Shipherd's Record Summer 2018

Shipherd’s RECORD

The Alumni Magazine of Olivet College

“THE DIVINE ART AND SCIENCE OF DOING GOOD TO OTHERS.” 175 years of living out the founders’ mission.

SUMMER 2018

PRESIDENT’S

UPDATE Dear Friends: Welcome to a very special edition of Shipherd’s Record. As we prepare to celebrate the 175th anniversary of the founding of Olivet College, I’m struck anew by our founders’ remarkably compelling vision. This college was established with a unique purpose – to educate those who might otherwise not have access to a college education, and to educate students in such a way that they would enter the world and do good for others. As we kick off a year of celebration, now is a good time to remember who we are.

“We wish simply to do good to our students, by placing in their hands the means of intellectual, moral and spiritual improvement, and to teach them the divine art and science of doing good to others.” - “Father” John J. Shipherd Shipherd’s immortal words have served as a beacon to the college for almost 175 years. In that time, the vision has remained constant, even as the ways in which it’s been brought to life have changed and altered to meet the evolving needs of students and society. Olivet College provides its students an education rooted in values and character, and we see this in action through our relationship-based education, the Olivet College Compact and Education for Individual and Social Responsibility – or, as we say today, Be More. Do Good.

In this issue, you will read about the Olivet College Compact and how it’s lived out on campus. You will also hear moving stories of relationships between faculty, staff, coaches and students, and learn about the impact of the college’s unique relationship-based approach to education.

There are many stories here of students being more and doing good through academics, athletics and co-curricular activities. As you read this issue, I hope you’ll feel as I do, that Olivet College continues to be a very special place.

The need to ground our academic education in values and character is as relevant today as it was in 1844.

With increasing economic complexity and opportunity, exponential growth in electronic communications, free and open global connections and a growing divisiveness in public discourse, the world needs individuals who lead with a moral compass and an ingrained commitment to the welfare of others. This issue introduces you to some of our alumni who are doing just that.

In 2010, we undertook a strategic planning process that honored our past and identified ways to build upon it. Through that plan – Charting the Course to 2020 and Beyond – we have strengthened the college and made it possible for our unique educational experience to continue. Through the time, talent and treasure of Olivet College alumni and friends, we have

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accomplished so much. We hope you’ll enjoy learning about the transformation happening on campus through the Responsible Learners – Responsible Leaders: Olivet College 2020 and Beyond comprehensive campaign. From multiple building renovations and new academic programming, to athletic enhancements and new equipment, to the vision for a new Student Collegiate Center within the next few years, alumni just like you are making a difference. I’d like to thank Dave Cutler ’65 and Tom Kolassa ’69, lead donors among many generous alumni and friends who have earned our gratitude. In this issue, you’ll read about Dave’s and Tom’s investments in the college.

Your connection to Olivet College didn’t end when you graduated. There are many opportunities to continue to live out our mission as alumni. Read more in this issue about the Comet Champions program and learn how you can connect in ways that are meaningful and important to you – while at the same time helping today’s students become tomorrow’s leaders.

I always enjoy reading Shipherd’s Record, but this issue is particularly close to my heart as it brings to life everything that is important and special about Olivet College through the stories of students, faculty and alumni who live our mission daily in all that they do. I hope you will be reminded of similar experiences that you had and be inspired to connect and reconnect – and to be more and do good.

Please know that you are always welcome on campus and we look forward to seeing you at Olivet sometime soon.

With very best regards,

Steven M. Corey, Ph.D. President

TABLE OF

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

MAGAZINE STAFF Hailey Barrus Director of Creative Services Geoff Henson Sports Information Director B.J. Hull Vice President for Advancement Michele McCauley Executive Director of Communications & Marketing Samantha Pearl ’00 Director of Alumni Engagement

CONTENTS

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On the Cover: Doing Good to Others For nearly 175 years, the mission of Olivet College has been to do good to others, and that starts with a relationship-based education.

EDITORIAL Taylor Gorr ’16 Content Specialist Austin Schippers Digital & Social Media Coordinator

Features

Campaign update

GUEST CONTRIBUTORS Mel Bice Terry Donnelly ’68 Reed Kalso SEND CHANGE OF ADDRESS NOTICES TO: Office of Advancement 320 S. Main St., Olivet, MI 49076 269.749.7630 mwallenberg@olivetcollege.edu

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Kicking Off Our 175th Celebration

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Comprehensive Campaign Update

Departments 18 Be More. Do Good.

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

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

20 Comet Sports 23 Advancement News

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Homecoming 2018

26 Alumni News

SUMMER 2018

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Welcome

From the Olivet College 175th Commemoration Committee.

On February 24, 1844, Reverend “Father” John J. Shipherd and 39 other men and women arrived at their new home in Michigan from Oberlin, Ohio. It was upon this hill 175 years ago that Olivet College was founded.

From its inception, the college’s leaders believed an education should be available to anyone regardless of gender, race or financial means. The basis of Olivet’s guiding principle was established by the founders when they wrote, “We wish simply to do good to our students, by placing in their hands the means of intellectual, moral and spiritual improvement, and to teach them the divine art and science of doing good to others.”

The story of Olivet College is one of compelling vision and rich tradition. Over the years, Olivet College has cultivated a community devoted to student learning, growth and development. We value diversity and inclusion built on trust, participation and a sense of pride. These ideals shaped the Olivet family we know today, and will continue to carry us into the future.

Olivet College means many things to alumni, faculty, staff, board members, donors and friends. But what we all agree on is that Olivet College means opportunity. We relished the unique opportunity to have relationships outside of the classroom with professors who became

both mentors and friends. Our confidence soared when we were encouraged to take advantage of leadership opportunities in the classroom, as part of an athletic team and through extracurricular activities. The small campus provided the opportunity for us to become lifelong friends with fellow students from different walks of life. The moral example instilled in us created opportunity to lead change responsibly in our communities and beyond. Olivet College is more than an education; it’s an opportunity.

As we celebrate this significant milestone in our history, let us continue to live by the Olivet College values and by our motto, Pro Christo et Humanitate. Let us honor the generations of Olivetians who came before us, and work together to ensure an impressive future for those who come after us.

On February 24, 2019, we will officially mark our terquasquicentennial (175th anniversary). We are celebrating with a yearlong series of programs and activities that tie into the college’s rich history and long-standing ideals. We invite you to visit www.OlivetCollege.edu/175 for events, programs and other information related to this yearlong celebration.

Join us as we celebrate our beloved Olivet College that has transformed hearts and minds and ignited change for the past 175 years.

Happy terquasquicentennial, Olivet College!

Donald Tuski ’85, Ph.D., Committee Chair Former Olivet College President

Pamela Heos ’77 Alumni Association Board Chair, Board of Trustees Ex Officio

Charles Blackman ’46, Ph.D., Honorary Chair Trustee Emeritus

Timothy Hodge ’83, DO Board of Trustees

Audra Carson ’87

Craig Jenkins Jr. ’08 Alumni Association Board Member

CAN YOU SAY

TERQUASQUICENTENNIAL?

Give it your best shot — wish Olivet College a "Happy Terquasquicentennial" by sending a short video clip as an attachment to alumnirelations@olivetcollege.edu!

Don Tuski ’85, 175th Celebration Committee Chair Major: Biology Former President, Olivet College President, Pacific Northwest College “Olivet College means to me multiple opportunities for leadership and to be engaged in the community and society. It’s a place where you can learn lots of different things from a very dedicated faculty and staff. … I think a lot of great things about Olivet College because of the opportunities it gave me in so many ways.”

Charles Blackman ’46, Honorary Chair Major: Education Olivet College Trustee Emeritus “Olivet College reinforced my interest in teaching and the importance of the quality of the relationship between faculty and student. … It affected my behavior as a person.”

Pamela Heos ’77 Major: Art History Director of Alumni and Donor Relations, Thomas M. Cooley Law School Olivet College Board of Trustees Ex Officio and Alumni Association Board Chair “So many memories, so many feelings, so many cherished friendships that still remain, and the impact of special professors who genuinely took an interest in me. Olivet College was a life changing and transformative experience of which I have much to be grateful.”

Timothy Hodge ’83, DO Major: Biochemistry and Biology Emergency Medicine Physician, Sparrow Hospital Olivet College Board of Trustees “Olivet College means three primary things to me: one, opportunity; two, growth; and three, service. I think about the opportunity given to me to attend Olivet and to do some of the great things I did while at Olivet. I was president of Student Senate – what a tremendous leadership opportunity. I was a student in the classroom with people like Dr. Ed Speare who took me all the way to Maine to learn about marine biology. … I also had the great opportunity to serve our community, and continue to do so today. Service is what I’m able to do because of my education at Olivet College.”

Audra Carson ’87 Major: ACF and Business Community Engagement Coordinator, Sinai-Grace Guild Community Development Corporation “Olivet College is a place that is welcoming to everyone, to have the opportunity to receive an exceptional educational experience. Nearly 175 years ago Olivet – that beacon on the hill – welcomed everyone. That means a great deal to me, and it’s remarkable to be reconnected to the college at this point in time.”

Craig Jenkins, Jr. ’08 Major: Insurance and Risk Management Global Risk Management, Perrigo Company Olivet College Alumni Association Board Member “Olivet College is the opportunity to learn more about yourself, the world around you and about how you fit in it. … When you go to a small school like Olivet, opportunities shine through a lot more because there is so much focus on you from your professors and fellow students, and there’s an opportunity to really connect with those people.”

SUMMER 2018

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THE OLIVET COLLEGE COMPACT

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Under Olivet College’s academic vision, Education for Individual and Social Responsibility, the college is as dedicated today as we were at our founding to offering an education to all, regardless of race, gender or financial means. The Olivet College Compact further defines this premise.

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I AM RESPONSIBLE FOR… 1. My own learning and personal development 2. Contributing to the learning of others 3. Service to Olivet College and the larger community 4. Contributing to the quality of the physical environment 5. Treating all people with respect 6. Behaving and communicating with honesty and integrity 7. The development and growth of Olivet College

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1.

