – aside from church – on education, healthy families, housing and healthy communities,” Miles said. In addition to his Aquinas involvement, he’s currently on boards at the Metropolitan YMCA, Spectrum Health Hospitals, DeVos Children’s Hospital Foundation and Inner-City Christian Federation. As a member of the Grand Rapids Bar Association, he was president of the 1,400attorney group from 2004 to 2005. He was named one of the “40 Business Leaders Under 40” by Business Direct Weekly in 2004 and received the Greater Grand Rapids NAACP Floyd Skinner Justice Award in 2004 and the Floyd Skinner Justice Giant Award in 2005. The third-generation Grand Rapids native became an Aquinas trustee in 1993 and served nine years. From 2001 to 2002 he was vice chair
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
of the board. In accordance with the College’s regulations, he took a year off before being elected again in 2003. He then served as vice chair until 2005, when he and Tom Church became co-chairs. In 2006, he became the College’s youngest chairman of the board. Nelson remembers working with Miles in the nineties when Nelson was president. “I always could rely on Pat to have a positive – not Pollyanna-ish – perspective in moving forward and working together to accomplish our goals,” Nelson recalled. “With a very deft touch he could build consensus with people.” “We have spent many hours together and I have always been impressed by Pat,” said Msgr. William Duncan, current vice chair of the Aquinas Board of Trustees and vicar general of the Grand Rapids Diocese. “His leadership is stellar. Pat has such a vibrant vision of what faith-based higher education can bring to the community – not just the Aquinas community, but the Grand Rapids community. He has an absolute enthusiasm and spirit for Aquinas College.” Miles is the son of retired Grand Rapids Public School teacher Shirley Miles and Pat Miles, Sr.
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’95, who followed in his son’s footsteps to earn his master in management degree and Pat hooded his father in the graduation ceremony. Like his son, the father kept his connection with Aquinas, teaching as an adjunct and serving on the board of the Emeritus College and, currently, on the presidential search committee. Miles said the presidential search process has been great. “We’re going to take as long as it takes to find the right person for Aquinas. We’re being deliberate, diligent and decisive.” In addition to the search, the board is working on strategic planning this year. “We have to continue to provide an excellent education that prepares people for their next life’s challenge, to carry on the Dominican tradition of the College,” Miles said. “We want to strengthen and grow the College’s endowment and we want to improve the athletic facilities. We have a very committed and talented board of trustees, and it’s been a pleasure working with them.” He continued, “I love Aquinas College. As an alumnus, I feel both an obligation and a duty to promote the College and see that it thrives.”
Trustee Wheeler Receives Community Award also reached around the world. He has taken employees to Guatemala to build a school, chapel, dormitory and community center, among other things. “Every one of us has a seed inside of us,” Wheeler told a Grand Rapids Press reporter. “You just do it. It feels good. There is no greater work than that which serves to help and empower others,” he said.
Trustee John Wheeler, CEO, Rockford Construction Company
Trustees
AQ trustee John Wheeler, CEO and chairman of Rockford Construction Company, will be recognized this spring for his community service. Wheeler will receive the 2007 Faith in Humanity Award at an April 28 fundraiser for The Hugh Michael Beahan Foundation at Catholic Central High School in Grand Rapids. Since 1987, the Faith in Humanity Award has been annually bestowed upon a community member who exemplifies the ideals of the foundation’s namesake, Monsignor Hugh Michael Beahan, a Catholic priest who had a devotion to education, diversity and social justice. He died in 1980. Wheeler, 50, has given extensively of his time and money to many worthwhile community service projects. His volunteer efforts have
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
MARRIAGES
Dawn (Wierzbicki) and Ryan Smith a daughter, Claire Ellen, June 19, 2006
’71
Maria (Crites) Weidenfeller September 23, 2006 (M.M. ’86)
’02
Rainell (Schout) and Allen Mingori a son, Vincent Allen, February 28, 2006
’72
