Aquinas Magazine :: Summer 2015

SUMMER 2015

THE MAGAZINE OF AQUINAS COLLEGE

AQUINAS’ GLOBAL TIES St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City PAGE 18

Volume 14 :: Issue 2 :: Summer 2015 The Aquinas Magazine is the flagship publication of Aquinas College. This magazine reflects the heart of the College as expressed through its Catholic heritage and distinctive Dominican tradition.

IN THIS ISSUE 4 :: Education & Mission 10 :: A Man of Integrity 13 :: Expanding AQ's Borders 15 :: Global Experiential Learning 21 :: From Peru to AQ 28 :: Commencement

Cover photo: Joelle Baldwin ’02

Message from the President Aquinas’ strong liberal arts education, combined with our Catholic values, is at the foundation of our students’ success. Today’s college graduates need to adapt and change at an unprecedented pace. Beyond the demands of technology, these changes require an understanding, perspective and respect for the global economy.

Aquinas is leading the way in helping students advance their knowledge with a global perspective. Our sustainable business students travel to Costa Rica to work with indigenous tribes and provide environmental services.

While in Ireland, students are immersed in learning culture and community structure. Additionally, our students are completing internships with Vatican media centers while studying in Italy, and connecting in the areas of international business and engineering in Germany.

We are also bringing a global perspective to our students studying in Grand Rapids. Recent alumnus Zach Stepanovich ‘15 served as an international trade intern with the U.S. Government Export Assistance Center during the spring 2015 semester. Azra Fazil ‘16 presented her undergraduate research project on Spanish dialects among immigrants in the Grand Rapids area at the Student Research Symposium in April 2015.

Aquinas’ reputation for our experienced-based learning efforts on campus is gaining global momentum. These include clubs such as the Model United Nations and Model Arab League, where students develop skills in negotiation, conflict resolution and debate. Additionally, our ability to attract the best students continues to improve as our academics excel, like our accounting program—with our students’ CPA pass rate now ranked in the top three percent in the nation.

In the past two years, we have widely expanded our international presence, attracting more students to our campus and increasing the number of global opportunities for students, faculty and staff. As global thinking continues to advance in today’s economy, Aquinas is poised to show the world what we have to offer.

As you dive into the summer 2015 edition of the Aquinas Magazine, I hope you’ll enjoy the many stories of AQ alumni, faculty, staff, students and community members whose passions and projects have had a global reach.

Spanning continents and oceans, Aquinas continues to make all the difference in the world.

Together, we can.

Juan Olivarez ‘71, Ph.D.

EDUCATION & MISSION COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP CLUB FUNDRAISES FOR MALAWI SCHOOL GIRLS

Lauren F. Carlson ‘12

Education opens doors and builds a solid foundation for the future. However, in Malawi, a small nation in southeast Africa, children, and especially girls, have no access to or funding for education past the seventh grade. With the joint efforts of Malawi Parliamentarian Clement Chiwaya ‘02, AQ’s newly formed Community Leadership Club and the nonprofit Malawi Connection, the Aquinas community is making headway for Malawi’s young girls, raising the money necessary to provide an education so desperately in need.

“Education is highly valued in poor countries like Malawi,” said Sandy Rademaker, co-founder of Malawi Connection.

“It is a huge gift, usually reserved for the more wealthy among them.” Rademaker and her husband Jim served as alumnus Chiwaya’s host family during his undergraduate studies at Aquinas College. They learned about the extreme needs of the Malawi people through Chiwaya’s personal stories and formed Malawi Connection to come to their aid in 2006 by fundraising for a variety of projects.

In 2012, after Associate Professor of Business Administration and Director of Undergraduate Business Programs Swithina Mboko, Ph.D., led a student trip to Malawi and made a connection with St. Monica’s Boarding School in Mangochi, the Rademakers were thrilled about AQ students’ passion for Malawi. After hearing of the student trip, the Rademakers decided to make funding scholarships for St. Monica’s the next project for the Malawi Connection, and continue this effort today. With just $500, each scholarship provides tuition, room and board, a uniform and testing fees for one student for an entire year.

New Irish Studies Minor Recently Approved

“It makes such a huge difference in the lives of these girls.”

Mary Webster ’17

Tully Cross, Ireland is one of Aquinas College’s most popular study abroad programs. Offered during the spring semester, it affords students the opportunity to be educated by Aquinas faculty members while living abroad in an English-speaking culture.

During her sabbatical, Professor of English Michelle DeRose, Ph.D., a past advisor of the Ireland Program, developed a new Irish Studies minor based on the Tully Cross program's success.

- Molly Thiel The focus on young girls is especially important for Malawians, whose daughters can rarely afford the opportunity of traditional schooling. “In Malawi we have a saying which says when you teach a boy, you have educated an individual, but when you teach a girl, you have educated a nation,” said Chiwaya.

This opportunity to attend a boarding school in particular is also vital, notes Chiwaya, because many school girls are required to walk long distances to other schools, and sometimes face dangerous situations along the way.

In 2014, during Chiwaya’s annual visit to campus, Molly Thiel ‘16, community leadership major and head of AQ’s budding club learned about the parliamentarian, Malawi Connection and an opportunity to build leadership skills and impact the lives of others through a semester-long fundraising project for St. Monica’s. “It makes such a huge difference in the lives of these girls,” said Thiel.

Partnering with Malawi Connection, the club signed on to fundraise $500 during the spring 2015 semester to send one girl to St. Monica’s. “We wanted to make this an education thing,” said Thiel, who jumped at the opportunity to make fundraising for education the club’s semester goal. This project was also a perfect fit for personal and professional growth for the students. “The project brings together current students in the program with alumni. It also helps

students to see what it takes to conceive of and execute a fundraising project from start to finish,” said Associate Professor of Sociology Michael Lorr, Ph.D., director of the Community Leadership Program.

The Rademakers were touched by the Community Leadership Club’s passion to fundraise for their scholarships, and quickly came alongside them to assist in their efforts, providing educational resources, photos and two years of experience of fundraising for St. Monica’s.

“We were so impressed by the eagerness and excitement that these students had for this project. It was truly an inspiring moment,” she said.

In order to raise the necessary $500, Thiel and her club hosted a clementine sale on campus, hinting at the project’s inspiration, Clement. This project both kickstarted their campaign and raised awareness for the desperate needs of Malawians. After only a semester, the club is close to reaching its goal, and looks forward to presenting Malawi Connection with the funds for St. Monica’s.

Inspired by one international alumnus who touched the lives of both students and community members, Aquinas is now supporting educational opportunities for young girls in a Third World country.

“We really like the idea that it’s a global thing,” said Thiel, of a project that reaches beyond their tight-knit community, and touches lives across the world.

The new minor was approved by the faculty assembly this past March, with the goal that it will “better weave our 43-year history with the people of Tully Cross into the academic fabric of Aquinas,” said DeRose.

“While developing this minor, I studied some of the largest Irish studies programs in the nation to compare and contrast the benefits of bringing this type of program to Aquinas. I also surveyed past and current students and faculty who have traveled to Ireland to gather their input,” she added.

There is a unique sense of excitement surrounding the launch of this new academic program. “This minor will incorporate other courses, particularly those not historically affiliated with the Ireland program, in the hopes of appealing to students and faculty from the natural science, social science and business departments,” said DeRose.

The new Irish studies minor will officially launch in the spring of 2016, on the 100th anniversary of the Easter Uprising, a movement that launched modern Ireland.

According to DeRose, “this minor

is a perfect example of how Aquinas provides the opportunity to transform knowledge and relationships that many at Aquinas love, into an academically viable program!”

SUMMER 2015::5

T

hough immigration is often a divisive topic in the United States, many seek to offer assistance to those in need, regardless of their status. This is particularly true with the Catholic Worker Movement, an association of individuals with an extraordinary focus on social justice. AQ alumna Lindy Nawrocki ‘14 recently completed work for Casa Juan Diego in Houston, Texas, a collection of 10 Catholic Worker houses that serve immigrants and the poor. Combining her passion for social justice, immigration and the Spanish language, Nawrocki has only just begun a life of service that began on the Aquinas campus.

“I was always interested in serving underserved populations of the world.” - Lindy Nawrocki Majoring in communication, minoring in community leadership and also studying Spanish, Nawrocki diversified her education while also seeking opportunities that broadened her horizons in the community. Serving as a co-leader on the Bethlehem Farm service-learning trip in Alderson, West Virginia, in October 2013, Nawrocki first experienced a hospitality house whose principal focus was home repair for those in need.