At Olivet College, students are provided the environment and opportunity to take their willingness and desire, and turn it into real action.

2.

Collaboration between students, tutoring services and weekly seminars are just a few ways faculty, staff and students contribute to the learning of others outside the classroom.

3.

Students participate in Service Day in the fall and spring, in addition to service learning opportunities throughout Michigan, the United States and even the world.

4. Members of the Veterans Advocate

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Group maintain the WWI memorial located in the Square, an important and meaningful contribution to maintaining the campus physical environment.

5. Freshmen are officially welcomed to college

annually by an enthusiastic cordon made up of faculty, staff and students.

6. Jalen Ewing talked to the Class of 2021 on

Move In Day about the ups and downs of transitioning from high school student to college student.

7. The Xicano Club, one of more than 60

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student organizations on campus, welcomed all students to learn about Day of the Dead, a Mexican tradition that remembers friends and family members who have died, and helps support their spiritual journey.

RELATIONSHIP-BASED

EDUCATION

THE EXTRAORDINARY ORDINARY Matthew Ellis and Professor Laura Barlond-Maas ’88

In telling the story of the mentoring relationship between Matthew Ellis, class of 2021, and Professor Laura Barlond-Maas, one thing really stands out — Ellis’ viewpoint of Barlond-Maas’ extraordinary commitment contrasted with Barlond-Maas’ viewpoint of the relationship as completely ordinary.

In fact, Barlond-Maas was hesitant to be highlighted because she didn’t want one story of one relationship between one professor and one student to seem overly special. “Building relationships with our students is the norm,” she explained. “Students learn best when they know who’s in the room with them. They need to know I’m a real person so they can trust me. That trust comes from building the relationship.”

Ellis definitely agrees. “Any student who has a connection with a teacher will do anything for that teacher,” he explains. “I know that Ms. Barlond-Maas cares about me, so I care about her and what she thinks.” Ellis shared a couple of stories to illustrate. “When I got to the first day of class with Ms. Barlond-Maas, I sat in the front of the class and tried to talk about or comment on everything. No teacher likes to talk and not have anyone respond. Because she showed me respect and concern when I came to campus, I wanted to show her respect and concern, too.”

Ellis also shared a story from his second semester in Barlond-Maas’ Text & Culture class.

“I signed up for the class because Ms. Barlond-Maas was teaching it, but I found it challenging. I would read the 8

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Matt Ellis and Professor Laura Barlond-Maas

assignments out of respect for her. And then I would call her and ask, ‘what does this mean?’” he recalls with laughter.

“It’s been hard, but I’m really learning. I’m learning to read critically, and I’m learning how to pull meaning from what I read.”

Barlond-Maas gives the credit to Ellis. “He’s doing the work. And he’s someone who is always curious, always learning. He’s learning and asking questions to learn

 It’s not uncommon for students to feel like their professors are part of their family. Matt Ellis calls Professor Laura Barlond-Maas his second mother.

how to apply that knowledge in other areas. So what he’s learning in Text & Culture, he’s asking how he can apply that knowledge to how he reads for Chemistry. He’s really a remarkable student.”

This was Ellis’ freshman year, so how did he get connected to Barlond-Maas in the first place? While on campus visiting with his parents, Ellis asked about getting some help with writing, and asked his admissions rep who he should see. He was referred to Barlond-Maas, but she was scheduled off campus at the time. As luck would have it, Barlond-Maas actually was on campus and ran into Ellis purely by chance. In welcoming him to campus and asking how he was doing, they became acquainted and then connected after all. When Ellis came back to campus in the fall for Move-In day, he had another chance encounter with Barlond-Maas. Ellis said, “I saw her and she took me to the registrar’s office to get registered for classes. I said, ‘What do you teach? I’m taking it!’”

Ellis struggled with some of his classes during his first semester, Barlond-Maas checked in with him regularly to see how he was doing. Ellis began checking in with Barlond-Maas two days a week. “I had 6 a.m. workout sessions. After that, I would eat breakfast and then go see Ms. Barlond-Maas, every Tuesday and Thursday. We would look at everything I needed to do and then decide what I needed to do next. I would write notes and then do my work.”

Barlond-Maas is proud of Ellis. “He’s learning that he’s so capable. He really wants to learn. And his performance and grades have been excellent.”

It’s not all academic. And with relationship-based education, that’s kind of the whole point. Barlond-Maas has met Ellis’ whole family, developing an instant connection with his mom that Ellis not always so sure about. “She’s like a second mom,” Ellis laughs. “One to get on me at home, and one to get on me here.” But he means it in the best possible way. “Having someone who cares about you helps with being away from home. I wouldn’t have done as well without help from Ms. Barlond-Maas and others who have taken time to get to know me and check in on me, like

Jasmine Hardy and Professor KayDee Perry. I don’t think I would have aimed as high.”

Ellis added, “If I think I don’t matter to you, then it’s easier to skip your classes. If I can see you as a teacher really trying to engage yourself … communicating that you want me to graduate, to do well after I graduate, and that you care about my well-being, then I’m going to work hard for you. I don’t want to let you down.”

Ellis’ straightforward telling of his experience with Barlond-Maas and other teachers gives a compelling reallife description of relationship-based education at work.

When asked why she thinks it matters, Barlond-Maas said, “It’s like the old saying, ‘they have to know you care before they care what you know.’ In the classroom, students need to know that I care about them and want them to get better.

They can’t experience only criticism, or they can’t grow from their experiences. I always try to find the positive in their writing.”

Building relationships, she described, requires performing a series of small actions that are not important in and of themselves, but, taken together, are what build a meaningful connection over time. She goes out of her way to talk to students on campus, whether they’re in her classes or not. She brings food in for her students, asks how they’re doing and has them in her home to share a meal and take oral exams in a more relaxed environment.

She talks to them about their classwork, but also about their extracurricular activities, their -LAURA BARLOND-MAAS aspirations and their families. She meets their families and stays connected. She attends their sporting events. Barlond-Maas, herself an Olivet College graduate, tells of her experience with Linda Jo Scott, a former professor and mentor. “Linda said that knowing that someone is here for you matters. And she was right.”

Laura Barlond-Maas ’88, associate professor of English, has worked at Olivet College since 1988 and taught since 1990. Matthew Ellis, class of 2021, is a member of the Olivet College football team and a high-performing student, attaining high grades and making both the Dean’s List and the President’s List.

Relationship-based education is a cornerstone of the Olivet College experience. Through relationships between faculty, staff, coaches and students, Olivet bridges the gaps that often prevent students from graduating.

“Students learn best when they know who’s in the room with them. They need to know I’m a real person so they can trust me. That trust comes from building the relationship.”

SUMMER 2018

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RELATIONSHIP-BASED

EDUCATION

FIFTY YEARS OF INFLUENCE Professor James Bowers and students Kathy (Butterick) Burt ’70 and Charlene (Peterson) Gordon ’70 Relationship-based education may sound like a ground-breaking theory. Not at Olivet College. Father Shipherd wanted to ensure that student learning included the “divine art and science of doing good to others.”

That vision came forth as a foundation of the school in 1844, so it’s not surprising to find a thriving relationship between an Olivet College professor and two students who’ve been gone from campus for 48 years.

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Professor Bowers

S H I P H E R D ’S R E C O R D

The mentor/mentee relationship between professor James Bowers and students Kathy (Butterick) Burt and Charlene (Peterson) Gordon, both 1970 graduates, Soronian sisters, roommates and subsequent educators, has stood the test of time. It is evidence of the fact that, as Bowers contends, “Real education occurs only when there is a personal relationship between the teacher and the student.”

Neither Burt nor Gordon has been in close contact with Bowers since graduation, but Gordon notes, “Even though we lose touch with special people, they remain with us.”

Burt reports getting his address to send a photo of the Kirk Center walkway brick that she designed and purchased as a tribute. It reads, “Mr. Bowers. We Remember. AO CP KB,” and memorializes the impact Bowers had on Burt, Gordon and a fellow classmate, Andi Osgood ’70.

Both reflect on the lessons Bowers taught, crediting him with a profound influence on their appreciation and love of literature. “His enthusiasm was contagious,” Gordon said, noting his “skillful use of the written word to impart wisdom. I saved all my notes and papers.”

Burt credits Bowers with providing the encouragement to continually set “new insights and goals in life,” prompting her to become an English major.

After leaving Olivet and venturing out on life’s journey, Burt, Gordon and their husbands, Gary ’71 and Bruce, remained close friends. In 2017, the importance of the relationship forged with the instructor decades prior motivated the Burts and the Gordons to include a visit to Bowers in their vacation plan. “As part of our planned trip to Mt. Rushmore, we included a stop in Spearfish, South Dakota to visit Mr. Bowers and his wife, Jytte,” Burt said.

“When, after 50 years, these two former students appeared on our doorstep … and told us the stories of how they had fulfilled their dreams; that reward is too great to express in words,” Bowers said. He explained how a belief in and practice of relationship-based education is not just for the benefit of the learner. It is humbling and inspirational to the educator as well. “They even presented me with a framed letter of appreciation, which hangs on our wall as a memory of those wonderful students,” he said.

How did relationship-based education influence his instruction? Bowers explains that “the greatest joy in teaching is when, what I can only - PROFESSOR JAMES BOWERS call a spiritual relationship, is established between teacher and student.” He says he was convinced during his own studies at Dartmouth College. “An English professor entranced me so much during his lectures that I failed to take good notes and did not do that well on exams. It was as if he were speaking directly to my soul. I felt the truth he was saying.”

During his tenure at Olivet, Bowers recalls creating a publication proclaiming that Olivet “teaches students, not subject matter.” He believes this direct reflection of relationship-based education is taken to heart because so many Olivet College graduates go into teaching, the ministry or some other moderately-paid profession, lauding the effectiveness of advocating the educational theory of doing good.

According to Bowers, relationship-based education must not stop at the classroom door. Relationships transcend classrooms and spill out into the lives of those honestly participating. And like with Burt and Gordon, it lasts for a lifetime.

- By Terry Donnelly ’68

“When, after 50 years, these two former students appeared on our doorstep … and told us the stories of how they had fulfilled their dreams; that reward is too great to express in words.”