Richard Bonge August 1, 2006
’73
Lavonne (Friend) Montgomery October 4, 2006
’73
Harriet (Wenger) Senf October 1, 2006
’74
Thomas H. Berry December 17, 2006 John Koryto November 20, 2006
’55
Otto Sonefeld and Colette Biron McColgan, June 30, 2006
’97
Jessica Golden Swenson and Beau Thomas Jackson, June 3, 2006
’01
Ellen Jessica Stoddard and Luke James Cherveny, June 17, 2006
IN MEMORIAM
’02
Sarah Carter and Matthew Conklin July 1, 2006
Alumni Deaths Sr. John Baptist Schafer October 8, 2006
’04
Josh Friederichs and Molly Martinchek ’06, August 12, 2006
’06
Mary Jo Nedved and David McCoy, June 10, 2006
’06
Rebecca Barber and Joshua Taylor, July 29, 2006
’06
Molly Martinchek and Josh Friederichs ’04, August 12, 2006
BIRTHS
’30
’35
’41
’41
’50
’50
Elizabeth (Chervenka) Vickery March 23, 2006 Alice (Buck) Ashley August 12, 2006 Mary V. O’Connor June 9, 2006 Mary Bek November 20, 2006 Thomas C. Henner March 28, 2006
’92
Paul and Elaine Desmarais a daughter, Anna Amira, October 23, 2006
’51
Robert Vanden Berg June 1, 2006
’93
Thomas and Elizabeth Shearer a son, William Michael, October 28, 2006
’58
Farrell Bieber September 28, 2006
’93
Jennifer Bieneman-Courtney and Francis Courtney a son, Connor Paul, June 20, 2005
’59
Robert W. Howe December 9, 2006
’93
’96
Class Notes
’01
Carolyn (Budde) and Kent Tekrony a daughter, Rachel Grace, August 14, 2006 Therese (Bocian) and Larry Riddering a daughter, Maria Therese, May 2006
’96
Susan (Kilbourne) and Brian Bakkila a son, Garrett Cooper, February 15, 2006
’97
Melissa and Eric VanGessel ’96 a son, Brenden Thomas, July 25, 2006
’98
Rose (Stempky) and Scott David a daughter, Lilianna Isabel, September 26, 2006
’98
Anne (Tyler) and John Duimstra a daughter, Claudia Arianne, March 14, 2006
’60
’60
’60
George Bowles October 10, 2006 Douglas T. MacDonell July 19, 2006 Sr. Agnes Thiel October 17, 2006
’63
Sandra (Earl) McGuire August 21, 2006
’64
Sr. Helen Miller August 6, 2006
’65
John Edward Mullen July 18, 2006
’69
Charles Wimbley, Sr., Trustee April 29, 2006
’70
Sr. Charlotte Schaub July 23, 2006
’76
’77
Ruby Yonkers December 14, 2006
’78
James R. Burns August 3, 2006
’78
Cathy Hoye September 7, 2006
’79
Sr. Eleanor Marie Roberts June 18, 2006
’82
Thomas Fischer October 7, 2006
’83
William Semeyn November 17, 2006
’89
David Douma December 5, 2006
’90
Robert Hebeler August 11, 2006
’90
Joanne Gnida October 30, 2006
’97
Ernest Figgures December 1, 2006
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
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DEATHS OF FRIENDS AND RELATIVES David Anderson, Nephew of World Affairs Council Executive Director, Dixie Anderson, September 2006 Charlotte Andrea, Friend, March 24, 2006 Petra Borrego, Mother of employee José Borrego, November 24, 2006 Dorothy Brousseau, Friend, Daughter of Sr. Nancy Brousseau ’73, July 19, 2006 Samuel Cherwinski, Brother of Sr. Jane Anthony Cherwinski, October 19, 2006 Richard Clark, Father of freshman Ember Clark, December 11, 2006 Robert J. Clarke, Former professor of political science, July 2, 2006 Harry Coupe, Husband of Mae Coupe and father of Mary Coupe ’74, March 31, 2006 Stanley Czurak, Father of David Czurak ’91, November 4, 2006 Leonard Den Houter, Friend, June 26, 2006 Prudence Denhof, Mother-in-law of Nancy Shirey Denhof ’82, November 4, 2006 Patricia Dobbins, Friend, June 13, 2006 Jenny Durkacz, Grandmother of student Kathleen Pollock, September 2006 Emily Joan Engemann, Mother of Doug Engemann ’85, October 24, 2006
Nick Iwaniw, Father of Nikola Iwaniw MM ’86, December 15, 2006
Glenn Rusche, Father of Jo Ann Atkinson ’85, April 23, 2006
Richard J. Jackoboice, Friend, brother of Edward Jackoboice and brother-in-law of Sandra Jackoboice ’89, October 17, 2006
Frances Sherwood, Former employee of Aquinas, August 2, 2006
Helen Kelly, Mother of Child Development Center Director Susan (Kelly) Gerrity ’68, November 17, 2006
Leanna Siegrist, Mother of Mark Siegrist ’82, October 23, 2006 Mary Alice Sremba, Mother of Michael Sremba ’74, September 6, 2006
Ella Knauf, Mother of Child Development Center teacher Theresa Schoenborn, December 18, 2006
Sr. Marie André St. Cyr, Friend, October 22, 2006
Lee Kulesza, Mother of Jane Kulesza ’79, December 16, 2006
Mary Louise Steketee, Friend, December 2, 2006
Rita Lally, Friend, sister of John Lally ’48 and the late James “Rex” Lally ’49, Summer 2006
Marion Stelma, Friend, July 1, 2006