One Encounter

at a Time

Serving Immigrants and the Poor with the Catholic Worker Movement Lauren F. Carlson ‘12

Nawrocki also discovered the United States’ underserved immigrant population through her studies in Spanish. Reading “Into the Beautiful North” by Luis Alberto Urrea, a Mexican immigrant and Pulitzer Prize winning author, Nawrocki was impressed by the personal struggles of immigrants. Then attending Urrea’s Contemporary Writers Series event and meeting the author in April 2014, she connected with his stories, and internalized that “the human being themselves is not illegal,” she said. Nawrocki also participated in an independent study focused on immigration that offered further education in the field.

These educational experiences at AQ laid the groundwork for the personal interactions she would later have at Catholic Worker House. “Hearing stories of similar natures from my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, in-person at Casa Juan Diego, was incredible and life-changing,” said Nawrocki. Learning of an opportunity to serve at Casa Juan Diego from fellow AQ alumna Kaitlin Barth ‘12, she applied after her December 2014 graduation, and began her work in mid-February 2015.

During Nawrocki’s time there in voluntary poverty, she assisted many of the pregnant guests by attending their medical appointments at the clinic and caring for their children. Most of all, Nawrocki and the fellow Catholic Workers’ goal was “changing the social structure one encounter at a time,” she said. Casa Juan Diego also accomplishes this through English classes, food and clothing distribution and Spanish liturgies, among other services.

Though Nawrocki only spent three months at Casa Juan Diego, she described it as “a powerful chapter of my life.” Profoundly changed, Nawrocki completed her work in May 2015 and is working on an organic farm this summer in order to experience another vital element of the movement. “By the grace of God, the Catholic Worker Movement and all the people it has touched, is glorious in a world where we are often told to live for our own wants and desires,” she said.

G A L AWARDS

The Aquinas College Awards Gala is the College’s night to honor our most treasured alumni and friends. Those who have long histories with the College, have excelled in their professional lives, and have contributed to their communities are inducted into the Aquinas College Hall of Fame. Alumni and coaches who excelled in athletics while at AQ are inducted into the Aquinas College Athletic Hall of Fame. The Awards Gala is an annual event that kicks off Homecoming weekend. All are invited to attend the celebration.

The Aquinas College Awards Gala will be held on Thursday, September 24, 2015 at 5:30 p.m. in the Sturrus Sports & Fitness Center. Tickets are $65 each for open seating. Table sponsorships are available for $850 and include 10 reserved seats. Please visit aquinas.edu/alumni for more information or call (616) 632-2173.

PRESIDENT’S AWARD

The Woodhouse family has been an integral part of the College for more than three generations and 75 years of continuous support. The Woodhouse family's legacy at Aquinas is extensive: C. Arthur Woodhouse, "Mr. Aquinas," was one of two laymen elected to the Board of Trustees in 1954. Robert Woodhouse Sr. continued that tradition by being elected to the Board of Trustees in 1975. Robert "Bob" Woodhouse Jr. extended the legacy by being elected to the Board in 2009. All have contributed numerous examples of wise counsel, advocacy and financial support of the College. The President's Award has only been bestowed three times since its inception in 2008.

ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

The 1984-85 Men's Basketball Team was the winningest squad of the first 62 years of the AQ program with a 23-7 record. The team still holds records for longest winning streak (12) and most road victories (14) in a single season. Under Coach Larry Randall, the Saints averaged 88 points per game and had three of the College's top all-time individual scores by Laray Hardy, Joe Van Rosmalen and Cory Branch.

Timothy T. Sullivan '91 was an All-American pitcher for the Aquinas College baseball teams (1988-1991). Tim had more career pitching victories (32) than any other AQ pitcher in the 70-year history of the program.

ALUMNI AWARDS

OUTSTANDING ALUMNUS: Dr. Robert Payne ‘67 is being recognized for excellence in his specialized field of pediatric dentistry as well as his service to the community and generosity to Aquinas College.

OUTSTANDING ALUMNA: Christina Bivins† ‘95 is being recognized for her activism and spirit of volunteerism within the Grand Rapids arts and culture community, as well as her support of the Aquinas College Alumni Association.

AQUINAS COLLEGE HALL OF FAME

Sister Teresa Houlihan ‘55 O.P., Ph.D. is being honored for her distinguished career as a philosopher, teacher and Dominican leader, as well as for bringing Piagetian approaches to early childhood education. Sister Teresa taught at Aquinas for 28 years and later became the Prioress of the Dominican Sisters.

Darrell “Ted” Thompson ‘52 is being commended as an inventor, entrepreneur and philanthropist. Ted’s mind for science and innovation led to several ground-breaking developments that have had a long-lasting impact on the science world.

Rabbi Albert Lewis is being recognized for his longtime relationship with Aquinas College as rabbi of Temple Emanuel, adjunct faculty member and former director of the OLLI/ Emeritus program.

Shirley K. Lewis, Ed.D., Professor Emerita In-the-College, is being recognized for her successful career as an educator and dean at Aquinas, for her community service in the areas of religious education, special education and learning disabilities and for her work with Albert at L'Arche Daybreak community in Canada. † deceased

SUMMER 2015::7

LIFE, FRIENDSHIP AND NOODLES AQ Alumnus Establishes New International Scholarship Lauren F. Carlson ‘12 Cei Chung ‘82 is a lover of both noodles and of his alma mater. Founder, President and CEO of the Seoul, Korea-based company Noodle Lovers, Inc., Chung has led a successful 30-year career after his graduation from Aquinas. Seeking a way to give back to the institution that he called home during his undergraduate studies, Chung has established the Noodle Lovers Scholarship, part of the the College’s Family Scholarship Endowment Program.

Immigrating to the United States in the late 1970s, Chung was at first apprehensive about studying in a new environment and mastering English as his second language. However, as he spent more time on the Aquinas campus, he soon found a welcoming atmosphere that allowed him to grow and thrive.

Many years later, Chung continues to maintain a heartfelt connection to the College. “[I cannot express] my gratitude to all Aquinas community for providing me with a friendly, cozy environment for my personal adjustment to a new culture and the great new world,” he said. “To many of my peer students and faculty members, I owe warm encouragements and friendly cares.

They were so kind and humane to share sincere friendship and personal concerns with me, that I always remember with deep thanks.”

During his time at Aquinas, Chung majored in business administration and pursued his passion for music, specifically the piano. He even shared a special bond with Associate Professor Emeritus of Music Eugene Hopkins, and, after Professor Hopkins passed away, assisted in funding a music scholarship in Hopkins’ name. He also contributed to the purchase of Professor Hopkins’ Steinway piano in order to maintain student access to the unique and invaluable instrument.

“Mr. Chung really lives the liberal arts education model,” said Cecilia A. Cunningham, director of major and planned gifts at Aquinas, who maintains a relationship with Chung and assisted in developing his new scholarship. “[He is an] astute businessman steeped in an appreciation and support of music, arts and culture.”

After completing his undergraduate degree, Chung continued his education at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, earning his master of business

administration. In 1984, Chung returned to his home in Seoul, where he married and raised a family. In 1993, he founded Noodle Lovers, Inc., a noodle and sauce manufacturing company.

Recently, Chung contacted Aquinas and began developing the Noodle Lovers’ International Scholarship with Cunningham. Given his experience as an international student, Chung has designed his scholarship to support incoming international students or students seeking study abroad opportunities, specifically in East Asia.

“The endowed scholarship that Mr. Chung has created is a compassionate expression of his gratitude to the Aquinas professors who enriched his life and is a dynamic way of empowering the next generation of international students who study here at Aquinas,” said Cunningham.

Finding a home across the globe more than 30 years ago, Chung continues his connection to Aquinas by funding opportunities for others to expand their mindset and receive a comprehensive, liberal arts education.

“The Noodle Lover’s International Scholarship, named after Mr. Chung’s successful business, will draw valuable diversity to our increasing number of international students.” said Cunningham.

Chung’s scholarship will be available in the spring of 2016.

FACULTY AND STAFF ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Ireland Interchanges Conference Celebrates Cross-Cultural Collaboration

Patricia Schlutt ‘16 KEVIN CANTLEY (Accounting) received his certification as a CGMA, Chartered Global Management Accountant, in February 2015.

MEG DERRER (Marketing and Communication) was elected in January 2015 to a two-year term as president of the board of the Ronald McDonald House of Western Michigan.

DANA FREEMAN (Art) had a solo exhibit, “Heaven, Earth, Water, Fire,” at Alma College from February 9 to March 12, 2015.

ROBERT MARKO, PH.D. (Theology) was named a 2015-16 Fulbright U.S. Scholar for the fall 2015 semester at the Ukrainian Catholic University in L’viv, Ukraine.

PRESIDENT JUAN OLIVAREZ ‘71, PH.D. was elected to the Council of Independent Colleges Board of Directors for a three-year term from January 2015 to January 2018.

L. ROB PETERS, PH.D. (Biology) was recognized as a Green Leader in the Detroit Free Press’ annual Green Leaders Initiative and featured in its April 26, 2015 edition.