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Kathy (Butterick) Burt ’70

Charlene (Peterson) Gordon ’70

Ways to Get Involved An Olivet College education is always about the special relationships that make a difference in the lives of our students. If you’re interested in mentoring or micro-mentoring, contact Samantha Pearl ’00, director of alumni engagement, at 269.749.7644 or spearl@olivetcollege.edu.

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RELATIONSHIP-BASED

EDUCATION

CONNECTING TO ACHIEVE Jasmine Hardy ’04 and Jillian Johnson Jasmine Hardy ’04 is the coordinator of Student Success and co-director of Self and Community within The Gruen and Speare Student Resource Center at Olivet College. Jillian Johnson will be a junior this fall, is president of Nu Gamma Xi, Inc. and a member of the Student Philanthropy Council.

Not surprisingly, the two are much more than what their titles reveal. There is a deep connection between Hardy and Johnson, and it’s no accident.

Following time-tested Olivet College tradition, the staff member and the student were paired as mentor/ mentee early in Johnson’s student career. Then, like so often happens, their relationship flourished. Olivet’s commitment to relationship-based education has resulted, yet again, in fostering a relationship of mutual respect with remarkable outcomes.

These two women personify the ideal of relationshipbased education theory – that true learning comes best from personal and extended contact. Hardy praises

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Johnson, “Being a mentor to such a dynamic young person is a role I take seriously. My hope is that she continues to thrive.”

When asked about her relationship to Hardy, Johnson responds, “I consider us to be close. I seek academic advice and guidance on tough decisions or life experiences that happen. I’ve never felt lost because I know if I have a question, she can assist me.”

The feeling of not being alone helped Johnson over an important hurdle. Facing a speech, she felt stressed going

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Jillan Johnson and Jasmine Hardy ’04

into the event. “Ms. Hardy shared her experience with public speaking, and from just a short conversation, it truly gave me the confidence I needed. I knew that she believed in me. She saw something in me,” Johnson said.

Johnson credits Olivet with an innate application of relationship-based education. “We don’t hear the term in class; rather, it comes naturally from the community aspect of Olivet. Everyone is willing to reach out a hand. It’s just a matter of finding the mentor who connects,” she said.

When discussing their relationship, both women speak as if these extended and deep relationships were the most common of occurrences. Hardy is well steeped in relationship-based education and does think about it as an integral part of Olivet, partly due to her experience of having wonderful advisers during her time here as a student. “They helped me stay on track and offered me the unique opportunity to see behind the curtain of academia by investing in me,” she said. Hardy is now paying it forward through her investment in Johnson.

When discussing relationship-based education, it is natural to focus on the fondness and respect individuals develop and show one another. While these aspects of relationships are critical to success and advanced learning, so is another facet of the theory – one that initiates authentic practice beyond classroom learning. Theoretical foundations call for making a science student feel like a scientist gathering data, and an art student to feel like an artist creating a masterwork. “It is easy for students to think the only role for them here is ‘student’, however, the relationship-based model that we use allows students to see themselves as scholars, as professionals and as active participants in their education,” Hardy explained.

“Sometimes those quick conversations have the most advice packed into them and on the other hand sometimes those hour-long conversations turn into real-life brainstorming.”

-JILLIAN JOHNSON Johnson agrees that she is encouraged to participate in her education. She is joyful when sharing with her mentor, whether those shares are a couple of minutes or an hour. “Sometimes those quick conversations have the most advice packed into them and on the other hand sometimes those hour-long conversations turn into real-life brainstorming,” she said.

Whether it’s described as brainstorming, catching up or checking in, it’s the trust, respect and commitment that make their connection special. They are not simply a mentor and mentee – they have a genuine relationship, and that connects them on a much deeper level. Olivet College is committed to teaching Education for Individual and Social Responsibility through the development of positive and productive relationships among faculty, staff, coaches and students, and through the modeling of these values in all that we do.

- By Terry Donnelly ’68

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RELATIONSHIP-BASED

EDUCATION

MORE THAN JUST A NUMBER Megan Merchant and Madelyn Notenbaum Madelyn Notenbaum was tired of being lost in a crowd. She was used to a large high school where she didn’t feel recognized. Once she enrolled at Olivet, she found great opportunities and a strong support system. She now has two years under her belt, along with two seasons of Comet volleyball.

She credits her opportunities, development and success to her strong one-on-one relationships, particularly with head volleyball coach Megan Merchant.

Notenbaum attended Hudsonville High School, where she met Merchant at a volleyball event during her junior year. They formed a connection and, throughout the remainder of Notenbaum’s high school career, had several talks about her future. Notenbaum learned more about the college and program, and eventually made up her mind: “I went to a high school bigger than Olivet, and coming into college I wanted to make sure I wasn’t just a number anymore. I wanted to make an impact not only on my own education, but on the college and volleyball program as well.”

Not only had Notenbaum made her decision, but she was determined to tell Coach Merchant the news in person. She attended a match the Comets were playing 14

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in Kalamazoo. The two were able to talk afterward, but in the moment, Notenbaum was caught a bit off guard.

“I probably had the most awkward commitment made to Olivet,” she recalled. After some small talk about her season, Notenbaum quietly commented, “I like Olivet.”

Merchant replied, “I’m glad you like it, and if you need anything, let me know.”

Encouraged, Notenbaum came out and said, “I look forward to playing with these girls.” Her declaration drew a delighted reaction from Merchant.

The short exchange made a strong impact on both women. To Merchant, the meeting was a moment she said she would never forget. Notenbaum, meanwhile, found the connection she was seeking. She wanted to “not just be

another player on the team. I wanted a coach who wanted me to be a part of the program as much as I did. … She expressed so much emotion when I committed, I knew I picked the right place.”

Notenbaum enrolled at Olivet in 2016 and began practicing with the volleyball team. According to Merchant, “it was clear right from the beginning that she was definitely going to be a huge piece of the program going forward. Her leadership skills, work ethic, knowledge of the game and competitiveness set her apart and made others around her want to be better.”

Notenbaum was less certain. Throughout high school, she had been a setter. Merchant often suggested she try hitting in addition to setting, something that made her nervous. At her first scrimmage, Merchant made clear that she expected Notenbaum to play for entire rotations, taking on both hitting and setting roles. The unfamiliar responsibility in the new college environment weighed on Notenbaum. She recalled, “I was so scared. Looking over at Coach, she saw my face and knew the nerves were hitting me fast.

Making eye contact with her, she said a simple ‘You got this, be confident,’ and I was -MADELYN NOTENBAUM ready. I knew from that moment on that I had not only self-confidence, but the trust and confidence from my coach that I needed.”

Their relationship was also strengthened by smaller moments. Notenbaum remembered traveling to Albion for a match and forgetting a ponytail holder. Merchant took notice and gave her a yellow one. Merchant explained that she had worn it to each match throughout the season, and that it improved her performance in practice. She gave it to Notenbaum, saying it would help her as well. “This may seem childish and such a little thing,” Notenbaum said. “But to this day…it’s wrapped around my shoe and I’ve never played without it. Anytime I may get down…as I put my head down I see that ponytail holder and it just makes me smile to see…I have a piece of her with me on the court always. A simple smile in rough times always seems to help and bring my teammates up and to see a simple ponytail holder can do that is something that will stick with me forever.”

As Notenbaum’s time at Olivet continued, Merchant remained an important influence in her life. “Coach has been a big rock throughout my two years,” Notenbaum said.

“Coach has been a big rock throughout my two years. Not only on the court, but in the classroom as well. She has been a second mom to me.

She has given me so many opportunities.”

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Megan Merchant and Madelyn Notenbaum

“Not only on the court, but in the classroom as well. She has been a second mom to me. She has given me so many opportunities.”

Merchant, meanwhile, has watched Notenbaum grow and improve. “There is a much greater level of trust now than when she got here, and I know that I can depend on her to get the job done on the court and also to help lead the team off the court. She exemplifies every quality that I would want an athlete in my program to have.”

Notenbaum adds that, while her relationship with Merchant is unique, strong bonds between students and staff are common at Olivet because the environment encourages them. “Being a small college, you know most students and faculty members, and I think that is a huge plus. Having faculty, and even a president and dean of the college coming to the KC for some meals allows students to make relationships not only with their professors, but with higher faculty in a more personal way.”

But it wasn’t just Olivet’s size that appealed to Notenbaum. “You are given so many opportunities and it’s up to you to take those and run with them. I was given the opportunity to be a part of the President’s Leadership Institute program and it was life changing.”

According to Merchant, Olivet’s emphasis on relationship-based education is important because it builds trust. “A relationship is a prerequisite to (student) learning and knowing that someone who cares about them is part of the learning process. By getting to know our students and having relationships with them, students are more likely to trust us and learn what we have to teach them.”

For Notenbaum, the support of faculty helped her maintain confidence when she was trying to get used to the college setting. “Being away from my family was so hard and moving to a new area, I was unsure if I would like it as much as being home. …Without making these relationships and stepping outside my comfort zone I wouldn’t be able to tell you how successful I have been these two years.”

- By Reed Kalso SUMMER 2018

15

A CHANGED LIFE

IS NOW CHANGING THE LIVES OF OTHERS



Serafin Llerena ’11 started the now successful athletic program at Jackson Preparatory and Early College.

Every year since his graduation in 2011, Serafin Llerena has been working toward a specific goal – to be an athletic director for an MIAA school. And he’s on his way.

After graduating with a degree in Sports Management & Fitness Management, Llerena worked as a personal trainer and later as a teacher’s assistant and coach for two private academies.

In 2014, Heather Bateman, former Olivet College athletic director, encouraged Llerena to apply for a position with Jackson Preparatory & Early College. Four years later, he’s dean of students, as well as the athletic director and cross country coach. He even started the school’s athletic program, launching 10 sports and joining the Michigan High School Athletic Association.

In addition, Llerena is the new track and cross country coach for Jackson College.

