Shipherd's Record spring 2010 by The University of Olivet

SPRING 2010

Message from the President Dear Olivet College Alumni and Friends: I started my journey at Olivet College many years ago. And for almost 30 years I never left – until now. As I reflect back on my days as a student, resident adviser, staff member, coach, faculty member, dean and president, there are a number of important themes that come to mind. To many people, Olivet felt like a “family;” to others, just a pass through college. Still for others, it was the most important influence on their professional and personal lives. These first and last themes are true for me. Olivet has shaped many things in my life and has provided me with numerous opportunities for professional and personal growth. I met my wife of 24 years, Louise, as a young staff member running Shipherd Hall when she came to teach at the college via Washington D.C. from New York City. Both our kids, Ian and Kenna, were born here. My nephew, Matt McNeil, just graduated this year from Olivet. All along my Olivet journey I met many wonderful people who became friends of not only the college, but me. They also became friends of my family. As so often is the case with being a college president, your personal life is intertwined with your professional life. It starts with living on campus, and in my case, behind Shipherd Hall. I truly have enjoyed over the years having students and employees over for barbecues, even when they were not planned. But this is the way I am wired. I want to be involved, many times as a leader and at other times as a spectator. Being visible at college concerts, art openings and sporting events was something that I took seriously. Many faculty and staff members feel the same way—they want to support our students. It has been this way at Olivet well before me. So as I get ready to move on, I want to thank all the alumni, donors, trustees, faculty, staff and From left: Don Tuski ’85, Ph.D., Kenna, Louise and Ian Tuski friends of Olivet who worked to make it a better place. I especially want to thank David Hayhow for his guidance, friendship and leadership throughout my presidency. I hope that support for Olivet has grown over the last several years and that alumni feel proud about their college. And indeed, this was one of my most important goals. A great deal has been accomplished by faculty, staff, alumni and trustees over recent years in terms of academic and co-curricular programming, as well as facilities. Financial support has improved for Olivet. And now, I hope this all translates into even more support for Olivet College under the next president. Thank you,

Don Tuski President (2001-2010) Olivet College

OLIVET COLLEGE SHIPHERD’S RECORD 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 alumni and friends.

MAGAZINE STAFF Vice President for Institutional Advancement Todd Hibbs Managing Editor Molly (Reed) Goaley ’05

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Director of Publications and Web Services Bruce Snyder Alumni Relations Marty (Mason) Jennings ’67 Sports Information Geoff Henson Foundation Relations Shannon Tiernan Editorial Jackie Bounds Andrew Homer Amber LeClear Christine Moulton Linda Jo Scott Ellyn (Heimforth) Tarrant ’78

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Cover Story: President Tuski Says Goodbye to Olivet College OLIVET’S ENTREPRENEURS

The alumni featured in this issue of Shipherd’s Record have one thing in common – Olivet College helped give them the tools to build and operate successful businesses worldwide. From Tom Kolassa ’69, a self-made insurance executive who recently broke ground on a restaurant and bar right here in Olivet, to Hisatake Shibamoto ex’67, a former international student who now runs Shibamoto & Co. in Japan, these entrepreneurs all received their first opportunities for success as students at Olivet College.

When Opportunity Knocks

Send change of address notices to: Office of Institutional Advancement Olivet, MI 49076 (269) 749-7625 pfrayer@olivetcollege.edu

Helping the Best Get Better

CAMPUS ADMINISTRATION

A World Away

15 Ways Olivet Goes Green

Fueling the Entrepreneurial Fire

A Leader in Law Firm Management

President Donald L. Tuski ’85, Ph.D. Executive Assistant to the President Barb Spencer Director of Athletics Heather Bateman Vice President for Administration Larry Colvin Vice President and Dean for Academic Affairs Norma Curtis Vice President for Institutional Advancement Todd Hibbs Vice President and CFO Bill Kurtz Vice President and Dean for Student Life Linda Logan, Ph.D. Vice President for Enrollment Management Larry Vallar ’84

24 Departments 2 Around the Square 28 Development 30 Comet Athletics 32 Class Notes SPRING

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Tennis team donates balls to Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office canine program

Eaton County Sheriff’s Office opens satellite station on campus

Olivet’s women’s tennis team has been busy contributing to the learning of others. In this case, the “others” were canines, Terek and Apollo, of the Kalamazoo County Sheriff ’s Office Canine Program. In December, the team donated leftover tennis balls from their fall 2009 practices to the canine program. Minges Creek Racquet Club, of Battle Creek, also donated some of the balls, which handlers are using to train the dogs and reward good behavior. The Kalamazoo County Sheriff ’s Office initiated the canine program for the benefit of the community. Their primary focus is to apprehend criminals and take drugs off the streets. Officers also use the canines for presentations on topics such as self protection and drug prevention.

The Eaton County Sheriff ’s Office is now operating a satellite station from the Olivet College campus. According to Sheriff Mike Raines, the new station allows the department to have a stronger presence in the southwest corner of Eaton County, while giving the college and community access to its deputies. “Along with our community partners at Olivet College, we are proud to announce the opening of our satellite office,” said Raines. “With the opening of this From left: Deputy Jeremy Brown ’02, Sheriff Mike office, deputies Raines and President Don Tuski ’85, Ph.D. will have closer access to this local area during their shifts. Deputies will be better able to respond to calls for service in Olivet, aid in college training efforts for their budding law enforcement program and expedite service response on behalf of the sheriff ’s office.” Olivet College’s Office of Student Life and Campus Safety worked to provide a space for the station in MacKay Gymnasium. The station will function as a regular branch of the Eaton County Sheriff ’s Office, with deputies taking calls from all areas of the county.

From left: Celeste Gruber; Paige Sedgewick; Giana Guerra; Kelly Stephens; Matt Wait ’99, J.D.; Head Women’s Tennis Coach Mary Anne McMullen ’01; Kelsey Singer; Jenna Baker; Leanne Scudder; and Caitlin LaValley. Foreground: Kalamazoo Sheriff’s Deputy Phil Neuman with Apollo.

College announces highest spring enrollment in school history Olivet once again reached record breaking enrollment with 1,075 students for the spring semester. In addition, it is the first time undergraduate spring enrollment has surpassed 1,000 students at Olivet. “I am very pleased with enrollment this spring,” said President Don Tuski ’85, Ph.D. “This puts us in an excellent position for the next academic year. The enrollment and retention staff, as well as all employees who work with students, are to be congratulated.” Olivet’s enrollment continues to increase each semester thanks to improved facilities, academic programs, and recruiting and retention efforts. According to Larry Vallar ’84, vice president for enrollment management, much of the college’s success can also be attributed to programs such as an improved scholarship campaign

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and the Community Connection Grant, which greatly reduces the cost of tuition for students from nearby communities. “Olivet College continues to be the school of choice for many students in Michigan,” said Vallar. “Parents and students alike are demanding a quality education at an affordable price. Olivet College continues to proudly serve its mission in making a private, liberal arts education affordable, which is especially important to students during these tough Larry Vallar ’84 economic times.”

Olivet receives “Pay It Forward” grant

Top five seniors recognized

Olivet College has received a $5,000 “Pay it Forward” grant through Michigan Campus Compact (MCC) to support a student philanthropy program on campus. The grant, which is renewable each semester for two years at the full amount, is funded by the Corporation for National and Community Service (Learn and Serve America Higher Education). According to MCC, the purpose of the “Pay it Forward” initiative is to develop a new generation of philanthropists through a course-based, service-learning environment that engages college students in hands-on philanthropy, grant making, and service while providing community nonprofits with much needed assistance. Campuses selected for the grant must redistribute $4,500 of the award money to local nonprofit 501C(3) agencies through a mini grant process at the determination of the students in the program, while the remaining $500 will be used to support course activities related to the project. The grant will focus efforts in three needs areas: children and youth programs; neighborhood development and revitalization; and hunger, homelessness and health issues. Olivet College is using the grant to fund an interdisciplinary exploration course titled “IDS EXP: How to Change the World.” The course is designed to teach students about philanthropy and social entrepreneurship and satisfies the college’s service learning requirement. Coursework includes redistributing the $4,500 to local nonprofit organizations, as well as discussing case studies of significant philanthropic efforts in the United States and throughout the world. A discussion of philanthropy at Olivet College is also included.

Olivet College recognized the best of its student body at the annual Honors Convocation Wednesday, April 14 in Mott Auditorium. The Donald A. Morris Awards are presented each year to the top five graduating seniors with the highest grade point average and the professor whom each student deems the most influential in his or Donald Morris, Ph.D. her academic career. The 2009-10 recipients are: Justin Gargus, of Bangor; Jennifer Malm, of Bridgman; Karlie McManaman, of Webberville; Megan Rimmel, of Ithaca; and Jacqueline Taylor, of Plainwell. Gargus, an insurance and risk management major, chose to honor Clair Stevens ’80, J.D., associate professor of insurance and risk management. Malm, a criminal justice major, selected Phil Reed, assistant professor of criminal justice and director of the criminal justice program. McManaman, a biology and chemistry major with a pre-medical concentration, chose Susanne Lewis, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry and chemistry program director. Rimmel, a sports recreation management major with a business concentration, selected Bill Maas, academic counselor and head women’s golf coach. Taylor, a biology major, chose to honor Leah Knapp, D.V.M., professor of biology and biology program director. The Donald A. Morris Award was named after a former president of the college. Morris served Olivet from 1977-92.

Congregational Symposium to be held Olivet College, along with the Center for Congregational Leadership and the Congregational Library, will host the seventh biennial Congregational Symposium Oct. 28-30. The symposium brings together interested scholars, clergy and laity to explore historical, theological and contemporary concerns of Congregationalism. Presentations will focus on the theme, “Congregationalism: Leading from the Wilderness – Challenges and Opportunities in the Postmodern World.” The keynote speaker is Dr. Terence Fretheim, a faculty member of Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minn. For more information, visit www.naccc.org, or contact Rev. Dr. Betsey Mauro, dean of the Center for Congregational Leadership at Olivet, at bmauro@naccc.org.

Justin Gargus

Jennifer Malm

Karlie McManaman

Megan Rimmel

Jacqueline Taylor

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Commencement held May 15 Olivet recognized almost 200 seniors as part of graduation ceremonies Saturday, May 15 at The Cutler Event Center. The Commencement speaker was David Campbell, who has served the Olivet School District for 18 years. As Olivet High School principal, he helped open the new high school facility, was Almost 200 graduates were honored as part of Commencement May 15. instrumental in hiring He later became director of admissions, as well. In this capacity, half of the school’s current staff, helped he recruited students from all over the United States and other improve the quality of technology, countries, almost doubling the student body. During the 1962-63 facilitated the restructuring of the school academic year, there were 22 international students and American day so students and staff could concentrate Dave Campbell students from 27 different states. President Riethmiller appointed on fewer classes, and helped revitalize the Gilmour his administrative assistant in 1963. In this capacity, school’s fine arts program. Gilmour initiated a major fundraising campaign which led to the In August 2000, Campbell was construction of the Lester K. Kirk Center, Shipherd Hall and the promoted to superintendent. He was Mott Academic Center. recently named the 2010 Michigan Melinda Timm, of Three Rivers, was the senior class speaker. Superintendent of the Year by the Michigan Speaking at Baccalaureate were Johanna Hughes, of Detroit; Association of School Administrators. Blake Walters, of Olivet; Lauren Siedlik, of Livonia; Amy In honor of his work, Campbell Whitesall, of Chelsea; Kelly Collins, of Olivet; and Ben received a Doctor of Humane Letters, Hitchcock, of New Lothrop. Matt Wait ’99, J.D., director of the honoris causa, from the college. Global Citizen Honors Program, co-director of judicial affairs, Also receiving a Doctor of Humane Al Gilmour assistant professor of interdisciplinary studies and assistant tennis Letters, honoris causa, was Al Gilmour. coach, was chosen by the senior class to speak. Gilmour was hired by Olivet College President M. Gorton Riethmiller ’28 in 1958 to serve as the college’s dean of students.

Gruen and Speare Student Resource Center opens Wednesday, March 17 marked the opening of the new Gruen and Speare Student Resource Center in Mott. Made possible by a donation from Olivet trustee Robert ’57 and Sarah (Engle) ’56 Lawrence, the new office is dedicated to science professors Fred Gruen, Ph.D., and Edward Speare, Ph.D., who had a profound impact on the education of the Lawrences. Fred Gruen, Ph.D. The mission of the center, which is comprised of advising and retention, disability services, career services based on academic discipline, and tutoring needs, is to support academic progress. New as of the 2010 spring semester is the E-Portfolio, which will be coordinated through the center. A staple of the Olivet College education, the portfolio will be shifting into an electronic

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format so as to be more widely available and accessible for students and faculty. The Gruen and Speare Student Resource Center exists to create a platform for students to enter into their careers and post-graduate lives. Part of this objective includes facilitating communication between alumni and students for job shadowing and internship opportunities. This is managed through the coordination of Edward Speare, Ph.D. other campus departments and programs, with alumni across various career fields. If you are interested in providing job shadow and internship opportunities for Olivet College students, contact Ronda Miller, associate dean of the center and director of student retention, at (269) 749-7160, or Joanne Williams, assistant professor of journalism and theatre and director of the Career Services Network, at (269) 749-6630.

Faculty and Staff News and Notes Melissa (Sobie) Casarez ’02 has been promoted to director of admissions. Casarez has worked in the Office of Enrollment Management since graduating from Olivet with a degree in journalism/mass communication. She was promoted to associate director of admissions in 2008. Maria Davis, Ph.D., has been named vice president and dean for academic affairs. She begins her new position July 1. Davis replaces Norma Curtis, who was recently named dean of graduate programs and Melissa Casarez ’02 assessment and chair of the Education Department at Olivet. Davis previously served the college as chair of the Natural and Physical Sciences Department and professor of biology. A longtime educator, she has been part of the Olivet faculty since 1994. In 2007, she received Olivet’s distinguished Livingston Professorship award, which is the highest teaching honor awarded to a fulltime, tenured faculty member of the college. In her new role, Davis will oversee all academic objectives for the college. Her Maria Davis, Ph.D. responsibilities include curriculum development and faculty evaluation; managing the college’s accreditation process; and advising on student retention; as well as a broad range of administrative duties. Davis earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Siena Heights College, a master’s degree in biology from Bowling Green State University in Ohio, and a doctorate in entomology from Michigan State University. Norma Curtis Curtis has worked at Olivet College since 1988. In addition to her duties as vice president and dean for academic affairs, she previously served as registrar and chair of the Education Department, and was instrumental in designing the college’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program. In her new role, she will be responsible for strengthening the MAT program and Olivet’s Master of Business Administration in Insurance program, as well as exploring and developing new graduate degrees. As chair of the Education Department, Curtis will work to further improve the college’s teacher preparation program and serve as liaison to the Michigan Department of Education. She continues to hold the rank of professor of education.

Curtis earned a bachelor’s degree from Alma College and a master’s degree from Michigan State University. She is a recipient of Olivet’s 1844 Award and has served on the Charlotte School Board, previously as president. Nick Glaser ’07 and Corey Jager ’07 have been named admissions representatives at Olivet. Glaser earned a bachelor’s degree in business from the college and is currently earning a master’s degree in business administration from Central Michigan University. Jager is also a graduate of Olivet, having earned a Nick Glaser ’07 Corey Jager ’07 bachelor’s degree in biology with a concentration in ecology and organismal biology. In March, Kirk Hendershott-Kraetzer, Ph.D., Humanities Department chair and associate professor of humanities, chaired two sessions at the inaugural meeting of the Medieval and Renaissance Studies Consortium, co-sponsored by Alma and Adrian colleges and held on the Adrian campus. The two sessions focused on poetry, non-Shakespearean drama and comparative studies, and featured papers on the poetry of John Donne, Elizabeth I, Mary Wroth, John Milton and Dante Alighieri, as well as play texts by William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe, and a variety of medieval texts and American slavery texts. Todd Hibbs has been promoted to vice president for institutional advancement. He previously served as director of institutional advancement for the college. Hibbs earned a bachelor’s degree from Mount Union College and a master’s degree in counseling psychology and human performance from Michigan State University. He also served as Olivet’s head wrestling coach from 2004-09. Don Walker, Ph.D., professor of history, was asked by Bill McBride, chief of staff to Congressman Vernon J. Ehlers, to Todd Hibbs have his dissertation, titled “The Congressional Career of Clare Hoffman, 1935-63,” included in the permanent history collection of the U.S. House of Representatives. The publication was accepted by Terrance Rucker, historical writer and researcher from the Office of History & Preservation, Office of the Clerk, for the U. S. House of Representatives.

