Shipherd's Record Summer 2020

SHIPHERD’S WORLD Lighting up the

OC RESPONDS TO COVID-19 — PAGE 17

RECORD

T H E A LU M N I M AGAZ I N E O F O L I V E T CO LLEG E | S U M M E R 2020

IN THIS ISSUE:

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Mona Hinamanu ’17 — Owning Every Experience

Shipherd’s Record is named in memory of “Father” John J. Shipherd, who established Olivet College in 1844. The magazine is published twice annually for Olivet College alumni and friends.

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MAGAZINE STAFF Lisa Collins Graphic Designer & Brand Manager Olivet and Thailand — Connected by Heart

Taylor Gorr ’16 Media Communications Manager Michele McCauley Executive Director of Communications & Marketing Beth Romeo ’12 Senior Director of Alumni Engagement & Annual Giving Austin Schippers Digital & Social Media Coordinator

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Barron “Barry” Evans ’77 — Life is About the Choices You Make

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Danielle Chauvin ‘12 — Turning Passion into Career

EDITORIAL Jack Caporuscio ‘20 Assistant Director of Annual Giving & Stewardship Ashley Harwood ‘18 Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement Geoff Henson Sports Information Director Emily Lash Development Officer

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GUEST CONTRIBUTOR Terry Donnelly ’68 Psychology Alumni Take Their Athletic Talents to England

DEPARTMENTS

4 Comet Sports

23 Alumni News

6 Be More. Do Good.

24 Alumni Voices

20 Advancement News

28 Class Notes

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SHIPHERD’S

SEND CHANGE OF ADDRESS NOTICES TO: Office of Advancement 320 S. Main St., Olivet, MI 49076 269-749-7630

Olivet College’s mission is to provide an education that enriches lives intellectually, morally and spiritually to a diverse campus community. Having attained these qualities through their educational experiences at Olivet, our hope is that our graduates will embody the “divine art and science of doing good to others,” as stated by the College’s founding fathers in 1844.

Olivet College is committed to the principles of equal opportunity and non-discrimination. The College, in its employment, student admissions, recruitment, and personnel policies and practices, will not discriminate against any individual on the basis of age, color, sex, gender identity, disability or disability status, height, weight, marital status, national origin, political persuasion, race, religion, military or veteran status or sexual orientation.

| P R E S I DE NT ’ S U P DATE

Dear friends, The spring brought unexpected change to Olivet College in response to the coronavirus pandemic. As has been the history of the College, however, our faculty and staff remained dedicated and determined to educate and mentor our students. I am proud of how our students faced the challenge. As true Olivetians, they faced it with boldness, grit and a can-do attitude. The Olivet College community never gives up when faced with roadblocks.

We find a way — we find our way.

In this issue of Shipherd’s Record, we share with you the crucial steps the College has taken to address the COVID-19 pandemic. In May, the College announced its intention to return to campus for the fall semester. I have charged numerous working teams across the College to develop a comprehensive plan, including how to safely bring students back to campus for the residential college experience they desire and deserve.

Alumni of Olivet College have always found their way, letting their light shine. Unique journeys lived by alumni of all ages impact the world around us. From the Great Lakes to “across the pond,” Olivet College alumni make a difference. You’ll read about Ed Retherford ’69, a charter boat captain for more than 50 years, and Barron Evans ’77, who has explored the world through the lens of his liberal arts education. Danielle Chauvin ’12 is helping victims of domestic and sexual assault. Mona Hinamanu ’17 is showing what she’s made of working in global marketing at Google. And, John Hollowell ’17 and Jamaul Martin ’18 traveled to England to pursue graduate degrees and athletic opportunities.

Professors Areerat “Poy” Lertchaipitak and Eakamon “Andy” Oumtrakool come from Thailand and bring a diverse worldview to Olivet College. Their story includes the desire to experience snowy winters. Cold weather may have initially brought the couple to the College, but now it’s the Olivet family that keeps them here.

Our students and other alumni also shine in this issue.

While spring semester on-campus events and athletics were cut short, there is still much to celebrate. The College celebrated its first-ever virtual Honors Week and countless athletes were in the spotlight, breaking records and earning academic honors. Reading the many class notes makes me proud to be an Olivetian. Terry Donnelly ’68 returns with a light-hearted narrative on how life at Olivet College in the 1960s prepared him for the COVID-19 pandemic.

We also welcome Beth (Mitchell) Romeo ’12 as the senior director of alumni engagement and annual giving. Beth has a strong track record of building relationships among a wide range of people, inspiring constituents of nonprofit organizations to greater participation and philanthropy, creating and managing volunteer groups and more. In this

issue, Beth and the alumni engagement team share news about Homecoming, upcoming events and more.

At the time I write this update, it would be neglectful if I did not speak to the racial injustice that continues to plague our nation. Now more than ever, the Olivet College family must stand together, care for one another and respect one another. Vow to recommit to Individual and Social Responsibility and our core values of inclusion, mutual respect, honesty, integrity and love for one another. Together as Olivetians, let us demonstrate Olivet College’s unshakable resolve to reaffirm these values that have endured for 176 years and remain more important today than ever.

Best regards,

Steven M. Corey, Ph.D. President

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| COM E T S P O RTS

FOOTBALL

Waber

Manion

McMinn

Merriman

The football team finished the 2019 season with an 8-2 overall record and tied for second place in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) standings with a 5-2 record. Eight players landed on the All-MIAA teams. Seven of the eight — offensive lineman Jarod Bush, defensive lineman Miguel Manion, running back Noah McMinn, defensive back Anthony Merriman, defensive back Isaiah Moon, offensive lineman Daniel Waber and linebacker Kolby Williams — were All-MIAA First Team selections, and the eighth, tight end Seth Young, was an All-MIAA Second Team pick. Merriman was also selected to the D3football.com All-North Region Third Team.

WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL

WOMEN’S GOLF

Deweyert

In 2019, the women’s volleyball team held a 14-12 record. The 14 wins match the 2015 and 2018 teams for the second-most wins in a season. Morgan Champion ended her four years as Olivet’s all-time leader for kills with 985.

Women’s golfer Nicole Deweyert earned All-MIAA honors for a fourth consecutive year. She was also selected to the Women’s Golf Coaches Association All-Great Lakes Region team. Deweyert finished her Comet career as the all-time stroke average leader at 81.6 over 68 rounds. Additionally, she was named to the 2020 CoSIDA Academic All-District VI team.

SWIMMING AND DIVING

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Three school records were achieved at the 2020 MIAA Swimming and Diving Championships. Takato Timmerman broke the school record in the 100-yard breaststroke with a time of 57.12 and posted the second-fastest time in school history in the 200-yard breaststroke at 2:05.82. Eric Wood set a school record in the 200-yard freestyle at 1:42.57 and had the second-quickest time in the 500-yard freestyle at 4:40.17. Jacob Ritter broke the school record in the 200-yard individual medley at 1:56.13.

TRACK AND FIELD

SPRING SPORTS Albaugh

(L to R) Brown, Reed, Peck, McDowell

Bailey

Lillian Albaugh won the MIAA shot put title at the 2020 MIAA Indoor Track and Field Championships. In just her second year as a Comet, she is now a three-time All-MIAA selection after winning the shot put at the 2019 and 2020 MIAA Indoor Championships and the 2019 MIAA Outdoor Championships.

Noah Bailey took first-place in the triple jump at the 2020 MIAA Indoor Track and Field Championships, and he is also a three-time All-MIAA selection. He won the long jump at both the 2019 MIAA Indoor and Outdoor Championships.

The 4x400-meter relay team of Jordon Brown, William Reed, Tyler Peck and Kyle McDowell finished first at the 2020 MIAA Indoor Track and Field Championships.

Six indoor track and field school records were broken during the 2020 season.

McDowell set records in the 200-meter dash (:22.89) and 400-meter dash (:49.60).

He was joined by Bailey, Brown and Peck to achieve a school-record time of 3:18.63 in the 4x400-meter relay. Jordon Butler broke the school record in the 60-meter hurdles at 8.54 seconds. Bailey set a school record in the long jump (23’1/2”), and Denver Orlando broke the record in the pole vault (14’1/2”).