BRYAN PILKINGTON, PH.D. (Philosophy) was appointed as a Paul Ramsey Institute Fellow in Bioethics for the 2015-16 academic year.

JOHN PINHEIRO, PH.D. (Catholic Studies and History) received the Fr. Paul J. Foik Award from the Texas Catholic Historical Society in March 2015 for his book “Missionaries of a Republicanism: A Religious History of the Mexican-American War.”

TENURE, RETIREMENTS AND PROMOTIONS TENURE • TONY BURDICK (Accounting) • BETHANY KILCREASE, PH.D. (History) • JIM RASMUSSEN, PH.D. (Geography) • CARMEN RUIZ-SANCHEZ, PH.D. (World Languages)

RETIREMENTS • KRISTEL HEINZ-CIULLO (Business) • KRISTINE DERKS (Library) • DAN DIEDRICH (Education) • EUGENE KOZMINSKI (Physics) • JOYCE LAFLEUR (ITS) • PAM LUEBKE (Library) • MARY ELLEN NOVAKOSKI (Financial Aid) • HARVEY SOVA (ITS)

PROMOTIONS • VICTOR KARANDASHEV, PH.D. Promoted to Professor of Psychology • KATHY KREMER, PH.D. Promoted to Professor of Sociology • MICHEL PICHOT, PH.D. Promoted to Professor of French • JIM RASMUSSEN, PH.D. Promoted to Associate Professor of Geography • DEBORAH STEKETEE, PH.D. Promoted to Professor of Sustainable Business

Aquinas’ Ireland study abroad program invites students to consider the synthesis between their own culture and Irish culture as they study in Tully Cross. At the Ireland Interchanges Conference in June, five AQ faculty members did just that. Professor of English Michelle DeRose, Ph.D., Associate Professor of English Jennifer Dawson, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Anthropology Deborah Wickering, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Sociology Michael Lorr, Ph.D. and Associate Professor of Political Science Molly Patterson, Ph.D. presented papers that discussed collaborative issues involving researchers, students, citizens of Ireland and citizens of the U.S., exploring the connection between American and Irish cultures.

DeRose presented a paper about the metaphor of islands in poetry in a postcolonial world. The poetry she discussed was published in Connemara, where Tully Cross is located. According to DeRose’s work on this topic, the metaphor “helps to offer students new perspectives and new ways of thinking about history and space.”

Students in DeRose’s world literature class and Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Aquinas class have brought her work with this metaphor to life in the classroom as they have discussed her research. Those classroom discussions took on international significance when she presented her paper on the Renvyle Peninsula in Ireland to an audience of Irish and American citizens.

The other faculty members also presented work: Lorr’s paper was titled "A Concise History of the Community Leadership Program at Aquinas College." Wickering and Gina Borton, who oversaw the internship and teaching program in Tully Cross in 2014, presented "International Student Internships: An Ireland Model."

Patterson’s presentation was "Teaching about the Political Community at Home and Abroad" and Dawson explored "The Irish American Novel: Developing a Pedagogy for Transnational Literary Tradition(s)."

The conference created a stage for discussion and collaboration among international colleagues. DeRose, who organized the conference with Kevin Heanue, the chairman of Connemara West, and Terry Keller ‘01, an alumnus of the Aquinas Ireland program and faculty member at Lourdes University, said, “The main goal of the conference is that it fosters continued and future research and collaborative opportunities.” Overall, the conference offered a place to celebrate bicultural issues in an academic context and improve international relationships.

SUMMER 2015::9

A MAN OF INTEGRITY MASTER SCULPTOR CRAFTS ST. THOMAS AQUINAS STATUE FOR COLLEGE ENTRANCE Lauren F. Carlson ‘12

A new year, a new gateway. But something is missing in the newly designed entrance to campus just off Fulton Street. Soon, a donor-funded bronze statue of St. Thomas Aquinas, the College's namesake, will welcome the community to this Catholic learning institution. As seasoned sculptor Jay Carpenter completes his commission, the College will soon benefit from his decades of experience with both liturgical and public works as well as historical figures from across the globe.

10::AQUINAS

Though sculpting does not run in Carpenter’s family, he was inspired by the medium from a very young age. As a high school student at St. Albans School in Washington, D.C., Carpenter would pass by the neighboring Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in the City and Diocese of Washington (Washington National Cathedral) every day. “I was absolutely fascinated by the stone carvers,” he said. Appreciating the beauty and hard work of the artists, Carpenter was hooked. “I just wanted to be closer to [the cathedral],” he said. At age 17, Carpenter began work as a shop assistant, and later began sculpting clay ornaments for the cathedral’s stone carvers.

“The cathedral was a unique opportunity,” said Carpenter. Construction of the building began in 1908, and was still in progress when he began his work in 1976. At that time, the roof was not yet complete, and the west towers were in need of ornamentation, giving Carpenter some of his first projects. “There was a tremendous amount of work there,” he said of the sixth-largest cathedral in the world. Over the next 20 years, Carpenter designed more than 520 pieces in clay that would later adorn this Neo-Gothic structure in the form of elaborate stone carvings of gargoyles, angels and saints.

Though Carpenter stated, “I’ve always worked in clay,” the final medium for his completed projects has changed from stone to bronze over the years. “That was a natural path for my career to take,” he said of transitioning from mainly liturgical works on the cathedral to public works, such as the Jim Henson Memorial at the University of Maryland. Carpenter has completed many other bronze sculptures for colleges, including a bust of President John Hall of Washington College in Maryland and a life-size sculpture of Douglas Fairbanks, Sr. at the University of Southern California, a piece commissioned by George Lucas.

“My hope is that the work will have a voice and speak for himself.”

- Jay Carpenter

The figure Carpenter has designed for Aquinas College is a larger than life-size representation of St. Thomas Aquinas, a bronze sculpture that will be nine feet tall and weigh approximately 1,000 pounds. When researching for these and other historical pieces, noted Carpenter, he takes into consideration the design of the area around the sculpture, the most common perspectives from which it will be viewed and any written records of the subject’s character, personality and physicality.

For figures for whom there exist no photographs, these physical notes are particularly important.

Luckily, said Carpenter, “In Aquinas’ case, there’s quite a bit.”

Joseph Becherer, Ph.D., Lena Meijer Professor in the History of Art, worked with Carpenter on a few projects, and recommended him to the College in light of his specialization in ecclesiastical imagery.

“Jay is well respected in the field not only for the physical images he creates, but the intangible inner spirit he attempts to convey,” said Becherer. He also noted Carpenter’s devotion to accuracy. “As an art historian, I am also drawn to the great care and energy he devotes to researching his subjects. That is inherent to his success,” he said.

After completing his research, Carpenter’s first step was to create a 31inch model that he presented to College officials last fall. After the model was approved, he began creating the nine-foot clay version. When this clay model is complete, he will adhere a rubber mold to the clay and send the mold to a foundry in Loveland, Colorado, where it will be crafted into bronze over the span of five months. Currently, the goal is to present the sculpture at Commencement 2016, which Carpenter will make the journey to attend.

With almost three decades of experience, Carpenter will soon complete a figure of vital importance to both the College and the world. Combining his skill, research and creativity, he desires to create a unique work that accurately represents the saint’s physique, intellect and personality.

“My hope is that the work will have a voice and speak for himself,” said Carpenter. Most of all, “I want to show him as a man of integrity.”

SUMMER 2015::11

COLLEGE FOUNDERS & STUDENTS L I V E O U T C AT H O L I C S O C I A L T E A C H I N G Sister Maureen Geary, Prioress

Catholic Social Teaching is described by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops as “a rich treasure of wisdom about building a just society and living lives of holiness amidst the challenges of modern society.” The Church’s emphasis on the life and dignity of the human person; the call to family, community and participation; the call to care for people who are poor or vulnerable and to care for God’s creation; and the call to solidarity undergird the realization that we are one human family and that love of neighbor has global dimensions. For the Dominican Sisters, Catholic Social Teaching, rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, is the basis for our engagement in ministry.

Our congregation rejoices in the living legacy of Aquinas College that teaches and calls upon generation after generation to affirm the principles of Catholic Social Teaching. Examples of the College’s emphasis on social outreach abound from its earliest days: Monsignor Bukowski’s leadership in outreach to Appalachia, professors Lewis Clingman and Ken Marin's work with Bishop Haas to raise awareness and address social needs and issues and Dr. Norbert Hruby and Sister Mary Aquinas Weber's involvement in the Eastown neighborhood revitalization project in the 1970s, to name just a few.

In recent decades, the College’s outreach has extended globally through study abroad and international service-learning opportunities led by faculty and staff.

Our longest sustained global mission is a 50-year ministry in Chimbote, Peru. There, AQ student participants have worked with Sisters Lillian Bockheim and Margaret Mary Birchmeier as they provide health care for expectant mothers, newborn babies and others in need. Known as

In the last 50 years, our congregational ministry has also taken us to Japan, Papua New Guinea, Guatemala, Honduras, France, Siberia, Canada and Hungary.