Victoria Lopez, Friend, sister of Sr. Dolorita Martinez ’59, July 13, 2006 John Magee, Friend, April 6, 2006 Vivian Meyer, Mother of Trustee Sr. Nathalie Meyer ’58, November 18, 2006 Olga Mikita, Mother of James Mikita ’70, mother-in-law of Joann (Osowski) Mikita ’72, grandmother of Patrick Mikita ’99, November 18, 2006 Patricia O’Connor, Friend, wife of former Aquinas President Peter O’Connor, July 7, 2006
Louise “Alice” Supancheck, Former employee of Aquinas, August 17, 2006 Mary Thomasson, Friend, March 22, 2006 Barbara Vanderhyde, Friend, June, 28, 2006 John M. Wolf, Father of Human Resources Director, Steve Wolf MM ’87, December 20, 2006 Josh Youmans, Brother-in-law of student Sarah Draheim, March 2006 Robert Zerfas, Father to Sr. Diane Zerfas ’81, September 5, 2006
Mercedes Olson, Friend, sister of Trustee Martita Cudlipp, August 29, 2006 Raymond Palmer, Friend, father of Mary Beth Erhardt, June 14, 2006
Frank Fehsenfeld, Friend, May 21, 2006 Thelma H. Gehl, Friend, April 1, 2006 Cecilia Goodrich, Friend, March 31, 2006 Marshall Hagen, Nephew of retired CIS professor Tom Dooley and Anne Hagen, November 22, 2006
Harriet Hill, Wife of Clarence Hill ’73, September 22, 2006
Charles Porter, Friend, March 29, 2006 Louise Purell, Sister of Sr. Joyce Kolasa ’65, September 27, 2006 Eugene Gearney Richard, Brother of Sr. Yvonne Richard, O.P. ’56, September 29, 2006 Lyle Robach, Father of Jean Robach ’80, brother-in-law of Mary Robach ’56, November 1, 2006
Class Notes
Debbie Haines, Aunt of student Kristina Humphrey, October 2006
Genevieve Perry, Mother of Dr. Stephen Perry ’74, November 6, 2006
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Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
Class Notes Apologies to: George Colburn ’59 and Tom McCarthy’59 for omitting a picture they submitted of themselves on a Pacific island.
1959 George Colburn and Tom McCarthy are on the tiny Pacific island of Tinian (Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands) with an artifact of World War II, a propeller and engine from a crippled B-29 bomber that crashed on its return from a bombing run to Japan in 1944 or 1945. In August, 1945, Tinian’s airfields, re-captured from the Japanese in the summer of 1944, launched the B-29s that dropped the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki and prompted the Japanese to agree to unconditional surrender, ending World War II. The two alums are serving as the producers for the Santa Fe Media & Education Center of a major documentary series about the lives and times of the Navajo Code Talkers, Marines who participated in all the major actions by the USMC in the Pacific during WW II, but were forbidden to discuss “the code” for 25 years after the war ended. For more information, visit www.thenavajocodetalkers.com. 1961 Tom Hofmann, current faculty member at GRCC, was inducted into the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame in August 2006. Tom was a two-sport athletic star during his years at Aquinas, and was honored on the Aquinas campus in the fall of 2005 when he was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his work in teaching, coaching and sports officiating. 1969 John Uskert relocated to Fishers, Indiana and was admitted to the Indiana Bar August 2006, and is engaged in the practice of law with Marcus Law Firm. After graduating from the School of Pharmacy at Samford University in 1976, he practiced pharmacy for 11 years before enrolling in law school at the Cumberland School of Law (Samford University). He was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1990 and maintained a solo law practice in Panama City, Fla., until 2006. He would love to hear from the members of the class of 1969.
Class Notes
1974 Mykel C. Johnson began her ministry at Allen Avenue Unitarian Universalist (UU) Church on August 15, 2005. She came to Maine from Cape Cod, Mass., where she had served First Parish Brewster, UU, from 1999, first as its assistant minister, then associate minister, and in March 2004 became the ministry team leader until the August 2005 arrival of an interim minister. After graduating from Aquinas, Mykel received her master in Divinity from Chicago Theological Seminary, and her doctorate of Ministry from the Episcopal Divinity School. Mykel and her partner, Margy Dowzer, have settled in North Yarmouth, Maine. 1975 Daryl Delabbio (MM ’94) received his Ph.D. in higher education leadership from Western Michigan University (WMU) in July 2006. In addition to his duties as county administrator/controller for Kent County (Mich.), he is an adjunct faculty member in WMU’s School of Public Affairs and Administration.