Llerena attributes his success to hard work, definitive goals, his parents and the support of his mentors. One such mentor was Bateman. “I worked  Serafin Llerena ’11 credits his mentor and friend, Heather for Heather as a student and she really helped me,” Llerena explained. “She Bateman, former Olivet College athletic director, for helping him provided guidance and coaching, and taught me how to look at things reach his goals. differently.”

Bateman wasn’t Llerena’s only mentor. Nick Juday recruited Llerena to run cross country and track at Olivet College, and then later, helped him understand what to expect when coaching at Jackson College. Nancy Van Hoozier taught him some specific lessons, as well. “Professor Van Hoozier always said, ‘What you learn now is going to help you in the future. It will guide you in the right direction, help you become who you were meant to be.’ She was the toughest professor I had, but she cared, and I can really see now what she meant.”

Llerena credits his experience at Olivet College for helping him understand what he wanted to do. He explained, “Olivet is one of those schools where you figure yourself out, who you are, what direction you want to go toward. And if you needed help, it was there. You knew the teachers and administration, and if you made mistakes, someone was always asking, ‘What are you going to do about it?’”

Llerena described how his experience at Olivet has impacted responsibilities he currently has. “I do that with my students now. I ask them, ‘How are you going to make this better?’ and ‘What are you going to do to change it?’ I still use what I learned at Olivet College,” he said. And it’s impacted his career in very tangible ways. He describes the mentoring and relationships that benefitted him as a student, and connecting with students in the same way as a mentor himself. “I got hired as the dean of students because of the relationships I’ve formed,” he explained. “I demand respect, but I’m fair and I invest in my students. I’m all about guiding and teaching and mentoring.”

Llerena is a remarkable example of vision and determination. “Olivet definitely changed my life a lot. … I wouldn’t hesitate to go back and do it all again.”

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READ SERAFIN’S FULL STORY at www.OlivetCollege.edu/srstories

S H I P H E R D ’S R E C O R D

A THINKER AND A DOER. Dave Cutler ‘65

Dave Cutler ‘65 is revered throughout the computer industry for his development of several commercial operating systems, including Microsoft Windows NT. It’s his time at Olivet College that he credits for much of his tenacity, drive and determination in life.

Cutler looked to college as a way to continue doing what he loved best — playing sports. But with little understanding of how to research college opportunities — let alone knowing how to pay for college — Cutler accepted that he would go to work right out of high school.

“That sounds grim,” Cutler admits. “But, as fate would have it, the new football coach at Olivet College was Stu Parsell. He had been a coach at Dimondale High School, which was in the same league as DeWitt High School, and was impressed enough to recruit me to Olivet College.”

A smart kid, Cutler found he didn’t have to work very hard in high school to make good grades. “That all changed in college where I quickly found I was starting out at a disadvantage, academically, having gone to a small, rural school,” Cutler said. “I quickly learned from my professors that they were there to help me learn and that I had to do a significant amount of work on my own without getting hand fed.”

One professor that had great influence on Cutler was Louise Hanson. “I was a math major with a minor in physics. I took all kinds of mathematical courses from Louise in subject matters I didn’t even know existed in high school,” he said. “I had to dig out the answers and explanations from textbooks and other math students. I think learning this one skill is what made me so successful later in life.”

Cutler’s favorite memory, however, is the 1961 football team that went 8-1. “In 1960, I showed up at the college in early August to play football and we suffered through a humiliating season with just a couple of wins and mostly defeats,” Cutler recalls. “In the fall of 1961, we began an amazing journey to an unbelievable season. I was the starting quarterback and wouldn’t trade that year for anything.”

It’s this team — Cutler’s lifelong friends — that turned him on to the idea of giving back to his alma mater. It started with a generous donation and his challenge to others to help

 Dave Cutler ‘65 and his partner, Deborah Girdler, enjoy coming home to Olivet College, especially during Homecoming.

fund what is now the Cutler Athletic Complex. “Team sports are excellent teachers of life lessons on how to cooperate and get things done as a group,” Cutler said.

Over the years, Cutler has also generously helped fund athletic programs, the visual arts, the Adelphic Society and student scholarships. He also established the The Cutler Fellowship in Math, Science and Computer Science. And his commitment to the current Responsible Learners — Responsible Leaders campaign is the largest ever by a single donor.

When asked what words of advice he’d give today’s college students, especially those who are first-generation students, Cutler said, “Be achievers and do your best in whatever you attempt in life. I like Fred Brooks’ words in the Mythical Man Month. He wrote, ‘There are thinkers and there are doers. Thinkers are a dime a dozen and very plentiful. Doers are rare and valuable. Thinker/doers, however, are very rare and the most valuable of all.’ So, I would also like to pass on a culture of people being doers.” u

READ DAVE’S FULL STORY at wwwOlivetCollege.edu/srstories

Do you want to show the college and students that you care like Dave?

Every gift, large or small, makes a difference. Call 269.749.7630 or email advancement@olivetcollege.edu to learn how you can help.

SUMMER 2018

17

BE MORE.

DO GOOD. SIXTH PRESIDENT’S LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE GRADUATING CLASS HONORED

 President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D., congratulates the 2018 Leadership for Individual and Social Responsibility honorees, Pat Brumbaugh ’76, Paula Cunningham and Barbara Fulton.

COMMUNITY LEADERS HONORED FOR INDIVIDUAL AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Olivet College honored three community leaders at the 22nd annual Leadership for Individual and Social Responsibility Awards Dinner in May. The 2018 honorees are leaders in their professions and reflect the college’s vision of Education for Individual and Social Responsibility. Congratulations to Patricia Brumbaugh ’76, conductor of Northwestern Michigan College/ Community Band and director of bands at Traverse City West Senior High School; Paula Cunningham, state director of AARP Michigan; and Barbara Fulton, Ph.D., director of community development at Hayes Green Beach Memorial Hospital.

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S H I P H E R D ’S R E C O R D

Olivet College recognized the following 20 students as graduates of the sixth President’s Leadership Institute (PLI) class during a ceremony in March: Alissa Belcastro, health science major; Nieya Brown, journalism and mass communication major; Ta’Neeka DeMyers, music major; Emily Dorn, mathematics and history major; Ryan Jex, computer science major; Jillian Johnson, psychology major; Alexander Lehman, insurance and risk management major; Ronald Lord, business administration major; Nataliya Malaydakh, history major; Madeline Maxwell, insurance and risk management major; Hannah Mellino, graphic design and visual arts major; Victoria Monterusso, actuarial science major; Tyler Nobel, actuarial science major; Madelyn Notenbaum, financial planning major; Ayren Parrish, exercise science major; Katelyn Priest, pre-art therapy major; Deivan Prince, biology major; Abigale Smith, business administration major; Jessica Taylor, exercise science major; and Hezekiah Turner, business management major.

PLI was established to develop top leadership in Olivet’s students, as well as enable them to become the principal professional and community leaders of the future. The college collaborated with experienced professionals who specialize in business coaching and professional development, to design a program catered specifically to Comets. The institute includes a variety of programs and initiatives to promote leadership, identify leadership talent and develop effective and successful leadership qualities and skills in OC students. The President’s Leadership Institute is one key component in Education for Individual and Social Responsibility at Olivet College.

CLASS OF 2018 TOP FIVE EARN DONALD A. MORRIS ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AWARD

 2018 Top 5 with their most influential professors, from left: Mike Oyster ’77, Jenna Benvenuti, John Moore, Ph.D., BreAnne Rudlaff, Leah Knapp, D.V.M, Julie Crone, Phil Reed, Isabelle León, Victoria Monterusso and Janine Peters.

Olivet College recognized nearly 200 graduates during Commencement ceremonies in May. Prior to the ceremony, a reception was held to honor the top five graduating seniors.

Each graduate received the Donald A. Morris Academic Excellence Award, and the professor whom each student deemed the most influential in his or her academic career was also honored. The award is named after former President Donald A. Morris, who served Olivet from 1977-1992.

Jenna Benvenuti, a business administration and insurance and risk management major, said of her mentor, Mike Oyster ’77, department chair and assistant professor of business administration, “He is someone I can trust and turn to for advice with anything that is going on in my life. Professor Oyster holds a wealth of knowledge and always encourages me to express my thoughts and ideas in the classroom. He further challenges me by pushing me to think of different solutions and look at situations from other angles.”

Julie Crone, a biology and environmental science major, said that Leah Knapp, D.V.M., professor of biology and biology program director, was a constant supporter through her time on campus. “She has been my confidant, my mentor and one of my greatest friends. Dr. Knapp truly has a gift for inspiring a love for science and learning in her students. She wholeheartedly and selflessly commits herself to the guidance of her students, and I can say with absolute certainty that my aspirations have changed for the better under her influence,” Crone said.

Isabelle León, a criminal justice major, named Phil Reed, associate professor of criminal justice, her most influential professor. “As my adviser and professor,

Professor Reed made a strong impact on my learning experience at Olivet College in many ways. Whether we were in the class, his office, passing by in the halls of Mott or he was supporting me at one of my soccer games, Professor Reed made a point to check up on me, make sure I’m doing well and ask about my goals,” León said. “It is a lot easier to enjoy school and class when you know that your professor really cares about your success.”

Victoria Monterusso focused her studies in actuarial science and named Janine Peters, mathematics and computer science department chair and associate professor of mathematics, her most influential professor. She said, “Professor Peters truly cares about the success of her students, and she is always available to help her students. She has consistently supported and motivated me throughout my four years at Olivet College.”

Psychology major BreAnne Rudlaff named John Moore, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology, her most influential professor. Rudlaff said, “Dr. Moore was always willing to sit down and talk with me anytime I was concerned throughout my academic schedule. He was a major impact on my ability to graduate early. He taught me how meaningful and versatile a degree in psychology could be. I can honestly say that without him, I would not be in the wonderfully life-changing position that I am in today.”

Olivet College is known for its unique approach to education through relationships between faculty, staff, coaches and students. The connections between these Donald A. Morris Academic Excellence Award winners and their professors demonstrates this educational approach and the impact it has upon students.