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BY MOLLY (REED) GOALEY ’05 has never encountered a task that was Olivet College’s spring too insignificant or too daunting for the semester is coming to an betterment of Olivet College. That is the end, and for the past month, kind of person he President Don Tuski ’85, is – the kind of Ph.D., has been cleaning person the campus out his office. As Commencement draws community is near, and a decade’s worth of books, papers, already sorely artwork and miscellaneous office supplies missing. make their way out of Dole Hall, memories “There are of his long many things I will history with the miss about Don,” college come said Don Rowe, flooding back. Don Rowe professor of art Essentially, and chair of the liberal arts core program, Tuski is who has known Tuski for many years, both graduating too – as a student and colleague. “Some of those and after 30 things are his complete accessibility to years, it’s hard everyone at the college, his willingness to to say goodbye. listen to anyone, his immense capacity for Starting July 1, Tuski will assume work and the sense one got of his absolute leadership of Maine College of Art in commitment to the welfare of the college.” Portland, Maine. It is not a decision he Gary Wertheimer, Visual Arts and wife, Louise, who is a former faculty Department chair and professor of art, member and active supporter of the agrees that of all of Tuski’s leadership college’s theatre program, made lightly. qualities, his wholehearted commitment to “I’ve been here my entire adult life,” Olivet is what makes him unique. “Don’s Tuski said. “From the time I was 18, tireless effort to move the college forward visiting in March. The snow was melting on all fronts was a trademark of his and garbage was on campus and it administration,” bothered me then,” he Wertheimer said. laughed. “That’s why I’m so “He cares deeply fanatical about about every getting aspect of Olivet garbage picked College.” up. As soon as Tuski’s affinity the snow starts for Olivet has to melt I’m eundoubtedly mailing the Don Tuski ’85, Ph.D., and grounds staff Dave Cutler ’65 at the ground- been the fuel for his many saying, ‘Make breaking ceremony for successes as The Cutler Event Center. sure we get it,’ president. Since because I taking the helm in 2001, he has led an really love the place and certain things institutional transformation of the college. bother me. Bad paint jobs on campus Under his leadership, Olivet has bothered me as a student, because those experienced record-breaking enrollment are things that don’t cost a lot of money.” numbers with improved student From stuffing trash into his pockets to preparedness, improved academic breaking ground on new facilities, Tuski

programs, and increased alumni giving and foundation support. Most recently, Tuski oversaw the college’s largest fundraising effort in school history. The $17 million Capital Campaign supported several major building and renovation projects on campus, including The Cutler Event Center, Gillette Student Village

Gillette Student Village

and Riethmiller Blackman Art Building. And while the caliber of Tuski’s achievements is impressive (perhaps even intimidating to those who do not know him personally), underneath it all is an intelligent, personable alumnus who truly cares about his alma mater. Tuski’s relationship with Olivet is deeply rooted on many levels. It began when he was a high school senior, visiting campus for the first time. “I wanted a small college experience, and I wanted to study biology and play basketball,” he said. “Coach Gary Morrison invited me to Edward Speare, Ph.D. campus and admissions was smart enough to connect me with Ed Speare, who taught biology. As soon as I met Dr. Speare, he literally made me feel like I was the only person to study with him. I turned to my mom and said, ‘I want to come here,’ because he continued next page

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made me feel that good about Olivet. My parents didn’t think we could afford it with two kids in college and two younger kids who would go to college, but Olivet, being one of the more affordable private colleges

From left: Don and Louise Tuski; Professor Emeritus Richard Fleming, Ph.D.; Edward Speare, Ph.D.; and Patricia Speare in 2002.

in Michigan, was the best decision I ever made.” Although he’s come a long way since that initial visit, even as a student Tuski would unknowingly allude to his long future with Olivet. “I used to talk with Rich Hamann (’85), who is now president of the Alumni Council, about how we could run this place,” he said. “We’d joke about it as students without realizing how hard it would be. But I loved the college atmosphere and the college culture. I didn’t know if I was going to stay in it, but I enjoyed it – the marketplace of ideas, the intellectual exchange, the discussions. I loved the whole idea of different perspectives of the world. I just had a really great experience and I wanted to stay in higher ed.” That opportunity came sooner than expected. Right before his graduation in 1985, Tuski was asked to stay at the college and serve as resident educator of Shipherd Hall. “I never even moved my stuff home,” he said. While running Shipherd, he enrolled in Michigan State University’s graduate anthropology program, and as the years unfolded,

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worked his way up the respective academic and administrative ladders. Tuski served as an adjunct instructor of science in 1986; head women’s soccer coach from 1988-92; assistant professor of science in 1991; associate vice president for academic affairs in 1998; and vice president for academic affairs in 1999 before being named president. Earning a master’s degree in 1989 and doctorate in 1998 from MSU, he has also continually served the college as professor of anthropology. Tuski became more involved with the leadership of Olivet as a faculty member under President Emeritus Michael Bassis, Ph.D., who served from 1993 to 1998. He worked with Bassis and other employees to create the college’s vision of Education for Individual and Social Responsibility, The Olivet Plan and President Emeritus Michael Bassis, Ph.D. The Olivet College Compact. “Bassis was great because he provided an opportunity for anybody to roll up their sleeves and help make Olivet better,” Tuski said. “You can’t walk into a building on campus and not see something about The Olivet Plan, The Compact or the vision, and he really empowered faculty, staff and students to get all that done. He helped transform the college and I think Olivet was very lucky to have him as president.” Having the ability to make an impact as any member of the campus community is something Tuski values. “That’s really important at a small school,” he said. “I know how hard it is to have your voice heard as a staff member. I know how important it is to be a hardworking faculty member, to be available between classes and to be supportive of your students in their athletics and arts. Having done all that at Olivet makes me appreciate the

faculty, staff, coaches, board members, administrators and students.” For that reason, Tuski has always led with an open-door policy; meaning, no matter how busy his schedule is, he is always available to talk to students and employees. And while he believes that the simple act of listening has made him a

From left: President Tuski; David Hayhow, L.H.D., Olivet College Board of Trustees chair; John J.H. Schwarz, M.D., trustee emeritus; and Larry Colvin, vice president for administration.

better leader, he also admits that balancing different perspectives has been one of his greatest challenges. “I want to please a lot of people,” Tuski said. “Who doesn’t? Who wants to make alumni, the community, faculty, staff, students or parents unhappy? You don’t, and it’s really hard sometimes to balance everything and be all things to all people. But I really try to be someone who supports others Shawn Dowling ’00, M.D. being successful.” Along the way, he has built some important relationships. “I’m going to miss all the different personalities,” he said. Listening to Tuski recount memories of employees and former students, one would think he has a story for each individual he has met at Olivet. He was touched when Shawn Dowling,

M.D., a 2000 graduate, returned to campus this year to speak at Founder’s Day. He also cares deeply for Wertheimer and Rowe, whom he has known since his first days as a student, and has a great respect for Matt Wait ’99, J.D., assistant professor of interdisciplinary studies and codirector of judicial affairs, because serving on the judicial board was one job on campus Matt Wait ’99, J.D. that Tuski detested. Of course, he also has a great deal of appreciation for alumni and board members; especially those who have been instrumental in helping Olivet improve so much over the years. “When I look at other colleges, some have more alumni support and some have less. Olivet’s had improved alumni support and it’s really important, whether you give a little or a lot, to continue to do so,” he said. “I know I’m certainly going to.” But of all the people he is leaving behind, Tuski will miss the students most. “It’s been really great seeing freshmen come in so unsure of themselves and evolve into

President Tuski with former students in 2006.

their sophomore year,” he said. “And some students come in who are pretty accomplished and they become even more accomplished. The students give back so much about their world, their life and their perspective, and that’s why I’ve enjoyed teaching a class each semester. You really get to stay connected and you get so much back from them.” Of all his accomplishments as president, Tuski is most proud of one. “I think, now that the dust has settled, people feel better about Olivet,” he said.

“Even in this current economic environment, Olivet is in good shape. Could we be better? Yes. A bigger endowment and no debt would really help. Aside from that, we’ve become a much more competitive college. Some of my goals as president were to improve facilities and curriculum, and have students and alumni feel good about Olivet. I want them to be proud of the institution, in terms of academic rigor, athletics and the arts, and to feel really great bragging about where they went to school. I think we’ve really accomplished these things.” Now that Olivet is in good standing, Tuski feels confident leaving the college to a new administration. But on a personal level, letting go is difficult beyond just the obvious reasons. The college became a support system to Tuski in 1988, when on Christmas day he received the news that his parents, younger brother, grandmother and grandmother’s friend were killed by a drunk driver. His brother, Michael, had just transferred to Olivet that fall. “In a deeper sense, Olivet became a larger part of my identity because I was here and he was here,” Tuski said. “It became that much more important. Michael was my best friend next to Louise. After 30 years, and now that Olivet’s in a good place, I think I’m finally ready to move on.” Tuski can move forward knowing that he has the full support of his family, which in addition to Louise, includes two children, Ian and Kenna. “This hasn’t been just a job for Don and me, this has been our life,” Louise said. “We met here, married here and raised our children here, but realistically, it is a good time to move on. The college is in a stable place, we are between campaigns and our children are in colleges away from Michigan. But when you invest 30 years into a place you love, of course it is hard to leave.” When the Tuskis arrive in Maine, the new president plans to do “a lot of

From left: Kenna, Don, Louise and Ian Tuski at the 2008 Alumni Christmas Social.

listening” at first. “I’m very interested in working in a collaborative way with the folks in Maine,” he said. “I’ll bring some alumni, fundraising and operational experience from Olivet, and I’ll actually start teaching a class next spring. They’re doing some curricular work which I’m excited about, and I’ll help with recruiting and admissions, and work very closely with the board like I did at Olivet. It will be interesting, and they seem pretty excited about us coming. I know we’re excited about going.” Tuski says he has a “good feeling” about Maine – ironically, it was Dr. Speare who introduced him to the area as a student. “I fell in love with Portland in 1982 on a great biology trip,” he said. “It was really nerve-racking thinking about leaving Olivet, but I said I had to find a place that I had the potential to love just as much. I really think that potential is in Maine… and it’s time for Don to graduate.”

Don’s nephew, Matt McNeil, also graduated May 15.

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For almost 30 years, President Don Tuski ’85, Ph.D., has served Olivet as a student, faculty member, coach, administrator, leader and friend. With his legacy spanning three decades, there are few lives in the Olivet College community that he hasn’t touched. Following the announcement of his resignation, a multitude of e-mails and letters from alumni, former classmates and students, colleagues and friends flooded the Office of Alumni Relations. Below are just some of the memories people have shared of the “Tuski Years.”

Mac ’37 and Ruth (Yotter) ’38 Thomas – We want to congratulate you, Don, with your insights and dedicated leadership, for staying these many years as a teacher and president of Olivet. Since being a student in 1937 through these 73 years as an alumnus, I have never known any president who had equal Mac ’37 and Ruth qualities and (Yotter) ’38 Thomas resultant success in advancing Olivet as an exceptional college. Loel B. Schuler ’43 – Dear Don and Louise: I suppose congratulations are in order, although it feels like a loss rather than any sort of gain to lose you both. I do understand and admire your decision to take on new challenges. And I do wish you well. Loel Schuler ’43

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Even here on the other coast I shall miss you. Do stay in touch. Bob Gillette ’63 – I have worked closely with Don throughout his presidency and have watched him grow into a very effective administrator. I feel that Don was the best thing to come to Olivet since President Riethmiller. It is going to be a real loss to the college. Bob Gillette ’63 We all wish Don and his lovely family a bright future. Tom Martinsen ’69 – I was impressed by Don Tuski’s appearance at the event commemorating the fifth anniversary of the Bill Buchanan Memorial Service. That event featured recognition of recipients of Bill Buchanan scholarships and acknowledgement of a separate William Buchanan foundation. President Tuski revealed an exemplary understanding of the history of the college and a vision for the future of the college. Moreover, I am personally grateful to him for his approaching me after I spoke on the legacy of Bill Buchanan – telling me that he liked my words on that occasion. I wish the best for Don Tuski in his new position in Maine. Rich Hamann ’85, Alumni Council president – I have so many memories of both Don and Louise, that there are too many to mention. I still remember being a freshman in Blair Hall and saying a quick “Hi” to Don. We both were pretty reserved, being freshmen at a new school. Throughout the four years at Olivet College we became very good friends.

We pledged Phi Alpha Pi in 1982, were tennis partners our senior year, and became roommates in the Phi Alpha house. I will always remember listening to Elvis Costello, The Who and U2. Those times I will always cherish. There is one time I would like to share. It was after Honors Convocation and we were in our basement room at the house. We were talking about the times we had at Olivet College, and also the

From left: Kenna and Louise Tuski, Rich Hamann ’85 and Don

potential the college could have if there was money, leadership and vision. I remember it like it was yesterday. Don said, “Wouldn’t it be something if one of us was president and the other on the board.” I am sure Don had no idea that he would someday be the president of the college he loves, but by that conversation I knew where he wanted to take Olivet College. Thank you, Don and Louise, for your love and friendship throughout the years. I am proud and honored to have been your “only roommate” in college. Brooke Compson ’05 (Teacher Certification) – I met President Tuski in a not-so-great, yet amusing way. I was parking outside the cafeteria but there were no parking spots open. I noticed a car parked outside the lines so I

proceeded to park my car on the grass. I went in to eat lunch. When I came out I saw two men in suits near my car. They looked around it and continued on toward me. I walked passed them but didn’t go near my car, because I didn’t want them to know it was mine. I walked slowly; they turned around a few times and then stepped inside the cafeteria door. As soon as they did I made a dead run for my car. As I got in, the door to the cafeteria flew open and out ran one of the men (President Tuski) with his tie flying behind him. I backed out of my parking spot, and he ran up to my car and pounded on the driver’s side window. This scared the bejeesis out me. He then motioned to me to roll down my window. So I did, but only about an inch. I was a little nervous to roll it all the way down – I didn’t know who this guy was! He then proceeded to give me a stern talking to and informed me that next time I would get a ticket. Oh what wonderful way to meet the president of my new college! I learned to know Don a little better throughout my year and a half at Olivet. I was introduced to him at a football game, but told my professor who introduced us not to mention the parking incident. He didn’t. Later in the summer of 2006 I was invited (because I lived in Traverse City at the time and was a former art/teacher certification student) to help with a sculpture installation on Torch Lake with Professor Gary Wertheimer and Don Tuski. The cat was out of the bag about the parking incident now and that I was “that student.” I think President Tuski thought it was quite humorous that I hadn’t told him that I was “her.” The installation was successful and we had a great time working, laughing and teasing one another about who had the most brains of the operation at hand. Thank you President Tuski for making my Olivet experience one that I’ll never forget!

Stewart Halstead ’05 – Attending a post secondary institution 3,000 miles from home makes establishing a sense of comfort and community a difficult task. You would think that it would be your sports teammates, your faculty members, or your fellow new students who help you get settled – for me, it was the president of the college who made me feel right Stewart Halstead ’05 at home. Don acted as my adviser, my guide, my mentor and most importantly, my friend. The support he provided our golf team was unparalleled. He was never too busy to make it out to a tournament, join in on a practice round, or make a congratulatory phone call – proving that he really was our biggest fan. Whether out at Gull Lake or the Medalist, Don may never know how special it was to be able to play with him; getting those four hours of his time meant the world to us. Don was there to guide me through my life choices, always genuine and sincere in his approach. Of my life achievements thus far, the highlight is still receiving my degree from President Tuski and shaking his hand. I’m proud and honored that, still to this day, I remain in contact with Don – sharing stories and laughs over time spent at Olivet College. Times may change, environments may change, careers may change... it’s nice to know that President Don Tuski will be there to inspire and encourage others, like he always has.