McDowell and Jacob Smith qualified for the 2020 NCAA Division III Indoor Track and Field Championships in the 400-meter dash and shot put, respectively.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the championship meet was canceled.

McDowell and Smith were named All-Americans, according to the USTFCCCA.

MEN’S VOLLEYBALL

Pringle

WRESTLING

Hersch

Brock Pringle became the first men’s volleyball player in school history to earn All-Midwest Collegiate Volleyball League honors. He ended his career as Olivet’s alltime leader in kills (622), attack attempts (1,859), service aces (48), digs (482), total blocks (140), sets played (276) and matches played (82). Aaron Giorgi finished his career as the Comets’ all-time set assists leader with 1,510.

The wrestling team captured its second straight MIAA title in 2019-20. Three wrestlers, Cole Hersch, Cameron Mahlich and Reese Wallis, earned All-MIAA honors. Hersch and Wallis are repeat honorees after also being selected to the 2019 All-MIAA team. Olivet set a program record when nine wrestlers placed in the top eight at the NCAA Central Regional. In addition, a school record of 10 wrestlers were named to the National Wrestling Coaches Association Scholar All-American Team.

Comet Baseball Team

Spring sports just started when the COVID-19 pandemic caused the cancellation of the seasons for 2020. The baseball team set a single-game school record when it recorded 13 stolen bases against Becker College of Massachusetts during its spring break trip to Florida. Baseball player Riley Bennett was selected to the 2020 CoSIDA Academic All-District VI team. Softball player Jessica Barnes tied the single-game school record with five hits against Wheaton College of Illinois in Florida. In that same game, Taylor Shellenberger matched the single-game record with five runs. The women’s tennis team held a 5-4 record before its season was suspended.

Presidents from MIAA member institutions announced in May that they intend to return sports to MIAA campuses this fall, and are committed to providing a safe and competitive experience for all MIAA student-athletes throughout the 2020-21 academic year. In making this announcement, the MIAA, with guidance from the conference commissioner and institution athletic directors, acknowledged that MIAA athletics in 2020-21 may look different than in years past and that a “new normal” will evolve as everyone continues to deal with the effects of COVID-19.

Barnes SUMMER 2020

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| BE M OR E . D O G O O D.

2020 TOP SEVEN GRADUATING SENIORS

(L to R) Jenna Braschler, Nicole Deweyert, Marah Heikkila, Ashton Osborne, Brandie Pomeroy, Bailey Saraceno and Abigale Smith.

Annually, Olivet College honors the top graduating seniors with the Donald A. Morris Academic Excellence Award. This year’s recipients included Jenna Braschler, accounting; Nicole Deweyert, exercise science; Marah Heikkila, English and cultural studies; Ashton Osborne, journalism and mass communication; Brandie Pomeroy, criminal justice with concentrations in law enforcement and corrections; Bailey Saraceno, business administration with a concentration in marketing; and Abigale Smith, business administration with a concentration in management.

The Art and Charlotte Stevens Award was established in 2019 by Jim Briney ’69 to honor excellence in teaching. Art and Charlotte contributed to the Olivet community and education in ways that positively impacted thousands of students. The inaugural honoree of the award is Laura Barlond-Maas ’88, associate professor of English.

WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE

OLIVET COLLEGE CONTINUES AS VETERANFRIENDLY SCHOOL

“Laura is a dedicated teacher and mentor who is able to bring out the best in her students, no matter who they are or where they start from,” Provost Maria Davis, Ph.D., said.

The Olivet College Women’s Leadership Institute (WLI) – OC ATHENA International Women’s Leadership Program welcomed its third cohort of participants during the 2019-20 academic year. Seventeen students completed this year’s program, 13 of which are Keyes-Barber-Benedict Scholars. Participants learned from the acclaimed ATHENA International Leadership Model and covered lessons in mental health and wellness, self-awareness and communication skills. These young women gained more self-confidence and developed networking and leadership skills.

WLI also concluded the inaugural Cultivating Women Leaders Speaker Series in March, which hosted four women leaders on campus to speak on topics surrounding the obstacles and challenges that are ever-present in today’s communities and workplace. The events drew more than 300 attendees, including visiting high school students, parents and administrators. In a post-event survey, 95% of attendees said they gained new leadership knowledge and skills from the events.

This July, WLI will also host its annual Leadership Camps for middle school and high school girls. The camps will be held virtually in order to practice social distancing and maintain healthy standards.

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Olivet College was designated as a 2019-20 Gold-Level Veteran-Friendly School by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency. The Michigan Veteran-Friendly Schools Program recognizes academic institutions committed to supporting the needs of veterans and militaryconnected students. As a Gold-Level School, Olivet College is renowned at the highest-ranking level. In addition, Olivet College was also announced as a 2020-21 Top 10 Gold-Level Military Friendly® School by Victory Media. OC ranked third in the category of private schools not offering a doctorate degree.

NEW GALLERIES AND MURALS POP UP BY ART STUDENTS

PORTER SCHOLARS

(L to R) Destiny Clark, Griffin Hammond and Taytum Myers.

The Olivet College Art Alliance, a student club that celebrates the arts, exhibited work at the Windwalker Underground Gallery in Charlotte this spring. Work by 12 students of various majors and grade ranks was displayed, providing a real-world experience to help prepare students for their future careers. A mural designed by one student, junior Abby Licht, was also selected for display in her hometown of Coldwater.

Three students received the Dr. John W. Porter Community Responsibility Scholarship Award this spring: Destiny Clark, Griffin Hammond and Taytum Myers. These students were selected for demonstrating Individual and Social Responsibility through their involvement and service to the College and their community. In 2001, Dr. Porter, a leader and trailblazer in education, was awarded the Olivet College Leadership in Individual and Social Responsibility Award for his commitment to Olivet’s educational philosophy of Individual and Social Responsibility. In gratitude for this honor, he established an endowed scholarship for current students at Olivet College who demonstrate leadership and community involvement.

OUT OF THE DARKNESS CAMPUS WALK SPREADS A MESSAGE OF HOPE The third annual Out of the Darkness Campus Walk was held virtually in March, spreading a message of hope both in the Olivet College community and beyond. Participants posted photos walking while practicing social distancing and stayed connected through the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Michigan Chapter Facebook page. The walk raised almost $10,000, which will fund mental health services on OC’s campus and AFSP research.

FENTON STUDENT STEPS UP FOR HIS COMMUNITY This spring, junior Donald Doyle III and his family led a project to 3D print personal protective equipment (PPE) for medical professionals impacted by the shortage of resources due to COVID-19. Doyle is an information technology management major with a goal to hold a career as a computer network engineer, and he began 3D printing as a hobby during his first year at OC. In total, the project supplied nearly 5,000 plastic mask filters, mask shields and mask belts to medical professionals in need.

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| BE M OR E . D O G O O D.

ARTHUR ASHE JR. SPORTS SCHOLAR HONOREES

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS TAKES FRONT ROW

(Top Row L to R) Griffin Hammond, Liam Kinjorski, Keanalanimeleo’kekai Kunz and Karina Marin. (Bottom Row L to R) Cameron Ramos, Yul Snell, Samantha Torres and Rachel Webb.

Olivet College annually participates in the national Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholar Awards program, sponsored by the publication “Diverse Issues in Higher Education.” Inspired by tennis legend Arthur Ashe Jr., these awards are given to students of color who have excelled in the classroom as well as on the athletic field. To be nominated, a student must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher, a demonstrated record of service to the campus or wider community and be an active member of an intercollegiate athletic team during the current academic year. This year’s recipients were Griffin Hammond, Liam Kinjorski, Keanalanimeleo’kekai Kunz, Karina Marin, Cameron Ramos, Yul Snell, Samantha Torres and Rachel Webb.

CELEBRATING STUDENTS

Olivet College hosted a series of events during Honors Week, May 11-15, followed by Baccalaureate on May 15 and a Graduation Celebration on May 16. Zoom sessions and pre-recorded videos were used to honor the class during Michigan’s stay-at-home order, with an in-person Commencement coming at a future date when it is determined to be safe for graduates and families to come to a campus gathering. In addition, the College proudly honored 80 students with Multicultural Awards, 345 students on the spring 2020 Dean’s List and 134 students on the spring 2020 President’s List for outstanding academic performance.