SUMMER 2018

19

COMET

SPORTS STUDENT-ATHLETES NAMED ARTHUR ASHE, JR. SPORTS SCHOLARS

Jared Brickley  The Comet baseball players are eager to have Vincent Gentile as part of the team.

BASEBALL TEAM DRAFTS 5-YEAR-OLD In May, the Olivet College baseball team drafted 5-year-old Vincent Gentile from Team IMPACT at a signing ceremony.

Gentile, who is battling a rare type of cancer, signed an official letter of intent and received his own baseball uniform at the ceremony. Now an official member of the Comet baseball team, Gentile will attend practices and games over the next year.

“We are excited to add Vincent to our team,” said head coach Andy Merchant. “He is social and energetic and the guys on the team have been drawn to him in his visits. During the ups and downs of a season, having someone like Vincent around really helps give perspective and he is an amazing young man.”

Team IMPACT is a national nonprofit that connects children facing serious or chronic illnesses with college athletic teams, forming lifelong bonds and life-changing outcomes.

Connecting with Vincent is just one example of how Olivet College student-athletes take individual and social responsibility to heart.

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S H I P H E R D ’S R E C O R D

Isabelle León

Ayren Parrish

Jamaul Martin

Olivet College seniors Jared Brickley, Isabelle León and Ayren Parrish and sophomore Jamaul Martin were recognized by Diverse: Issues in Higher Education as 2018 Arthur Ashe, Jr. Sports Scholars for their dedication to academics and athletics. To be considered for the award, student-athletes must have a 3.20 or higher cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale, be at least a sophomore, have been an active member of an intercollegiate athletic team during the 2017-2018 academic year and demonstrate service to the campus or community.

Brickley, a criminal justice major, is included in the list of wrestlers. A four-year letter winner on the wrestling team, he finished his Comet career with a 68-50 record, including an 18-8 mark as a senior. Off the mat, Brickley participated in community service projects in Olivet, as well as took part in Step Up for Down Syndrome and Relay for Life.

León is a first-team selection on the women’s soccer team. The criminal justice major was a three-time All-Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) selection and was named the 2017 MIAA Most Valuable Player. Off the field, she served as secretary for the Criminal Justice Honor Society and vice president for Fellowship of Christian Athletes. León also participated in community service projects in South Carolina, Tennessee and Louisiana. She also served as a summer camp counselor at Camp Barakel.

Parrish is a first-team pick on the women’s basketball team. She earned a degree in exercise science. On the court, she was a four-year letter winner for the Comets. She finished her career with 333 points, 120 rebounds, 95 assists and 73 steals in 58 games. Off the court, Parrish was a part of the StudentAthlete Advisory Committee for three years, and served as a campus tour guide and Special Olympics buddy. Since 2011, Parrish was as an on-campus summer basketball camp volunteer.

Martin, a psychology major, is a third-team selection on the football team.

On the field, Martin had 44 carries for 143 yards and three touchdowns. He also returned a team-leading 19 kickoffs for 470 yards, including an 88-yard return for a touchdown. Off the field, Martin worked as a weekend tutor at Broad Street Church in Detroit, coaches and serves on the board of directors for Young Legend Youth Basketball in Romulus, is a volunteer at Bartlett House (homeless shelter), serves as a K-12 tutor at Burma Center in Battle Creek and has participated in weekend service trips.

REMARKABLE LEADERSHIP – REMARKABLE SEASON The 2017-2018 men’s basketball team saw an alum at the helm for his second year coaching at his alma mater, and – wow – what a season it was! Stephen Ernst ’91 returned to Olivet College in the fall of 2016 to build a strong coaching staff and a winning team.

Ernst has his roots close to Olivet, as he graduated from Charlotte High School in 1986.

He was an outstanding athlete, both in high school and college, leading the MIAA in assists during the 1989 season. After playing for two other colleges, he returned home to graduate and earn a bachelor’s degree in human relations from Olivet College in 1991.

Joining him as assistant coach was Jeremiah Williams, who played college basketball at both Vincennes University and Division 1 Canisius College, where he was named the team’s Defensive Player of the Year. After graduation, Williams signed a rookie contract to play in the summer league and training camp for the NBA Toronto Raptors, and later served as athlete/ coach for the Wellington Basketball Club of the Canadian Basketball League.

Together, Ernst and Williams created and nurtured a remarkable team, which included traditional Olivet College recruits as well as four transfer students from Marygrove College, which ended its undergraduate program just before the beginning of the fall semester in 2017. As the team began to outperform all expectations, the home environment became electrified, with students, faculty, staff and community members turning out routinely to see the Comets play.

The team traveled well, racking up multiple close road wins, and their performance at home was even better, with 16 overall wins for the season, the most since 1983 and fourth most in 107 years. Ten of those wins were in MIAA play, which is the most in Olivet College history for a single season. The Comets were led by senior Jalen Adams of Saginaw, MIAA League MVP and D3hoops.com All-American; junior Tracy Edmond of East Lansing, MIAA First Team; and senior Eldridge Mason of Southfield, named MIAA Second Team. Adams and Edmond were also named to the 2017-18 D3hoops.com All-Great Lakes Region team.

“The opportunity to represent Olivet College is always a great privilege,” said Ernst, “but to be able to coach such a special group of young men to an MIAA Championship at my alma mater is tremendous. The support of OC Nation at the Cutler Center was amazing and meant the world to all of us in the program.”

The men’s basketball team won the league title, a first since 1973. And the outstanding team performance, enthusiastic home crowd and excellent program leadership led the MIAA to select Olivet College to host the league tournament for the first time in history. To cap off the season, Ernst was named the Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan Men’s College Coach of the Year.

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GAMES

16-11 OVERALL 10-4

CONFERENCE

82.8

POINTS PER GAME

13.3

AST PER GAME

38.9

REB PER GAME VISIT WWW.OLIVETCOMETS.COM TO VIEW FULL SEASON RESULTS

SUMMER 2018

21

175 YEARS

OF

ENRICHING

LIVES

1844 - FOUNDING

Olivet College was founded by “Father�

John J. Shipherd in 1844, guided by the principle to teach students the divine art and science of doing good to others.

1863 - FIRST GRADUATES

People of color and women were welcomed on a coequal basis as white men. The first graduating class was three women, including Sara Benedict.

1900-1902 - STEPHEN MORGAN

One of the first students of color, Stephen Morgan was pivotal in the 1901 football championship win over Michigan State Agricultural College.

1931 - ATHLETICS

Athletic teams allow both men and women to become leaders on the playing field, just one way students develop lifelong team building and critical thinking skills.

1940s - ARTS

The Arts have always been a crucial part of the Liberal Arts education, providing students an outlet to express themselves and learn from influential visiting artists.

1957 - RESPECT FOR ALL

Olivet College instills in its students a respect of all human beings. Throughout its history, OC has always been welcoming and accepting.

1966 - MAY FESTIVAL

Students enjoy building relationships through extracurricular activities. Still today, students connect during special events, including Opening Convocation and Stand-Up.

1976 - UNITED BLACK ORGANIZATION

Clubs and organizations, including Greek life, are nearly as old as the institution itself.

Students are encouraged to join and lead groups on campus, and even create their own.

1985 - PURSUIT OF DREAMS

Dana (Graham) Hoffman ‘85, M.D., and all female students have always been encouraged to pursue their dreams, including breaking into male-dominated fields.

1998 - GLOBAL LEARNING IN NEW YORK

Olivet College has always recognized that the most beneficial learning often happens outside of a classroom.

2000s - SERVICE LEARNING

Service learning was and still is an integral part of the Olivet College curriculum. These experiences shape many students into lifelong global citizens.

THE CLASS OF 2018

For 175 years, graduates have been creating positive change in the world. Madeline Maxwell ’18 is just one of 12,000 alumni who are being more and doing good.

BE MORE.

DO GOOD. TRACI COREY NAMED TO THE ATHENA INTERNATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS



Nina Butts, Hartland High School Class of 2018

HARTLAND HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR WINS GLOBAL CITIZEN HONORS SCHOLARSHIP More than 80 of Olivet College’s best and brightest applicants registered for the invitation-only Global Citizen Honors Program (GCHP) event to participate in an essay competition for a full-tuition scholarship. Students hailed from 66 high schools in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois and Ontario, Canada.

Hartland High School senior Nina Butts was named the winner of the full-tuition scholarship. Born in China and adopted by Lance and Dawn, Butts has developed a rich worldview and embraces diversity, making her a perfect fit for GCHP. “We were asked to write around the theme of risk, and I knew my life had been involved with that word since the beginning. I wrote about being one of the few Asian students in my school district, and how that developed and changed my worldview.”

GCHP is designed for the student who wishes to demonstrate creativity and leadership within the framework of Individual and Social Responsibility. The program offers students opportunities to investigate global, interdisciplinary issues.

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S H I P H E R D ’S R E C O R D

 In March 2018, Traci Corey was honored as an ATHENA Leadership Award recipient by ATHENA International for her dedication to helping raise up other leaders, especially women. Pictured, from left, President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D.; Traci Corey, WLI director and presidential spouse; Sarah Jennings, principal, Maner Costerisan; and Martha Mayhood Mertz, founder, ATHENA International.

Traci Corey, Women’s Leadership Institute (WLI) director and presidential spouse, has been named to the ATHENA International board of directors. ATHENA International is a well-recognized, successful non-profit organization that seeks to support, develop and honor women leaders through programs that are administered in partnership with host organizations. “I am humbly honored that this amazing organization values my skillset and feels that I can be of value in meeting its current and future goals,” Corey said. “Being considered, let alone selected to the ATHENA International board of directors, is truly an honor. I believe in the organization’s mission, vision and values because they align so closely with my own, as well as the Olivet College mission.”

Under her leadership, the college has developed a number of meaningful and impactful programs for middle and high school girls, many of whom went on to attend or plan to enroll at Olivet College. This includes the Olivet College ATHENA International Women’s Leadership Program; the annual Cultivating Women Leaders event, a leadership training and networking opportunity; the Olivet College “Ment-Her” Job Shadowing, Networking and Internship Program; and the Olivet College ATHENA International Girls’ Leadership Camp. Participants receive leadership training utilizing the ATHENA Leadership model. u

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE at

www.OlivetCollege.edu/wli or email wli@olivetcollege.edu

Charitable Gift Annuities – The Gift that Gives Back to You! What Is a Charitable Gift Annuity?