1979 Marlene Ryan has been appointed to the position of Coordinator, Strategy & Evaluation at the John Templeton Foundation in December 2006. In her new role, Marlene will assist in developing groundbreaking initiatives and projects for the Office of Strategy & Evaluation. Prior to joining the Foundation in 2005, Marlene was executive director for the Foundation for Catholic Education of Greater Grand Rapids. 1982 William Badgerow has been named the director of finance for Warner Norcross & Judd LLP. In his new role, he will be responsible for leading the accounting, financial reporting and financial planning activities of the Firm, which is the largest law firm in West Michigan. Prior to joining Warner Norcross, Badgerow served as senior financial analyst with Spectrum Health Hospitals and was employed for 18 years by Meritage Hospitality Group. A native of Grand Rapids, he now resides Walker with his wife, Tama, and sons, Andy and Nick. 1984 Richard C. Helgren is the executive vice president and chief operating officer of FinCor Holdings, Inc. Rick has held several positions within the company since joining the firm in 1989. He’s been controller, director of finance, chief financial officer, vice president and a senior vice president before assuming his current duties. 1985 Patricia Dolly has been appointed as the president of Oakland Community College’s Auburn Hills, Michigan campus. After graduating from Aquinas, Patricia received master’s degrees in educational leadership and organizational communication from Western Michigan University (WMU) in 1989 and 1992 and a doctorate in educational leadership from WMU in 1995. Dolly was the executive dean at Ivy Tech Community College in Indiana from 2000-06. Dolly has a daughter and grandchild and recently moved to Auburn Hills. 1986 Lee Ann (McDonald) Puhlman was hired as assistant principal of Sacred Heart Academy in Mt. Pleasant, Mich. Puhlman taught at St. Michael School in Remus, Mich. for the past 20 years. 1986 Ed Rode considers himself a go-anywhere, shoot-anything photographer. He has been shooting news, documentary and corporate work for 25 years. He currently lives in Nashville, Tenn., which has afforded him the opportunity to shoot portraits of some of the most famous faces in music. Last fall, he had a photo exhibit at the Nashville airport called “Songwriters and Musicians.” Visit his website www.edrode.net to see his portraits. 1991 Mark Herald MM was selected by the East Grand Rapids City Commission as the city’s new public safety chief. Before joining East Grand Rapids police in 2002, he was with the Grand Rapids Police Department as a neighborhood patrol and community affairs officer, police captain and commander of the central service area. 1993 Carolyn (Budde) Tekrony was promoted to associate brand manager at Hunter Douglas Window Fashions in Broomfield, Colo. Her husband, Kent, is a corporate accountant at ZG Capital in Boulder. A daughter, Rachel Grace, was born on August 14, 2006. The family resides in Boulder. Bryan Boes is the sports director for WICS-TV 20 in Springfield, Mo., and was delighted to be covering the middle games of the 102nd Fall Classic World Series and getting a chance to watch the team he rooted for throughout his childhood—the Detroit Tigers. Boes is a former Midwest
Aquinas College Magazine – Spring 2007
League play-by-play announcer for the Fort Wayne Wizards and joined his current employer in December 2005. 1994 Amy Sherman found her true calling in the kitchen after studying political science at Aquinas. Previously, Amy was the pastry chef at Tuscan Express (Grand Rapids) but decided to focus on her own baking and consulting business called “Two Chicks and an Oven.” This is Amy’s third year teaching the Institute for Culinary Enthusiasts classes. She is a member of the national group “Women Chefs and Restaurateurs,” the international group “Slow Food” and sits on the board of the greater Grand Rapids Food Systems Council. 1995 Jennie Patterson has been promoted to administrative services office manager for the Lorain Public Library System in Lorain, Oh., where she serves as a liaison between library system employees and benefits providers. Gregory Pratt was appointed superintendent of Lowell Area Schools in July 2006. He had been superintendent of Kent City Community Schools since 2004, where he also served as a teacher and middle school principal. Greg earned a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Central Michigan University. He is nearing a completion of a doctoral degree in educational leadership. He has been married for 12 years to Liz, a math teacher in the Reeths-Puffer school district in Muskegon. They have two sons, Garret, 7, and Grant, 4. 1996 Krista Kahle spent January through April 2006 working on long-term community recovery on the Gulf Coast of Louisiana. 1998 Patrick Krueger joined the University of Texas at Houston in fall 2006 as an assistant professor in the School of Public Health. His wife, Erin, is working as the director of cultural affairs for the city of Denver, which means he’s looking forward to long commutes and lots of frequent flyer miles. Doug Lachniet was hired by the Lutheran Social Services of Michigan as director of marketing and sales. Lachniet came from Grand Rapids Sash and Door Company where he was president and vice president of sales and marketing. Anne (Tyler) Duimstra completed her masters of Business Administration degree from Grand Valley State University (Grand Rapids) in spring 2006. Corey McNeal has been appointed as coach and teacher at Portage Central Schools (Mich.) in summer 2006. He will coach and teach health, physical education and language arts. He’s in the final year of a master’s program in educational leadership at Grand Valley State University. He also finds time in a busy schedule to play basketball as a member of the Grand Rapids Flight semi-pro team. McNeal and his wife, Penny Richards, currently make their home in Sparta.