Norma Curtis, vice president and dean for academic affairs – Don, as I reflect back on at least 20 of your almost 30 years at Olivet College, I am truly amazed by all the things you have accomplished in your tenure. How fortunate we are to have had someone who was not afraid to roll up his sleeves and work so hard for this institution. Whether it was the work you did with faculty to create Self and Community, the work you did with students to craft the Olivet College Compact, Norma Curtis the roles you have played as faculty member, chair, dean and president, or the influence you’ve had with donors to guarantee growth in both academics and facilities, you did it with such knowledge and understanding, compassion and determination that guaranteed success at all levels. We have indeed been very blessed. Maria Davis, Ph.D., Natural and Physical Sciences Department chair and professor of biology – One afternoon, shortly after I started working here and when Don was still a member of the science faculty, he and I were walking across the Square together, talking animatedly about Maria Davis, Ph.D. some topic of concern. After a pause in our conversation, Don turned to me and asked,” Have you

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ever thought about something so intently that you forgot to breathe?” He and I both laughed about it at the time, but I think this story speaks volumes about Don’s focus. I respect and admire his intellect and his intensity, both of which have served Olivet College well. Don has always been a good friend and a great colleague. I wish him all the best and look forward to visiting him the next time I go exploring tide pools in Maine. Judy Fales, library assistant and coadviser for international students Years ago, I was ferrying church conference attendees between the Arbor Inn in Marshall and the Kellogg Conference Center at Michigan State University. I stopped in at McDonald’s for lunch and saw a retired Judy Fales physical plant employee, Mary Griffin, with her grandchildren. I asked if I could join them for lunch. “What do you hear from the college? I asked her. “Not much,” she replied. “What’s new there?” “Young Don Tuski is the president now,” I said. She smiled softly and said, “He mopped the floors in his dorm with me as his first job in Student Employment.” When I returned to campus I related the story to Don. He smiled broadly and said he remembered. The next time he spoke in Mott Auditorium, he related the story to students in relation to doing their part – no job being too small or beneath them.

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Rev. Mark Jensen, D.D., D.H.D. ’89, Olivet College trustee emeritus – I have known Don to be not only skilled in his particular areas of study, but also a good example of what it is to be a lifelong learner. His various roles at the college have all demanded one who is willing to move quickly along a learning curve. Most recently, in the role of president, he was always ready to seek Rev. Mark Jensen the advice and wisdom of others as he swam in the uncharted waters of administration, fundraising and friend-raising for the college. He learned and he learned well. One gift that Don shared with us was the partnership that he has with Louise. Her leadership and support should not go unnamed. To both Don and Louise, thank you for your leadership and friendship. Martha Perkins, Ph.D., associate professor of humanities – Don hired me in the fall of 1999 when I was finishing my doctorate in Houston, and I’ll never forget how welcome he and Louise made my partner and me feel in this new and cold landscape of Michigan. Martha Perkins, Ph.D. Don even helped us make a decision on buying our house in Marshall (thanks for the remodeler’s

opinion! We still love it!), and one Christmas when we couldn’t make it back East to our families, we shared a Christmas Eve dinner with the Tuski family. I’ve appreciated working with Don in all of his roles over the last 10 years; his honesty and humor have made any difficulties we faced that much easier to address. In all, Olivet isn’t just losing a dedicated president: we’re also losing a good, kind man and his family. Congratulations on the new position, Don. We’re sad to see you go. Phil Reed, director of the criminal justice program and campus safety, and assistant professor of criminal justice – On April 6, 2007 I suffered a terrible tragedy by losing my brother and sister-in-law in a car accident. This was a horrific loss for me and my family and the pain has been difficult to Phil Reed overcome. During the visitation, I remember Don coming to me and other members of my family and offering his support. I could tell that he was extremely shaken by what happened to my brother and sisterin-law because he had suffered the same fate with members of his family. In that time of sadness and sorrow for both of us, he was so comforting. I will never forget his extreme kindness and support, not only for me, but for my brother’s two daughters. His compassion and generosity has had a huge impact on my life. At that moment I realized the true measure of his character.

Kurtz named acting president

Olivet’s First President Rev. Reuben Hatch — 1844–1846

Past Olivet College Presidents Rev. Enoch N. Bartlett — 1846–1849 Rev. Enoch N. Bartlett and Rev. Oramel Hosford — 1850–1853 Rev. Oramel Hosford — 1853–1860 Rev. Minor W. Fairfield — 1859–1860 Rev. Nathan J. Morrison — 1860–1872 John W. Hewitt, A.M. (acting president) — 1872–1875 Horatio Q. Butterfield, D.D. — 1875–1893 Rev. William G. Sperry — 1893–1904 Ellsworth G. Lancaster, Ph.D., LL.D. — 1905–1915 Thomas W. Nadal, Ph.D., (acting president) — 1915–1916 Thomas F. Kane, Ph.D. — 1916–1918 Paul F. Voelker, Ph.D. — 1920–1925 Axel Vestling, Ph.D. — 1926–1930 James King, Ph.D., LL.D. — 1930–1934 Joseph Brewer, M.A., Hon. LL.D. — 1934–1944 Malcolm B. Dana, Ph.D. — 1944–1948 Aubrey L. Ashby, Ph.D. — 1948–1950 Raymond B. Blakney, Ph.D. —1950–1957 M. Gorton Riethmiller ’28, Ph.D. — 1957–1970 Ray B. Loeschner, Ph.D. — 1970–1977 Donald A. Morris, Ph.D. — 1977–1992 Gretchen von Loewe Kreuter, Ph.D. (interim president) — 1992–1993 Michael S. Bassis, Ph.D. — 1993–1998 James A. Halseth,Ph.D. (acting president) — 1998–1999 Frederico J. “F.J.” Talley, Ph.D. — 1999–2001 Donald L. Tuski ’85, Ph.D. — 2001–2010

Bill Kurtz, vice president and chief financial officer of Olivet College, has been named acting president of the college, according to an announcement by board chair David Hayhow. Kurtz will serve as acting president while the college conducts a national search for a new chief executive. He will continue to serve as chief financial officer as well. The appointment was made by the Olivet College Board of Trustees at its regular meeting Friday, May 14. “During these difficult economic times, Bill is in a position to best assure the college’s stability during the search process,” Hayhow said. “As our chief financial officer for the past 18 months, Bill has managed the college’s finances skillfully – and we are certain he will just as skillfully manage the operations of the entire college.” Kurtz has been with Olivet since November 2008. He brings 30 years of financial management experience to the college, including banking, budgeting, financial reporting and investment management. Prior to Olivet, Kurtz served as Bill Kurtz executive vice president and chief operating officer of Monarch Community Bancorp, Inc. He has also held executive positions with several accounting and financial organizations, such as Southwestern State Employees Credit Union, Trailmaster Suspension and Century Bank and Trust. In addition, Kurtz recently served as an advisory committee member to the Miller College business program, a finance committee member to the Community Health Center of Branch County Foundation and treasurer of Branch County Habitat for Humanity. A resident of Coldwater, Kurtz earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Western Michigan University in 1980 and became a certified public accountant in 1982. He has also served as an adjunct instructor of accounting at Olivet.

To view a timeline of Olivet College’s history, visit www.olivetcollege.edu, scroll over “About Us” and click “History.”

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Knowing when to recognize and seize an opportunity can change your life. Tom Kolassa ’69 learned that strategy as a young man and still lives by it today. Without it, he may never have received a college education, led a successful career in the insurance business, pursued politics, or ventured into bar and restaurant ownership. For Kolassa, an opportunity to attend Olivet College was the first step to a lifetime of successes.

As a young man, a Presbyterian minister who was a mentor to Kolassa gave him no choice but to continue his education. “Reverend Smith took me under his wing and said, ‘You need to go to college – get in the car,’” Kolassa said. “He told me I was either going to go to Olivet or Alma, and the first place to go was Olivet. When we arrived, he said, ‘Would you like to go here?’ I said, ‘OK,’ and that was that.” A native of Coldwater, Kolassa arrived at the college as a sophomore, having spent one year at Kellogg Community College in Battle Creek. He studied political science with a minor in philosophy, was a member of the men’s varsity tennis team and joined a fraternity, Phi Alpha Pi. “I still keep in contact with a lot of my brothers,” he said. After graduating from Olivet, Kolassa started graduate school at American University in Washington, D.C. “I realized my wife (Gayle) and I didn’t really fit in on the east coast, so we transferred and I finished up at Western Michigan University, where I was a graduate assistant.”

BY MOLLY (REED) GOALEY ’05 Butterfield Highway. Having recently After earning his master’s degree in received confirmation of a liquor license, political science, opportunity once again Kolassa said construction on the facility came knocking. “I was just beginning to will begin soon. look for a job and a friend of mine called The new restaurant will be similar to and asked me if I had an open mind,” the Lamplighter in Coldwater, an Kolassa said. “I said yes, and he asked if establishment also owned by Kolassa and I would consider the insurance business. Hart. “It’s going to be about 4,000 square I basically got into insurance by cold calling feet and will have food similar to the one in businesses to get more clients. When I Coldwater – sandwiches, burgers and moved to Battle Creek, I didn’t know wings,” Kolassa said. “We expect it to stay anybody – I worked out of my basement. open late – it all depends on traffic.” I was selling life insurance and got into employee benefits to keep myself busy during the day.” Kolassa eventually “What I tell everybody is started his own insurance company, Benefit Planning, don’t ask for a handout, Inc. From there, he merged with Burnham Insurance, a ask for an opportunity to property and casualty agency, show what you can do. and together they merged with HUB International. Olivet College gave me Kolassa is now senior vice an opportunity.” president of HUB International and owner of - Tom Kolassa ’69 Infinisource, a company he purchased from a friend about 14 years ago. “At first the company did nothing but Kolassa believes the Lamplighter COBRA administration,” he said. OC will be a welcome addition not only to “We’ve expanded that to include campus, but to the Olivet community as COBRA and HIPAA, flexible spending well. “The community has been very accounts, payroll, health reimbursement supportive and people are hoping that we arrangements and other human resources hurry up and open,” he said. “It is very outsourcing.” difficult to get a liquor license in the state Though his primary business has of Michigan, but the mayor, the city always been insurance, Kolassa has found commission and Olivet residents all opportunities for success in other areas as participated in helping us.” well. He is a former politician, having When open, Kolassa hopes to employ served Battle Creek for two years as city 20 to 30 students and community members commissioner, two years as vice mayor and to serve customers. “Our success will two years as mayor, and is currently active depend not only on the demographics and with several boards, including: Binder Park location, but also on good service,” he said. Zoo, serving as chairman; Starr “That will be one of our strong points.” Commonwealth; Southern Michigan Bank Kolassa is excited to offer a new place & Trust; and the Olivet College Board of for entertainment to Olivet students and Trustees. community members, but he also views this An experienced entrepreneur, Kolassa new business venture as an opportunity to is also the owner of several bar and give back to his alma mater, which is restaurant operations, including one that something he has always enjoyed doing. will open near Olivet’s campus. Called the “What I tell everybody is don’t ask for Lamplighter OC, the new establishment, a handout, ask for an opportunity to show which is also being funded by Gary Hart, what you can do,” he said. “And Olivet President and CEO of Infinisource, will be College gave me an opportunity.” built on the corner of Main Street and SPRING

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BY MOLLY (REED) GOALEY ’05

Carlos Marín ’66 has made a living of making the world’s top professionals even better at their careers. As a former high school teacher and guidance counselor, he discovered a talent for delivering information in a way that was helpful and easy to understand. He eventually took that skill to new heights. Now an expert in leadership development, Marín has made a career as an independent executive leadership coach. 16

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“In many ways, my job is like a personal trainer,” he said. “If you want to get in better shape and you’re already a pretty good athlete, you hire someone who can help you improve in certain areas. In my case, companies hire me to help their executives become better at managing and leading others.” Marín is hired by multinational organizations to work with executives who may be struggling in providing effective leadership to employees. Based in Escondido, Calif., he travels all over the world, providing service to companies such as American Express, Coca-Cola, Dannon, Dell Computers and Wal-Mart, as well as pharmaceutical companies, accounting firms, nonprofit organizations, hotels and casinos, and more. The executives he works with are often CEOs, presidents, vice presidents or directors who lead large business areas in their companies, often with hundreds of employees. “These are not unsuccessful people; on the contrary, these are very successful people who want to become even better,” Marín said. “Successful people get to where they are ‘because of ’ their many good traits and qualities. However, they also succeed ‘in spite of ’ a few traits and qualities. So I come in and interview the people who surround the individual and ask questions about how he or she could improve as a leader – what are the ‘because ofs’ and ‘in spite ofs.’ I then meet with the individual and deliver this information in a way he or she can benefit and grow from. It is not just about feedback, but rather ‘feedforward.’ Feedback talks about the past, ‘feedforward’ deals with positive

suggestions about what a person can do in the future to more effectively manage the ‘in spite ofs.’” Although he did not realize it at the time, Marín’s days as a student at Olivet would have a great impact on his career. Born in Costa Rica, he never expected to end up at a small college in Michigan. After deciding to attend school in the United States, Marín followed his older brother to Olivet. “It was a totally different context for me. I developed many wonderful friendships and joined the international student club, which had members representing many nations and cultures,” he said. “That was very important because cultural diversity is now part of my career. To share the experience of going to school with people from cultural contexts that differ from yours is in itself a powerful educational experience.” Marín also credits one of his Olivet professors for his ability to help others realize their potential. “I had a psychology professor, Dr. Jim Lundy, who once said there were people who majored in psychology leading toward working and treating psychological dysfunction,” he said. “He also posed the question of what would happen if people used the same kind of skills and knowledge to help others who were not necessarily dysfunctional to develop their potential to the fullest. That really impacted me, and I gravitated toward jobs where the idea became not to treat deficiency but rather to enhance proficiency.” After graduating from Olivet with a degree in psychology, Marín pursued the field of education, earning a master’s

degree in educational and counseling psychology from Michigan State University. As a high school teacher and guidance counselor in California, he developed a program called Students, Teachers and Residents Involved in Drug Education (STRIDE). “Back in those days, an alarming number of students in high schools and colleges were experimenting with drugs, and frankly the schools weren’t prepared or properly staffed to respond to these problems,” he said. “Through STRIDE, I ended up facilitating communication workshops that involved teachers, parents and students learning together. We would also address conflict resolution skills and participants ended up communicating more effectively with each other.” In addition to his responsibilities as an educator, Marín continued his work in development training. “On weekends and holidays I would teach workshops for teachers and counselors in large school districts throughout the Midwest. These workshops were based on a very successful Human Development Program established here in California. I realized I was having a lot of fun traveling and doing this,” he said. “So when the school year ended, I decided to take a sabbatical and do more.” Instead of returning to his teaching job, Marín began training full-time. He eventually became vice president of the Human Development Training Institute in San Diego, teaching effective education strategies to professionals in school districts, hospitals and other service organizations. “In many of these training workshops, people would say, ‘I wish you could teach this at our company. This is

something our employees and executives could use,’” he said. “So I started experimenting with that. Then there was a little parentheses in my career. “There was an opportunity to run an international Master of Business Administration program in Costa Rica for a university based in San Diego,” he continued. “These were experienced, professional men and women who needed a flexible program that would allow them to study and earn their degrees while continuing to manage their businesses. That got me away from education as I had been practicing, and more into the world of developing executives.” A few years later, Marín returned to California. “I wanted to get back to consulting, which was what I really liked,” he said. He joined a firm in San Diego that specialized in executive leadership development and eventually began to work independently. Although he no longer works directly with students, Marín still occasionally advises them on how to realize their full potential. One piece of advice he would give to Olivet students: “Identify your passion – that positive feeling that rises naturally when you are engaged in something meaningful to you,” he said. “Invest time discovering and getting to know what this is for you, and work jobs that interest you. Be willing to do the work and have the discipline and courage necessary to bring your passion to life. Additionally, look for ways to link that which you are passionate about in service to others and contribute to something that’s bigger than you are.”

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Hisatake “Hisa” Shibamoto ex’67

BY MARTY (MASON) JENNINGS ’67

In 1963, Hisatake “Hisa” Shibamoto ex’67 left his home in Japan to study in America with the intention of attending Wayne State University. However, when he arrived at the school, reservations set in. “I did not know anything about American college life, yet I had an intuitive feeling that the school was just too big to learn the things that I needed to acquire,” he said. Hisa’s sponsor, Rev. Irwin C. Johnson, an Episcopal minister from Grosse Pointe, remembered attending a seminar at Olivet College in the 1930s and suggested that he visit the campus. “I quickly decided that it was the right place for me to begin my studies in the United States,” Hisa continued.