As its name implies, a charitable gift annuity is both a gift and an annuity. It’s an uncomplicated gift that is exceedingly popular because it benefits both charities and donors. A gift annuity is a contract between a donor and a charity. When you make a gift to us, we agree to pay you and/or your designated beneficiary a fixed amount periodically for life.

If you establish a gift annuity, it pays lifetime benefits to you or to your designated beneficiaries (up to two lives). These payments are fixed, so they are not affected by interest rates or fluctuations in the financial markets.

In addition, you enjoy the following benefits: • Contributions qualify for an immediate charitable tax deduction • Capital gains tax due on donations of appreciated property will be spread out over your lifetime • Part of each annuity payment is tax-free Receiving the Annual Payments You can designate yourself or another person as the beneficiary of a gift annuity, or you can direct that the annuity be paid to one person for life and thereafter to a second beneficiary. The amount of the annuity and the charitable deduction is determined by the amount of the contribution and the life expectancies of the beneficiaries.

Deferred Gift Annuities: Additional Planning Opportunities Deferred gift annuities let you postpone the start date of an annuity for a specified period of time and still receive an immediate charitable deduction. Deferring the start date increases both the annuity rate and the income tax charitable deduction.

Deferred gift annuities are attractive supplements to IRAs or other qualified retirement plans. You can enjoy tax relief in high-income years, then receive annual payments (partly income tax free) later to increase retirement income.

Ease of Implementation As many people have discovered, gift annuities are mutually beneficial and easy to set up. Compared to more complex trust arrangements, gift annuities typically require less time and money to establish. In addition, you are relieved of the administrative burdens and additional fees associated with other gift arrangements. This simplicity is why gift annuities can be appropriate even for very large gifts.

Charitable gift annuities are an attractive way to support your philanthropic intentions. It provides an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of students at Olivet College while also making a difference in your own life.

Is a Gift Annuity Right for You? Consider a gift annuity if you want to: • Make a significant gift with a modest amount of cash of property and receive payments for life • Enjoy fixed payments that are not affected by any volatility in the stock market • Provide a family member with income for life • Benefit from a tax deduction now but delay receipt of payments until retirement Annuity Percentages and Payouts for a $10,000 Single-Life Immediate Gift Annuity Based on ACGA rates as of July 1, 2018

Age of Payout 60 65 70 75 80 85

Annuity Percentage 4.7% 5.1% 5.6% 6.2% 7.3% 8.3%

Annuity Annuitant $470 $510 $560 $620 $730 $830

Rates subject to change. Contact us for a personal illustration that shows your payout rate and charitable deduction.

Your Gift. Your Impact. Your Choice.

At Olivet College, you can always choose where your gift goes. Whether you want to contribute to the Olivet Fund and have your gift used where it’s most needed, or you have a special project or program in mind, it’s your choice. Just let us know what matters to you.

Tom Kolassa ’69

Philanthropist and Friend Tom Kolassa ’69 views philanthropy differently than most. “So many think of philanthropy as the process of giving money,” explains Kolassa, “but that viewpoint is limited. Philanthropy is saying hello to someone who’s having a bad day, it’s giving an opportunity to someone, it’s standing up for someone who’s being bullied or ignored. Philanthropy has many meanings to me, but they’re all giving.”

“Olivet College offers one of the best educations available, and makes it attainable for more young people.

I believe in what they’re doing.”

TOM KOLASSA ’69

When asked about his unique view of philanthropy, Kolassa pointed to his education at Olivet College and his personal experience with philanthropists who showed him what it meant to give. “I met a gentleman in Battle Creek who was successful, and he took an interest in me. He took me on fishing and hunting trips, and as we spent time together, I became aware of so many nice things he did that he didn’t have to do. He spent time mentoring youth, and he invested his financial resources in young people,” Kolassa recalled. “There were times when this gentleman was paying for a college education for three, four or five students at a time. I saw that and I thought, ‘if things go well for me, maybe I can help someone that way.’”

Kolassa is conscious of, and thankful for, the opportunities he was given, which is one of the reasons why he believes so strongly in Olivet College. Kolassa explains, “As a young person, you want to see people, to interact with people, to know that your professors are interested in you as a person and willing to spend time helping you broaden your knowledge and experience. Olivet provides a relationship-based educational experience, and they always have. Professors are invested personally in their students.”

Kolassa was one of the foundational donors in the current comprehensive campaign, Responsible Learners – Responsible Leaders: Olivet College 2020 and Beyond.

Signing on early in the process as a leadership giver meant taking a leap of faith at a time when the benefits of the campaign were not yet visible. “It’s an opportunity to build on our strong foundation and model of Education for Individual and Social Responsibility. Olivet College offers one of the best educations available, and makes it attainable for more young people. I believe in what they’re doing,” he said.

Kolassa went on to describe the challenges he sees among youth who grow up without all the desired opportunities, and he sees a chance to make a difference.

“Through philanthropy, we can help young people, teach them, share with them.

Philanthropy can fill in the gaps around students who are struggling. Through philanthropy, we can get young people to the point where they can be self-sufficient, where they have a sense of well-being and where they can eventually become philanthropists themselves.” u

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S H I P H E R D ’S R E C O R D

READ TOM’S FULL STORY at OlivetCollege.edu/srstories

CAMPAIGN UPDATE All institutions that have existed for more than 100 years share a common theme throughout their history: renewal.

And Olivet College is no different. Economic and political environments, the labor market, the workforce, industry, science, culture, education, financial markets – they all change. Colleges and universities are charged with preparing students to contribute to and lead in a changing world. In order to do so, faculty and curriculum must keep ahead of those changes. And buildings, equipment and resources must follow suit.

Olivet College is in the midst of a 10-year strategic plan – Charting the Course for Olivet College 2020 and Beyond – and the result of that plan has been a transformation of the college.

Academic programming, curriculum, athletics, co-curricular activities, learning spaces, academic and athletic facilities and buildings, student housing improvements and overall campus appearance and functionality have all improved in ways we could not have imagined 10 short years ago.

The comprehensive campaign, that has supported and driven the work of this transformation, is entering its final year, and now is the time for us to really make a difference.

Alumni and friends of Olivet College have demonstrated their remarkable support over the last three years in this historic campaign, giving generously in support of our shared vision and surpassing all previous fundraising efforts ever undertaken by the college. In just three years, we’ve received eight, seven-figure gifts, one $12.5 million gift (the largest in college history), and had two $10 million-plus fundraising years, the last of which we’re experiencing right now.

We’re very close to our final goal, as you’ll see from the Campaign Goals chart to the right. Reaching our goal will mean moving forward on the final aspects of our strategic plan, including a renovation of the Mott Academic Center and the Upton Conservatory, as well as the building of a new Student Collegiate Center between Shipherd Hall and Blair Hall.

Our college is unique, remarkable and relevant in today’s world. Will you consider a gift to help secure the future of your alma mater and impact an entire generation of students?

To participate or to learn more, contact B.J. Hull, vice president for advancement, at 269.749.7630 or advancement@olivetcollege.edu.

For more information about the Responsible Learners – Responsible Leaders campaign, visit www.OlivetCollege.edu/2020andBeyond.

CAMPAIGN GOALS All figures as of May 31, 2018

$44

Million

Overall $37,782,120.01 (85.9%)

$26

Million

Cash $19,813,053.59 (76.2%) Estate $17,969,066.42 (99.8%)

$18

Million

Every single gift makes a difference.

As we enter the final year of this unprecedented fundraising campaign, we’re requesting and encouraging all alumni to make a commitment to the college and the campaign between now and June 30, 2019. All gifts matter and help us move closer to achieving our $44 million goal that will drive the continuing transformation and help ensure that Olivet College continues to be a beacon of Education for Individual and Social Responsibility. You can give now or make a pledge to be honored over a period of up to five years. Recurring monthly donations are also welcome. You can donate to the campaign, the Olivet Fund or to a specific program/cause close to your heart.

SUMMER 2018

25

CLASS

NOTES Upcoming Alumni Events Your source for the most current alumni news and events is: www.OlivetCollege.edu/alumni Sept. 28-29 Homecoming Weekend Fall 2018 Slate of events to be announced soon!

Follow all things Olivet College Overall College News www.OlivetCollege.edu Alumni Engagement Office www.OlivetCollege.edu/alumni Athletics www.OlivetComets.com Facebook www.Facebook.com/OlivetCollege www.Facebook.com/OlivetAthletics www.Facebook.com/OlivetCollegeAlums Twitter and Instagram @OlivetCollege @OlivetAthletics

Message from the Director of Alumni Engagement Dear Fellow Alumni, This is an exciting time at Olivet College! We’re experiencing unprecedented growth in students as well as academic, co-curricular and athletic programming. Our college has such a rich and meaningful history, and it’s wonderful to see it continuing to thrive. Over the last year, there have been many building renovations, including the opening of the Gruen Engagement Center. and the groundbreaking on the complete renovation of the Hosford House. And over the next few years, we look forward to seeing a renovation of the Mott Academic Center and the Upton Conservatory, as well as the new Student Collegiate Center.

In my opinion, what matters most about our OC education is that it prepared us for much more than our careers. It prepared us to make a difference in the world. The Olivet College Alumni Association is honoring that commitment through the launch of the Comet Champions program – a collection of events, initiatives and service activities that bring our shared history and our connections to life. Read on to learn more about how you can connect and reconnect in a variety of ways that fit your life and inspire you to make a difference.

The next few pages are a treasure – stories of fellow alumni getting married, welcoming new babies and being recognized for success in their field and their philanthropic and service endeavors. We also honor and remember fellow Comets who have passed away.

Whether you need information or want to connect, I’m here as a resource to you. I invite you to call me any time!