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INSURANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT PROGRAM CONTINUES AS COLLEGE STANDOUT

Olivet College was ranked second in Best’s Review survey of leading college insurance and risk management programs of 2020. More than 330 industry professionals participated in the poll. The list is comprised of 20 colleges nationwide. Olivet College is the smallest school by enrollment in the ranking, earning more votes than a number of Division I universities and programs. Sixty-five percent of the College’s votes came from in-state respondents, noting strong regional support.

FINANCIAL PLANNING STUDENTS WIN NATIONAL COMPETITION

Seniors Andrew Todd and Stewart Manges, both double majors in insurance and risk management and financial planning, became the first Olivet College team to enter the Financial Services Career Exploration Competition and win. The team’s winning presentation explored the progression of careers in financial service professions using a video game-style scoring system. In addition to a scholarship, Todd and Manges also gained invaluable career and networking experience.

RIETHMILLER AWARDS

PRESIDENT’S LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE CELEBRATED EIGHTH GRADUATING CLASS

(L to R) Dr. John Homer, Mike Oyster and Phil Reed.

The Riethmiller Awards for Excellence in Teaching, Advising and Scholarship were established by the late Dr. M. Gorton Riethmiller, president of Olivet College from 1957-1970, and the late Dr. Peggy Riethmiller Blackman. Faculty members are nominated by the senior class and recipients are selected by vote of the graduates and faculty. This year’s recipient of the Riethmiller Award for Excellence in Teaching was Dr. John Homer, professor of economics, who is known for high expectations but also his deep care for his students.

The Riethmiller Award for Excellence in Advising was given to Mike Oyster, assistant professor of business administration, to recognize his extraordinary compassion and commitment to his work with students, including his lessons using real-world examples from his time as a leader and entrepreneur in the telecommunications industry. The Riethmiller Award for Excellence in Scholarship was presented to Phil Reed, associate professor of criminal justice, for his work with students on a cold case collaboration with the Battle Creek Police Department.

MULTICULTURAL AWARDS

(Top Row L to R) Asheley Brooks, Jillian Johnson and Ashton Osborne.

(Bottom Row L to R) Nhu Nguyen, Cameron Ramos and Eliza Velasquez.

The Multicultural Academic Achievement Award is presented annually to the top five multicultural students with the highest academic GPA. Jillian Johnson, Ashton Osborne, Nhu Nguyen, Cameron Ramos and Eliza Velasquez earned this year’s Multicultural Academic Achievement Awards.

In addition, the Multicultural Leadership Award is presented to a student who has shown a tireless commitment to the projects of the Office of Multicultural Education and Initiatives and students-of-color organizations. The year’s award was given to Asheley Brooks.

The eighth graduating class of the President’s Leadership Institute (PLI) was comprised of 20 students, including Jack Caporuscio, English; Destiny Clark, music; Karah Evans, biology with a premedical concentration; Bridget Garter, insurance and risk management; Griffin Hammond, business administration with a management concentration; Marah Heikkila, English and cultural studies; Victoria Herson, music; Dean Failer, insurance and risk management; Payton Leonard, biology; Karina Marin, exercise science; Elayna Masters, biology and environmental science; Brittany Matsumoto, sociology; Leah Miller, writing and history; Taytum Myers, exercise science; Delaney Peters, actuarial science; Francesco Ruffini, exercise science; James Thurman, actuarial science; Andrew Todd, insurance and risk management and financial planning; Samantha Torres, criminal justice; and Rachel Webb, accounting.

Launched in 2013, PLI was established to develop top leadership skills in Olivet’s students as well as enable them to become the principle professional and community leaders of the future. The College collaborated with experienced professionals that specialize in business coaching and professional development to design a program catered specifically to Comets. Students with exemplary leadership potential are nominated for the program by the campus community.

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Mona Hinamanu ’17 —

OWNING EVERY

EXPERIENCE When Mona Hinamanu ’17 stepped into an interview for her dream job at Google last year, her nerves were undoubtedly high, but something just felt right. After an extensive interview process leading to a job offer, Hinamanu knew her gut feeling was correct — she had found where she was meant to be.

“One of the most amazing things I learned while starting my position at Google was how everything in my life had built to this moment,” Hinamanu said. “For the first time in my life, I owned every experience that I had and spoke to it all in the interview process. I utilized the fact that I had switched majors in college; I spoke to my college leadership training and work history. I could look at every aspect of my life to pull it together to say, ‘This is Mona.’”

Hinamanu serves as an account strategist at Google’s Ann Arbor branch. She focuses on marketing strategies utilizing Google ad accounts for small and medium-sized businesses in Canada.

And while Hinamanu might be working with small businesses, she knows her impact is not small.

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“Working at Google is such an honor and a privilege,” Hinamanu said. “I get to influence marketing decisions for small businesses and shape their ideas of online marketing. I can come up with ideas and put them into place. It’s so rewarding when a client tells me they were able to hire based on their Google revenue.”

In addition to her specific role, Hinamanu is part of the much larger Google culture.

“The entire Google culture is so vibrant,” Hinamanu said. “No idea is a crazy idea, and I’ve been able to really embrace that because of my background at Olivet. On campus, students are encouraged to be whoever they want to be and to go after big opportunities. Now, I work at a Fortune 50 tech company where I am also encouraged to dabble in many different areas. That idea was really transferable.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, I felt even more proud of the work Google does. It is an entire organization of forwardthinking individuals who want to make the world a better place, and everyone shares that ideal. It has been amazing to experience the impact an organization can have when everyone bands together.”

Through the path that brought Hinamanu to Google, one thing stands out the most: the people that she’s learned from along the way.

“Small liberal arts colleges like Olivet don’t get a lot of shine,” Hinamanu said. “There’s a misconception that you have to go to an Ivy League school to make it into a Fortune 50 company, but I’m changing that stereotype. I am so thankful for the relationships that I’ve built and all of the people that influenced me to this point — and the close-knit environment at Olivet is what helped me meet many of my most important mentors.

“I’m still connected with Traci Corey, Women’s Leadership Institute director and presidential spouse, who offers me sound personal and professional advice, especially in terms of leadership. When I look back, I often think of a history class that I took with Nikki Magie, Ph.D., assistant professor of social science and OC archivist, that totally changed my mind on how the world works. And, I still volunteer with All Hands and Hearts, an organization that Mike Fales ’75, assistant professor of interdisciplinary studies and director of service learning and campus ministries, introduced me to through college-led service trips. A huge aspect I took away from Olivet was to give back wherever you are, whether that be in mentoring others, serving your community or something else. I wouldn’t be where I am at today without those opportunities and relationships.”

As Hinamanu reflects on her strong background and the experiences that shaped her, she is also looking ahead. Her mission is simple — to keep learning, growing, giving back and helping others rise with her.

“I know one of my next big goals is to get a master’s degree in public administration or policy,” Hinamanu said. “My passion lies in nonprofit work and community outreach, and I hope to find a role that allows me to help my community long-term. The great thing about working at large companies is that many have nonprofit affiliations and are dedicated to creating positive social change in the communities they are located in.”

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OLIVET AND THAILAND —

CONNECTED BY HEART Eakamon “Andy” Oumtrakool, Ph.D., assistant professor of business administration, and Areerat “Poy” Lertchaipitak, Ph.D., assistant professor of business administration, are experts in their field and dedicated advisers, but those aren’t the only ways they enrich the Olivet College community. Oumtrakool and Lertchaipitak are originally from Thailand, and the couple proudly shares their culture and instills global diversity lessons in their teaching.

“Eakamon and I have pretty similar backgrounds,” Lertchaipitak said. “We both come from Thailand — he is from Bangkok and I am from Chiang Rai in the north. I went to college in Bangkok, and we actually ended up attending the same university, Kasetsart University, but on different campuses. We didn’t know each other at the time, but we both came to America to pursue master’s degrees, and that’s when we ended up in the same class.”