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“Olivet College gave me what I needed. That is, attention and guidance from faculty and advisers. “Without those days at Olivet, I know so well that I would not have been able to achieve what I have. Besides the academic challenges, I set my sights on acquiring language skills, adapting to American college life and getting along with fellow students. The new experiences included going out to the pubs, dating someone special and managing my bank account, not to mention making my bed and keeping my room tidy. Many activities in the International Club facilitated my meeting with different faculty members and friends, whom it would have otherwise been difficult to meet. I should also not forget being invited to homes of my classmates in Grosse Pointe, Kalamazoo and Pontiac.” After two years at Olivet, Hisa became “confident in pursuing his academic studies in business.” A student from Korea suggested that he transfer to a special cooperative program at the University of Michigan, where he eventually completed his undergraduate degree. “Many of the students in the cooperative program already had work experience or had completed their military service, and many were already married. Therefore, they were relatively mature, and the academic life was very competitive as a result,” Hisa said. “Many of the classes were taught by professors from the business school, and during the internship semester, classmates were working in the automotive and chemical sectors, certified public account firms, banking institutions, and aircraft companies. That is how my career at Ford Motor Company started in 1966.” Hisa was hired by Ford Motor Co. to help with several projects, including sourcing compact tractors from Japanese agricultural equipment manufacturers and establishing retail distribution arrangements for Ford tractors in Japan. After

graduating from U of M, he traveled frequently between Detroit and Tokyo and was eventually assigned to Tokyo as one of the task members for the creation of Hokkai Ford Tractor Co., Ltd., (HFT) an agricultural machinery retail company, which was started as a joint venture between the Ford Motor Co. of the U.S. and Ford auto distributor of Japan. In 1981, Hisa was promoted from Asia Pacific district manager to CEO. He rehabilitated the company, together with employees, and by the late 1980s, it was a “very solid company with strong share performance and growing revenues,” Hisa said. While Hisa was enjoying success at HFT, he was also feeling a strong obligation to a family business back home in Japan. In 1917, his grandfather founded Shibamoto & Co., which handles steel products and now has seven diverse subsidiary companies that operate independently, one of which is HFT. Being the eldest son, Hisa grew up in an environment where it was assumed that he would eventually run Shibamoto & Co. “I thought it was rather embarrassing to go into the company without much experience or any recognizable achievement for which I would have made a name on my own,” Hisa said. At the same time, his father did not have a successor for Shibamoto & Co., so Hisa “could no longer ignore the situation, and made the decision to leave Ford and join the family business.” Both Ford and the Japanese investor asked him to stay on at HFT, even after assuming a role at Shibamoto & Co. He was offered the opportunity to purchase half of HFT over time, and with that he could become both owner and manager of the company that he had been closely involved with since its establishment. “That is how I became an owner of HFT – more precisely, how Shibamoto & Co. added HFT as one of our subsidiaries,” Hisa said. In 2001,

your superior or fellow employees. Your HFT became the leading importer and managers and the people around you retailer of farm machinery in the Japan know what you are doing more than you market. realize, and what you are doing with a As CEO of Shibamoto & Co., Hisa positive attitude. This will eventually bring also continues to run HFT, which had a good reputation to you. People will be revenues of $230 million in 2009 and willing to help you, and you will eventually employs 560 workers in 40 different have the work that you want to pursue. stores throughout Japan. “My main “I would suggest that young Olivet responsibilities are to ensure that farmers students spend time away from America who buy machinery from HFT are satisfied to learn how people live away from the with the work performed by the equipment U.S.”, he continued. The languages, in which they have invested,” Hisa said. “After all, farmers do not really purchase machinery, but they invest in hours of productive work that the machine is supposed to provide for them. This does not sound like the responsibilities of a CEO, but I am convinced that it is indeed the most important basis for the success of the operation. This simple but often ignored fact is the root of the good reputation of the company, from which we continue to enjoy sales, revenue and profits.” Olivet changed Hisa’s life, Hisa Shibamoto ex’67 and Don Tuski, ’85, Ph.D., in Japan and he has some advice for current students. “Young religions, food, climate and values of the students have unlimited opportunities. people are all different. Experiencing these That is a very universal and true statement differences will become an ingredient in for any period. While the opportunities are achieving long-term success.” equal for all students at Olivet, how one Raised in Tokyo and studying away pursues the opportunities is up to the from family in a different world, Hisa now individual,” he said. lives in Sapporo, Japan, and leads the “Any work that you do is not always largest importer of farm machinery in the fun. It is important that you do your best in country. Following his own advice has whatever you do, even if you do not like the made Hisa a powerful figure in the assignment you are asked to perform. In business world while being humble, kind, fact, if you are given an assignment that you considerate and mindful of his business do not like, that is the time that you should associates, coworkers, friends and family. do your best and quickly finish such But to alumni who still keep in contact assignment, and ask for the next with him, Hisa is still the same person who assignment. I would not complain, as arrived at Olivet as a freshman in 1963. that would not bring any appreciation from

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BY MOLLY (REED) GOALEY ’05 Olivet College has always been dedicated to environmental responsibility – in fact, the Olivet College Compact states in part, “I am responsible for contributing to the quality of the physical environment.” Now, as many colleges and universities make the shift toward greener, more sustainable campuses, Olivet is taking that principle to heart more than ever. In the past two years, the college has constructed one L.E.E.D.-certified building and one sustainable building, installed an energy-efficient campus-wide heating system, planted a vegetable garden to serve local produce in the Kirk Center (KC) cafeteria, and much more – all in an effort to reduce waste and conserve energy. For the Olivet College community, environmental responsibility isn’t just a goal, it’s a priority.

The college

4 recently

received a grant from the Margaret A. Cargill Foundation to expand its environmental science programs over the next four years. Considered a sustainable building,

2 The Cutler Event Center was

designed for maximum energy conservation. The building’s lobby and several offices utilize radiant heat through concrete, which insulates the rooms naturally. The facility also uses an air-to-air heat exchanger in the locker rooms, as well as Demand Control Ventilation, which ventilates a room according to the number of people occupying that space. Built in 2008, almost 80 tons of construction waste left over from the project was recycled, including drywall, concrete and steel.

1 Riethmiller Blackman Art Building is

Slated to open in the fall, Olivet’s

3 heating system was

the first facility on campus to be constructed in accordance with the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (L.E.E.D.) Green Building rating system. When completed, the building is intended to earn silver L.E.E.D. status. Some of the Green Building principles of the facility include using recycled and locally manufactured construction material, reducing construction waste, increasing indoor ventilation, and installing plumbing fixtures that improve water efficiency, as well as an energy-efficient heating and air conditioning system.

recently changed from a centralized boiler plant to a decentralized system. Each building on campus now uses energy efficient boilers. The college will save approximately $225,000 in natural gas and electricity costs, as well as an additional $75,000 in repair costs with the new units.

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The college-wide

Olivet offers a number of

5 environmentally-oriented classes and incorporates environmental issues into many other classes for both majors and non-majors. Topics include covering the role of pollutants and environmental degradation in genetic disease and cancer in the genetics class, to the impacts of environmental damage on the spread of parasites and infectious diseases in parasitology and microbiology. The Natural and Physical Sciences Department also uses live animals in classes and off-campus programs to educate people about environmental issues facing wildlife. Olivet offers Earthbound,

6 a student organization

dedicated to promoting environmental awareness on campus and in the community. Earthbound participates annually in the Michigan Audubon Society Crane Fest, providing educational information on various environmental subjects for adults and children. The organization also hosts live animal programs each year with an environmental focus.

Chartwells, the college’s food

9 service provider, has significantly reduced the amount of water consumption and food waste in the KC by implementing a “tray-less” program. Olivet recently worked with

10 Chartwells to plant an organic

Olivet College’s Natural and

7 Physical Sciences Department has offered an environmental science major and minor since the early 1990s, and has graduated many students who now work in environmental careers, including: environmental education and consulting, watershed management, pollution regulation enforcement, habitat restoration, wildlife conservation, alternative energies, environmental chemistry, sustainable agriculture and many more.

In an effort to be socially

14 responsible as well as environmentally responsible, Chartwells serves only hormone-free dairy products, cagefree eggs, and antibiotic-free pork and chicken, as well as sustainably harvested fish and shellfish.

vegetable garden on campus as a way to provide fresh, local produce to the college community. To date, the college has harvested more than 1,000 pounds of vegetables, which were then purchased by Chartwells and served at the KC. Chartwells works with Coastal

11 Produce of Detroit to purchase as many locally grown fruits and vegetables as possible. This effort supports Michigan’s economy, reduces transportation costs and limits pollutant emissions from delivery trucks. The Natural and Physical Sciences

12 Department is currently working on implementing a new major in environmental education to meet a growing demand in a wide range of venues. The college

13 maintains a native plant garden, which is currently being expanded, at the north entrance of Mott Academic Center.

Each Service Day the college sponsors several

8 environmentally-oriented projects, including work in the Russell and Ruth Mawby Michigan Native Plant Garden and habitat restoration at the college’s Kirkelldel Biological Preserve. Other projects have included building bluebird and wood duck nest boxes; participating in stream and wild space clean-up; and working at the Eaton Clothing and Furniture Center, which promotes sustainability through emphasizing reuse of donated materials and engages extensively in recycling.

The college’s recycling program,

15 which was implemented by Leah

Knapp, D.V.M., professor of biology and biology program director, in the early 1990s, has expanded to include the main buildings on campus. In addition, the college’s Greek societies are working with Linda Logan, Ph.D., vice president and dean for student life, in “going green” by instituting or expanding recycling in the houses.

For more information on all of the college’s green initiatives, call (269) 749-7141.

SPRING

2010

BY JACKIE BOUNDS

Sometimes the powerful persuasion of a friend can pull us in a new direction. That was the case for Chris Brandt ’81 a few years after earning a business degree at Olivet. Brandt was a successful salesman for Ralston Purina, based in northern Indiana. He went on an annual hunting trip to visit friends out west – and took a leap of faith and stayed. Brandt was hunting at the foothills of the Big Horn Mountains in Wyoming with an Olivet College football buddy, Tom Sexton ’80, when he learned of another friend’s business situation. “A friend’s company in South Dakota had a change in business partners,” Brandt said. “Their business was booming and they were desperate for help. They offered me 10 percent ownership of the company, Excel Fire Protection, and I started working with them right away.”

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Excel Fire Protection installed overhead sprinkler systems to meet fire codes in commercial buildings. They designed the sprinkler system and installed the pipe and fittings in buildings. With only three employees, Brandt learned all aspects of the company – from sales, to accounting, to installation. “When Excel Fire Protection started making it big, one of the partners started keeping a little too much of the cash and that didn’t fly with me,” Brandt said. “We had a big disagreement and I learned one of the hardest lessons in owning a business – don’t go into business with family or friends.” Brandt quit the partnership and went to work for the competition. He saved money and took on an additional job to start building his own business. “I knew

exactly what I wanted to do,” he said. “Fire protection was a big deal in the 1980s and I learned the ins and outs after working with my buddies. I just needed to build collateral to get a loan from the bank.” In 1985, Brandt started his own business, Total Fire Protection, based in Brandon, S.D., outside of Sioux Falls. Total Fire Protection is a full-service fire protection contractor offering design, fabrication, installation, inspections, testing and maintenance services for new and existing fire protection systems. According to Brandt, what sets his business apart from the competition is the ability to fabricate all of their own pipe materials. “Most companies don’t do fabrication,” he said. “But we are way out here in South Dakota and we would

wait two weeks to get pipe from Omaha or Minneapolis, so I decided to make that part of my business.” Total Fire Protection works with general contractors to install sprinkler systems on new building projects, primarily big box retail stores, schools, hospitals and multi-family buildings. “Years of experience and an accomplished history of success, along with strong relationships with contractors have led to a successful business,” Brandt said. Total Fire Protection is now licensed to build in 17 states. Brandt says downsizing has been the hardest part of owning his own business. The current economy has taken its toll on his company as well. Total Fire Protection once earned $20 million in annual sales, but business has fallen off like much of the rest of the economy. “I started this company and experienced normal growing pains like any other business,” he said. “But our goal has always been to grow and increase our capacity. When the economy fell apart, we took a hard hit. Large companies aren’t building the big box retail stores anymore so we can’t bid on them. Now we are going after the projects where the economic stimulus money has gone, as well as schools and veterans homes.” Two years ago, Total Fire Protection completed 20 Wal-Mart stores, 20 Kohl’s stores and 10 Target stores, plus some Lowe’s stores and a few schools and hospitals. In 2009, they only completed two Wal-Mart stores and one Target store, as well as a few military projects, schools, hospitals and veterans homes. The company went from 150 employees to 75,

Brandt also owns River Rock Lodge in Pierre, S.D. With more than 2,000 acres of pheasant hunting land, the lodge offers 14 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms and 13,500 square feet of space overlooking the Missouri River.

and those still employed had to cut back their hours compared with previous years. “Thankfully we have a certain amount of customers and quality reputation so we can continue to stay in business,” said Brandt. “Our business depends on referrals from contractors and relationships with former customers.” Brandt enjoys the sales aspect of his work because he says it is the most fun and challenging. “My job is to close the deal and win the contract bid,” he said. “Essentially, I have to sell myself. “One thing I learned from my liberal arts education is how to build relationships with all kinds of people,” Brandt said.

“I make the deal with the company owner or president, and then work closely with the maintenance manager to ensure the fire protection system is operating properly. I’ve built personal relationships with each one and that makes my business stronger.” When he’s not working, Chris enjoys outdoor activities, especially hunting. He also owns River Rock Lodge and Dakota Spur, a 35-bed lodge and retreat center located in Pierre, S.D. Brandt leads hunting trips for customers and friends. For more information, visit http://riverrocklodgesd.com.

Chris Brandt ’81 SPRING

2010

BY JACKIE BOUNDS Sandra (Vedder) Boyer ex ’85 likes being in charge of her own career. She enjoys setting her own schedule, even if that means working an occasional 14-hour day; she will work until she gets the job done. That is the beauty of owning her own business, Boyer Greene, LLC. Boyer Greene, LLC is a full-service law firm management consulting business based in Ann Arbor, with offices in New Hampshire and Nevada. Together with her business partner, Arthur Greene, Boyer offers counseling and advice to small and mid-sized law firms. “As a consultant, I’m hired to help clients enhance the management strategies and procedures of their law firms,” Boyer said. “I don’t deal with the substantive aspects of the law, instead I offer strategic and objective approaches to management issues within each firm. For example, I assist with the development of partnership agreements, facilitate law firm mergers and acquisitions, develop programs for successful lawyer retention, recommend effective billing and collection programs, facilitate conflict management, and develop and recommend programs for associate training and other issues.” Boyer’s clients include law firms that range from one to 125 lawyers, who desire strategic, objective and practical approaches to firm and practice management issues. With a background in business management, she assists clients with becoming more effective in client services and business profitability. Her consulting business started back in the early 1990s when she was working at the University of Michigan Law School. “Lawyers were always asking for help regarding law firm management, so I decided to form my own business,” she said. “Word-of-mouth helped me to expand. I was retained to assist law firms in developing and implementing strategies for management improvements.” With 20 years of consulting experience, Boyer’s expertise includes general management, lawyer and firm succession planning, strategic marketing and development of marketing tools, strategic planning, associate development, retreat facilitation, lawyer compensation, firm evaluation, and personnel management. In addition to her consulting business, she is founder of LEGUS, an international network of small- to mid-sized law firms. Boyer serves as president for the referralbased membership organization of 2,500 lawyers from 63 law firms worldwide. Sandra (Vedder) Boyer ex’85

Olivet and Cooley Law School Establish Groundbreaking Partnership “The membership-based association thrives on the exchange of business between its member law firms,” she said. “Each member’s ability to network and discuss how they might handle a certain issue is an important benefit of the LEGUS group. “LEGUS is a networking resource for lawyers,” Boyer added. “Especially in these tough economic times, even lawyers would rather use the case knowledge of cohorts than work with unknown lawyers in unfamiliar law firms outside their jurisdictions.” Boyer develops LEGUS’s educational training programs. Her goal is to create cutting-edge educational programs for members to earn legal continuing education credits. “I like to focus the education sessions on client services and practices,” she said. “LEGUS members also act as faculty for the educational seminars within the organization.” She also spends a lot of time traveling throughout the U.S. and internationally to personally interview each law firm being considered for LEGUS membership based on their attributes and credentials. Boyer credits her husband and two grown daughters for their support of her career. She is a member of the American Bar Association and International Bar Association. She was elected as a Fellow of the College of Law Practices Management and serves on the Olivet College Board of Trustees. She has also written two books about associate lawyer training and retention, both published by the American Bar Association. Boyer believes hard work, strong professional relationships and marketing via word-of-mouth have contributed to her successful business reputation. She enjoys each achievement and challenge as she stays on top of key issues in domestic and international law.