Maternidad de Maria and Centro de Obras Sociales, these ministries situated in the midst of extreme poverty affirm the life and dignity of the human person.

In the last 50 years, our congregational ministry has also taken us to Japan, Papua New Guinea, Guatemala, Honduras, France, Siberia, Canada and Hungary.

We have also participated in immersion experiences in places such as Haiti, Iraq and Eastern Europe, among others.

Here at Marywood, immigrants from around the globe take English and citizenship classes, working with our Sisters and volunteers, many of whom are AQ students. Other Sisters and volunteers offer similar ministries to immigrants at San Juan Diego Academy in Grand Rapids, Cristo Rey/Holy Redeemer in Detroit and in a variety of pastoral settings in Michigan and New Mexico.

With education at the forefront of our mission, we are also part of the Dominican Alliance Education Project, which partners with Dominican colleges to provide tuition support for Dominican Sisters from Africa.

Through mutual and reverse mission, our sense of neighbor grows and enriches lives.

As we incorporate Catholic Social Teaching in all that we do at home and abroad, we live more fully into our own direction statement: We commit ourselves to be open to encountering the Holy in ourselves, in each other and in peoples of all cultures and lifestyles.

E

EXPANDING AQ’S BORDERS “It is important to recognize that amazing things can happen the more students are given the opportunity to branch out from the culture in which they were raised.”

- Claudia Vargas-Meza

International Recruiter has Big Plans for Program Mary Webster ’17

Claudia Vargas-Meza joined the Aquinas admissions team in the fall of 2014. She stepped into the role of international student recruiter with big plans for Aquinas. In her position, she looks forward to assisting with the challenging and rewarding journeys of international students.

Vargas-Meza grew up in Nicaragua, where she studied international trade and business. Upon her arrival in the United States at age 25, she pursued a master’s degree in public administration at Grand Valley State University. VargasMeza knew that when graduation rolled around, she wanted to work in a college setting of some kind.

She saw the Aquinas job listing for coordinator of international relations and applied immediately.

“I was so thankful I was hired!” said Vargas-Meza. “I really wanted this job and it was actually the only one I applied for.”

Having experienced her own hurdles as an international student, Vargas-Meza’s heart for her students is evident. “There are so many hurdles to overcome: obtaining a visa, finding financial support to travel to the U.S., overwhelming culture shock, all for the sake of furthering your education. It was a lot for me at 25, let alone [for] 18 year-olds,” said Vargas-Meza. “The difficulty, however, is not typically in understanding Western culture, given America’s global presence due to pop culture and their economic influence around the world,” she continued. “The real

struggle as an international student is in integrating yourself into a culture that may be vastly different from your own.”

Though the AQ campus is VargasMeza’s home base, she travels and networks frequently. “As an international admissions counselor, I spend about four weeks out of the year talking to students in Central and South America as well as Puerto Rico,” she said. “For the most part, my work involves going into international schools and educating them about Aquinas College. I prompt students to apply, and when their documents are accepted by the school, I begin processing their application and preparing for their arrival,” she continued.

Though Vargas-Meza has only been in her role a short time, she looks forward to expanding international student recruitment.

“Currently, Aquinas has about 18 international students, but I hope with our continuing efforts, we will eventually be home to at least 5060 international students,” she said.

Vargas-Meza noted that Aquinas is a global perspective school, committed to inclusion and growing diversity. “It is important to recognize that amazing things can happen the more students are given the opportunity to branch out from the culture in which they were raised. When connections with international students are formed on personal levels, the effort to understand the culture their friend is from is far more natural and appreciated,” said Vargas-Meza. “And that is the real AQ difference!”

NEW STUDY ABROAD FELLOWSHIP FUNDS GLOBAL LEARNING Patricia Schlutt ‘16

Diane Wendover-Vallilee created an endowed fellowship this past year for two reasons: it provides support and structure for a student to engage in an active learning experience and is “a way to pay it forward.”

The Wendover Fellowship is a newly endowed $2,000 fellowship that offers financial aid for study abroad trips and experiential learning, distinguishing itself from scholarships by offering student-tailored funding for career building, personal growth, research or travel.

“More than 60 years ago, a retired couple my dad worked for sent him to engineering school when his own parents couldn’t afford to send him,” said Wendover-Vallilee. This gift had a profound impact on Wendover-Vallilee’s family and, by extension, will now benefit the students who receive the Wendover Fellowship.

The education this fellowship affords goes beyond standard classroom learning, encouraging students to build relationships with faculty mentors, travel and work toward their passions through additional experiential learning opportunities such as unpaid internships.

Lauren Andrini ‘16 was the first student to receive the Wendover Fellowship. As part of her application, Andrini documented the items she wanted to accomplish during a studyabroad experience in Spain, including the study of Spanish law and immigration because Andrini hopes to become an immigration attorney.

In her proposal, Andrini also planned to work with Chair and Professor of Political Science Roger Durham, Ph.D. She noted that when the application asked for students to partner with a mentor, he was “a clear choice.” The partnership involved Andrini discussing immigration issues with Durham. “He always pushes me to learn more and challenge myself,” she said.

“I chose Dr. Durham because he is my advisor and largely the reason I have chosen my career path.”

The Wendover Fellowship helped to fund her study abroad program and

14::AQUINAS

provided a structure to focus and intensify Andrini‘s learning experience during her semester abroad.

“Experiencing a different culture and creating relationships with people from opposite sides of the planet changes who you are,” said Andrini.

When her semester was over, the extra work Andrini had done in Spain was instrumental in her earning a legal assistant position at Im Law, an immigration law firm in Grand Rapids, where she began work in January.

Initially, Andrini did not feel qualified, but soon found her passion and experience with the fellowship made her an ideal candidate for the job.

“It’s incredible to work with people I really admire and respect every day who are making differences in people’s lives and teaching me in the exact field I hope to work in someday,” she said.

The Wendover Fellowship and others like this can help make experiential learning experiences a life-changing reality for Aquinas students.

Experiences like Andrini’s are proof that the connections that students make across the globe allow them to make a difference in their local communities and encourage students to keep paying it forward.

FACULTY-LED INTERNATIONAL TRIPS ENHANCE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Abigale Racine ‘16 Those interested in travel and international career experience should consider an AQ faculty-led experiential learning trip. The world becomes a canvas in Paris, the business world comes to life in Munich and dreams of sustainable business flourish in Costa Rica.

Among Monet’s water lilies and Paris’ characteristic cobblestone streets, students learn and experience art history firsthand with Assistant Professor of Art and 2010 ArtPrize winner Chris LaPorte ‘96. “In terms of impact and following our curriculum, Paris packs the biggest punch,” said Laporte. “The transition from traditional to modern art all happened in Paris.” Twelve undergraduate students venture to Paris for 17 days to expand themselves creatively in the studio and explore the city’s bustling culture.

“Studying in Paris expanded my worldview,” said program alumna Callie Cherry ‘15. “As far as artistic experience, it was much different to sit on the Seine and sketch than in a studio classroom. The world becomes your studio.”

Graduate business students interested in globalization and expanding their international business sense should consider the Munich program, which occurs every other year. Partaking in Strategic Management and PolicyMaking, the program’s eight-week capstone class, gears up students for 10 days in Germany. Led by Director of Graduate Management Programs Brian DiVita ’91, M.M. ’94, the group of graduate-level students travels overseas and engages with international companies, including BMW, Red Bull and EHC München, a professional ice hockey team.

“We have one part that focuses on the cultural element, what it is like traveling and getting around another country,” said DiVita. “We also bring a second element, which is business. So, we do site visitations with the business companies that are there and see what they are doing, what their strategy is. We have that cultural dynamic with the real-life business.”

In Costa Rica, those who are passionate about conservation can witness business in a unique way. Led by Professor of Sustainable Business Deborah Steketee, Ph.D., the group travels to Santa Ana for 10 days after completing the eight-week intensive course International Perspectives in Sustainable Business.

“Costa Rica is significant for many reasons,” said Steketee, who crafted her master thesis there. “The country is very rich in terms of its biodiversity, with the opportunity to visit many different ecosystems, along with a variety of large and small businesses operating in the context of sustainable business,” she explained. Steketee also noted the group’s involvement with EARTH University, a nonprofit school for agricultural sciences.

While in Costa Rica, students also observe and serve alongside alumni at farms and other projects. “Studying abroad changed who I am,” said program alumna Madeline Burns ‘15.

AQ students can find a unique and career-enhancing opportunity through any one of these academic and experiential learning trips. With each trip’s streamlined focus, students are able to immerse themselves in another culture and better prepare for post-college careers in art, business or sustainable business.