Warm regards,

Samantha Pearl ’00 spearl@olivetcollege.edu 269.749.7644

Alumni Connections www.OlivetCollege.edu/alumni www.Facebook.com/OlivetCollegeAlums 26

S H I P H E R D ’S R E C O R D

 Top: Marguerite (Meier) Garbow ’40, William “Bill” Newhouse ’73 district champion ladies’ basketball team, Ron Rudland ’78.

Bottom: Bob “Brigham” Young ’76, Michael Luchs ’61, Lynne (Dorman) Meservey ’67, George Rousseau ’89

1940s

Marguerite (Meier) Garbow ’40 is one of the oldest living alumna of Olivet College and the oldest living Soronian sister. She was president of Soronian during her time on campus, J-Hop Queen and MIAA Sports Queen. She also worked on The Echo from 1936 -1940, starting out as a freshman reporter and a feature writer and working her way up to the girls’ sports editor. Marguerite has fond memories of her years at Olivet College and tells of nightly dances in the commons and the English tradition of having tea at 4 p.m. Marguerite is an artist and has painted throughout most of her life in oils and water colors.

She got her start at Olivet when the renowned artist George Rickey came to campus on a Carnegie grant. She and other students painted a mural under Rickey’s direction, which still graces the hallway between the President’s Office and the Admissions suite. Marguerite wrote a book in 2008 called “Remembering,” which includes several passages about Olivet College. Marguerite’s older sister, Caroline (Meier) Birdsall ’38, was also a Soronian and passed away just this year. Marguerite lives in Atlantic Beach, Florida near her family.

1960s

Michael Luchs ’61 is being featured at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Detroit through July 29 in a solo exhibition. This survey, Fictitious Character, constitutes the largest presentation of Michael’s work to date.

Lynne (Dorman) Meservey ’67 was the recipient of the Outstanding Project Award for her work with the Marshall Farmers Market at the 70th Annual Chamber Dinner and Awards Banquet in January.

1970s

William “Bill” Newhouse ’73 is the coach of the district champion ladies’ basketball team in Charlotte, Michigan. The Charlotte Orioles pulled off an 11-point comeback to win the Class B district title in March.

Bob “Brigham” Young ’76 retired from Anderson Global on March 29 after more than 23 years of service. Congratulations to Bob on his retirement!

Ron Rudland ’78 has retired as the Parma Western High School boys’ soccer coach. Ron, who is the only boys’ soccer coach Western has ever had, has held the post for 33 years. “I love coaching and am still teaching here at the school,” he said, “but

somebody else will be in charge of the team. I went into coaching because I wanted help young men grow, and soccer was the vehicle to do that. I focus on asking, ‘how can I help you be a good young man’, and then we learn some soccer skills along the way, that teach young men more about life.”

During his 33 years, Ron and Western won 12 conference championships and six district championships and made a regional appearance in 2000. Ron was inducted into the Michigan High School Soccer Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2016 and coached 23 all-state players throughout his career.

Ron was a member of Olivet College’s inaugural men’s soccer team.

1980s

Jay Pierson ’81, recently retired from University of NC Chapel Hill after serving as a professor for 34 years.

George Rousseau ’89, was the director of the Middle School Honors Jazz Band, featured clinician on Jazz Drums and Guitar, and Drummer for the All-Star Band at the Valley Jazz Festival held April 6 -7 in Palmer, Alaska. George’s daughter, Makennah, currently attends Olivet College and is active in the instrumental ensembles on campus.

Continued on page 28

SUMMER 2018

27

Keep in Touch!

CLASS

NOTES

Do you have exciting news to share?

Do you have a new address, email or phone number?

Submit your news online at www.OlivetCollege.edu/alumni/contact

 Left: Former professor Linda Jo Scott and Sherri L. Ter Molen ’94. Center Top Left: Jason Wheatley ’08. Center Top Right: Ryan Anderson ’17 and Olivet Football Coach Dan Musielewicz. Center Bottom Left: Melody Betts ’04. Center Bottom Right: Emily Brown ’09 and Eddie Ward ’10. Right: Daniel Bohannon ’13 and Lindsey Winters ’14

Continued from page 27

1990s

Sherri L. Ter Molen ’94 defended her Ph.D. dissertation, “Black American, Heart Korean: (Non) Korean Identities in U.S. Korean Meetup Groups,” in March at Wayne State University. The following day, the newly minted Dr. Ter Molen fulfilled a promise she had made to Linda Jo Scott to visit as soon as she received her doctorate. Linda Jo had been Sherri’s undergraduate adviser and professor as well as supervisor in the student work program at Olivet College between 1990 and 1994. While on campus, Sherri also visited her Greek society, Alpha Lambda Epsilon.

Karri McManus ’96 completed her CPCU designation in 2017. She will attend the conferment ceremony in San Diego in 2018. Karri works for Ackley-Peters-Haubert Insurance Services, Inc. in Eaton Rapids, Michigan.

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S H I P H E R D ’S R E C O R D

2000s

Melody Betts ’04 performed as part of the ensemble cast for the live television performance of “Jesus Christ Superstar” on April 1. She appeared with other award-winning singers and performers, including John Legend, Sara Bareilles, Alice Cooper and Brandon Victor Dixon. Melody has had an impressive performing career.

To learn more, visit Melody’s website at www.melodybetts.com.

Brandan Kimble ’12 is the new coach of Wyoming Godwin Heights High School. He played wide receiver at Olivet College. Brandan has coached in the Kentwood and Grand Rapids Union programs, and he served as Godwin’s defensive coordinator in 2015.

Jason Wheatley ’08, ran the Boston Marathon on April 16, 2018, with a finish time of 4:17:30. Jason was present as a spectator during the Boston Marathon bombing, and chose the five-year anniversary of the bombing to run the race for charity, choosing Boston Children’s Hospital and running for a little boy – Michael.

2010s

Philip Delpiere ’17 is the new assistant director of facilities and operations for Marshall University in West Virginia.

Ryan Anderson ’17 attended mini-camp for the New England Patriots NFL team this past spring.

Ryan played football at Olivet and was a punter for Rutgers. For the most updated information, visit Ryan online at @Ryann_Anderson.

Marriages Daniel Bohannon ’13 and Lindsey Winters ’14 were married on June 24, 2017 in Plymouth, Michigan.

The wedding party included Beka Wiersma ’14. Lindsey was Olivet’s first Cutler Fellow and a member of the women’s soccer team and Daniel was a member of the football team.

Emily Brown ’09 and Eddie Ward ’10, were married on April 1, 2017. Both were born and raised in Muskegon and attended Mona Shores High School, Muskegon Community College and graduated from Olivet

 Elijah David Ward; Patrick ’11, Jennifer (Pitcher) ’12, Connor, Patrick and Cooper Clasgens; Natalie Kozhuharov (top left), Grace, Ross and Gloria Jarratt (bottom left), Tess Kathryn Neusiis and Douglas Kelsey ’72

College. They also played the same basketball position, power forward, at all three schools and wore the jersey number 42. Emily and Eddie both studied fitness management as well. Emily is an achievement and behavior specialist at Timberland Charter Academy with National Heritage Academies, and Eddie is a Corrections Officer at Bellamy Creek Correctional Facility in Ionia County.

Emily and Eddie welcomed their first child, Elijah David Ward, on April 25, 2018.

Rebecca Gaarde ’13 and Jacob Blackmer ’12 will be getting married in September 2018.

Martie (Graham) Ports ’65 married John Tyrell on April 23, 2018 in Naples, Florida. Their honeymoon cruise was on the Celebrity ship on which they met four years ago in Bermuda!

31, 2018. This is their third child, and Gloria joins big sister, Grace, and big brother, Ross.

Katelyn (Harmon) ’10 and Deyan Kozhuharov ’08 welcomed their second daughter, Natalie, on April 23, 2018. She joins big sister, Lili, who is 4.

Laura (Fitch) Neusiis ’03 and her husband, Eric, welcomed a daughter, Tess Kathryn, on April 8. Tess joins big brother, William, 5.

Danny Thompson ’11 and wife, Sarah, welcomed a son, Lincoln James, Feb. 27, 2018. This is their first child.

Births

1940s

Patrick ’11 and Jennifer (Pitcher) ’12 Clasgens welcomed a son, Carson Patrick, March 20, 2018. He joins big brothers, Cooper, who was born on Jan. 3, 2013, and Connor, June 6, 2016.

Bryan Dutton ’11 and his wife, Alyssa, welcomed a son, Braxton, on April 4, 2018. Braxton joins big brother, Jalen, who is almost 2.

Jessica (Petkus) Jarratt ’08 and Greg Jarratt ’09 welcomed a daughter, Gloria Sutton, on March

In Memoriam 1930s

Caroline (Meier) Birdsall ’38, Soronian sister and the oldest living Olivet College alumna, passed away February 22, 2018.

Frances Baad ’48, passed away January 10, 2018.

1960s

Susan (Schwenk) Colledge ’64, passed away on February 18, 2017.

Jon Clark Rice ’66 passed away March 24, 2018 after a long illness.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Denyse Rice ’67.

William Michael “Mike” Fittro ’68, passed away on Friday, March 2, 2018. Mike started at Olivet in 1961;

he later joined the Peace Corps and then returned to Olivet to complete his degree in 1968. Mike is survived by his wife, Jo, and his siblings, Dan Fittro ’75 (wife Carmen ’69), Cynthia Fittro ’72, Gary Fittro ’74 and two other sisters.

Emily J. Young ’68 passed away on April 21, 2018, in Reno, Nevada. She is the cousin of Owen Whitkopf ’60 and was a member of Alpha Lambda Epsilon.

1970s

William “Bear” Pierce ’70 passed away on April 26, 2018 in Toronto, Canada.

Douglas Kelsey ’72, a Kappa Sigma Alpha fraternity brother, passed away on April 22, 2018 in Kalamazoo. Doug was very active in public service and exemplified the mission and values of Olivet College.

Lori A. (Olipra) Holynskyj ’79, passed away March 14, 2018 after a brief bout with cancer. She worked in the banking industry and was also a professional opera singer.

1990s

Laurie J. Ward ’96 passed away on November 25, 2017.

Friends of the College

Cecelia Parsell, wife of legendary OC Football coach Stu Parsell, passed away on April 26, 2018.