Olivet College has partnered with Thomas M. Cooley Law School to coordinate curriculum programs aimed at supporting job growth in Michigan’s growing insurance industry. On Feb. 17, representatives from Cooley and Olivet, including President Don Tuski ’85, Ph.D.; Mike Hubbel, director of the Risk Management and Insurance Center and professor of risk management and insurance; Carol Breed ’98, J.D.,

In addition to the educational programs covered under the agreement, the two schools also committed to considering creation of additional joint bachelor’s/juris doctor programs in the insurance area, and opened the possibility of establishing a paralegal program with an insurance emphasis. “This landmark agreement between Thomas M. Cooley Law School and Olivet College is a significant step forward in our community-wide efforts to make Lansing the Insurance Capital of Michigan,” said Tim Daman, president and CEO of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. “The insurance industry is a From left: Clair Stevens ’80, J.D.; Carol Breed ’98, J.D.; Donald L. key component of our Tuski ’85, Ph.D.; Don LeDuc; Mike Hubbel; and Willette Northrup. region’s ability to successfully compete in the knowledgeassociate professor of insurance; and Clair based economy of tomorrow, and now we Stevens ’80, J.D., associate professor of have the educational support to further insurance and risk management, signed a development of the workforce needed partnership agreement during ceremonies to make that happen.” in the Insurance Capital Board Room of the The insurance industry has become Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. an enormous economic force in the “This new partnership will further Lansing region. Insurance companies are strengthen Olivet College’s position along responsible for close to 8,000 jobs in the with Cooley Law School as national leaders region, and are expected to create another in insurance education,” said Tuski. 1,300 jobs by 2014. Expansion projects “Furthermore, Lansing can now be known are underway at Delta Dental, Jackson as not only the home of top insurance National Life and Accident Fund companies, but top insurance schools.” Insurance Company of America. Auto“Today, we publicly launch the Owners Insurance recently purchased implementation of Thomas M. Cooley Law 132 acres in Delta Township to School’s new Master of Laws in Insurance accommodate future growth. Law program,” said Don LeDuc, president In addition to educational and and dean of Cooley. “Our goal is simple, to workforce development programs needed make Michigan and Lansing national leaders to support growth in the insurance industry, in the insurance industry, a goal shared by officials at the news conference also cited the Lansing Regional Chamber and the the need to reform Michigan’s regulatory Lansing Economic Area Partnership.” structure to remove unnecessary and costly The partnership agreement will join the regulations imposed upon insurance Risk Management and Insurance Center at companies, reforming the state’s tax Olivet College with Thomas M. Cooley’s structure as it applies to the insurance juris doctor and master of laws programs, industry and reducing delays and creating only the second such educational litigation in processing benefits claims. program in the nation.

SPRING

2010

Overcoming the Odds

BY CHRISTINE MOULTON, JUNIOR

A room on the third floor in the middle wing of Shipherd Hall has become a home-away-from-home for sophomore Alecia McWilliams, of Detroit. The bright sunlight streaming through her window mirrors the bright, bubbly attitude she carries with her everywhere she goes. McWilliams first heard about Olivet when an admissions representative from the college came to visit her high school. At the time, she was a junior at the Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences. “I was intrigued the most by the history of the college,” she said. “It was small and welcoming. Knowing that being valedictorian would cover my tuition was a good incentive, too.” McWilliams graduated in the spring of 2008 from the academy at the top of her class. But, life hasn’t always been a piece of cake. Like most students, McWilliams has had her share of ups and downs, struggled through some difficult times and because of her hard work, has seen Alecia McWilliams the light at the end of a long, dark tunnel. “I’m very driven,” she said. “I think that is what sets me apart from other women out there. I am a very determined person.” And that determination especially shines in her school work, as she proudly carries a 3.4 grade point average in business administration with a concentration in finance.

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McWilliams loves to help people, which is why after graduation she has some pretty big dreams she’d like to see fulfilled. “I want to start a group home for neglected children,” she said. “Everyone needs somewhere to go when things get rough. Someone has to be there for them.” These words come straight from the heart as McWilliams understands what it’s like to have nowhere to go and no one to turn to. Her mother and grandfather died when she was 9 years old and her father wasn’t always there when she needed him. “It was a bit of a challenge growing up without a mother,” McWilliams said. “I had a mother figure but I wasn’t close to her. In the end, I think it made me stronger.” McWilliams found herself “bouncing around” between foster homes and with her aunts. “Although I never had stability, I promised myself I would not become a product of my environment,” she said. And although some of those hardships McWilliams has overcome are still fresh in her memory, she doesn’t let them put a damper on the success she is achieving here at Olivet. She is a member of Black Student Union, Ladies of Excellence, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. She is also a resident adviser in Shipherd Hall, and a campus engagement fellow through Michigan Campus Compact.

Olivet has opened many doors for McWilliams, who hopes to attend law school when she graduates. During or after law school, she hopes to start her group home, but also a foundation for Leukemia patients. “My brother was killed when I was younger too,” she said. “His only child, a daughter, died from Leukemia. The foundation would pay for the patients’ treatments when their families couldn’t.” McWilliams’ ambitions come from the motivational support of two people – one a life-long friend and the other, a staff member at Olivet. “My friend never gave up,” McWilliams said. “She had a baby when she was 16, but that didn’t stop her from graduating with me as salutatorian. And then it didn’t stop her from being accepted into Michigan State University or from getting scholarships or straight A’s. I admire her determination and her will to succeed. “Ronda Miller has been there for me since day one,” McWilliams added. Miller, who now serves the college as director of student retention, was the admissions representative who visited McWilliams’ high school. “I know I can depend on her without ever being judged.” These two people are important to McWilliams because shortly after her mother died, a family friend told her she would be pregnant at age 16 and would have to drop out of school. McWilliams would like that individual to see her now. For all of the young men and women who may find themselves walking along the same path that she once took, McWilliams would like to offer them one very important thing – hope. “I know people who’ve been through worse than me,” she said. It doesn’t matter where you’ve been in life; it matters where you’re going. If you have a dream, you have to chase it.”

Embracing Every Opportunity

BY AMBER LECLEAR, SOPHOMORE

Senior Blake Brannick, of Jackson, may very well be the busiest guy on campus. From the basketball court to the biology lab and everywhere in between, he never misses an opportunity. A biology major with a pre-medical concentration, Brannick serves as vice president of Alpha Pi Epsilon, Olivet’s pre-medical honors society. He is also a council member of the Society of Hosford Scholars; a member of the men’s varsity basketball team, where he has played for four years as a guard; a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Newman Society for Catholic students; and a resident adviser for Shipherd Hall. Along with all the extracurricular activities, Brannick also works as an emergency medical technician at Ingham Regional Medical Center and Blake Brannick volunteers at Eaton County Hospice in Charlotte. “I deal with a pretty demanding schedule and there is not a lot of down time, but I just really focus and give my best effort to everything I do,” he said. Brannick also participates in college service trips, the most memorable being one to Heifer Ranch his freshman year. Located in Little Rock, Ark., the ranch is a learning center that promotes sustainable solutions to global hunger, poverty and degradation. “That was a great experience,” he said. “I learned a lot about those living in poverty, and how much need there is around the world and in the United States.” As Brannick reflected on his time here at Olivet he said, “I’ve met a lot of great

people and made lifelong friends. Olivet has helped me achieve my goal of getting into medical school, and has helped me become the person I am today. I am sad to leave but excited for the new things to come.” After graduation, Brannick will be attending the University of Medicine and Health Sciences on the Caribbean island of St. Kitts. “Becoming a physician is my dream; I have always had a passion for medicine,” he said. Brannick credits his adviser Maria Davis, Ph.D., Natural and Physical Sciences Department Chair and professor of biology, as one of his main driving forces here at Olivet. “Maria has a genuine care for all of her students, not just me,” he said. “She really makes sure students are ready for life after Olivet, and I am very fortunate to have had her as an adviser. I also want to thank all of my professors here, for pushing me to be the best that I can be.” Davis speaks highly of Brannick, as well. “We are proud of his accomplishments and look forward to hearing from him as he navigates the next step in his professional career – medical school,” she said. Along with Brannick’s heavy schedule comes a great deal of responsibility, and all of that responsibility comes with a need for motivation. “My motivation comes from within, to be the best I can be,” he said. “I want to use the talent given to me and not let a day or an opportunity slip through my fingers.”

Student News and Notes Members of Phi Beta Lambda, the college’s student organization for business majors and minors, participated in several service projects during the academic year. The projects included: hosting a book sale and pop can drive to support March of Dimes; participating in Adopt-a-Highway; and delivering Easter baskets, Halloween treat bags and receiving blankets to the Battle Creek Health Systems and Sparrow Hospital maternity wards. In December, two students rescued a woman’s dog from a frozen pond. Judy Hylen, wife of Jim Hylen ’74, called the Office of Alumni Relations to express her gratitude to Chris Heisler, a freshman from Olivet, and Chris Mattea, a sophomore from Bellevue, for going out on dangerous ice to save her dog, Shiloh. In February, members of the 2010 Adelphic Alpha Pi pledge class volunteered with Eaton County Project Homeless Connect, a program that provides essential services to the homeless. Nick Coppersmith, a junior from Battle Creek; James Dye, a sophomore from Newaygo; Scott Kuhnlein, a junior from Stevensville; Cameron Sich, a sophomore from Saginaw; Ben Steffler, a sophomore from Lapeer; Jeremy Szymanski, a senior from Center Line; Dwight Tillis, a sophomore from Oak Park; and Kyle Warner, a senior from West Bloomfield, assisted the organization with breaking down displays, stacking tables and chairs, carrying boxes, and cleaning public areas for the program. In February, members of Mu Omega Pi Fraternity hosted a benefit dinner for the people of Haiti at Memories Restaurant in Buchanan. Senior Alex Hill, of Berrien Springs, coordinated the event with his mother, Sheryl, who manages the restaurant. Half the proceeds from the dinner, which included live music and a raffle, were donated to the Olivet College Haitian Relief Fund. The JHD, a band fronted by seniors Justin Hutchison and Blake Walters, both of Olivet, recently took first prize at the Hometown Rock Crown competition held at The Loft in Lansing. The students and their band mate, Geoff Britton, a senior at Western Michigan University, received $1,500 in prize money. In addition, the band’s first single was aired on 97.5 WJIM-FM in Lansing.

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2010

The College Moves Forward When Alumni Give Back Contributing to the Olivet College Annual Fund allows the college to continue developing quality educational programs in a stimulating environment; closing the gap between student cost and student experience. Your investment to the Annual Fund, which begins each July 1 and runs through June 30, helps cover the costs of programs and services such as, athletic teams, endowed scholarships, student life programs, technology, facilities and more. It is critical that the Annual Fund is supported each and every year. Its growth allows us to meet the rising cost of education, start new programs and strengthen existing ones, and plan for a fiscally sound future. At Olivet, it’s about the students. They have dreams and aspirations. And they have the future in their hands. Your actions today will make a positive impact on generations of students who choose Olivet College. The better prepared they are to take the reins when their time comes, the better our future will be. It’s also about your legacy. We benefit today from those who were generous in the past. We now have the opportunity to ensure that future generations will say the same about us. Enhancing the college’s reputation depends on Olivet’s recognition as an institution where alumni value their diplomas and maintain their commitment long past graduation. Your donation to the Annual Fund helps ensure that Olivet students receive the best education possible and remain competitive in the job market.

Our Students Need Your Support “Without donations to the Annual Fund, I would not have been able to enjoy and participate in so many extracurricular activities. Organizations, such as the Echo, Garfield Lake Review, Helping Hands and Hosford Honor Society added another dimension of learning and creativity to the education I received at Olivet College.” Katelyn Harmon, senior Augusta “The Olivet College Annual fund provides not only a generous contribution to the education of more than 1,000 of my peers, but more importantly helps to develop the atmosphere of community that makes Olivet College such a unique place. “The microscopes, chemical testing kits, facilities and countless other materials that I use every day are essential to my growth both as a student and as a globally conscious citizen. Without donations to the Annual Fund, I would not be able to have these experiences.” Michael Harden, senior St. Johns

school. The Annual Fund helped me with the Presidential Achievement Scholarship for having good grades in high school. It is very important for alumni to keep donating to the Annual Fund because the economy in this state is very poor and people need as much help as they can get right now.” Lukas Linn, senior Harbor Beach “As a college student, I have been majorly affected by the cuts to the Michigan Tuition Grant. If alumni donate to the Olivet College Annual Fund, more students would be able to go to school here comfortably.” Demetris Mayberry, senior Detroit “In these tough economic times, a student needs as much financial aid as possible. I’m not eligible for federal or private grants, so I have to rely on school scholarships and student loans to pay for my college. Losing the Michigan Promise Scholarship had a great impact on my tuition. The more money that goes toward the Annual Fund means that there will be more scholarships for students.” Taylor MacDonald, freshman, Grosse Pointe Woods

“After the Michigan Tuition Grant was reduced this year, I ended up taking out a huge loan to pay for

The key to the success of the Annual Fund is participation. Even if you’ve never made a gift before, now is the time to support your alma mater. Please make your gift today.

Development

NEWS

Ringing in the New Year – FY2011 As spring sneaks up on summer in southwest Michigan, it’s not just the seasonal change that occurs at Olivet College. Here, another calendar of sorts is in action as June turns to July. You see, when July 1 rolls around, Olivet College will enter a new fiscal year, FY2011. You may have received a recent mailing about the Olivet College Annual Fund, as the Office of Institutional Advancement is making its year-end push to ensure that the college closes FY2010 as financially strong as Todd Hibbs possible. Of course all donations – regardless of which program they support – received through June 30, 2010, are recorded as a part of FY2010. We hope that you’ll consider making a gift to close the year, whether it’s your first in this fiscal cycle or even an

additional bonus. But soon our focus will turn to FY2011. And what can we say about this upcoming time? What is in store for Olivet College in a new year? The approaching fiscal year will indeed be a unique one for Olivet College. After all, the college will begin the year with a newly named acting president in Bill Kurtz, and in the middle of a nationwide search for a permanent president. So, what does this mean for development? Will Olivet College continue to raise funds during this period? You can bet on it! With the momentum that Olivet College has created from its last capital campaign – the largest in college history – the Office of Institutional Advancement will continue to move forward in advancing an institution that is experiencing record growth, both in terms of enrollment and in brick-and-mortar improvements. And as plans develop for the next campaign, our current focus will be on an even stronger annual fund,

student scholarships and in continuing to improve our celebrated programs. Still, this will be a time when support from our alumni and friends will be more critical than ever. As Olivet College looks to attract tremendous candidates for the vacant presidency, we will highlight the support that we have seen in recent years from so many of you as a sign of our bright future. Indeed, what you have begun will carry on. We’ll see you in the new year, FY2011, that is.

For more information on giving or naming opportunities, contact: The Office of Institutional Advancement 320 S. Main St., Olivet, MI 49076 (269) 749-7630 www.olivetcollege.edu

If Everyone Reading This Magazine Sent This Olivet College would receive $200,000 and could: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Award 200 more non-endowed scholarships per year Renovate 20 dormitory bathrooms on campus Fund the development of four Smart Classrooms Provide all new amenities for the Riethmiller Blackman Art Building, Jare Klein Wrestling Room and Oaks Theatre combined, or 5. Cover the expenses of Shipherd’s Record for the next six years ...and that is just year one! This little check could go a long way. (Now imagine what a $1,000 check could do.) To make a gift to the Olivet College Annual Fund, contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at (269) 749-7630 or via e-mail at advancement@olivetcollege.edu. Or visit Olivet’s Web site at www.olivetcollege.edu and click on “Make a Gift.”