Both Oumtrakool and Lertchaipitak attended West Texas A&M University and Texas Tech University, sharing a passion for financial planning and ultimately completing two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. each. Ten years after their first meeting in class, the couple was married, and they welcomed their daughter, Aurora “Rori,” in 2016. While Oumtrakool and Lertchaipitak’s experiences as students helped them connect, it was also during this time that they developed an interest in teaching.

“As a graduate student, you typically have the option of serving as a teaching assistant or research assistant,” Oumtrakool said.

“I always chose to be a research assistant, but I wanted to try something different — a new challenge — and I decided to try teaching.”

“I always found myself connected with people,” Lertchaipitak said. “When working as a commercial business loan officer in Thailand after earning my bachelor’s degree, I always enjoyed meeting with clients and helping them. When I had the chance to serve as a part-time graduate student instructor, I loved it. I had students thank me for helping them understand retirement plans, investment options and consumer loans. It was rewarding to help people better understand their finances and make informed decisions.”

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The couple’s path to Olivet may be the most remarkable leg of their journey, which Lertchaipitak describes as God’s plan. Since she was seven-years-old, Lertchaipitak had a growing fascination with the snow, and she was determined to live in a cool climate. Her adviser at Texas Tech University knew this and helped her connect with Tom Humphreys, assistant professor and director of insurance and risk management at Olivet College. From there, both Oumtrakool and Lertchaipitak immersed themselves in the Olivet College family and haven’t looked back.

“At the time of my interview at Olivet, I was pregnant in the last trimester with my daughter,” Lertchaipitak said. “Dr. Maria Davis, provost of the College, embraced us and was very family-oriented.

There was a delay until we could visit Olivet’s campus, but everyone was so welcoming when we did. Laura Barlond-Maas, associate professor of English, even stepped in to help care for Rori while I was giving a teaching demonstration.

“From that day, we really connected with the College’s culture and family-oriented focus. The people we met were amazing, and I loved the Square and thought it was so beautiful. And, I knew it would be cold for several months of the year!”

“We liked the small college feeling after coming from a big research program,” Oumtrakool said. “We wanted to work for a place where we can have close relationships with our students. It makes me feel like our students are family, and we really enjoy the community here at Olivet.”

Now in their fourth year as members of the OC faculty, Oumtrakool and Lertchaipitak are proud Comets. They especially enjoy college events, like the spring and fall forums and Opening Convocation, and they’ve even hosted an annual Financial Education Day. During this academic year, the couple served as advisers to seniors Andrew Todd and Stewart Manges who became the first Olivet College team to both enter the Financial Services Career Exploration Competition and win. In addition, they led a global learning trip to Thailand in December 2019.

“Leading a student trip to Thailand was a full-circle experience for us,” Lertchaipitak said. “Everything in Thailand is so different — food, culture, climate — but these students were never afraid to try new things. I didn’t expect them to embrace it at that level, but I was so pleased that they did. We really respected them for having an open mind and being so willing to learn, especially since we understand the challenges and opportunities of experiencing a new country.”

“We wanted to work for a place where we can have close relationships with our students. It makes me feel like our students are family, and we really enjoy the community here at Olivet.”

— Eakamon “Andy” Oumtrakool, Ph.D.

To Oumtrakool and Lertchaipitak, these experiences are the bonds that create family.

“Olivet is more than a college; it is more like a family, both in terms of culture and relationships with students,” Lertchaipitak said. “For example, during the recent pandemic, students have checked in with me to see how I am doing just as much as I have checked in with them. They ask me if my family members are ok and if I feel any loneliness. They have made me feel very special.”

“I have the same feeling,” Oumtrakool said. “Olivet is unique because professors care about students and we offer a relationshipbased education, and those close relationships go both ways.”

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Barron “Barry” Evans ’77 —

LIFE IS ABOUT THE CHOICES YOU MAKE As Barron “Barry” Evans ’77 reflects on his personal and professional life, he is thankful for one thing above all else — the freedom he had to explore life’s possibilities matched with confident decision-making skills. When faced with opportunities over the years — both personal and professional — Evans often reflected on his Olivet College background and his dedication to Individual and Social Responsibility.

During his time on campus, Evans majored in English and political science, but he greatly enjoyed exploring the liberal arts. His avocational activities were varied, including being part of the first Alpha Lambda Epsilon pledge class that included men – ultimately, becoming its first male president. After graduating from Olivet, Evans earned a master’s degree in public administration and organizational development before launching a diverse career. He served in multiple capacities across telecommunications, a start-up consultancy, global advertising, retail marketing and the pharmaceutical industry. He worked for companies like AT&T, Change Management Systems, three Omnicom Group agencies, Hallmark, Merck and Eli Lilly. Not only was his career robust in variety, but it also took Evans around the world.

“My time at Olivet was a combination of good fortune, good timing and good opportunities. One of the most memorable experiences led me outside of Michigan for a summer internship at Population Action International in Washington, D.C.,” Evans said. “My career journey continued along the same mobile theme. I enjoyed residences from Philadelphia and D.C. on the East Coast to San Francisco on the West Coast, to Dallas in the south, the mountains in Boulder and several stops in the Midwest along the way.”

In addition to his time in the United States, Evans also had professional engagements in countries around the world and spent time working and living in Finland and Belgium. His time in Europe afforded him visits to all of the countries in the European Union, as well as to North Africa, Scandinavia and Russia.

Regardless of where Evans landed physically for his profession, he has spent 35 years serving various nonprofit organizations. Among those closest to his heart are the Ronald McDonald House (across five

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states), ACP Adviser Veteran Career Coaching (in three states), a human relations board for a California county, multiple arts organizations, Oxfam in Belgium and, after returning closer to home, the Olivet College Alumni Association Board.

“To me, Individual and Social Responsibility is about both feeling and focus,” Evans said. “By ‘feeling,’ I mean that innate sense, unique to you, when something inspires meaningful affiliation, sustainable purpose and joyful pride. ‘Focus’ implies those unique personal choices that enable lean-in behaviors and concentrated effort that, when brought to bear, achieve mutually beneficial outcomes. And, the best of those outcomes is realized when the link between individual and social is empathy.”

As Evans reflects on these varied professional and personal endeavors over the years, he cites the golden thread that ties them all together — the freedom to think about possibilities — instilled in him by his liberal arts education. “I look at my life experiences this way, it’s as if the aperture of my life’s camera first opened at Olivet and then continued to expand as life has evolved,” Evans said. “The experiences are informed and structured by different filters brought to bear on the circumstance: wisdom, knowledge, opportunity and viability.”

Now, Evans aspires to be a positive influence on students and other alumni. He hopes other Comets have the confidence to explore the world, pursue a successful career and give back along the way.

“I encourage everyone, especially students and young alumni, to continue challenging themselves by asking ‘what if ’ questions,” Evans said. “We are educated to do that at Olivet College. Don’t confine yourself to believing that a degree focus, geographic location and/or physical or mental ability prescribes your future. Whatever path you follow, remember that choices are simply current decisions to act, but they’re not immutable. If the feeling and/or the focus doesn’t resonate with you, leverage your Olivet guidepost around Individual and Social Responsibility as a yardstick for desired actions in the future. As Polonius so rightly said in Hamlet, ‘To thine own self be true.’ And, as I’ve hoped to do along my journey, live a principled life.”

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Danielle Chauvin ’12 —

TURNING PASSION INTO CAREER Danielle Chauvin ’12 knew Olivet College was the place for her immediately when searching for a college to attend.

“Olivet College was the perfect place for me. Its idea of Individual and Social Responsibility has always resounded with me,” Chauvin said.

Chauvin stressed that no college — whether world-renowned or relatively obscure, a large or small student body, or urban or rural location — is immune from sexual and domestic assault. Odds are, sexual assault has happened, but it has gone unreported.

Chauvin instills the Olivet College values of “Be More.

Do Good.” to the highest degree in her career as a sexual and domestic assault advocate. She works at the Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence located in Okemos. Chauvin previously spent seven years on the front lines at domestic violence shelters, including SIREN/Eaton Shelter in Charlotte and S.A.F.E. Place in Battle Creek; a career path she traces back to her time at Olivet College.