2015-16 AQUINAS INTERNATIONAL INTERNATIONAL FACULTY & STAFF

WORLD LANGUAGES

1. VICTOR KARANDASHEV - FACULTY, PSYCHOLOGY VOLOGDA, RUSSIA

SPANISH FRENCH

2. NKECHY EZEH - FACULTY, SCHOOL OF EDUCATION OGRUTE, ENUGU EZIKE, ENUGU STATE, NIGERIA

GERMAN

3. YASHOWANTO GHOSH - FACULTY, MATHEMATICS CALCUTTA, INDIA

JAPANESE LATIN

6

5

7 3

4

1

2

2 6 7 3

8

3 92

10

7

11 9 8

SERVICE-LEARNING TRIPS

10 51

2

12

1. LAKE COUNTY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY BALDWIN, MI 2. NAZARETH FARMS SALEM, WEST VIRGINIA 3. BETHLEHEM FARM, WEST VIRGINIA ALDERSON, WEST VIRGINIA 4. ACADIA NATIONAL PARK, MAINE 5. PINE RIDGE RESERVATION, SD 6. PHILADELPHIA, PA 7. CHRISTIAN APPALACHIAN PROJECT IN EASTERN KENTUCKY HAGERHILL, KENTUCKY 8. JERUSALEM FARM KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI

GLOBAL EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING PROGRAMS 1. SANTA ANA, COSTA RICA (SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS)

9. EL LLANO, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

2. MUNICH, GERMANY (MASTER OF MANAGEMENT)

10. GRANADA, NICARAGUA

3. PARIS, FRANCE (ART)

11. ST. PETER CLAVER NEW ORLEANS, LA 12. CASA HOGAR, PERU

PROGRAMS, PEOPLE & LANGUAGES 4. SWITHINA MBOKO - FACULTY, BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, UNDERGRADUATE BUSINESS PROGRAMS HARARE, ZIMBABWE 5. KATHARINA HÄUSLER-GROSS - FACULTY, WORLD LANGUAGES ANKLAM, GERMANY 6. RUI NIU-COOPER - FACULTY, SCHOOL OF EDUCATION TONG CHUAN, SHAANXI PROVINCE, CHINA

4

7. CARMEN RUIZ-SANCHEZ - FACULTY, WORLD LANGUAGES SEVILLA, SPAIN 8. CLAUDIA VARGAS MEZA - STAFF, ADMISSIONS MANAGUA, NICARAGUA 9. VALENE BIA - STAFF, SCHOOL OF EDUCATION DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO, KINSHASA 10. STÉPHANE BÉDÈRE - FACULTY, WORLD LANGUAGES MAULÉON, PYRÉNÉES ATLANTIQUES, FRANCE

1

5

1 6

3

9

4

INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS 1. THOMAS MORE COLLEGE; ROME, ITALY 2. UNIVERSITY OF SALAMANCA; SALAMANCA, SPAIN 3. UNIVERSITY OF TÜBINGEN; TÜBINGEN, GERMANY 4. UNIVERSITY OF LÜNEBURG; LÜNEBURG, GERMANY 5. EARTH UNIVERSITY; SANTA ANA, COSTA RICA 6. AQUINAS COLLEGE; TULLY CROSS, IRELAND 7. UNIVERSITÉ CATHOLIQUE DE L'OUEST; ANGERS, FRANCE 8. JAPAN CENTER FOR MICHIGAN UNIVERSITIES, HIKONE, SHIGA PREFECTURE, JAPAN 9. ALBERT-LUDWIGS-UNIVERSITÄT; FREIBURG, GERMANY

8

CULTURE CAREER and SELF

Abigale Racine ‘16

Saint Augustine once said, “The world is a book and those who don’t travel only read a page.” Aquinas College study abroad programs offer the opportunity to expand the learning experience outside the classroom for both undergraduate and graduate students. Pupils are completely immersed in new cultures while expanding their mindset and earning valuable career experience. The Rome, Italy and Lüneburg, Germany programs offer all of this, and much more.

“Germany has bustling cities alongside small towns and because of their long history, can cater to almost everyone.”

- Becca Mantei

18::AQUINAS

“Rome is one of the most ideal cities to focus on the humanities,” said Director of International Programs Joelle Baldwin.

The most recently added program that takes place during the fall semester, Rome is designed for expansion of knowledge of history, architecture, philosophy, literature and theology.

Established in 2010, students have experienced all that the Eternal City has to offer from their home base of the Villa Serenella, a campus located on the grounds of the Monastery of Saint Isaia.

“Rome and the Vatican City comprise a legendary epicenter of historical, cultural and theological influence.

Rome itself truly becomes the students’ classroom for the semester,” said Baldwin.

“For example, the Art and Architecture of Rome course meets twice a week—rarely, if ever, in a classroom. Rather, the course is comprised of three-hour walks through basilicas, piazzas, cathedrals, museums, etc., so students can experience masterpieces right in front of them.” With their housing located just five miles from the Vatican, students are offered a global destination at their fingertips.

“The Italy program has strong connections to the Vatican via speakers and events as well as through a variety of internships connecting students to Vatican media centers,” added Baldwin. Students are afforded a variety of these internship possibilities through the coordination of Tony Assaf, the Rome program director for Thomas More College of Liberal Arts, AQ’s partner school for the program. Past internship placements have included the Institute for Human Dignity; Aleteia, a Catholic media agency; and the Eternal World Television Network.

In addition to the cultural and career benefits of the four-month experience, the Rome program also offers a rigorous academic agenda. Students can complete 13 credit hours for general education classes, as well as the potential credits earned through internships.

For students pursuing a German major or minor, the study abroad program located in Lüneburg, Germany at Leuphana University is an opportunity to excel, as well as experience the international business scene. “While open and beneficial for any student beyond GN301 (Advanced Composition and Grammar Review), this program can be a particularly great fit for students pairing their German degree with an international business major, as the program offers a wide variety of internship opportunities with German companies,” said Baldwin.

Students work with University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) to obtain internship placements, and may complete their work either during their semester studies, or stay on for a summer placement after completing their academic work.

Participants in this program earn up to 18 credit hours for their German major or minor. With this, most students either complete their German requirements or come close to doing so upon return from Lüneburg. Students also return with a passion for Lüneburg.

“I think anyone can feel at home there,” said program alumna Becca Mantei ‘16.

“Germany has bustling cities alongside small towns and because of its long history, can cater to almost everyone.

Germany is also unique because of its geographical location. It shares a border with eight different countries. I was able to travel so much, even just little day trips, due to Germany’s position and efficient train and transportation system,” she continued.

Those who have participated in a study abroad program and are enthusiastic about the benefits of an international educational experience have the opportunity to become an AQ Global Ambassador. Launched in the fall of 2014, this program prepares a network of students to serve as resources for prospective trip attendees by sharing their personal testimonies. Generally, these global ambassadors are juniors and seniors who have recently completed their study abroad program and are excited to assist others in their journey.

“As representatives of international programs, Global Ambassadors serve as leaders on campus and empower students to embrace opportunities Aquinas College offers to embrace other cultures, diversity and the world,” said International Programs Assistant, former lead Ambassador and Rome alumna Emily Hazelbach ‘15. In addition to serving as resources for prospective program participants, ambassadors also frequently lead classroom presentations and assist in the program’s social media efforts.

Each year, about 12 percent of AQ graduates have participated in a study abroad program during their undergraduate studies, compared to a 10 percent average of graduates nationwide.

As Baldwin and company continue to expand the breadth and number of study abroad programs at AQ, as well as the wide variety of scholarships earmarked for study abroad opportunities, more students have the opportunity for a rich, culturally diverse experience. Additionally, internship opportunities such as those in Rome and Lüneburg attract those seeking diverse career knowledge. No longer will students simply travel to learn a different language; at AQ, study abroad combines culture, career and self, providing international exposure and forging limitless, global paths.

SUMMER 2015::19

STUDENT ATHLETE OVERCOMES OBSTACLES When reflecting on her time at Aquinas College, Allison Heberlein ‘15 summed up the meaning of being a “true Saint.” “I’m a team player, a tireless worker and I truly and instinctively care about others.” Heberlein added, “Everyone at Aquinas College has such a good heart and looks out for one another. It has a great sense of community, and I feel like I am wanted and I belong.”

From her first visit to campus, Heberlein knew she wanted to be a Saint. A four-year varsity women’s basketball player, she finished her career with the fifth highest point total in Aquinas history (1,513 points). “Al,” as AQ Head Basketball Coach Linda Nash referred to her, was also a three-time All-WHAC performer, a two-time NAIA Scholar Athlete and was

“I have epilepsy.

Epilepsy does not have me.”

-Allison Heberlein

recently awarded the Sr. Louise Brogger Award by the AQ Athletic Department. Heberlein looks back fondly on the times she and her teammates combined forces to spring upsets over the likes of Siena Heights and Northwestern Ohio.