SPRING

2010

BY GEOFF HENSON freestyle, 100-yard backstroke and 200In March, the National Collegiate yard backstroke. With a seventh-place Athletic Association (NCAA) finish in the 100 backstroke, he earned announced Olivet College junior Kellen All-American honors for the second Beckwith, of Farmington Hills, as the consecutive recipient of the Elite season. He 88 for Division III finished the men’s swimming and race in a diving. school-record The Elite 88, time of 50.16 an award founded seconds. by the NCAA, Beckwith also recognizes the true broke the essence of the school record student-athlete in the 200 by honoring the backstroke, individual who has touching the reached the pinnacle wall in of competition at the 1:51.30. He is national chamthe only male pionship level in his swimmer in or her sport, while school history also achieving the to be a twohighest academic time Allstandard among his American. or her peers. The “Kellen Elite 88 is presented exemplifies to the studentwhat the Elite athlete with the 88 award is highest cumulative about,” said grade point average Olivet Head (GPA) participating Kellen Beckwith proudly displays his awards Swimming and at the finals site for Diving Coach each of the NCAA’s Jake Taber. “When the NCAA set out to 88 championships. develop the Elite 88, he was exactly the Beckwith was presented with the type of person and student-athlete they award at a banquet prior to the start of had in mind. Kellen is someone who the 2010 NCAA Division III National achieves at a very high level in everything Championships. He carries a perfect 4.0 he does. He is also a very organized and GPA in mathematics. committed young man who works “I am still in shock,” Beckwith said extremely hard because he understands via phone interview the day after his successes are related to how hard he receiving the award. “When they works.” announced my name as the recipient, I For the award, all GPAs are based on was speechless. I could not believe I was a straight grading scale to ensure the recipient of such a prestigious award. consistency among institutions. Ties are I feel all of my hard work in the broken by the number of credits classroom has paid off.” completed. Eligible student-athletes are At the national championships, sophomores or above who have Beckwith competed in the 50-yard 30

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participated in their sport for at least two years with their school. They also must be an active member of the team, traveling and competing at the championship level. “Every time I spoke with someone in the membership about the Elite 88 program, they got excited and felt this type of recognition for academic success on a national stage was a long time coming,” said Mark Bedics, NCAA associate director of media coordination and championships. Bedics was a member of the original project team that developed the concept. “So many NCAA student-athletes excel in both the classroom and on the field of play; we felt this was a natural way to bring attention to and recognize those individuals who so deserve,” he said. In addition to his success at the national level, Beckwith was named to the All-Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association Swimming and Diving Team for the third straight season. At the 2010 MIAA championships, he placed third in the 100 backstroke, sixth in the 200 backstroke and eighth in the 50 freestyle. Beckwith also swam on the second-place 200-yard freestyle relay as well as three third-place relays. His preliminary time of 51.24 seconds in the 100 backstroke qualified him for the national championships. Beckwith is only the second swimmer in school history to qualify for three national championships.

“Kellen exemplifies what the Elite 88 award is about,” said Olivet Head Swimming and Diving Coach Jake Taber.

Comet NEWS & NOTES The men’s basketball team finished the season with a 14-13 overall record and was fourth in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) with a 9-7 record. The Comets advanced to the MIAA tournament semifinals for the second straight season and for only the fourth time in school history. During the season, Olivet beat Hope College on its home court for the first time since Feb. 12, 1994. Junior center Michael McClary, of Bellaire, had one of the most successful seasons of any player to come through Olivet’s program. He broke the college’s single-season record for field goals made (222) and attempted (430), tied the record for blocks (44) and Michael McClary nearly broke the scoring record with 534 points. McClary also had the thirdbest total for rebounds (297). He was the third player in school history to be the MIAA scoring champion, averaging 21.9 points in 14 league games. McClary also led the conference in rebounding at 11.0 rpg. For his efforts, he earned the following postseason honors: MIAA Most Valuable Player First-team All-MIAA First-team D3hoops.com and National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) All-Great Lakes Region Third-team NABC All-American Honorable Mention D3hoops.com All-American Third-team DIII News All-American Juniors Nathan Jennings, of Grant, and Andre Evans, of Muskegon, earned second-team All-MIAA honors. Jennings averaged 13.5 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. Evans posted a 12.1 scoring average, and led the team with 139 assists and 47 three-pointers. Sophomore Olivia Yarrell, of Lansing, was a second-team All-MIAA selection for women’s basketball. She ranked second on the team in scoring (10.9 ppg) and rebounding (6.4 rpg).

Juniors Kellen Beckwith, of Farmington Hills, and Rafe Maxwell, of Bay City, were named to the All-MIAA Men’s Swimming and Diving team. They helped the Olivet men finish in thirdplace at the 2010 MIAA Championships. Maxwell won the MIAA Championship in the 200-yard butterfly, stopping the clock in a school record time of 1:54.80. (See related article on page 30.) Junior Vince Tucker, of Clio, competed at the 2010 NCAA Division III Wrestling Championships. Despite falling short of earning AllVince Tucker American honors, he ended his season with a 30-5 record. At the conclusion of the championships, Olivet Head Coach Brandon Brissette was named the National Wrestling Coaches Association Division III Rookie Coach of the Year. In his first season as head coach, he guided the Comets to an 8-8 dual match record and third-place Brandon Brissette finishes at the MidStates Conference Tournament and NCAA Midwest Regional.

The women’s soccer team received the 2008-09 National Soccer Coaches Association of America/Adidas Team Academic Award. The Comets, who received the award for the seventh straight season, posted a 3.28 team cumulative grade point average.

Ethan Felsing

Mike May

Juniors Mike May, of Mason, and Ethan Felsing, of Mason, were named to the 2009 Men’s Soccer All-Central Region second- and third-team, respectively. Seniors Pat Clasgens, of Livonia; Alex Hill, of Berrien Springs; Ryan Patten, of Charlotte; and Hakeem Yakubu, of Kalamazoo, participated in the Division III Football Senior Classic Dec. 5, in Salem, Va. In addition, Patten earned second-team D3football.com All-North Region Hakeem Yakubu honors.

2010 VARSITY FOO TB ALL SCHEDULE FOOTB TBALL Sept. 4 Sept. 11 Sept. 18 Sept. 25 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23 Oct. 30 Nov. 6 Nov. 13

@ Wittenberg (Ohio) ELMHURST (Ill.) (AHOF Day) NORTH CENTRAL (Ill.) WHEATON (Ill.) ADRIAN (Homecoming) @ Kalamazoo ALBION @ Trine (Ind.) ALMA @ Hope

7 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 6 p.m. 2 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m.

CAPS denote home game SPRING

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1920s

Lawrence “Larry” Lewis ’53 launched an Internet comic strip May 3, titled “Les & May.” New dailies appear Monday through Friday. A lifelong cartoonist, Lewis drew for Olivet student publications, and wrote and drew the syndicated comic strip “Campus Clatter” from 1969-76. E-mail Larry at lelewis2013@comcast.net.

Frances (Friend) Collins ’28 celebrated her 103rd birthday Feb. 20. She moved to Florida a year ago to be closer to her daughter and son-in-law, Nancy (Collins) ’56 and Jack ’57 Fieldman.

1930s Larida (Scott) Petersen ’31 celebrated her 100th birthday Jan. 23, in the parlor of the Olivet Congregational Church. More than 100 people attended, Frances (Friend) Collins ’28 including Larida’s four sons, Michael ’64, Steve ’67, Francis ’69 and John ’80; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; “Mac” ’37 and Ruth (Yotter) ’38 Thomas; Dr. Richard Rasmussen ’35; and active members of Sigma Beta and Phi Alpha Pi. (See related article, inside back cover.)

1940s Mary J. (Sternlight) Miller ’45 is living in Tennessee, near her son and grandchildren. She taught in the Cincinnati Public Schools before retirement. Mary married Richard “Dick” J. Miller ’46 in 1945. While at Olivet, he studied under artist-in-residence Milton Horn. Dick was in the Army Air Corps during World War II and did graduate work at Michigan State University. He had several public and private sculpture commissions: “Two Figures,” for Xavier University in Golf Manor near Cincinnati; “Figure in the Garden of Adeth Israel Synagogue;” “John Roebling,” by the Roebling Bridge; and several others. Dick passed away in June 2008. E-mail Mary at rjmiller@eos.net. Rev. Leonard Stark ’49 retired as minister of the Pleasant Hill Community Church United Church of Christ in Tennessee. He has been involved with the Victim Offender Reconciliation Program in Lima, Ohio, and Pleasant Hills, Tenn. He is a minister in the prisons and in 1980 he founded a halfway house for men and women in Lima, which still exists today. Leonard works with the Community Reconciliation Program, reviewing about 1,000 prisoner cases a year in Tennessee.

1950s Rev. Arthur R. Stratemeyer ’51 and wife, Alice, live in Illinois. They recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary. On June 13, Rev. Arthur R. ’51 and Alice Stratemeyer Art was honored by St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Franklin Park, Ill., where he served as minister from 1967-80. E-mail Arthur at astrat@sbcglobal.net.

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Dave McConnell ’57 and wife, Marchelle, are living on Marchelle’s family farm in north central Mississippi where they moved from Maryland in 1989, the year they retired. Their small town was featured in the Steve McQueen movie, “The Reivers.” E-mail Dave at mconl1@yahoo.com.

1960s Robert Johnson ’60 and wife, Patricia, have been married for 53 years. The Johnsons live in Saginaw and have three children and four grandchildren. E-mail Robert at JohnsonRL2@sbcglobal.net. Robert McDonagh ’60 retired at the age of 58 after teaching social studies for 25 years in the Flint elementary schools. Robert received his master’s and educational science degrees from Central Michigan University. He also served in the Navy and Navy Air Reserves. Robert and wife, Barbara, live in Florida. E-mail Robert at airpark@embarqmail.com. Carolyn (Langridge) Wiles ’63 and husband, Charlie, have been married for 26 years. They live in Arizona, where Carolyn is serving as certification administrator for the American Council for Accredited Certifications after teaching language and literature for more than 25 years in Arizona, Florida and Michigan. E-mail Carolyn at Carolyn@carolynwiles.com. Dave Young ’64 retired from General Motors/Delphi in May 2002. Wife, Nancy (Jacobs) ’62, retired from the Michigan Public School system in January 2001. They live in Coopersville. E-mail Dave and Nancy at youngcoop@aol.com. Tom Appel ’65 went on a safari to West Africa, visiting Kenya and Tanzania for one week each. “We drove on some of the worst roads in the world to arrive at some of the most beautiful places in the world,” he said. The trip was preceded by a month spent in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam) in 2008. To celebrate his 67th birthday, he traveled to Bermuda. In March, Tom visited Haiti, providing food and supplies for earthquake victims. E-mail Tom at tappel1864@aol.com. Dick ’65 and Jane (Judd) ex’67 Easton retired from teaching in 2006. Jane taught elementary school for 30 years, and Dick taught high school math for 41 years and coached baseball for 34 years. Recently, Dick was inducted into the Bangor High School Hall of Fame for his work as a coach. The Eastons were married 44 years ago on Jane’s family farm in Lawrence. They have two children, Cris and Judd. E-mail Dick and Jane at deaston@bciwildblue.com. Janet (Saltzwedel) Kane ex’65 retired after 16 years from the accounting department of a grocery store chain. Janet is an avid quilter and enjoys sewing, and is nicknamed the “Bag Lady” because she sews tote bags. She and husband, Dwight, live in Virginia and have one daughter, Melissa, 31. E-mail Janet at arkplace3@cox.net.

Thompsons Honored Dave ’56 and Jan Thompson, of Lowell, were recognized as the Person(s) of the Year by the Lowell Chamber of Commerce this past February. They were selected as a couple because of the work they have done together over the years. “When you ask for one, you usually get both of us,” Jan commented. Dave has served as president of the Lowell Rotary Club, Education Foundation, Grand Rapids Public Museum and Lowell Garden Club, among other groups, and commander of the American Legion. Both were also recognized by the Michigan Legislature and Lowell Chamber of Commerce for their work in building organizations. The Thompsons have also hosted a number of Olivet College alumni gatherings in their home and have included Olivet in their wills. E-mail Dave and Jan at rivercommander@aol.com.

Jim Taggart ’68 retired from the Genesee County Sheriff Department in 1978 with the rank of detective sergeant and then began a career with General Motors Security. When he retired from GM in 2008 after 30 years, he held the position of site coordinator for security and fire services at Buick Motor Division in Flint. During the summer, Jim operates a lawn care business and works for a medical diagnostics company. E-mail Jim at Taggart5026@aol.com. Linwood “Woody” Wiley ’68 was named the Boy Scouts of America’s national meeting manager. He has relocated from New Jersey to the home office in Irving, Texas. Woody’s department is responsible for meetings at the national and regional levels and the training center. E-mail Woody at lcwiley@tx.rr.com. Jane Birdsall-Lander ex’69 had an exhibit of her sculpture in the fall of 2009 at The Sheldon Galleries in St. Louis. Jane is the author and project manager of two interdisciplinary curriculum kits centered around public art and funded by local and national grants. E-mail Jane at landerjb@aol.com.

1970s Martie (Graham) Ports ’65 and Barb (Stockman) Decker ’66 hosted Soronian sisters Marty (Mason) Jennings ’67, Jane (Nelson) O’Brien ’65, Reva (Hayes) Parrella ’68, Pam (Boyd) Sigren ’65 and Pam (Bankerd) Snarey ’66 for a weeklong reunion in March in Naples, Fla. As a fundraiser for Soronian, they made shell wreaths and barrettes and painted starfish ornaments and sold them at a farmer’s market. The proceeds totaled $500.

Front row: Reva (Hayes) Parrella ’68, Barb (Stockman) Decker ’66, Pam (Bankerd) Snarey ’66. Back row: Marty (Mason) Jennings ’67, Jane (Nelson) O’Brien ’65, Pam (Boyd) Sigren ’65, Martie (Graham) Ports ’65.

Terry Donnelly ’68 has published his first book, “First You Hear Thunder.” It is historical fiction, and Olivet has a prominent role in the story. It traces the Civil Rights Movement and general political climate from 1965 to 1974. E-mail Terry at terryjdonnelly@yahoo.com.

Mike Pugh ’68 and Jim Taggart ’68 visited Phi Alpha brother Bob Jansen ’68 in Florida in March. They played cards, golfed and went deep sea fishing. E-mail Mike at Pughmichael46@yahoo.com; Jim at taggart5026@aol.com; and Bob at bjansen5103@gmail.com.

Lindsay Chalmers ’70 was promoted to Jane Birdsall-Lander ex’69 vice president of business development, marketing, public relations and commercial operations for Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit. Lindsay is married to Julienne (Johnson) ’70. Tom Moe ’70 was inducted into the Constantine Athletic Hall of Fame. He taught biology and coached at Constantine High School for 38 years, including basketball for 30, golf for eight and track for 16. E-mail Tom at trmoe5@hotmail.com. Barb Boxwell ’71 retired from the family business in 2005 and has been a massage therapist since that time in Midland. She is also an adjunct instructor in accounting at Davenport and Northwood universities. E-mail Barb at bpboxwell@juno.com. Richard “Tony” Lloyd ’71 retired in 2008 as associate director of AT&T California Regulatory and Public Policy Department after 27 years of service. Tony and wife, Carol, run their own small business consulting practice in Kensington, Calif. He is also the senior moderator of the Kensington United Church of Christ and leader of a local band, The Blues Daddies, who have been together since the early 1990s. Their summer home is in Paw Paw. E-mail Tony at Lloyd.r@sbcglobal.net. Doug Semivan ’71 and wife Julie (Abraham) ’71 visited China in March, where Doug represented Madonna University during a visit to Guangzhou Province and Guangdong Textile Polytechnic, an art school. Doug signed agreements between the two institutions for Chinese art students to study at Madonna for one of their four years of study. E-mail Doug at dsemivan@madonna.edu and Julie at djs218@wowway.com.