Chauvin is driven by these unfortunate truths and personal experiences to fight back against this issue. Understanding that reporting resources and support for victims is often unavailable or underrepresented, her goal is to create a better future for today’s generation of college students.

“The sexual assault programs I work with today focus on empowering women, empowering youth and empowering those from the LGBT+ community,” Chauvin said. “Some of the most empowering experiences of my life happened at Olivet College.”

Chauvin first became interested in sexual and domestic assault services during her time as a volunteer at the SIREN Shelter, and she later worked as a social media intern for another organization. Chauvin now sees her volunteer and internship experience while at Olivet College as integral in shaping her career path.

“I am passionate about the work I do for sexual assault survivors in my state because of the prevalence with which it impacts so many people, especially women, but many others are impacted by sexual violence and its ripples,” Chauvin said.

“For example, the prevalence of sexual assault is 1 in 5 college women and 1 in 16 college men. About 90% of those assaults on college campuses are unreported.”

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In her role as a sexual and domestic assault advocate, Chauvin creates resources for field workers to share with victims, fields calls on a 24/7 hotline for domestic and sexual violence, and speaks on panels and in classes to spread the importance of advocacy for this issue, something that often brings her to Olivet College. Her work and willingness to help directly aids victims, survivors and those seeking more knowledge on how to prevent sexual and domestic violence.

“Going to Olivet College was really important to me in order to open my eyes and my mind to what is going on in the world, opposed to the narrow view I had from just the experiences of my small town and sheltered upbringing,” Chauvin said. “Being involved in conversations about race, gender and sexuality really helped me to better understand privilege and oppression. The mantra of Individual and Social Responsibility made me want to be the change that I wanted to see in this world.”

The Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence runs a statewide hotline for anyone who is being impacted by sexual assault. If you or someone you know needs resources, the 24/7 hotline is available at 1-855-VOICES4.

RESPONDS TO COVID-19

OLIVET COLLEGE On the day this was written, the United States reached 100,000 coronavirus-related (COVID-19) deaths. We mourn each of the lives lost. We mourn the devastation the pandemic has had on so many members of the Olivet College family. Some have lost loved ones and have not been able to celebrate their lives, some have lost jobs, many have missed out on the joy of experiencing once-in-a-lifetime milestones and many worry about the future.

March 23 — All non-essential employees begin working remotely. The College continues to operate, delivering high-quality instruction and essential services.

African American and Latino communities, underserved communities and those who live in densely populated cities have been hit particularly hard. We may not know the intimate details of the struggles faced by our prospective students, current students, graduates, alumni, faculty and staff, but we recognize the struggles are real.

April 29 — Olivet College announces the Olivet College CARES Grant Program, an emergency grant program for eligible students funded by the Federal CARES Act.

“If the College is able to do just one thing at this time, it is our hope that we can give students confidence in their future. That is what we have done for 176 years and that is what our extraordinary, dedicated faculty and staff are determined to continue doing,” said President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D. “We are thrilled that returning students have registered for classes, signed up for housing and are continuing to stay engaged with faculty, staff and classmates. We are also pleased to see so many high school graduates choosing to attend Olivet College and eager to begin their college experience this fall. Our Olivet College family is strong.”

The College’s Response to COVID-19 — A Timeline of Key Events February — The president forms a task force to make recommendations to the College based on guidance from several organizations, including the Eaton Barry Health Department and the Centers for Disease Control.

March 12 — The College announces students will not return to campus after spring break but should return home. All classes transition to remote learning. Oncampus housing and food service are made available to students unable to return home.

April 20 — The College provides students a financial adjustment for the unused portion of the room and board fee for the 39-day period the students were not able to return to campus.

May 12-15 — The Olivet College community takes part in a virtual Honors Week, Baccalaureate and Graduation Celebration. The College pledges to celebrate the Class of 2020 properly, with an inperson Commencement ceremony, at a future date when it is safe for all to gather together.

May 15 — The College announces that 874 students were awarded an OC CARES Grant to assist with unexpected, urgent financial needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Awards ranged from $100 to $3,000.

May 20 — The College announces it is working on a plan to safely reopen campus in August for the fall semester.The president has charged numerous working teams across the College to develop a comprehensive plan for the fall semester, including how to safely bring students back to campus for the residential college experience they desire and deserve.

“Will we return to the same campus environment that we left in March? No. Will we return to a family of faculty, staff and classmates that support, love, encourage and look out for us? Absolutely,” Corey said. “I’ll be back. Our faculty and staff will be back. Our students will be back. We’re looking forward to our alumni being back, too.”

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Psychology Alumni Take Their Athletic

TALENTS TO ENGLAND Olivet College’s psychology program is designed with real-world lessons, networking options, internship positions, research experiences, engagement with honor societies and much more. These opportunities prepare students for success post-graduation as many pursue careers or additional education. Two psychology alumni recently used their degrees as a launchpad to earn master’s degrees and play collegiate athletics in England.

John Hollowell ’17 — Where Passion and Persistence Collide John Hollowell’s work ethic and passion for soccer have always outweighed his natural talent for the sport — but that’s a fact he’s proud of. That drive pushed Hollowell as a college athlete, both at Olivet College and at the University of East London (UEL).

In just three short years after graduating from OC, Hollowell earned a master’s degree, played soccer in England at the collegiate and semi-professional level, built experience working with international sports teams and launched his professional soccer career in the United States.

“I only played one year of varsity soccer in high school, but I still got to play college soccer,” Hollowell said. “This was a big deal for me. I always prided myself as a hard worker more than a talented athlete, but I think that’s what helped me achieve long-term success.

“After college, I focused on my goal to play soccer professionally, something I always knew I wanted to do. I set realistic goals to achieve that, and one of them was to set myself apart. I knew playing abroad would make me stand out more to recruiters, and it would show that I’m willing to take on a challenge.”

Hollowell’s experience at UEL was exactly the opportunity he was looking for, and, since returning to Michigan, he has taken a major step toward his ultimate goal of playing professional soccer. Hollowell is training with Waza Flo, a professional indoor soccer team in Detroit. He credits his passion and perseverance in helping him get there.

“I am motivated to help inspire others who might feel afraid or self-conscious about following their passion,” Hollowell said. “I was never naturally talented at what I do, especially as an athlete.

At times, people made me feel silly for following a career in professional sports because it’s something I love; however, with hard work and persistence, I have achieved a few things that my coaches and peers probably didn't think I was capable of.

“I want to help show others that it's possible for anyone to pursue what makes you happy and to be good at it. Becoming skilled or successful in something you’re passionate about isn't about where you start — it's about what you do once you've started that will define your success. Passion, combined with the right attitude, will bring anyone 10 times more long-term success than just natural talent will.”

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Jamaul Martin ’18 — Football, Neuropsychology, Discipline Jamaul Martin ’18 has had a winding college journey, but three themes remain present throughout: football, neuropsychology and discipline. He’s transferred colleges, changed majors and even hit some road bumps due to COVID-19, but Martin’s motivations and goals haven’t wavered.

“I’ve been playing football since I was 8-years-old,” Martin said.

“I remember being on the field for the first time and falling in love with the sport. It’s always been what’s kept me disciplined. Even on the little league teams, you had to have good grades and good behavior to play.”

The opportunity to play collegiate football was a big draw for Martin, and Olivet College’s individualized classroom attention made it the perfect home for him. Martin’s relationships with his professors helped guide him to the field of psychology, inspired by his interest in the medical field.

“After graduation from Olivet, I wasn’t sure what my outlet to play football was or what opportunities would arise, but I knew that’s what I wanted,” Martin said. “I made highlight tapes of my film at Olivet and posted them on YouTube. I connected with a recruiter who suggested I explore playing in the United Kingdom. When I discovered Durham University, it seemed like the perfect chance to continue playing football and get my master’s degree.”

When Martin arrived at Durham, he was one of the only American students on the team and one of the only players with a strong background in the sport. He quickly fell into a mentor position and enjoyed the comradery with his teammates.

“Durham has a history of being a top collegiate team, but they lost in the first round of the playoffs last season,” Martin said. “From the moment my coach picked me up at the airport, we talked about what direction the team was going and what role I would play. Since football isn’t as popular in Europe as it is in America, many guys don’t start playing until they’re 18 and in college. It was hard to be patient at first, but I was able to play a big part in teaching the team to operate as one. I was proud of my teammates for always wanting to go the extra mile.”