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Alumni Association

Connect. Engage. Ignite.

Olivet College Alumni. A force for good. 12,000 strong.

The Olivet College Alumni Association is pleased to introduce the Comet Champions program.

A set of events, initiatives and service activities that will provide many different ways for Olivet College alumni and friends to connect with each other and the college, make a difference in the lives of students and have an impact on the world.

At the heart of Olivet College’s founding principles is the imperative to “do good for others.” The spirit of service lives on in our alumni. Whether you’re looking for a way to give of your time and talents on campus or closer to home, find your inspiration right here!

You shared you thoughts and we listened! The programs, events, and initiatives that we’ll bring to life over the next three years are those that you said you most wanted to see. Through the Alumni Engagement survey, we identified where your interests overlap with the greatest needs among alumni and on campus.

In each of the areas below, there will be opportunities on campus and off, in person and online, with varying time commitments from 15 minutes a month to much more intensive engagement.

There will be opportunities to pair up with professors to impact learning in the classroom, to work with students through “micro-mentoring” or more traditional mentoring, to connect with other alumni through social and professional connections and to serve as an ambassador for the college. Whatever your availability or geographic location, there will be something for you!

Mentoring Alumni as Educators Service & Volunteerism Alumni Events Student Career Networking & Support Alumni to Alumni Professional Networking & Support

Alumni Affinity Chapters Student Emergency Fund Alumni Enrichment Programs Admissions Ambassadors Alumni Association Board

To learn how you can make a difference, visit us online at www.OlivetCollege.edu/cometchampions or contact Samantha Pearl ’00, director of alumni engagement, at 269.749.7644 or alumnirelations@olivetcollege.edu.

32

S H I P H E R D ’S R E C O R D

THE FOUNDATION OF

ADULT LIFE

Melanie Engels ’08 is an outstanding example of the Olivet College approach to education and its impact on the world around us. “Olivet College is a place where you develop your values and beliefs,” says Engels. “It fosters that development, and when you leave there, you know who you are more so than when you started.”

Engels’ experience with Olivet College almost didn’t happen. “It was August already and I was committed at the University of Michigan, but my cousin had wrestled for Olivet College and my dad encouraged me to consider it, so I scheduled a visit,” Engels explained. “The entire experience was a good one. I really connected with Leah Knapp, DVM, and Maria Davis, Ph.D., both science professors at the time. I wanted a more personalized experience, and it just felt right.”

That personalized experience that Engels hoped for became a reality at Olivet College. “The professors were always willing to help you – academically, personally, professionally. They pushed you to do your best and kept you on your toes.” And it wasn’t just professors who had an impact on Engels. She described the deep friendships and support systems she developed with fellow students, especially in the science program. “The relationships I formed have been long lasting,” Engels said. “Those relationships give you a support system.”

Engels was a highly engaged student during her time at Olivet College, investing deeply in academics, service, co-curricular activities and career preparation. She was a member of Alpha Pi Upsilon, the pre-med honor society, the Global Citizen Honors Program, Helping Hands and Soronian. She also played the saxophone in the Wind and Jazz ensembles, worked as a student mentor and TA for chemistry, and was the director of New Student Orientations.

She was in the top five of her graduating class, earning her honors as a Donald A. Morris Academic Excellence Award winner, and earned a BA in biology and biochemistry.

Throughout her time at Olivet College, Engels volunteered and worked at Hayes Green Beach Memorial Hospital in Charlotte, including several years in the pharmacy. After graduating in 2008, she entered graduate school at the University of Michigan, earning a Pharm.D. in 2012. Upon completing two years of residence, specializing in Health System Pharmacy Administration, she took a position with the University of Michigan Health System (UMHS) as the manager of ambulatory process and service quality. Engels also earned an MBA from New England College in 2016.

Engels now works as Pharmacy Manager for Munson Healthcare in Traverse City, Michigan and is responsible u

 Top: Melanie Engels ‘08; Bottom: the 2008 Olivet College science graduates get together twice a year with former professors to maintain the meaningful connections they made in college.

for dozens of staff across four of Munson’s pharmacy department lines. “All of my experiences contribute to how I manage and connect with people,” Engels explained.

“Evaluating all of those, I take those I enjoyed and were meaningful and they shape how I approach things. And Olivet was the start of my adult life – the foundation – and it’s where I learned how to be patient, how to work through frustrations, how important it is to create and maintain relationships. Olivet is where it all started.”

Engels serves as the secretary for the Phi Delta Chi Fraternity Alumni Chapter for the University of Michigan, as well as the Alumni Association Board and the Board of Trustees for Olivet College. “Education for Individual and Social Responsibility really stood out when I was a student at Olivet College,” Engels said. “My professors taught us to be accountable for ourselves, but also to be accountable outside the classroom, through service and volunteerism. It’s really stuck with me. I believe it’s important to stay involved, stay connected and give back to the places that gave you so much.”

READ MELANIE’S FULL STORY at OlivetCollege.edu/srstories SUMMER 2018

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Homecoming 2018 Sept. 28-29 | www.OlivetCollege.edu/homecoming

There’s a lot going on at Homecoming this year, including new registration support, new events, new ways to connect and lots of goodies and giveaways! Join us for a very special Homecoming as we kick off a year-long celebration of Olivet College’s 175th Anniversary. Find everything you need to know about Homecoming, including up-to-date event schedules and important information on the Homecoming website at www.olivetcollege.edu/Homecoming.

More information about Homecoming and a full schedule with times and locations will be mailed or emailed to you in mid-August. If you have a new address or e-mail and you haven’t yet shared it, please contact us.

Questions and address updates may be directed to Samantha Pearl ’00, director of alumni engagement, at 269.749.7644 or alumnirelations@olivetcollege.edu.

Full Online Registration Get discounted event passes and free goodies! Online registration opens Aug. 1. www.OlivetCollege.edu/HCregistration You can register for all events online this year! Sign up online to get exclusive benefits only available to those who pre-register, including discounted ticket prices, free football game admission, commemorative 2018 Homecoming t-shirt, a free concession at the Welcome Center, and personalized Comet Pass with commemorative lanyard that gets you into all of your registered events. These benefits, including the 2018 commemorative t-shirt, cannot be purchased. They are only available to those who register online by Wednesday, Sept. 26. Even if you’re only attending free events on campus, you can still register online and get access to all the benefits! If you don’t have access to a computer, simply call Cathy Smith at 269.749.7752 for assistance.

Homecoming Welcome Center All your Homecoming needs in one location!

Mott Academic Center, Main Floor Friday, Sept. 28, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 29, 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.

• Pick up your welcome packet, including your event passes, freebies and goody bags!

•

Connect with faculty, students and alumni from your graduating classes!

Alumni Block Party Saturday, Sept. 29, Hosted by Soronian Corner of Cottage and Shipherd (in front of Soronian) Begins after the football game and continues until 10 p.m.

Tickets go on sale Aug. 1

• • •

Homecoming Alumni & Friends Lounge Area Homecoming Information Desk First Aid Station

Celebrating 150 years of Soronian!

Join us for our first annual Alumni Block Party! Hosted this year by Soronian as we celebrate the 150th anniversary of the founding of Soronian. All alumni and friends are welcome. Ticket price includes dinner, dessert and two beverages, including soft drinks, beer and wine. The event includes music and dancing, fun

and fellowship with alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends of Olivet College.

Lodging Room block reservations have been made at local hotels and bed & breakfasts in Marshall and Charlotte. Visit the Homecoming website at www.OlivetCollege.edu/Homecoming to view the options. Limited availability.

Online Event Connections Olivet College has established Homecoming 2018 as a Facebook event. By connecting through Facebook, you can “check in” so your classmates and friends know you’re on campus, view others who have checked in and send and receive private messages through Facebook. Use this online resource to connect with your friends. Schedule a meet-up at the Welcome Center lounge! Find each other at the football game! @OlivetCollegeAlums

President’s Panel Saturday, Sept. 29, 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Join us for a historic look at Olivet College through the eyes of its leadership. President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D., will moderate a special panel presentation including former college presidents Donald Tuski, Ph.D., Ray Loeschner, Ph.D., and Michael Bassis, Ph.D.

Ray Loeschner, Ph.D. 1970 - 1977

Michael Bassis, Ph.D. 1993 - 1999

Donald Tuski, Ph.D 2001 - 2010

Homecoming Weekend Schedule A detailed schedule of all Homecoming events, activities, registration and opportunities to connect will be sent the second week of August. The most up to date information can be found at www.OlivetCollege.edu/homecoming.

Friday, Sept. 28 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Tours & Exploration of Campus Buildings

Saturday, Sept. 29 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Homecoming Welcome Center Open

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Red & White Tailgate

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Kappa Sig Golf Outing Phi Alpha Golf Outing

9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Self-Guided Tours & Exploration of Campus Buildings

1:40 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Band Pre-Game Show

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Homecoming Welcome Center Open

8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

175th Anniversary Kick-Off OC President’s Panel

11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

50th Class Reunion Luncheon

10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Greek Society Open Houses

12 p.m.

Women’s Board Meeting

11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Admissions Picnic for Prospective Students & Families

5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Alumni Awards Dinner

11 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Parade/Procession to Cutler

2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Football Game 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Art Talk & Reception 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Greek Society Open Houses After Football Game – 10 p.m.

Alumni Block Party at Soronian

We need your help! If you’re interested in volunteering during Homecoming weekend, just let us know! We’ll need help with registration, check-in at various events, set-up and clean-up at events and the Welcome Center. If you’re interested in getting involved, contact Samantha Pearl ’00, director of alumni engagement, at 269.749.7644 or spearl@olivetcollege.edu.

Alumni Engagement Office 320 S. Main St. Olivet, MI 49076

Comet to Comet Referral The single greatest way you can help ensure the sustainability of our vision to be more and do good and the continuity of Education for Individual and Social Responsibility is through the referral of prospective students.

Introduce a high school student to your alma mater today by making a preferential referral of prospective Comets at www.OlivetCollege.edu/cometreferral.

There’s still time to be a Comet this fall!