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Making a Difference in Students’ Lives BY MARTY (MASON) JENNINGS ’67 Arriving as a freshman in 1965, Glenn Johnson ’69 found Olivet to be welcoming but very different from Chicago, his home. Glenn played football, studied, became a teacher and learned about giving back. He returned to Chicago where he taught and coached for 39 years and was named Chicago’s Teacher of the Year in 1987. Glenn has been an educator, administrator and high school football and track coach. In 2009, he was inducted into the Illinois State High School Athletic Association (ISHSAA) Football Coaches Hall of Fame. Previously, he was inducted into the ISHAA Track Coaches Hall of Glenn Johnson ’69 Fame. Although retired from teaching, Glenn coaches football and is the athletic director at Dunbar Vocational Career Academy. His career began at Carver High School, where he established the football program in 1971, followed by South Shore High School in 1976 where he coached football, and took the girls’ track team to a state championship in 1981. Glenn moved to Dunbar Vocational Career Academy in 1988 and stayed for 22 years. Though he has touched many lives, Glenn would say that his students and colleagues have touched his life. He has pulled together football teams by trying to out-recruit the Black Gangster Disciples, a prominent street gang of Chicago. Many of his students came from violent neighborhoods, but once at Dunbar, Glenn would focus on building character, along with encouragement for his students and athletes. Over the years, he has led teams to league, city and state championships, but his main concern has been his studentathletes and their future. His football players generally go on to college, because they have been encouraged by their coach. Some continue in sports, while others focus on their education, which Glenn has ingrained as a vital component of life. On Oct. 12, Glenn will be in Orlando to receive the 2010 National Student-Athlete Day Giant Steps Award. Nominations were accepted from all over the country and are given to individuals who exemplify the meaning of National StudentAthlete Day and use sports to make positive social change. The awards are aimed to honor professional athletes, athletic administrators, civic leaders, coaches, parents, organizations and other individuals who exemplify the ideals of balancing academics, athletics, life pursuits and giving back to the community through the spirit of athletics. Congratulations, Glenn!

David J. Brady ’72 retired from the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) in Houston, Texas after nearly 16 years as CEO. During his 26 years at IFMA he served as director of member services, vice president of education and event manager, vice president of administration, executive vice president, chief operating officer and CEO. Prior to joining IFMA, David worked for the National Association of Credit Management and Michigan National Bank. Doug Kelsey ’72 spent most of his career in management of nonprofit trade and professional associations, beginning as a membership representative and working his way up to CEO. Doug attended the Institute for Organizational Management at Notre Dame University and earned his certified association executive designation in the mid1990s. He is the village president (mayor) of Vermontville and president of the Vermontville Historical Society, and is active Doug Kelsey ’72 in the Syrup Festival Corporation, the Lions Club and the Vermontville Methodist Church. Currently, Doug is pursuing his master’s degree in public administration at Western Michigan University. E-mail Doug at dkelsey@sbcglobal.net. Ken Day ’73 is the varsity head football coach at Imlay City High School. For the past 31 seasons, Ken has been the wrestling coach and has served as a football assistant at various levels. Ken and wife, Debbie (Hartsell) ’73, own and operate Day Farms Greenhouses and the Twister Ice Cream Store. Ken also owns Hortmark, a greenhouse horticultural supply company. They have three children, Holly, 38, Libby, 35, and Mason, 19. E-mail Ken and Debbie at dayfarm@bigtube.net. Rev. Charlotte A. Ellison ’73 is the executive director of the Heartside Ministry, a 26-year-old organization that serves the homeless of Grand Rapids. It provides day-shelter, advocacy, enrichment and pastoral care programs. E-mail Charlotte at revcaellison@hotmail.com. William P. ’75 and Jean (Shaffer) ’75 Blair have lived in Baltimore for 25 years. Bill is an astronomer and research professor at The Johns Hopkins University. In 2009, he concluded a nine-year stint as chief of operations for NASA’s FUSE satellite and is now working on the development of the ground support system for the James Webb Space Telescope (the follow-up to the Hubble Space Telescope, slated for launch in 2014). Bill travels to ground-based telescopes in Arizona and Chile, and posts photos of his adventures on Facebook. Jean is a parttime librarian for Baltimore County while she pursues her love of singing through the Baltimore Choral Arts Society, and is a paid soloist and choir member at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Reisterstown, Md. The Blairs have a daughter, Amy, 23, and a son, Jeremy, 20. E-mail Bill at wpb@pha.jhu.edu and Jean at jean.blair@verizon.net. Sharon O’Brien ’75 is teaching band, choir and theater in middle and high school in the Buchanan Community Schools. She has two dogs, Maggie and Max. E-mail Sharon at vicomptessa@aol.com.

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Jim Wencel ’75 has retired as superintendent at Bad Axe Public Schools after eight years. He has worked for many years as teacher, coach, principal, athletic director and superintendent. Jim and wife, Rita (Shagena) ’76, have four children, Jimmy, 28, John, 25, Nikki, 23, and Holly, 22. Rita teaches psychology, history, French and speech at Bad Axe High School. E-mail Jim at JamesWencel@msn.com. Marcia (Downs) Barker ’76 has moved to Seattle with her family after living in Asia, the South Pacific and Eastern Europe. Her husband, Brent, is teaching at the University of Washington. They have two sons, Edmond, 14, and Martin, 12. E-mail Marcia at barkerbmem@yahoo.com. Gary Cech ex’76 is the pastor of Grace Community Christian Fellowship in Flint. Once a member of The Diamonds, a rock group popular in the 1950s, Gary left the entertainment field after 28 years and later answered the call to go into the ministry. He earned his master’s degree at Michigan Theological Seminary. E-mail Gary at gary@grace247.org. Avah (Derderian) Ham ’76 lives in Los Angeles. She and husband, Warren, have a son, a daughter and one grandchild. E-mail Avah at note4riend@aol.com. Eric Henricks ’77 participated in three sprint adventure races, the Indianapolis 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, Warsaw Sprint Triathlon, Muncie Endurathon Half Ironman Triathlon, a 160-mile ride across Indiana, three other half marathons, a trail half-marathon, a full trail marathon, and a full Ironman Triathlon. E-mail Eric at erichenricks@comcast.net. Pamela Heos ’77 is director of alumni and donor relations at Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing. She had been the director of development at Cooley for five years prior. E-mail Pam at heosp@cooley.edu.

Pamela Heos ’77 and husband Jeff Brancheau

Vincent D. Edwards ’78 began his career with Consumer’s Energy in 1978. He is now the customer operations portfolio and performance director and works at the corporate headquarters in Jackson. Vince received his master’s degree from Central Michigan University in 1995. He and wife, Barbara, have been married for 25 years and have a daughter, Sara, 20, and a son, David, 22. E-mail Vince at vinceedwards086 @gmail.com.

Cathy (Bartlett) Elsesser ’79 teaches kindergarten through 12 grade at Concord Montessori and Community School and serves as organist at the Gaylord Methodist Church. Cathy and husband, Chuck, have been married 25 years and have a son, Christian, 13. E-mail Cathy at chcachel@verizon.net. th

Remembering Cathey (Bucci) Rennick ’79 BY LINDA JO SCOTT Cathey (Bucci) Rennick ’79, died Feb. 3, 2010 in a hospice in Wisconsin after a long struggle with cancer. She was just 52 and left three daughters, Elisabeth, Sarah Jane and Rebekah Rennick. Cathey majored in English at Olivet and went on to earn a Master of Divinity and a Doctorate of Ministry in 2002 from the Chicago Theological Seminary. She served Congregational churches in Wisconsin from 1985 until 2009. Cathey was a writer as well as a preacher, and won various awards for pieces she wrote on cooking and religion. She took just one class from me, an English majors’ course called Advanced Writing, but we stayed in touch for the next 31 years. Just last November I had lunch and a wonderful afternoon visit with her. Even though she was unwell, she was upbeat and inspiring in her Cathey (Bucci) Rennick ’79 positive outlook on life. Many alumni remember Cathey with fondness. As Karen (Wilson) Van Hentenryck ’81, recalls, “Cathey was my pledge mother for Sigma Beta. She was always responsible but down to earth and fun—truly someone who didn’t ‘sweat the small stuff.’ Cathey served as a mentor to several younger students and was always a champion for those who were less fortunate. “When I became aware of Cathey’s illness, we started corresponding again through e-mail. It was as though time had stood still, and we immediately bridged those 30 years since she’d graduated from Olivet. My last correspondence with Cathey was during the holidays. For both of us, the Christmas season is about hope, and for Cathey, hope was a daily event. While Cathey’s time was cut short by a horrible disease, it was obvious that she made the most of the time she was given, and touched and greatly influenced many lives. She will be missed.”

Get Involved in Olivet’s Alumni Council Are you interested in helping shape the future of Olivet College alumni initiatives? Would you like to help decide who receives Distinguished Alumni and Alumni Council Scholarships ? Now is the time to get involved. Contact Marty (Mason) Jennings ’67, director of alumni relations, at mjennings@olivetcollege.edu or (269) 749-7644 for more information.

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1980s B.G. Bradley ’81 and Frank Guarino ’81 recently met in Half Moon Bay, Calif. for the first time since graduation. B.G. and wife, Debbie, and two sons live in Champion, where he is an English teacher at Westwood High School. B.G. wrote a newspaper column for the Marquette Mining Journal and Newberry News for 20 years and works as an actor and playwright for the Lake Superior Theatre in Marquette. Frank also is a community facilitator working with mentally B.G. Bradley ’81 and Frank Guarino ’81 disabled adults at Hope Services. He also works with the Boys and Girls Club of America. Frank and wife, Susan, have four children and five grandchildren. E-mail B.G. at bradleybg@nice.k12.mi.us and Frank at guarinofs1989@yahoo.com. Annette Anderson-Ma ’82 and husband, Frank, live in California. They have two daughters in college. Annette and Frank enjoy traveling, especially to China. E-mail Annette at maantien@hotmail.com. Vern Hazard ’83 lives in Texas with daughter, Alexandria, 12. Vern is the leadership consultant for The Flippen Group, where he trains teachers and administrators. He works with the Arizona Diamondbacks, NASCAR and the New York Yankees, as well as college football and baseball teams, and high school sports teams. In addition, Vern consults and trains with the corporate, sports and education division at the state and national levels, and does some motivational speaking. E-mail Vern at vern.hazard@flippengroup.com. Lori (Sanders) Vedder ’83 was recently named president-elect of the Michigan Student Financial Aid Association (MSFAA). She is currently director of financial aid at the University of Michigan-Flint. Following her term as president-elect in 2010-11, Lori will serve as president for MSFAA in 2011-12. MSFAA represents more than 640,000 students attending higher education institutions in Michigan and has more than 400 members with ties to the financial aid profession. Lori and husband, Michael Vedder ’82, have three children and live in Grand Blanc. E-mail Lori at lvedder@umflint.edu. Michael W. Rice ’85 has been with the Karcher Insurance Agency for 26 years. He and wife, Debra, live in Northville and have three children, Mason, 9, Jaden, 6, and Taryn, 4. E-mail Michael at michael@karcherins.com.

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Kevin Jones ’86 is director of admissions at Warner University in Lake Wales, Fla. Prior to this job, Kevin was director of admissions at Southeastern University in Lakeland, Fla. and was on the admissions staff at Spring Arbor University. Kevin and wife, Tricia, have been married 13 years and have a son, Daniel, 12, and a recently adopted daughter, Tristen, 3. E-mail Kevin at Kevin.jones@warner.edu. LeVon “Vaughn” Seavolt ’86 has been a licensed funeral director for 23 years, working in Charlotte, Battle Creek, Three Rivers and Traverse City. He opened Life Story Funeral Home in Traverse City in April 2008. E-mail Vaughn at vaughnseavolt@lifestorynet.com.

“Vaughn” Seavolt ’86

Gary Tietz ’86 is an enforcement investigations and analysis officer with the United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety Inspection Service in Grand Rapids. He volunteered to serve a 13-month assignment in Afghanistan to help rebuild the country’s agricultural sector. Gary served as an agricultural adviser in Iraq from October 2007 to December 2008. Curtis Kitchens ’86, Mike Hescott ’87, Mike Fontaine ’88 and Lennie Morgan ’89 got together in January for the annual Kappa Sig Snowjam 2010 in northern Michigan. E-mail Curtis at ckitchen@ford.com; Mike Hescott at piklman@btc-bci.com; Mike Fontaine at mfontaine@hfarehab.com; and Lennie at lennie.morgan@willis.com. Terry King ’87 is in his sixth year as undersheriff of Alpena County and is also responsible for the security at the local Air Force base in Alpena. Terry has completed 21 years of Curtis Kitchens ’86, Mike Hescott ’87, officiating basketball, football Mike Fontaine ’88 and Lennie Morgan ’89 and volleyball. He is also president of the Sunrise Side Corvette Club. He and wife, Luciana Zolnierek-King ’87, have been married 23 years. She is president of Zolnierek Insurance Agency in Alpena, where she has worked for 34 years, is involved with the Zonta Club of Alpena, sits on numerous high school related committees and currently is a board member of the Michigan Association of Insurance Agents. They have two children, Kimberly and Douglas. E-mail Terry and Luciana at tlking@i2k.net. Lisa Ogren ’87 is working as a prison counselor. After earning her master’s degree from Michigan State University, she became a licensed counselor, social worker, forensic counselor, rehabilitation counselor and addictions counselor. E-mail Lisa at bubbadella@yahoo.com.

Carrie Bloom ’88 is a full-time missionary to the indigenous people of Tegucigalpa, Honduras. She and the founder of Angel of Mercy Ministries are ministering to the physical and spiritual needs of the Hondurans. E-mail Carrie at charityjoy10@live.com.

Shelly (Burzycki) ’98 and Roger ’99 Phillips live in Detroit with son, Reece, 2. Roger works for Auto-Owners, handling field claims, and Shelly is working for State Farm in the special investigation unit. E-mail Shelly at comet05_2000 @yahoo.com and Roger at rphillips51 @yahoo.com.

1990s Dan Davis ’90 is the head football coach of the sprint football team at Mansfield University in Pennsylvania. Sprint football is a unique game in which every member of the team has to weigh in each week of the playing season at 172 pounds or less in order to play in that week’s game. Only seven teams in the country play. Dan is married to Michelle (Ceasar) ’90. E-mail Dan at dddavis@usa.com and Michelle at michelle40768@yahoo.com. Amy (Gardner) Dean ’92, under the kennel name, Dogma, breeds and shows Great Danes in North Carolina. Their young male, Elvis, recently took Best of Breed from the classes for a four point major over five nationallyranked top 20 champions. E-mail Amy at dogmadanes@earthlink.net.

Amy (Gardner) Dean ’92 and Elvis

Wednesday Lee (Gunder) Friday ’92 published her third horror novel, “Kiss Me Like You Love Me,” on Feb. 14 through Stone Garden Books. Wednesday married Hollingsworth Webster on Oct. 19, 2007. E-mail Wednesday at wednes@wednesdayleefriday.com.

Jamie Culver-Tatman ’93 and Shantel (Diethrich) Launstein ’93 celebrated their 40th birthdays with friends during a trip to Cozumel, Mexico. (See photo at right.) E-mail Lisa at Lisa@inboxorange.com; Shantel at shantel_launstein@hotmail.com; Jamie at jamietatman@comcast.net; Andrea at andgirl4@hotmail.com; and Becky at r_fuller18@yahoo.com. Penny “Magoo” Magill ’93 has been at Westmont High School in Illinois for 12 years where she is a coach, special education teacher assistant and pool manager. While at Olivet, Magoo was the first female student to complete a cross country season. E-mail Magoo at Penwah71@comcast.net.

Justin F. Klamerus ’99 is the medical director of the collaborative cancer program between Northern Michigan Regional Hospital and Otsego Memorial Left to right: Lisa (Minix) Wester ’93, Shantel Hospital. He received his (Diethrich) Launstein ’93, Jamie Culvermedical training at Olivet Tatman ’93, Andrea (Clegg) Recor ’94. Top: College, Michigan State Becky (Fuller) Fillion ex’94. University and Ohio State University and completed his fellowship training in medical oncology at the Sidney Kimmell Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. He recently co-authored a paperback book, titled “A Patient’s Guide to Lung Cancer,” with the profits going to cancer research.

2000s Tim Daniel ’00 is in active duty with the Army at Ft. Hood in Killeen, Texas. He also served in Afghanistan. E-mail Tim at Mackd793@yahoo.com. Patrick Lakatos ’00 was promoted to packaging specialist at Adrian Steel Company, where he previously served as production team leader. Patrick and wife, Gail (Hoag) ’01, live in Tecumseh. E-mail Patrick at plak1@hotmail.com and Gail at gailhoag@hotmail.com. Scott Pratt ’00 was voted by the Michigan Parks and Recreation Association to serve as the region four state representative of parks and recreation. Scott is currently the deputy director of Oak Park Recreation Department. E-mail Scott at spratt@ci.oak-park.mi.us. Amber Soper ’02 is studying at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine.