For now, Martin’s story ends here. Without a doubt, though, it will be continued. This spring, both his class schedule and football season were cut short due to challenges presented by COVID-19. While Martin’s journey took an unexpected turn, the setbacks haven’t changed his outlook on life.

“My goal is to play professional football,” Martin said. “It has always been my dream. As long as I have my body and my health and the desire and motivation, that’s what I’m going to go for.”

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THE POWER OF GIVING

Our alumni mean a great deal to Olivet College. Our accomplishments reflect through you, and we share in your success stories and memories of your time at Olivet. Together, we forge a family with a common shared experience of scholarship and of place. Supporting Olivet College is not just about cheerleading for a brand; it means supporting the dreams of current and future Comets. Dreams that were once your dreams.

Maybe your experience at Olivet College was a sublime journey of self-discovery and newfound self-confidence. Maybe your experience was one long struggle and you felt like you got your degree despite life’s best effort to hold you back. Maybe your parents went to OC and you always knew you would, too. Maybe you were the first in your family to go to college and you had to figure it out all for yourself. No matter your experience, today’s students can benefit from knowing your story.

Was there someone who stands out in your memory as that special mentor who helped you achieve your dreams? Now is your chance to pay it forward and be that person for someone else. You can help students navigate the same challenges that you faced in college. You can advise them on channeling their diverse passions into their education and future career. You can give them an example of a path to follow. That is what it means to give.

“Give,” one little word that can make you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders. Give?

We just bought a house. I’m trying to level up in my career. We’ve got three kids. I’m still paying my student loans. We’re financially stretched. Your alma mater hears you. We recognize that life takes people all sorts of places and that “giving” should translate to different tangible things as you grow. You can give your time through volunteering, your expertise by connecting with students and yes, you can also give your money. Small and constant contributions create collective power.

It takes a variety of resources for the College to remain strong and stand the test of time, like the mighty oak. Think about it — if 1,000 alumni donate just $25 a year and commit to do so for five years, that equates to $125,000. Now, think about the nearly 12,000 alumni we have around the world. We have the potential to do great things while having a minimal impact on your personal finances. That is the power of giving!

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Leave a Legacy —

JOIN THE OLIVET COLLEGE

FOUNDER’S SOCIETY You and many of your fellow classmates generously support Olivet College throughout your lifetime by planting seeds that grow into mighty oaks.

And for that, we thank you!

We often hear that Olivet College and its professors provided a strong education with a family-like approach, diversity, a roadmap for their future and memories to last a lifetime. Responses like this lead the question, “What more can I do for Olivet College?”

The answer is simple: Pay it forward. Leave a lasting impression on a place that did the same for you.

Legacy gifts are a great way to support Olivet College. These generous gifts made through your will or trust genuinely makes a difference and ensure our ability to fulfill our mission of educating students for Individual and Social Responsibility for years to come. You can make a legacy gift by naming Olivet College as a beneficiary of your will, living trust, life insurance or retirement plan.

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE? To help guide you in supporting causes that are important in your life like Olivet College, we recently launched an addition to our website dedicated to planned giving.

To learn more about the many giving options available to you, depending on your goals, and to gain invaluable planning tips, visit olivetcollege.planmygift.org. There you will find a free estate planning tool kit that others have found helpful, and it’s our gift to you! Visit the website and download our complimentary estate planning kit today.

When you include Olivet College in your will, your generosity provides educational opportunities for future Comets that will enrich their lives intellectually, morally and spiritually — the basis on which Olivet College was founded. You can make a difference and help students for years to come. Join the Olivet College Founder’s Society today.

WANT TO CHAT? There are many options to choose from when planning your legacy, and we are here to help guide you as you make these important decisions. We’d love to discuss how your generosity will support our mission and how we can partner with you and your estate planning attorney as you take the next steps. Contact Joy Wiseman, director of major gifts, at jwiseman@olivetcollege.edu or 269-749-7162.

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Ed Retherford ’69 —

CAPTAIN OF THE

GREAT LAKES

By Terry Donnelly ’68

The preservation of science and history around the Northern Great Lakes region of Michigan is in good hands.

Ed Retherford ’69 arrived at Olivet College in 1965 from a family steeped in their love of nature and already an avid outdoor and fishing enthusiast.

Retherford recalls his maternal grandfather taking him out on his boat at a young age and “tagging along” with his uncles, who were renowned ThumbArea outdoor experts. “I was with them all the time,” Retherford said.

Retherford paired his great interest in nature with his Olivet studies. He chose biology. “I took a lot of zoology classes like ornithology and entomology from Dr. (Edward) Speare and Dr. (Richard) Fleming. For my senior thesis, Dr. Speare suggested that I do something on fish.” Retherford wrote a paper on the growth rate of Coho salmon. “They were introduced into Lake Michigan in 1966 and two years later into Lake Huron.” Retherford rode the first wave as salmon fishing grew into a boon for Michigan’s economy.

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Hired into the Alpena School District as a science teacher and football coach in 1969, Retherford simultaneously launched a business guiding fishing tours on Lake Huron. He soon began studies and earned Captain status.

“2020 will be my 51st year. It’s been a great run,” Retherford said.

What brings success as a guide? “I always tell people you have to be an entertainer. You’re out with them all day,” Retherford said. As an expert guide, however, Retherford must be ready to handle any safety concerns that arise. “You have to make decisions about weather and wind then actually deal with them.”

At the wheel of his fifth charter boat, Captain Ed enjoys telling the cache of stories he collects about clients he shepherds on tours and fishing tournaments. “I like seeing people, especially kids, catching their first Great Lakes fish. Most haven’t caught anything over 12 inches. That’s rewarding,” he said. And, so too, when his clients win a tournament.

Retherford recalls one tournament entrant complaining about having a carp on his line. “I told him to shape up because it was going to be the biggest brown trout he’d ever see. It turned out to be a 21.5-pound champion.”

Today, the fifth generation of Retherfords is carrying the Northern Michigan traditions forward. Ed and Barb, married for 50 years, have three adult children. “Philip and Paul are captains on the Great Lakes. Amelia and her husband are avid outdoor people who hunt and fish all over the world,” Retherford said. Three grandkids, Julia, Theo and Vivi, fish with their dad in Petoskey all the time.

“It is great seeing my kids active in the sport and knowing about the Great Lakes.”

Northern Michigan history and Great Lakes fishing will thrive as long as there are Retherfords handy to take the helm.

| A LU M NI A SS O C IATIO N

Greetings Fellow Alumni, Olivet College has held a special place in my heart for many years.

As I think about the evolution of my relationship with Olivet, I think about the fruitful education I received as a student and the lifelong friendships I have developed as an alumna. I think about the opportunities afforded to me through volunteering and serving on the Alumni Association Board, and I think about all the joyful memories that have been created in my life. All this, because I am a Comet. Now, I write to you as the senior director of alumni engagement and annual giving; a new chapter in my professional life, yet another ongoing opportunity to connect with our Olivet family. I am truly honored to take on this role and am looking forward to meeting new people and supporting the longevity of such a wonderful institution.

The success of Olivet College is reflected through the success of our alumni. We want to hear your stories and learn more about how Olivet College has impacted your life. We want to know what helped you achieve your goals and what could have made your experience even better. You are an integral part of the Olivet College alumni family, also known as the Alumni Association.

The Alumni Association is the collective body of alumni, and the association represents all the ways we stay linked to the College.

As life moves on post-graduation, we can suddenly find ourselves out of touch with those we once held dear. The work of the Office of Alumni Engagement can help you stay connected to friends, faculty and a vast array of resources. As I move forward in this work, I hope to help our team expand those resources that are available to alumni to include career services, seminars and symposia, community service opportunities and mentorship programs. Plus, I look forward to offering a diverse event series that will feature new social activities and virtual events. All this in an effort to connect us and help support you as you pursue your post-academic life and career. I encourage you to stay updated via social media, enewsletters and future editions of Shipherd’s Record. Go Comets!