A mathematics and elementary education major, Heberlein achieved academic and athletic success while battling epilepsy. Despite this medical hurdle, Allison’s love for her team and school allowed her to persevere. Attention to her medications, sleep habits, stress levels and proper hydration kept Heberlein in the game. “I have epilepsy. Epilepsy does not have me,” she said.

The second of five daughters born to Mary Lou and Paul Heberlein, she credits her family for teaching her to overcome adversity and to support each other. The family values instilled in Heberlein at an early age shine through in her personality, her devotion and her willingness to see the greater good in all.

As Heberlein, who graduated from Lansing Catholic Central High School, looks forward to the future, she is focusing her attention on becoming an upper elementary or middle school teacher. She is also interested in pursuing a path in coaching, particularly at the varsity high school level. Heberlein is excited to give back the knowledge and teachings that her coaches provided to her over the years.

She advises future Saints, “Do not let your college days slip by you or wish them away. College is such a great experience and is full of opportunities to grow and become who you want to be.”

FROM PERU TO AQ: A SUCCESS STORY

Mike Wojciakowski ‘97

Alvaro “Al” Romero’s ‘14 arrival on campus three years ago proved to be a win-win situation for both Romero and the Aquinas College community.

trump all stereotypes and misconceptions. A fierce competitor, Romero’s strong desire to be successful has kept him in the forefront of both past and current track and field squads.

Romero, an international student from Lima, Peru, came to Aquinas in the fall of 2012 to further his education and to compete for the Aquinas track and field team. While at AQ, Romero has been a student, an athlete, a national champion, a coach and a friend and has had many successes in a short period of time. A six-time NAIA All-American, Romero won the Indoor NAIA National Championship in long jump in 2013. He also holds the indoor and outdoor school records in the triple jump. Now a graduate student at Aquinas, “Coach Al” currently serves as a graduate assistant on the Saints’ coaching staff.

Romero, an environmental science major, is pursuing his master’s degree in sustainable business at AQ. Romero credits his parents, Carmen and David, and his sister, Lucia, for much of his success. Although they are separated by many miles, they are connected by love, respect and modern technology.

Romero’s outward appearance has sometimes has been a hurdle for him; his small stature has caused individuals to question his ability or underestimate his value. Despite this challenge, Romero has proved that size does not matter, as his huge heart and passion for the sport he loves continues to

Romero loves being a Saint. “Being a student athlete at Aquinas means that you have been educated to become an all-around individual. You learn to be persistent yet patient, effective yet efficient, and consistent yet conscious,” he said.

Romero’s smile and cheerful disposition are on full display daily in the Alksnis Athletic & Recreation Building as he urges current Saints to be engaged. “Live your college years to the fullest. Experience all the colors and flavors it has to offer.

Remember [that] college is the fuel for life,” he said.

“College is the fuel for life.”

- Alvaro Romero

2015 Athletics Honors 2015 BAKER/BROGGER AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED The Joseph Baker and Sr. Helen Louise Brogger Awards are given annually to a senior student athlete who meets the three requirements established by the alumni board. These requirements are academic strength, service to others and athletic involvement and success. This year’s five recipients are exemplary in meeting these requirements.

JOSEPH BAKER AWARD TIM HANSEN ‘15 - Hansen is a graduate of Lansing Catholic Central High School and was a four-year letter winner

for the Saints’ lacrosse team. Hansen earned a 3.8 GPA, while majoring in psychology. Hansen, a three-time All-CCLA and three-time All-WHAC performer, was active in various residence hall programs and intramural sports. Hansen also is a two-time All-WHAC Academic honoree and has the school record for ground balls and face-off wins. He held jobs as a resident assistant and was a member of the AQ grounds crew. Hansen also completed an internship as a psychometrist at the Pine Rest Psychological Consultation Center. He is the son of Ken Morrison and Karen Bailey.

BRAD SLIS ‘15 - Slis is a graduate of Marysville High School and was a four-year letter winner for the Saints’ baseball team. A two-time NAIA Academic All-American, Slis earned a 3.9 GPA, while majoring in business administration and sports management. Slis, who also minored in accounting, was active in the Sports Management Club and intramural sports. He held jobs with the Athletic Department and the Marysville Recreation Department, as well as an internship with the West Michigan Whitecaps as game day accountant. He is the son of Rob and Shar Slis.

SR. HELEN LOUISE BROGGER AWARD EMILY HAZELBACH ‘15 - Hazelbach is a graduate of Caledonia High School and was a three-year member of the AQ women’s cross country and track and field teams. Hazelbach, who walked onto the cross country team her sophomore season, has had a positive influence on campus since she arrived. Hazelbach is a four-time NAIA Academic All-American and helped the Saints to a ninth place finish at the 2014 NAIA Cross Country Championships.

While at Aquinas, Hazelbach majored in business administration and communication with a concentration in human resources. She maintained a 3.75 GPA despite a heavy load of extra-curricular activities. Hazelbach served as vice president of the Aquinas College Saints for Life club, studied abroad in Rome and volunteered at Holy Family Parish.

She also acted as a mentor for Big Brothers/Big Sisters, a coach for Girls on the Run and an English tutor with Dominican Sisters WORD ESL Program. Hazelbach worked as an office assistant in the International Programs office and as a sales associate for Gordon Food Service. She also held internships with Amway Global as a project manager and was a broadcasting intern for EWTN in Rome. She is the daughter of Bill and Deb Hazelbach.

ALLISON HEBERLEIN ‘15 - Heberlein is a graduate of Lansing Catholic Central High School and was a four-year contributing member of the AQ women’s basketball team. During her time in an AQ uniform, Heberlein epitomized the definition of student athlete. Heberlein is a three-time All-WHAC performer, a two-time NAIA Academic AllAmerican, and finished her career with the fifth highest career point total (1,513) in school history. While at Aquinas, Heberlein majored in mathematics and elementary education. She maintained a 3.7 GPA and was captain of the 2014-2015 women’s basketball team. “Al” was also involved in the Student Athlete Advisory Board and volunteered at Dégagé Ministries. Heberlein also worked as a tutor in math and reading and spearheaded the March is Reading Month campaign. She is the daughter of Paul and Mary Lou Heberlein.

MAGGIE KEIFFER ‘15 - Keiffer is a graduate of Detroit Country Day High School and was a four-year member of the Saints’ women’s soccer team. During her career, Keiffer was named to the WHAC’s Honorable Mention Team three times and captained the team to an 11-2-6 record this past season. Keiffer also garnered Academic All-WHAC accolades twice and held a 3.5 GPA upon graduation. She was a dual major in biology and kinesiology with a minor in allied health. Keiffer also served as president of the Student Athlete Advisory Board and was the WHAC’s female representative on the American Red Cross Blood Drive. She worked in the Athletic Department and with Admissions as a student ambassador. Keiffer completed internships within the Athletic Department as well as the University of Michigan Medical Center. She is the daughter of Jim and Mary Jo Keiffer.

2015 NAIA ALL-AMERICANS MEN’S LACROSSE (MCLA) TIM HANSEN ‘15

WOMEN’S LACROSSE (NWLL) ALEXA BURNS ‘15 HANNAH CROSBY ‘17

MEN’S TENNIS

2015 NAIA ACADEMIC ALL-AMERICANS BASEBALL MIKE DECLARKE ‘15 TYLER GOLEMBIEWSKI ‘16 BRAD SLIS ‘15 CASEY WILA ‘16

KRISTOFF SAARI ‘16

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

WOMEN’S TENNIS

CHELSEA MATLEY ‘15

ANKITA BHATIA ‘15 LEA JANSEN ‘16

INDOOR TRACK & FIELD ADAM CICHON ’17 DISTANCE MEDLEY RELAY AND MILE TORI DESIRA ’18 60 METER HURDLES

ALLISON HEBERLEIN ‘15

MEN’S GOLF PETER BRANDENBURG ‘16

WOMEN’S GOLF ALICIA FLOOD ‘16 VALERIE MUYSKENS ‘16

LUKE HAWLEY ’16 DISTANCE MEDLEY RELAY

MEN’S LACROSSE (MCLA)

ERIKA HESTON ’15 60 METER HURDLES

MATT MULCAHY ‘17

AARON HODGES ’17 POLE VAULT ADRI SIGAFOOSE ’18 800 METERS JOE SLOMSKI ’15 DISTANCE MEDLEY RELAY CALEB TEACHOUT ’16 DISTANCE MEDLEY RELAY TOM WILLET ’16 DISTANCE MEDLEY RELAY

OUTDOOR TRACK & FIELD TORI DESIRA ’18 4X400 METER RELAY & 100 METER HURDLES KAITLYN HENNIGER ’16 4X400 METER RELAY MARISSA INGERSOLL ’16 4X100 METER RELAY AND 4X400 METER RELAY DANA KOLNITYS ’15 4X100 METER RELAY