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Melissa (Sobie) Casarez ’02 competed in her first marathon, the Chicago Marathon, Oct. 11, 2009, finishing with a time of 4:16. Melissa is director of admissions at Olivet College. She and husband, Jeremy, have two sons, Antonio, 4, and Conner, 3. E-mail Melissa at mcasarez @olivetcollege.edu. Rebecca Wright-Somsel ’03 and husband, Neil, are living in Manistee. Rebecca is a teacher consultant for the visually Melissa (Sobie) Casarez ’02 impaired and an orientation and mobility instructor at the Wexford-Missaukee Intermediate School District in Cadillac. E-mail Rebecca at nickywright49068@yahoo.com. Melody A. Betts ’04 completed her Master of Fine Arts degree in 2009 from Western Illinois University. She has a successful acting career, performing at The Marriott Theater in Lincolnshire, Drury Lane Oakbrook Theater and The Chicago Shakespeare Theater. She is in The State Farm 50 Million Pound Challenge commercial, sings with the group Joshua Jeneration and is a member of the Actor’s Equity Association. E-mail Melody at melodisings@hotmail.com. Cody Francis ’05 has been teaching physical education and health, strength training and conditioning, and coaching varsity and junior varsity football, basketball and softball at Hopkins Public Schools for four years. E-mail Cody at codewayne10@hotmail.com.

Melody A. Betts ’04

Amya (Rudnik) Paige ’05 is living in Battle Creek, working as a nanny and an artist. Amya and husband, Jacob, have a daughter, Jaden, 2. E-mail Amya at amyapaige@gmail.com. Melisa (Moore) Rice ’05 is a full-time parole agent with the Michigan Department of Corrections in Calhoun County. She is a part-time trainer for the state and is working toward her master’s in public administration at Western Michigan University. Melisa and husband, Derek, have a daughter, Payton, 4, and a son, Gavin, 1. E-mail Melisa at ricem2@michigan.gov.

Front row from left: Marie Gouba ’06, Christy Kendrick ’06, Margaret Todd ’06 Back row from left: Becky Gehrman ex’06, Katie (Graebner) Ingraham ’05, Carrie Abbott ’06. During the holidays, the alumnae pictured above got together for a mini-reunion in Michigan.

Allison Shakinis ’06 is teaching seventh grade science and coaching ninth grade girls’ basketball and seventh grade volleyball at the School Town of Highland in Highland, Ind. E-mail Allison at ashakinis@hotmail.com. Kristin Bloomquist ’07 graduated May 7 from Central Michigan University from the doctoral program in physical therapy. She plans to work in the area of neurologic rehabilitation. E-mail Kristin at kristinbloomquist@yahoo.com. Craig Carpenter ’07, an employee of All Risks Insurance, was recently recognized with The All Risks Spirit Award, which defines a person whose attitude and performance is the very best. E-mail Craig at ccarpenter@allrisks.com. Jessica (Pletz) Droscha ’07 was recently hired to work security for Olivet College. She had worked at Starr Commonwealth as a youth specialist for three years. Jessica is married to Jeremy Droscha ’07. E-mail Jessica at jdroscha@olivetcollege.edu. Danielle Kapral ’07 is a certified personal trainer in Harbor Springs and Petoskey. She is also a freelance writer for Harbor Light Newspaper in Harbor Springs. E-mail Danielle at kaprald@gmail.com.

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Ann Marie Keisic ’07 worked at a small animal veterinary clinic after graduation. She is now in the veterinary medicine program, class of 2012, at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. E-mail Ann Marie at keisic1@illinois.edu. James Lile ’07 has been promoted from underwriter to senior underwriter at Chartis Insurance Company in San Francisco. He is working in the commercial risk management department. E-mail James at james.lile@chartisinsurance.com.

Kate Strein ’08 went to Haiti on a mission trip in March for eight days. She is a long-term substitute teacher for the second grade in Perry. E-mail Kate at kstrein@yahoo.com. Koji Takahashi ’08 moved to Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan Aug. 1, 2009. He is an assistant language teacher with the Japanese Education and Teaching program. E-mail Koji at koji.d.takahashi@gmail.com. Ann Marie Keisic ’07

Nick McIntosh ’07 graduated in December 2009 from the Oakland Police Academy. He is now a police officer for the Mackinac City Police Department. Matthew Oladele ’07 received his Master of Divinity from Eden Seminary in St. Louis May 14. Matthew plans to take his late father’s place as director of Christ to the Villages Mission in Nigeria. E-mail Matthew at mshola@lycos.com.

Dallas Vanenkevort ’08 recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill. Emma Henson ’09 is working full-time as the Los Angeles program director for the University of Kate Strein ’08 Dreams internship program. Emma went through the University of Dreams summer internship program in London in 2007. She returned to be part of the Los Angeles program in 2008 as a summer staffer. E-mail Emma at Emma@uofdreams.com. Phil Koops ’09 is a high school biology teacher and is coaching football and wrestling at Plymouth High School in Plymouth, Ind. E-mail Phil at pkoops54@gmail.com. Anabel Montalvo ’09 is being trained as a gaffer for one of the new film studios in Detroit. In April, she won the college’s James Coleman Prize for her entry in the 2009 Garfield Lake Review. E-mail Anabel at jaz11786@hotmail.com.

Eunice Oladele ’07 and brother, Matthew Oladele ’07

Deyan Kozhuharov ’08 graduated from Western Michigan University with a master’s degree in business administration May 1. He is working in Battle Creek for the Kozhuharov Insurance Agency. E-mail Deyan at deyan@kozhuharovagency.com. Ryan Scott ’08 is working as an insurance agent for Ackley-PetersHaubert Insurance in Eaton Rapids, specializing in commercial lines. E-mail Ryan at rscott@aph-insurance.com.

John Shull ’09 is working at home in Detroit and traveling abroad for NBC as the Morning News assignment editor for WDIV-TV. He recently returned to campus to talk to students during a journalism seminar. E-mail John at jshull2487@yahoo.com. Anabel Montalvo ’09

SPRING

2010

MARRIAGES

Breck Gildner ’05, a son, Cole Luther Paten, Oct. 31, 2008.

Jean O’Brien ’73 and Irving Burtt, Oct. 4, 2009, Frankfort.

Steve Critchlow ’06, and wife, Kalyn, a son, Reece Michael, March 15.

Mary Dean ’95 and Mark Ellis, March 27, 2009, Ann Arbor. Heather Connell ’01 and Michael Lybrand, Jan. 12, 2009, Mexico.

Denise (Ritzer) ’07 and Chad ’06 Folkersma, a son, Eli Alan, Sept. 6, 2009.

Laura Fitch ’03 and Eric Neusiis, June 13, 2009, Spring Lake.

Jake Casey ’08 and wife, Sally, a daughter, Anna Gwendolyn, March 23, 2010.

Elizabeth “Libby” Gibbons ’04 and Dan Bonnell ’06, July 18, 2009, Grand Rapids.

Celina (Mann) Morales ’08 and husband, David, a son, Eduardo Lewis, June 21, 2009.

Kathleen “Katie” O’Brien ex’05 and Thiago Gonzaga, July 6, 2009, Boston, Mass.

Jackie (Lydy) Moravek ’08 and husband, Matt, a daughter, Mila Layne, Jan. 23, 2010.

Marc Reder ’05 and Beckie Lomba, Aug. 22, 2009, Bay City. Rev. Dr. Peggy (Miller) Riethmiller Blackman, April 28, Madison, Ind. She is survived by husband, Charles Blackman ’46. Peggy was a former employee and longtime supporter of Olivet College.

Tracey Fix ’07 and Matt Nofs, Oct. 3, 2009, New Buffalo. Jake Casey ’08 and Sally Ann Tarmnel, Sept. 20, 2008, Marshall. Mike Durga ’08 and Nicole Gregory ’09, May 30, 2009, Grand Rapids. Jackie Lydy ’08 and Matt Moravek, June 7, 2008, Augusta.

Jessica Petkus ’08 and Greg Jarratt ’09

IN MEMORIAM

Jessica Petkus ’08 and Greg Jarratt ’09, Dec. 12, 2009, Milford.

Franklin Parsons ’34, Dec. 27, 2007, Lake Villa, Ill.

Rachel Tunison ’08 and Andrew Williams ’08, Aug. 22, 2009, Toledo, Ohio.

Antonie “Toni” Krepps ’39, Jan. 10, Homosassa, Fla. She is survived by husband, George Krepps ’38.

Becci Birtles ’09 and Scott Brewster ’09, Dec. 12, 2009, Dewitt. Heather Michalsen ’09 and Nicholas Dixon, June 5, 2009, Canton. James Tanis ’09 and Mikki McNamara, Feb. 18, Spring Lake.

BIRTHS

Helen (Herrick) Schirado ’35, April 1, Lansing.

Carl Wall ’40, Jan. 14, Plymouth. He is survived by wife, Margaret (Berghorst) Wall ’42, and granddaughter Laura (Shryer) VonAllmen ’97, wife of Christian VonAllmen ’96. Betty (Thorne) Stark ’49, Sept. 13, 2009, Pleasant Hills, Tenn. She is survived by husband, Leonard Stark ’49. Judith Shahn ’50, Dec. 8, 2009, Providencetown, Mass.

Lisa (Barroso) Bachmann ’91 and husband, Jeffrey, a son, John Augustine, May 11, 2009. E-mail Lisa at daisy71669@yahoo.com.

Vernon J. Hills ’51, Dec. 17, 2009, Marshall.

Rich Capitan ’93 and wife, Allison, a daughter, Eva Michele, Feb. 24. E-mail Rich at richcapitan@aol.com.

Steve Spengler ’61, Feb. 17, 2009, Hood River, Ore.

Noel Vore ’51, May 2, 2008, Santa Ana, Calif.

Barbara (Kullik) Ritenburg ’93 and husband, Mike, a son, Cooper, Feb. 5. E-mail Barbara at bkullik@yahoo.com.

Tom Coulter ’64, Jan. 4, Traverse City.

Shawn Dowling ’99, M.D., and wife, Stephanie, a daughter, Juliette Therese, Sept. 4, 2009.

Elizabeth “Liz” Baldwin ex’69, Jan. 2, Livonia.

Shaun Gaffrey ’00 and wife, Amanda, a son, Cameron Patrick, June 22, 2009.

Cathey (Bucci) Rennick ’79, Feb. 3, East Troy, Wis.

Mitch Lawens ’00 and wife, Kim, a son, Porter Nicholas, Jan. 17.

Brian Klempp ’94, Oct. 24, 2009, Kent.

FRIENDS OF THE COLLEGE Sally Nichols, wife of Rev. Don Nichols ’57, Jan. 5, North Canton, Ohio.

Jamie (Hinkle) ’03 and Glen ’03 Pafford, a daughter, Lucy Vaughn, June 11, 2009.

SHIPHERD’ S

RECORD

Joe Luongo ex’69, Oct. 26, 2009, Hopatcong, N.J. John Racketa, Jr. ’81, Dec. 24, 2009, Liverpool, N.Y.

Lisa (Chase) ’02 and Travis ’03 Lehman, a son, Bryce, Jan. 22.

Heather (Boultinghouse) Finnie ’05 and husband, Pete, a daughter, Olivia, Aug. 17, 2009.

Stephanie “Sis” (Wagner) Kanten ’64, March 18, Chelsea.

Elizabeth Shaffer, Jan. 31, Olivet. Elizabeth was a former business office employee. Brody and Bryce Lehman

Dave Thompson, Dec. 15, 2009, Olivet. Dave was a former assistant professor of mathematics at the college.

BY LINDA JO SCOTT Three beloved Olivet College folks had important birthdays within the same week this year. Art Stevens, Ph.D., professor emeritus of political science, turned 90 on Jan. 27; Larida (Scott) Petersen ’31, former music professor, turned 100 on Jan. 23; and Beatrice Campbell, who worked for three different presidents at the college, joined Larida at age 100 on Feb. 1. Art, whom many like to refer to as “The Sage of Olivet,” is a man steeped in history, political science and economics, a man of vast experience, a man eminently endowed with common sense. Stevens earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in political science and international relations at Tufts University, and a doctorate in political science at Michigan State University. After serving as an investigator for the FBI for 13 years, he came to Olivet College in 1956, first as head of public relations and development, and then as professor of political science, a subject he was to teach for the next 24 years. In 1998, more than a year after the death of his wife, Cynthia, Stevens married much-loved Olivet painter Charlotte Whitney. Charlotte’s husband, Bill Whitney, who was a professor of art at Olivet, had also passed. Art and Charlotte live an active life together, going to his family’s summer home in Maine each June, and traveling to the southwest each winter. Cellist Larida Petersen first came to Olivet as a student in 1927 from her home near Decatur because she had heard wonderful things about the college’s orchestra and music program. She became a member of Sigma Beta and vividly recalls the elegant dances her society held each year. “I would save up my money for dresses, and I even made a dress one time,” she recalls.

It was at Olivet College where Larida met her husband, Helmer, also a musician and a member of Phi Alpha Pi. She went on to play the cello in a piano trio and in numerous symphony orchestras in the area, and taught music at the college for 10 years. She and Helmer had four sons. A humble person by nature, Larida declares that she has lived so long because she doesn’t know enough to die, but as freshman Sarah Phillips, who interviewed Larida for the Olivet College Echo, put it, “It is clear that she is full of more life than most people half her age.” And on the third birthday of that significant week, Beatrice Campbell also turned 100. Though Bea was raised in Battle Creek, she has been a resident, grocer, college secretary, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and beloved citizen of Olivet for 75 years. Besides raising five sons, she served the college for years as secretary to various presidents and assistant registrar, and then went on to work as a circuit court reporter in Marshall. Bea is the matriarch of 73 descendants and loves her huge family’s annual “Summerfest,” which is held in her yard, on Olivet’s Pine Lake. She also stays active reading and working on her computer, and in 1999 wrote a 181page book about her family’s history, which she titled “A Leaf from the Family Tree.” Bea has always been an active, positive person, telling Sarah Phillips, “I’m not depressed. I hate old people that get all crotchety. I had a wonderful home and upbringing, and I think that is the greatest element in a person’s life.” At a combined age of 290, Art, Larida and Bea still provide outstanding examples of positive, fruitful, joyful living. All three have been active members of the Olivet Congregational Church for their many years in town, and church members joined college friends and all of the Olivet community in celebrating with them during their 2010 birthday week.

From left: Larida (Scott) Petersen ’31, Art Stevens, Ph.D., and Beatrice Campbell

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COUPLES WHO MET AT OLIVET BY ELLYN (HEIMFORTH) TARRANT ’78

Glenn ’80 and Ellyn (Heimforth) ’78 Tarrant with 12 biological children and a baby girl we recently Little did we know when we met during our sophomore adopted from Texas. Their ages range from 25 down to 15 year that we would one day have 13 reasons to thank Olivet months and include 7-year-old triplets, 5-year-old twins, one for bringing us together! The 6’6” Glenn Tarrant was hard to recently married miss when we both daughter and a new served as orientation son-in-law. Glenn is a (“O” group) leaders. He consultant in the oil and played basketball and gas industry, running ran track, was a biology the company he student with Professor founded 25 years ago. Ed Speare and a I loved my job as an member of the Kappa editor and writer with Sigma Alpha fraternity. Traverse Magazine, but I was editor of The Echo, after our triplets were studied Latin born, graduated to my independently with new career as a stay-atProfessor Bill home mom. We live in Thompson, dabbled in Seated, left to right: Seville (5), Chandler (12), Havyn (15 months), Zennor (7), Zealand (7), Savian (5), Zavier (7). Standing, left to right: Sayler (11), Galen (16), Austin (20), a large, renovated, intramural volleyball Glenn and Ellyn, Kendall (23), son-in-law Corey Grazul (24), Corbin (25), Keegan (14). historic home in the and lived for four years heart of Traverse City, in Dole Hall. Despite walk to the beach and are getting ready to celebrate 28 years our academic and athletic differences, our chemistry was as happily married college sweethearts. immediate. We dated throughout our time at Olivet, were married on May 1, 1982 and moved to Traverse City soon E-mail Glenn and Ellyn at tripletmomplus10@charter.net. after. Since then, our lives have been blessed beyond belief

If you enjoyed reading about couples who met at Olivet, consider submitting your information for publication in future issues of Shipherd’s Record.