Sheri Zima was hired as a physical therapist at Physical Therapy Specialists, PC in June 2006. She received her doctorate of physical therapy from Oakland University in 2005. She is currently a member of the American Physical Therapy Association, as well as the Physical Therapy Association of Michigan.
2002 William Lemanski has recently joined Meiers & Lombardini Insurance Services. Will is now the fourth consecutive generation in his family to serve as an insurance agent, going back to his great grandfather who founded an insurance agency in the 1920’s. Previously, Will worked for Auto-Owners Insurance Company as a claims adjuster and was involved in insurance studies. He earned the following career designations: Associate in Claims (AIC), Associate in Personal Insurance (API), Associate in Insurance Services (AIS), and he became an Accredited Adviser in Insurance (AAI). Michelle (Barnes) Day received the Excellence in Teaching Award for the elementary level in the East Grand Rapids (Mich.) school district this year. She teaches at Lakeside Elementary. Darreth Rice was appointed as a ticket sales account executive for the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League in summer 2006. Darreth also worked for several years for DP Fox Sports & Entertainment’s Arena Football franchise, the Grand Rapids Rampage, where she was the ticket sales and service coordinator. 2003 Carla Johnson is manager of Pastoral Care at George Davis Manor, an assisted living and nursing facility in West Lafayette, Ind. Nathan Kaiser is in graduate school at Washington State University where he has been accepted into the doctoral program. 2004 Tim Farmer ME is the recipient of the Nicholas Plastic Vi-Chem Award for Excellence in Teaching. He teaches mathematics at East Grand Rapids High School (Mich.). Derek Weaver has been added to the 2006-2007 roster of the ABA Team, The Twin City Ballers. Go to www.twincityballers.com for more information on this up and coming team events. Steve Dobb is finishing his 2nd year with the U.S. Marine Corps. He has served one tour of duty in Iraq and has two years remaining with the Corps. 2005 Maura Tardif is one of 23 students to join the fifth class of Marietta College’s physician assistant studies program, a 27-month master’s degree program at the Ohio school. The program is designed to help meet the need for qualified health care providers and is broken into two phases: didactic and clinical. Tardif is scheduled to graduate in 2008. Leo Foley won the men’s Double Pump race with a 5K and 10K combined time of 1:05:10 in the Savannah (Ga.) River Bridge Run in December 2006. Foley is in his second year of teaching at Memorial Day School in Savannah and also coaches the cross country and track teams. He ran in the 2005 Boston Marathon, finishing in 3:07. Harry Rogers, Army Specialist, graduated from basic infantry training at Fort Benning, Columbus, Ga. 2006 Julie Ferstle was hired by Benton Harbor Public Schools in August 2006. She is the first AQ alum hired by that school system. She will be teaching special education at the elementary school level. Mike Guyeskey is a production assistant at 6 News in Lansing (Mich.). His duties include running the camera and teleprompter during the live newscasts in the studio.
Class Notes
2000 Shannon (Milanowski) Amberg is currently a candidate for degree and will receive her Ph.D. in natural resource in the Department of Conservation Social Sciences at the University of Idaho in May 2007. Her husband, Jon, will also receive his Ph.D. in animal & veterinary sciences from the University of Idaho in May 2007. They’re been spending time doing research in Norway and look forward to future career opportunities both domestic and abroad, as well as starting a family.
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NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID Grand Rapids, MI Permit NO. 101
1607 Robinson Road, S.E. Grand Rapids, MI 49506-1799 Address Service Requested
Save these dates September 28 - 30, 2007
HOMECOMING 2007 CLASS REUNIONS 1962, 1967, 1972, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997, 2002 GoLden saints 50+ years
For details: www.aquinas.edu/alumni or call (616) 632-2493