TIM HANSEN ‘15

SOFTBALL KALA FOERSTER ‘15

MEN’S TENNIS KRISTOFF SAARI ‘16

WOMEN’S TENNIS JENELLE MILLER ‘16

MEN’S TRACK & FIELD MICHAEL SHEARON ‘15 BRAD PERSCHBACHER ‘16 CHRIS FORD ’16 GRANT COOK ‘17 NICK WHISE ‘17 CLAY WEIDENHAMER ‘16

WOMEN’S TRACK & FIELD

MICAILA RICE ’16 4X100 METER RELAY

ERIKA HESTON ‘15

ADRI SIGAFOOSE ’18 4X400 METER RELAY

DANA KOLNITYS ‘15

AYANNA STANCLE ’15 DISCUS COURTNEY TRUSS ‘18 4X100 METER RELAY

JESSICA DIPPEL ‘15 EMILY HAZELBACH ‘15 MARISSA INGERSOLL ‘16 MEGAN SKINNER ‘16 TAYLOR PRYDE ‘16 KAILEY FLINT ‘16

AQ ALUMNUS & NEW BOARD MEMBER ESTABLISHES LEGACY OF GIVING Mary Webster ’17 Each year, students, faculty and staff benefit from the contributions of generous alumni who provide hard work and scholarship funds, and frequently serve in volunteer positions.

Vinit Asar ‘89, president and CEO of Hanger Orthopedic Group, is one such notable alumni.

Seeking opportunities to give back, Asar developed a new, unrestricted family scholarship and is one of the newest appointed members of the Aquinas College Board of Trustees.

Asar was an international student from Bombay, India when he attended Aquinas College from 1986-1989, earning his bachelor of science with a major in business administration.

Afterward, Asar earned his master of business administration from Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Currently, Asar heads Hanger Orthopedic Group, a company that provides orthopedic and prosthetic patient care and products for more than 730 patient care clinics throughout the country. Hanger’s corporate headquarters are located in Austin, Texas, where Asar lives with his wife, Tracy, and their two children.

With a passion for business and a history of service at the College (he has served on the Major and Planned Gifts team for over three years), Asar’s purpose in creating an endowed family scholarship was to give back to the school in a manner that encouraged incoming students like himself in their pursuit of higher education on the Aquinas campus.

“I love Aquinas College. The people there have done a lot for me,” said Asar. “As a foreign student coming to the U.S., the Aquinas experience was nothing short of excellent, in large part because of the people that make Aquinas College what it is. I have been contributing for many years, but this scholarship will be a lasting contribution. It isn’t a lot, but I wanted to do something for the school that has given me so much,” he continued.

The large-scale, positive impact Asar has made since his graduation was recognized by the College’s recent invitation to Asar to join the Aquinas College Board of Trustees. “I was floored when I heard about the nomination,” said Asar. “I thought it was incredibly flattering of Juan Olivarez to ask if I would be interested, and I am incredibly excited to give back to the College in this capacity. This job comes with responsibilities I look forward to fulfilling!”

Asar is living out the Aquinas difference in his professional work and his commitment to the College. A natural extension of his continued engagement with his alma mater, his scholarship will help many incoming students learn what it means to be an Aquinas Saint, and to make their own unique impact. Asar hopes that his work on the board will be an incredible platform for continuing to help students and giving back to the school of which he has such fond memories.

VINIT ASAR ‘89

KIM HANRAHAN ‘85

“I wanted to do something for the school that has given me so much.”

MICHAEL PRICE ‘84

- Vinit Asar

TOM WELCH, JR.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES TRUSTEES OFFICERS DONALD BURNS ‘64, Ph.D. RICHARD DURELL DENNIS ECHELBARGER ‘64 CHAIR SR. MAUREEN GEARY, O.P. MATT WEY, M.M. ‘11 BILL MANNS VICE CHAIR JOHN NOWAK ‘63 MARCIE HILLARY ‘97 SR. MARY KAY OOSDYKE, O.P. ‘65, M.A. ‘69 SECRETARY ROBERT C. WOODHOUSE, JR. ’77, M.M. ‘92 MICHAEL LOWN ‘86 TREASURER

NEW TRUSTEES (as of July 1, 2015) VINIT ASAR ‘89, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF HANGER, INC. KIM HANRAHAN ‘85, DIRECTOR OF GLOBAL TAX (SINCE 2010) FOR STEELCASE MICHAEL PRICE ‘84, PRESIDENT (1999), CEO (2007) AND CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD (2015) OF MERCANTILE BANK TOM WELCH, JR., PRESIDENT AND CEO OF FIFTH THIRD BANK WESTERN MICHIGAN

aquinas.edu/togetherwecan

of Faith and Learning

Sustainable Future

Building a

CONTEM PORARY WRITERS SERIES Launches Its 19th Season with Acclaimed Writers Short-story writer Lisa Lenzo will visit campus on Wednesday, September 16.

Lenzo’s most recent book, “Strange Love,” was the recipient of a Michigan Notable Book Award for 2015. Her first story collection, “Within the Lighted City,” won the 1997 John Simmons Short Fiction Award and was published by the University of Iowa Press. Lenzo’s work has been honored with other important awards such as the Hemingway Days Festival Award, a PEN Syndicated Fiction Project Award and first prize in the Georgetown Review’s contest. Her work has been published in the Michigan Quarterly Review, New England Review, The Mississippi Review, and has been featured on NPR. Lenzo was born in Detroit, received her MFA at Western Michigan University and now lives near Saugatuck, Michigan.

On Tuesday, November 10, nonfiction writer and memoirist Carlos Eire will read from his books that chronicle his journey as a refugee from Fidel Castro’s Cuba to a new life in America. Co-sponsored by Aquinas’ Catholic Studies Program, this Contemporary Writers Series event will be particularly significant given the new relationship that the United States and Cuba are currently developing. Eire’s first memoir, “Waiting for Snow in Havana: Confessions of a Cuban Boy,” won the prestigious National Book Award for nonfiction in 2003. His most recent memoir, “Learning to Die in Miami,” chronicles the years he spent away from his family acclimating to a completely new country, as well as his eventual reunion with his mother (his father died in Cuba). Currently, Eire is a professor of history and religious studies at Yale.

Both events begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Wege Center Ballroom and are free and open to the public. For more information, visit aquinas.edu/cw.

SUMMER 2015::25

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS

12 BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

7 BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN

ADMINISTRATION

55 BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BUSINESS

BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS

4

GENERAL EDUCATION

17 BACHELOR OF ARTS IN

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE

105

135 BACHELOR OF ARTS

2015 Graduates

Masters Level Graduates 33

61graduates participated

at Aquinas.

in service-learning trips during their time

the world as

The class of 2015’s impact was felt all over

ServiceLearning

COMMENCEMENT 2015

Honors Graduates

abroad.

semesters studying

55 students spent

global perspective, as

education offers a

proof that an Aquinas

The class of 2015 is

Study Abroad

58

Cum Laude

40

Magna Cum Laude

13

Summa Cum Laude

for-credit, semester-long internships during their time at Aquinas.

Internships 75students took steps to prepare for their futures by completing

OFFERING

International faculty members encourage the Aquinas community to make all the difference in the world by broadening perspectives and connecting students, staff, alumni and fellow professors to a global community. Aquinas’ international faculty members include: Katharina HäuslerGross, Ph.D. (Germany), Michel Pichot, Ph.D. (France), Nkechy Ezeh, Ed.D. (Nigeria), Carmen Ruiz-Sanchez, Ph.D. (Spain), Victor Karandashev, Ph.D. (Russia), Stéphane Bédère (France), Yashowanto Ghosh, Ph.D. (India) and Swithina Mboko, Ph.D. (Zimbabwe). Their areas of expertise span a range of subjects including psychology, education, business, language and mathematics.

A FRESH Ezeh is the director of the Early Childhood Education program. She was introduced to Aquinas when asked by former faculty member Margo Clifford, Ph.D. to talk to a class about multicultural education. She recalls that the students in the class were enthusiastic about the presentation and recognized what Ezeh calls her “personal commitment to ensuring that all children should have access to a quality early childhood learning environment.” When Ezeh was later offered a job as an adjunct faculty member at Aquinas, she accepted. The next year she was hired as a full-time faculty member, and since then has contributed her leadership, passion for teaching and cultural awareness to the School of Education.

Ghosh came to America to earn his Ph.D., and upon completing his degree, began looking for jobs in the United States. After holding a variety of research positions, he began applying for tenuretrack employment. “Among the job offers I got, I liked best the one from Aquinas,” said Ghosh.

PERSPECTIVE AQUINAS’ INTERNATIONAL FACULTY Patricia Schlutt ‘16

Ghosh believes that international faculty contribute to the campus community a different mindset and awareness of the world. Ezeh agrees, noting that they bring “international perspectives to classroom discussions, expanding research connections and helping to engage students and colleagues to experience other countries and cultures.”