Sincerely,

Beth Romeo ’12 Senior Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving

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| A LU M NI VO I CES

Olivet Prepares Alumni

FOR QUARANTINE

By Terry Donnelly ’68

I’m writing this while quarantined in May. Hopefully, we’ll be paroled for our good behavior by the time you’re reading this. That’s my wish, but I’d like to report that my time in the slammer was stress-free.

Olivet College prepared me to endure the entire pandemic disaster. I’m a 1968 graduate, so some fog swirls around the details, but I’m certain I didn’t succumb to despair due to Olivet training. Heck, I didn’t even binge-watch television.

I didn’t binge-watch because I learned to read in massive doses. Reading a chapter or two of “Ten Contemporary Thinkers,” for and by Dr. Leo T. Hendrick, was nothing compared to leaving 21 assigned books for the last days before Professor William Buchanan’s Modern Novels final exam. You don’t know pressure until you’re down to 27 minutes to read “Cat’s Cradle.”

Pre-quarantine, I had a queue of books stacked thigh-high. Coming out, the stash dwindled to a height easily concealed in the pile of any self-respecting shag carpet.

We all got an hour of lock-down practice every Wednesday. Convocation was required attendance. We filed into MacKay Gym and had our names checked off the inmate roster. As we took our seats in the mezzanine, overlooking the gym floor, the deadbolts clunked ominously behind us. We were there for the duration, subject to any sort of oration. After four years of Convocation, staying home was easy.

Olivet is a small college. Social distancing isn’t too tough. There were only 87 souls in my graduating class. We could’ve easily kept our distance. But, the true lesson came from going to Burrage Library on Saturday afternoon — no one in sight — especially on the third floor. Just me and the dust. The library on Saturday? I only had 27 minutes to read “Cat’s Cradle.”

Another social distancing practice perfected was communication from great distances.

The Adelphic Alpha Pi house had one phone and four floors. When a coed or mother called to check-up, we simply bellowed the brother’s name and waited the required 30 seconds before informing the person on the other end that their party was ensconced at the Garfield Lake Tavern.

There’s always a snag. Professor Arthur Stevens, Ph.D., had no concern for distancing while teaching History of Western Civilization. He crammed every freshman into the downtown Oaks Theater at 8 a.m. — on Saturday — every Saturday. The good news here is that no student was lucid enough at that unthinkable hour to have internalized any bad social distancing habits.

Dean Vincent Sigren declared all bars and package liquor stores taboo. We considered them essential businesses, so having a few shops closed down is child’s play. In the late ‘60s, we never cut our hair anyway, so let’s just say Olivet graduates were well prepared to weather this pandemic storm.

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HOMECOMING OCTOBER 2-3

A HOMECOMING TRADITION Olivet College is committed to bringing you a unique and fun Homecoming year after year. 2020 will be no different, but we may have to modify the “traditional” experience to meet the health and safety needs of our College and greater Olivet communities. Planning is currently underway and you can expect to see more updates in the near future. Olivet College remains committed to connecting with alumni through a Homecoming celebration, and, while it might not look like what we’re used to, we look forward to doing just that this fall! Look for updates in upcoming enewsletters, emails, on the OC website and on social media.

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Alumni EVENTS The Office of Alumni Engagement is excited to bring a diverse series of events to our alumni! We hope you will join us at a future Comet gathering. And, don’t forget to bring someone with you when you return. Share your OC pride with others and encourage them to experience all that Olivet College has to offer. Your story has the power to inspire future students to find their way home to Olivet College, too.

UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES: • Stay updated via the Enewsletter and social media • Alumni career services

As we look forward to 2021, our events will include more opportunities to connect with your fellow Comets in a myriad of ways.

• Mentorship program

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Webinar series

Homecoming Oct. 2 and 3 (See page 25) Alumni Social in Grand Rapids Fowling Warehouse Nov. 12, 6-8 p.m.

Alumni Social in Novi Michigan Beer Company Nov. 17, 6-8 p.m.

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Alumni Social in Kalamazoo Revel & Roll Bowling Dec. 9, 6-8 p.m.

SHIPHERD’S RECORD

• A new alumni web platform • E-Book Club

STAY CONNECTED TO OLIVET COLLEGE ALUMNI! @ocalums and @olivetcollege @oc_alums and @olivetcollege @oc_alums and @olivetcollege

Congratulations TO THE CLASS OF 2020!

Welcome to the Alumni Association!

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| CL A S S N OT E S

1960s

Thomas Appel ’65 traveled to South America in December 2019, where he visited Brazil, Argentina, the Amazon rainforest and more. Highlights of his trip included tours of São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires, a visit to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, a four-day canoe trip, a horseback riding excursion with Gauchos, a fishing trip where he caught a piranha, and time watching and listening to the Amazon jungle.

Robert “Bob” ’67 and Patricia “Pat” ’69 Lewallen have used their time since retirement to volunteer and give back to their community. Bob and Pat both retired from Traverse City Area Public Schools. They have been married for 51 years, having met as students at Olivet College.

Lewallen

Kelly Hunt ’85 is excited to share that she is retiring at the age of 56. Her career path took a meandering road, leading her to spend the last 25 years in the pharmaceutical industry.

Darell Ettleman ’88 completed the 32-hour Instructor Development (Train-the-Trainer) course presented by the Michigan Sheriffs’ Coordinating and Training Council in December 2019. He is now certified to teach custody and security and defensive tactics in corrections.

Theresa “Tess” Pratt ’88 was recently named Chapin High School’s 2019-20 Teacher of the Year. She also serves as the school’s English department chair and is on the Student Improvement Council and the Superintendent’s Faculty Advisory Board.

1990s

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Melissa Doubleday ’96 was named to the prestigious Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Honor Society of 2018. This award is given to residential sales professionals who have reached great sales thresholds in closed residential GCI, commercial GCI or residential units.

She was recognized for her exemplary performance at the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ annual sales convention in March.

Matt Overweg ’98 has proudly served as an educator for nearly 20 years. In addition to his regular teaching responsibilities, Matt owns two certified therapy dogs, a golden retriever and a black labrador. The Alliance of Therapy Dogs forms a network of “caring individuals and their special dogs are willing to share smiles and joy with people.” Both dogs serve as therapy animals for elementary, middle and high schools.

Overweg

1980s

Michael Everett ’92, Ph.D., received the 2020 Michigan State University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Excellence in Teaching – Established Teacher Award on March 6.

Karri Shankel ’95 is moving to her dream home in Fernandina Beach, Florida, to serve as a physical education teacher and girls’ basketball coach. She has been teaching high school English for 20 years and coaching girls’ basketball for 15 years.

2000s

Alexander “Alex” R. Miller ’00, Ed.D, accepted a new position in the role of vice president for student development at Denison University in Ohio. Alex goes to Denison from his previous position as associate dean of student engagement and acting associate dean of students for inclusion and belonging at Harvard College.

Will Hagerty ’06 completed his Ph.D. in psychology with a specialization in general psychology from Capella University (graduation with distinction).

Miller

Thibeault

Kyle Thibeault ’07 was hired as the co-head coach for the Sault College men’s golf team.

Everett

Craig Jenkins ’08 was appointed to the Delton Kellogg School Board in August 2019.

Jenkins

Eric Quinn ’08 graduated from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., with an MBA in international business from the McDonough School of Business.

Kate Strein ’08 was accepted into the Fulbright Scholar special program for Teachers of Global Classrooms. She is one of approximately 76 U.S. citizens who will travel abroad through the program during 2019-2020.

Philip Koops ’09 was promoted to offensive coordinator for the Hamilton High School football team.

He also teaches world history and biology at the high school level.

Koops

Brandy Whittington ’10 got engaged to Michael Reiber on Feb. 9, 2019.

Paul Koviak ’12 was named one of the five greatest athletes from Holton High School since 2000.

Paul was inducted in the Holton Athletic Hall of Fame in 2017.

He left as the Red Devils’ alltime leading scorer in basketball with 1,453 points. He also played basketball for the Comets.

Milie Funk ’15 designed a quilt that was displayed at an “Arts Night Out” event in Lansing in March. The quilt featured an intricate illustration of a skeleton. Milie worked at her mother’s quilt shop while she was a student at Olivet College. She earned a fine arts degree in biological illustration from OC. Taylor Gorr ’16 celebrated her engagement to Callan Lenz on March 20, 2020. She also celebrated her fourth anniversary of working at the College on July 1, 2020, as the media communications manager.

2010s

Vernon Davis ’11 started a new job as a car sales consultant at Royal Oak Ford.

Jake Messner ’15, who serves as a special education teacher, took the reins of the Elk Rapids football program.

Mona Hinamanu ’17 started a new job at Google in Ann Arbor.

Messner

Funk

Gorr

Whittington

Koviak

Lindsey Basye ’13 was nominated for an Emmy Award. Her station, 11Alive, was nominated for 72 2019 Emmys and her individual team was responsible for half of them.

Branden Dyer ’14 won a four-year term in the only contested race for Charlotte City Council. He was appointed to the seat more than a year ago, having previously served on City Council in 2011-15.

Dyer

Hinamanu

Keep in touch!

Do you have exciting news to share? Do you have a new address, Hinamanu email or phone number? Submit your news online at www.olivetcollege.edu/alumni/contact.

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| C L A SS N OT E S

Marriages

Births

Robert “Bob” ’73 and Patricia “Patti” ’73 Clark are thrilled to announce the arrival of their first grandchild, a granddaughter named Abigail Elizabeth Clark, on Jan. 13, 2020.

Madison (McKenzie) ’09 married Finley White on Feb. 29, 2020.

Clark

Will Hagerty ’06 and his wife, Leslie, welcomed their son, Finnian Wren, into the world on Sept. 24, 2019.

Kyle ’09 married Laura (Markin) ’11 Labrecque on May 26, 2019. Their wedding party included Dr. Stacey Willard ’07, Erin Tramper ’09, Aryn (Perkins) Reed ’09 and Matt Swab ’09.

Isaac ’19 married Brooke (Sturgeon)’19 York on June 1, 2019.

Dr. Susanne Lewis, associate professor of chemistry and chair of the Natural and Physical Sciences Department, officiated their wedding.

Chuck SchepelOverweg ’60 and David Gary Waterhouse were married on Nov. 16, 2019, at their home in Sacramento, California.

Mauricio “Moe” Palli ’07 married Gregory Wenrich on Sept. 28, 2019, in Waukesha, Wisconsin.

Hagerty

Matt Jezior ’07 and his wife welcomed their daughter, Regan Maeve Jezior, on May 10, 2019.

Roderic “Rod” ’08 and Courtney Sanders welcomed their daughter, Ruby Lee Sanders, into the world on Feb. 27, 2020.

Molly (Gray) ’15 married Jake Brown on June 15, 2019. Sarah (Crittenden) Maurer ’16 was a bridesmaid in the wedding.

White

Labrecque

York

Schepel

Jezior

Sarah Storey ’11 and her husband welcomed their daughter, Lillian Grace Storey, on May 7, 2019.

Ross ’12 and Amanda Sanders welcomed their daughter, Riley Grace, on Aug. 20, 2019.

Rod Sanders

Palli

Brown

In Memoriam Barbara Earl Thomson ’43, age 97, passed away on July 25, 2019, at her home in Olivet.

Isobel Goodsir Saussele ’51, age 90, passed away on Sept. 27, 2019.

Thomson

Duane Kaye Sanford ’55, Saussele

age 85 of Traverse City, passed away on July 14, 2019, surrounded by his family.

Ross Sanders

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SHIPHERD’S RECORD

Orlando Burton ’57, age 87, passed away on April 1, 2020.

Burton

Rev. Dr. David Graham ’58 passed away on Dec. 1, 2019.

Regina A. (Keller) Mattson ’59 passed away on July 18, 2019.

Carl Cooper ’57 passed away on Feb. 20, 2019, at the age of 89. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy in WWII and the Korean War. In his spare time, he enjoyed traveling with his wife, Mary Jane (Keschman) Cooper ’59, of 61 years.

Fred Jay Ayer III ’69 passed away peacefully on Oct. 25, 2019.

Cooper

Edgar “Jack” Martin ’57, age 88, passed away on Nov. 5, 2019.

Roger Wood ’61 passed away on Oct. 19, 2019, at 80 years of Martin

age. Roger graduated from Perry High School in 1957 and attended Olivet College where he met his wife-to-be, Gwen Fett.

Wood Upon his retirement, Roger returned to school to pursue his passion for serving others through Christ. He was ordained to the Holy Order of Deacons of the Episcopal Church in October 1996.

Dinoff

Dany Dinoff ’62 passed away on Nov. 14, 2019. Dany achieved athletic success as the kicker for the Olivet College football team where he was affectionately nicknamed “Golden Toe.” Dany was also a member of the Phi Alpha Pi society at OC.

Mahlon “Mickey” Horwitz ’62, age 85 of Norway, passed away on Jan. 29, 2019, surrounded by his family. Mr. Horwitz, as he was known to many, taught at Iron Mountain High School for 28 years, retiring in 1994.

Sawyer

Snarey

Harry B. Price ’70 passed away on Oct. 23, 2019, at the age of 71 after a long illness.

Dave Dawson ’71 passed away at the age of 70 after a battle with cancer.

Garry McDowell ’72 passed away on Aug. 5, 2019, at age 69. Garry was a part of the Kappa Sigma Alpha society.

McDowell

John McGlashen ’75, of Battle Creek, passed away peacefully on Jan. 25, surrounded by his family after a long battle with cancer.

Timothy E. Baker Sr. ’77 passed away on March 31, 2019.

Tim was a traveler, a dedicated man who loved life, lived what he believed in and had a genuine love for people, animals, the open road, and his family and friends.

William “Bill” Cain ’84 passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 7, 2020. In 2018, Bill retired as director of student services at Hartland Consolidated Schools and accepted a job as Thompson Falls Superintendent.

Scott Mall ’86, age 55, passed away on Sept. 24, 2019.

Debra Clift ’01 passed away on July 9, 2019, after a year-long battle with lung cancer. Deb was a special education teacher for Maple Valley High School for 33 years.

Horwitz

Martha J. Sawyer ’62, age 78, passed away on Aug. 8, 2019. She died in her 50th year of marriage to Frank N. Sawyer, who survives her. Martha received her bachelor’s degree in education and music, and her senior organ recital received much acclaim.

Thomas Everden Cowan ’64, age 76 of Battle Creek, passed away on April 4, 2019.

Thomas “Tommy” Gorman ’65 passed away peacefully on Jan. 18, 2020. Tommy was a Cowan member of the Adelphic Alpha Pi society and the football team while at Olivet College.

Vaughn Hall ’65 passed away on Oct. 5, 2019. A special agent with the U.S. Secret Service for 28 years, he protected presidents from Richard Nixon to Bill Clinton, their vice presidents, families, presidential candidates and nominees and numerous heads of state.

John Schneider ’65 passed away on April 13, 2019, at the age of 83.

Jencks

Michael Snarey ’67 passed away on Jan. 18, 2020, after a long-fought battle with a lengthy illness.

Judith Jencks ’66, age 75 of Plymouth, passed away on July 2, 2019.

Amy Renee Whitesall ’10, age 29 of Chelsea, died on June 12, 2019, at her residence. She was a special education teacher for Prairie Elementary School in Adrian.

Kristin Ormsbee ’17, a very courageous young woman that fought through cancer to earn her bachelor’s degree, died at the age of 25 on Aug. 11, 2019.

Ormsbee

Robert L. Ewigleben, trustee emeriti, died on Nov. 3, 2019, at the age of 91.

Ewigleben

Kenneth Parr, a former professor at Olivet College from 1968-1973, passed away on Oct. 27, 2019.

Wallace Riley, former Board of Trustees member at Olivet College, passed away on May 17, 2018.

Arthur Stevens, Ph.D., professor emeritus of political science, passed away on Sept. 18, 2019. He was 99-years-old. Professor Stevens served with distinction on the Olivet College faculty from 1956-82 after an earlier career in the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He lived on Main Street in Olivet and was a member of the Olivet Congregational Church for over 60 years.

SUMMER 2020

31

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