Aquinas’ international faculty have been recognized with a variety of awards and accolades.

Ezeh is an international scholar and received the 2012 Family Futures Service to Children Award in honor of of her work with and founding of the Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative in Grand Rapids. Karandashev has won Fulbright, Swedish Institute and Research Council of Norway fellowships. HäuslerGross is also a Fulbright scholar.

Mboko said while teaching about leadership that, when choosing the right person for a team, leaders should be “looking for a good fit but that fit is not defined by lack of diversity.”

Often, the best fit is a person who brings a new perspective to a group and allows the other members of the group to expand their concept of the earth we live on. International faculty at Aquinas expand the world in which their students can make an impact because they have already made an international impact.

28::AQUINAS

ALUMNI NEWS RACHEL BARTELS ‘13 was listed by Corp! Magazine as one of the most valuable millennials in the state of Michigan. Rachel was recognized for her work as a program manager at Hello West Michigan.

TJ BURDICK, MAT ‘14 wrote “99 Ways to Teach Like the Master,” a book about the teaching techniques of Jesus. The book was published by En Route Books and Media and released in January 2015.

KATIE CLIFFORD WRIGHT ‘96 is founder and vice president of human resources at Metis Construction Company in Kent, Ohio.

Smart Business Magazine recently awarded the 2014 Medical Mutual Pillar Award to Metis for its employees’ involvement in community service with organizations like Habitat for Humanity and the LeBron James Family Foundation.

SARA JAKUBIAK ‘02 sang the lead role of Agathe in “Der Freischutz,” a romantic opera, at The Semperoper, the opera house of the Sächsische Staatsoper in Dresden, Germany. Sara is a soprano who went on to Yale and the Cleveland Institute of Music after graduating from Aquinas.

DR. N. PATRICK HENNESSEY ’71 received special recognition

by NYU School of Medicine for his outstanding contributions and 35 years of service as a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Dermatology.

RICKIE-ANN LEGLEITNER ‘06 obtained the position of director of the writing center and instructor of English at Black Hills State University last fall. She previously earned a master of arts in English from DePaul University and a Ph.D. in English from the University of South Dakota.

PAT MCPHARLIN, M.M. ‘93 was tapped by Governor Snyder to serve as Michigan’s new director of the Department of Insurance and Financial Services.

CLARE AVERY SHUBERT ‘05 was named one of five finalists for 2015 Michigan Charter School Teacher of the Year. Clare is a first grade teacher at West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science and is the co-founder of the Roots & Wings college visit program at Aquinas, in which alumni teachers bring their kindergarten through eigth graders to campus for a field trip.

MATT ‘93 and Sue SMITH opened Pit Stop BBQ, a 1,600-foot restaurant in Cascade Township, Michigan in January 2015. They also run a successful catering company. Business has been booming and the Smiths and Pit Stop have been featured in a story on MLive.com.

KATHLEEN STRENG ‘07 received the 2015 Excellence in Service Award from Grand Haven Public Schools. Kathleen is a second grade teacher at Ferry Elementary and brought her class to campus this spring as part of the Roots & Wings program.

LANA STRENG JACOBSON ‘82 received the 2015 Spirit of Community Award through the Grand Haven Chamber of Commerce. This award acknowledges people who provide valuable service by devoting time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community, and who demonstrate leadership and initiative in the development of volunteer projects. Lana is currently serving as vice president of the Grand Haven Schools Foundation.

National Association of Professional Women inducted SHIRLEY WEIS, M.M. ‘84, president at Weis Associates, LLC, into its 2015-2016 VIP Woman of the Year Circle for her leadership in healthcare.

Congratulations to the following alumnae, whose companies were among the 2015 Top Women Owned Businesses awarded by the Grand Rapids Business Journal.

JULIE LOUGH ‘86 Micro Visions, Inc.

BEVERLY WALL ‘83 Languages International, Inc.

SANDRA FROST STEENSMA, M.M. ‘87 Kennari Consulting

MEREDITH SMEDLEY ‘97 Smedley Dental

IN MEMORIAM (January 1 - May 20, 2015) JOHN BADGEROW ‘68

DIANE DEBOER ‘88

PATRICIA (PAT) BOWLER, M.A. ‘73

ALBERT (AL) FLOGGE, TRUSTEE EMERITUS

JAMES CRIVELLO ‘62

JESSICA GREGORY ‘08

SUSAN OUWERKERK, M.A. ‘72

We want to celebrate the changes in your life and remember in prayer those who have passed. In order for the Class Notes and In Memoriam section to be as up-to-date as possible, we will be posting these on the alumni website and alerting you to new posts in our quarterly newsletter, the AQ Leaflet. To ensure you receive the Leaflet, update your email address at aquinas.edu/alumni.

Calling All Saints!

November 1, 2015

November 1 is All Saints Day and the Aquinas College Day of Giving.

This year, everyone in the College family—alumni, parents, friends, faculty, staff and students—will be challenged to make a gift to the Annual Fund on All Saints Day. Let’s come together and show the strength of our community in a powerful and meaningful way.

Nearly 90 percent of our students depend on the Annual Fund as their primary source of financial support. Please consider giving a gift to the Annual Fund this year. You will be giving the gift of opportunity.

#aqsaintsgiving

CONGRATULATIONS TO OLLI ON ITS 40TH ANNIVERSARY! Lifelong learning began at Aquinas College in 1974 because of the forward thinking of Aquinas President Norbert J. Hruby and Sister Aquinas Weber, who strongly believed that learning does not stop after college. Because of these two individuals, educational institutions across the country now stress the importance of lifelong learning in their mission statements.

The second oldest learning program in the country, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute is for students 50 and older who want to learn just for the joy of it—no tests, no papers, no grades!

aquinas.edu/olli

Aquinas is printed on 100% recycled paper using soy-based inks and wind power.

Please recycle.

THE MAGAZINE OF AQUINAS COLLEGE SUMMER 2015 VOL. 14 NO. 2 DIRECTOR MEG DERRER

MANUFACTURED WITH 100% WIND ENERGY

VICE PRESIDENT FOR MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION

MANAGING EDITOR LAUREN CARLSON ‘12 ASSOCIATE EDITOR AND PHOTOGRAPHY MANAGER KATY MCAVOY ‘01

Using 100% post-consumer paper compared to 100% virgin fiber, we are saving:

COMMUNICATION MANAGER

CREATIVE DIRECTOR PHILIP MITRI GRAPHIC DESIGNER DANIELLE KERLEY PROOFREADERS MONICA EDISON

CHIEF EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT AND SECRETARY TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

241 TREES

23,824 LBS OF WASTE

232,871 GAL. OF WATER

78,150 LBS OF CO2

SANDRA ERSKINE MITCHELL ‘91 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS BRIGID AVERY ‘01 DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT

LAUREN CARLSON ‘12 MANAGING EDITOR

SISTER MAUREEN GEARY, O.P. PRIORESS, DOMINICAN SISTERS OF GRAND RAPIDS

LINDA NEMEC FOSTER ‘72 ABIGALE RACINE ‘16 PATRICIA SCHLUTT ‘16

(Emissions of 12 cars per year)

(Equivalent to 2,519 days of water consumption)

MARY WEBSTER ‘17 MIKE WOJCIAKOWSKI ‘97 SPORTS INFORMATION DIRECTOR

PHOTOGRAPHERS JOELLE BALDWIN ‘02 DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS

RACHEL BARTELS ‘13 ADAM BIRD

201 MMBTU

(Energy consumption for two households per year.)

PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER

KENDALL CLAIR ‘15 PAUL CONNELL BRIAN DIVITA ’91, M.M. ’94 DIRECTOR OF GRADUATE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS

ALEXIS JOHNSON ‘15 BRI LUGINBILL BUD KIBBY BETTINA MULLIGAN ‘14 JOHNNY QUIRIN BRADLEY RANSOM ‘13 DEBORAH STEKETEE

Athletic contests Local tastes and Michigan brews Affinity and class reunions Homecoming Mass Golden Saints brunch

PROFESSOR OF SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS

ANDY VISOCKIS Aquinas is published twice a year by the Aquinas College Marketing and Communication Office. Copyright ©2015 by Aquinas College. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed in the magazine are those of the individual authors and subjects and do not necessarily reflect the views of Aquinas College. No portion of this magazine may be reprinted without express written consent of the executive editor.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Aquinas College Foundation, 1607 Robinson Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506

HOMECOMING 2015: SEPTEMBER 24-27 SPECIAL INVITATION Please join us for the ground blessing on the site of the future chapel.

For a full list of activities, please visit aquinas.edu/homecoming

1607 ROBINSON RD. SE GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49506 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED