Shipherd's Record and The President's Annual Report, Winter 2023

RELATIONSHIPS the Olivet Way

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

political persuasion, race, religion, military or veteran status, or sexual orientation.

Dear friends,

Welcome to the 2022 President’s Report special edition of Shipherd’s Record.

Relationships … the Olivet way. Relationships have been at the foundation of the Olivet educational experience for almost 179 years. The scale of smaller colleges helps to make this possible, yet does not assure it is so. I have had the chance to visit many small colleges over the years and I have seen this opportunity missed. Olivet is different. Olivet is distinctive. Olivet’s commitment to defining ourselves by who we include, instead of who we exclude, where we care about each person as a unique and special individual, strengthens our sense of community and fosters strong, powerful, and lasting relationships that help us to become more, Be More, than we thought we could be. This issue illustrates the power of relationships … the Olivet way.

This issue is also the special edition where we highlight key metrics. You’ll note that over 86% of our $40.3 million annual expenditure is directed toward students, including Olivet College financial aid, instruction, and all that goes into a high quality immersive Olivet College experience. One of the ironies of the recent pandemic is that, while many organizations struggled mightily, Olivet College has not been financially stronger in a very long time. Sound leadership, hard work by our board, faculty, and staff, and an influx of federal funds in support of students and the College have bolstered the College’s financial position. This critical support enabled many students to weather the challenges and stay in college. Unfortunately, as we’ve seen across the country, the pandemic years also saw fewer high school graduates choose to go to college. We experienced this too, with slightly smaller incoming undergraduate classes in 2020 and 2021. Fortunately, we experienced a rebound in the fall 2022 class and expect to be fully back to prepandemic levels in the next cycle. Our strong financial position allows us to effectively bridge this short-term challenge without pulling back on our investment in the Olivet student experience or preventing us from making investments for the future, like the new Cutler Student Center now under construction.

You will also find information on the exciting new Olivet College ADVANTAGE Scholarship. On December 8, joined by Governor Gretchen Whitmer, I announced that beginning with the fall 2023 incoming class, half of our class will be tuition-free. Michigan students who receive the new Michigan Achievement Scholarship and are federal Pell-grant recipients will be tuition-free! This group includes many of our first-generation students and students of color, making up approximately half of the Olivet College student body. For Michigan Achievement Scholarship students who do not qualify for the Pellgrant but whose family income is $100,000 or less, they will not pay more than $5,000 per year in tuition. For

too long, students and families have struggled to figure out if they can afford college and how they will pay for it. This new approach puts Olivet College in a leadership position, assuring students and families they can afford a high quality private college experience here at Olivet.

Finally, I urge you to check out the new COMET2COMET portal, connecting members of the Olivet College family in ways that will strengthen our relationships and draw upon the richness of experience and connection we have for one another. Please consider setting up your profile and connecting to other alumni and students, ensuring lasting value in the Olivet experience well beyond graduation.

In closing, I thank each one of you who supported the College through your annual giving. We truly can not do it without you. This issue provides you with a link to the Honor Roll of Donors; we thank each and every one of you.

As always, I hope you enjoy your issue of Shipherd’s Record as we bring Olivet College, students, fellow alumni, and the Olivet College family a little closer to your world through this wonderful publication. Please know that you are always welcome on campus and we look forward to having you home, in Olivet, sometime soon.

With very best regards,

Steven M. Corey, Ph.D. President

OLIVET COLLEGE EARNS NATIONAL ACADEMIC RANKINGS

OLIVET COLLEGE

WE’RE RANKED!

Olivet College has been recognized nationally on several college ranking lists, including a #1 ranking for Academic Stewardship in Michigan.

Academic Influence, a private company that uses artificial intelligence technology to rank universities, colleges and high schools across the country, ranked the College in the top 10 in four categories.

#1 Academic Stewardship

#10 Best Small College in Michigan

#10 Best Liberal Arts College in Michigan

#10 Best Private College in Michigan

U.S. News and World Report is frequently cited as the nation’s premier college-ranking publication and ranked Olivet College in several categories.

#7 Top Performers on Social Mobility

#23 Best Value Schools

#37 Regional Colleges Midwest Washington Monthly ranks liberal arts colleges and fouryear institutions based on their contribution to the public good based on three categories: social mobility, research and promoting public service.

#65 Best Bachelor’s College (nationwide)

#149 Best Bang for the Buck (Midwest)

MEDIA PRODUCTION AND COMMUNICATION PROFESSOR RECEIVES GRANT

Olivet College Professor Joanne Williams has been named one of 51 educators out of 374 applicants nationwide to receive funding from the online learning platform Course Hero.

Professor Williams specializes in reporting and editing and is the advisor for The ECHO, the award-winning student newspaper. The $1,800 grant will support a news access effort led by upper-level students in the Media Production and Communication (MPC) major to provide local news to the Olivet, Michigan community. In doing this project, MPC students will learn how to run a 24-7 news operation and help meet the needs of the community.

OLIVET SENIOR EARNS ONE OF TWO LLOYDS OF LONDON INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCES

Olivet College senior Samuel Vondra is one of two insurance and risk management students nationwide to have been awarded the J.H. Blades Scholars London Experience through the highly competitive Wholesale & Specialty Insurance Association (WSIA) internship program. The J.H. Blades Scholars London Experience allows Sam to work at Lloyd’s, the birthplace of modern insurance, in June of 2023.

“Receiving the J.H. Blades Scholars London Experience is an absolute honor; this solidifies the strength of the Olivet College Insurance and Risk Management program as a whole,” said Sam. WSIA is a world-class member service organization representing the wholesale, specialty and surplus lines industry. It offers one of the most prestigious internship programs in the nation for insurance and risk management students.

STUDENT TRANSITION AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS DIRECTOR

NAMED

Marjorie Newman is the director of student transition and academic success, a new position at the College. Her primary focus is cultivating a positive first-year transition and onboarding experience for all incoming students. Previously, she taught journalism and public relations courses at various institutions, including Grambling State University in Grambling, Louisiana, and Saint Augustine’s University in Raleigh, North Carolina. She began her higher education career teaching English composition at Louisburg College in Louisburg, North Carolina. In addition to teaching and academically advising students in her department, Ms. Newman served as Undergraduate Coordinator, QEP Faculty Liaison, Curriculum Council Member and Summer Bridge Program Principal Investigator. She is in the doctoral dissertation phase of her postgraduate program in developmental education with a concentration in higher education administration at Grambling State University.

Vondra

Newman

Williams

BURKHARDT NAMED PROVOST

Paul Burkhardt, Ph.D., is the new provost for Olivet College. Previously, he served Prescott College as executive vice president and provost. He succeeds Maria Davis, Ph.D., who stepped down after 11 years to return to a full-time professor role in the Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.

“When I learned that Olivet College was the first institution in Michigan to welcome all students regardless of race, gender or ability to pay, I was intrigued,” said Dr. Burkhardt. “Now that I have had the opportunity to meet Olivet’s students, staff and faculty, I am deeply impressed with their highly engaging, relationshipbased approach to all aspects of the student experience. I am very excited to join the Olivet College community.”

DEAN OF STUDENT LIFE NAMED

Todd Long, Ph.D., is the new Dean of Student Life. Dr. Long has spent most of his career advocating for students and operationalizing policies, services and programs to support students. His experience includes residence life and student development, mental health and wellness, student conduct, Title IX, campus safety, disability services, co-curricular programs, LGBTQIA+ student services and international student services. He is committed to professional development for his staff, and his focus on his professional development mirrors the investment that others have made in his growth and success.

GOLD-LEVEL MILITARY RANKINGS CONTINUE

Veterans and OC students Samuel Hackworth, Willie Couch and Jesse Beaver with Registrar and VA Certifying Official Leslie Sullivan in the Square.

The Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency has named the College a Gold-Level Veteran-Friendly School for the fifth consecutive year. The Michigan Veteran-Friendly Schools Program recognizes academic institutions committed to supporting the needs of veterans and military-connected students. Olivet College is one of 41 schools ranked at the gold level, and the College has earned the gold-level ranking consecutively since the 2017-18 academic year.

The College also earned a 2022-23 Top 10 Gold-Level Military Friendly® School from Viqtory Media, ranking fourth in the private schools not offering a doctorate degree category. Military Friendly® serves as a standard to measure an organization’s commitment, effort and success in creating sustainable and meaningful benefits for the military community.

STUDENTS RAISE MONEY FOR UKRAINE THROUGH ART

The Olivet College Art Alliance, a student-run organization that promotes the arts, raised over $550 for the nonprofit organization World Central Kitchen in support of the citizens of Ukraine through the sale of limited-edition etchings sold during Homecoming. Leah Hopkins, Art Alliance member said, “Art Alliance chose this project to aid the suffering of Ukrainian people. It was a way for us to present something beautiful to the OC Community in support of others and to bring some sunshine into a heavy topic that impacts millions of people.”

Burkhardt

Long

FOOTBALL

WOMEN’S SOCCER

The football team posted a 5-5 overall record during the 2022 season, and four players earned All-Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) honors. Senior offensive lineman Christopher Beck, senior wide receiver Jalen Broussard, and senior defensive lineman Ricky Williamson are All-MIAA First Team honorees. Senior return specialist Deonte Higgins is an All-MIAA SecondTeam pick.

Beck is a repeat selection, as he also earned All-MIAA First Team honors in 2021. He helped block for an offense that averaged 433.5 yards per game, 253.2 on the ground and 180.3 through the air.

Broussard caught a team-leading 45 passes for 832 yards and seven touchdowns. In conference play, he had three games with more than 100 receiving yards, with a single-game high 196 yards against league champion Alma College. Broussard's 832 yards are the fourth-most in Olivet College history for a single season.

Williamson started all 10 games at defensive end and recorded 55 total tackles. Twenty tackles were for negative 66 yards, including 7.5 quarterback sacks. Williamson's 20 tackles for loss are the most for any Olivet player since Ryan Armstrong had 22.5 during the 2014 season.

Higgins returned nine kickoffs for 136 yards. He finished the year with a teamleading 928 all-purpose yards, 48 carries for 480 yards, 30 receptions for 313 yards and a punt return for minus one yard.

Sophomore goalkeeper Sarah Willard was selected to the 2022 All-MIAA Second Team. She started nine games in goal for the Comets during the 2022 season. Willard logged 692 minutes and 24 seconds, allowing 17 goals for a 2.21 goal against average and was the winning keeper in a 2-0 win over Cleary University and 1-0 victory over Saint Mary's (Ind.) College. She collected 77 saves, including a single-game high 17 against Albion College, for an 81.9 save percentage.

WINTER SPORTS

Men’s and women’s basketball, men’s volleyball, wrestling and men’s and women’s swimming & diving are all underway. You can follow all the action by visiting www. olivetcomets.com or on social media (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram). Most events are also streamed for fans who want to watch the event from home.

NEW COACHES

Olivet College has welcomed four new head coaches to the Comet family — Jenessa Hicks, women’s volleyball; Christopher Jones, bowling; Santiago Mendez, baseball; and Brandon Ralston, tennis — for the 2022-23 academic year.

Hicks, a 2012 Olivet graduate, transitioned to lead the women’s volleyball team after serving as the associate director of admissions for the last four years. She is also serving Olivet as the assistant athletic director for enrollment strategies.

Before joining Olivet's staff officially, Jones served as an assistant bowling coach in 2021 and spent time as a volunteer assistant coach for two years in 2019 and 2020. Mendez was promoted to the head baseball coach position after serving as an assistant coach from 2020-22. As an assistant coach, he worked with the pitching staff and team defense and served as the third base coach on game days.

Ralston came to Olivet after serving as a volunteer tennis assistant coach at Alma College during the 2021-22 season. His primary duties for the Scots were helping at practices and matches. Ralston was also an assistant tennis coach at Saint Johns High School.

Willard

(L to R) Christopher Beck, Jalen Broussard, Deonte Higgins and Ricky Williamson.

(L to R) TOP ROW: Jenessa Hicks and Christopher Jones. BOTTOM ROW: Santiago Mendez and Brandon Ralston.

(TOP ROW: L to R) Ben Compton, Liam Kinjorski, Cameron Mahlich, and Logan McLane. (MIDDLE ROW: L to R) Drue Mullin, Kaylee Richardson and Kiley Schneck. (BOTTOM ROW: L to R) Taylor Thelen, Reese Wallis and Rachel Webb.

Ten athletic teams were recipients of the 2021-22 MIAA Team GPA Award. This award is presented annually to the conference teams who post a 3.30 or higher cumulative grade point average for the entire academic year. Each of Olivet's 10 women's sports have earned the honor. The tennis team had Olivet's highest GPA at 3.77, which ranked third among the 106 MIAA teams honored. The cross country team posted a 3.64 GPA, followed by golf at 3.60 and indoor and outdoor track & field teams at 3.57. The swimming and diving team also had a 3.57 GPA. The basketball team posted a 3.44 GPA, followed by volleyball at 3.40 and soccer at 3.36.

One hundred thirty-one student-athletes made the grades to earn a spot on the 2021-22 Academic Honor Roll. The honor roll comprises student-athletes with a 3.50 or higher grade point average for the entire academic year and is an active team member.

Nine student-athletes — Liam Kinjorski, Cameron Mahlich, Logan McLane, Drue Mullin, Kaylee Richardson, Kiley Schneck, Taylor Thelen, Reese Wallis and Rachel Webb — ended their time at Olivet as four-time MIAA Academic Honor Roll recipients. One student-athlete — Ben Compton — is a rare five-time honoree.

CROSS COUNTRY

The men’s cross country team finished fifth at the 2022 MIAA Championship. At the NCAA Division III

Great Lakes Regional Meet, junior Chris Davis broke the school-record 8K mark with a time of 25 minutes and 19.5 seconds. This year Olivet, along with the Greater Lansing Sports Authority, co-hosted the 2022 NCAA Division III Men’s and Women’s Cross Country Championships at the Forest Akers East Golf Course. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology men and Johns Hopkins (Md.) University women captured the NCAA titles.

ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Title IX, an all-female class — two individuals and one team — was inducted into the Class of 2022 Athletic Hall of Fame. The inductees were Jill (Shufelt) Tanis, Amber (Conrad) Votava and the 1998 women’s soccer team.

Tanis, a 2005 Olivet graduate, earned four varsity letters on the softball team. She was a two-time All-MIAA honoree in the outfield for the Comets.

Tanis was selected to the National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-Central Region First Team in 2005. As a senior in 2005, she posted a .432 batting average, breaking the single-season record. Her record average currently ranks fifth at Olivet.

Votava, a 2011 Olivet graduate, was a four-time All-MIAA First Team selection on the golf team for the Comets. She was a three-time Women’s Golf Coaches Association All-Great Lakes Region honoree in 2009, 2010 and 2011. Votava competed at the NCAA Division III Women’s Golf Championships each of her four years at Olivet. Individually, she finished as high as 19th and the team placed as high as 10th-place in 2011. Votava finished her Olivet career with an 82.8 stroke average over 95 total rounds.

Led by head coach Mark Fales, the 1998 women’s soccer team finished the season with a 16-3 overall record and captured the MIAA Tournament title to become the first women’s team in school history to compete at the NCAA Championships. During the regular season, Olivet posted a 13-2 overall record. The Comets’ two losses were to Calvin and Kalamazoo College, but they avenged those defeats with wins over the Knights and Hornets in the MIAA Tournament. Olivet traveled to Delaware, Ohio, to play perennial NCAA powerhouse Ohio Wesleyan University in the NCAA Championships. The Comets battled tough before falling by a 4-3 score in double overtime.

Davis

1998 Women's Soccer Team

Votava

Tanis

RELATIONSHIPS the Olivet Way

Human relationships have always been at the core of an Olivet College education. It’s what our students value most, even today, in a world of ever-evolving technology. When we ask alumni from any generation or current students what they treasure most about their time at Olivet College, they say it’s a significant relationship with faculty, staff, coaches and alumni they met along the way without hesitation.

Too often, a college experience can feel like four or more years of transactions: attend class, listen to a lecture, read a chapter, write a paper, take an exam, repeat. There are no two-way conversations, mentorship opportunities, life-lesson discussions over coffee or dinner, networking or guidance from alums, or real-life examples from when the professor or others worked in a career field.

However, stories shared by Olivet College students and alumni routinely highlight a sense of belonging and being cared for and valued as an individual: a well-timed conversation changed a student’s life. Asking a student how they were doing made them feel seen and heard. A pat on the back and a few words of encouragement fostered a sense of pride in a student, who then sets even higher personal goals. A trip disguised as a fun adventure that turned into a leadership and character-building opportunity. This list goes on.

“With our students, it’s as much about building self-confidence as it is about them seeing their potential. It all starts with the student — where they are and what they want to become,” said Mike Oyster '77, associate professor and chair of the business department. “And then, we help them, based on our skill and expertise, or we reach out to someone in our network to help the student achieve what they want.”

The size of Olivet College is ideal for building relationships. The smaller class sizes and campus provide staff and students opportunities to interact regularly and get to know each other personally. “The fundamental difference between Olivet College and larger universities is that the large university is there to provide an education. We’re here to do two things: develop the individual and provide an education,” Professor Oyster said.

Across campus and beyond, relationships are forged between students, faculty and alumni. On the following pages, you’ll read how the Olivet College business department faculty and alumni purposely foster relationships with students by serving as mentors, career advisors, sounding boards, friends, and even family.

“I’m here because of what was provided to me as a student. I can now pay it forward. I had a couple of mentors, Jim Moyer and Bob Fisher, to name two, who invested in me, so that’s my model for working with these students,” Professor Oyster said. “For whatever incremental success our students have, if we can pat them on the back and build them up, they’re going to feel like Hollywood stars and realize what they can achieve. That sticks.”

OLIVET COLLEGE

Love Stories

For most students, college is a time to grow and discover who they are, who they want to be, and who they want in their lives. Friends, mentors, teammates, classmates, roommates, advisors and collaborators are just a few of the relationships students develop while in college. You might also be fortunate enough to meet the love of your life.

Connor and Nicole

Connor ’17 and Nicole (Gilbert) ’18 Bauserman met at Harper Creek High School and started dating their junior year. After high school, Connor chose to attend Olivet College, and Nicole went to a larger school on a diving scholarship. Connor convinced Nicole to visit Olivet and even talked her into running with the Olivet College cross-country team. Nicole decided Olivet was a better fit for her and happily transferred. Nicole says one of the best times in their lives was when they both worked on campus one summer, Nicole in the admissions office as a tour guide and Connor in summer camps. Connor and Nicole ran track/cross country throughout their college careers, participated in the President’s Leadership Institute, and made two service trips to Louisiana and South Carolina together.

Today, Connor is a financial advisor for Preferred Financial Group within Consumers Professional Credit Union. Nicole started as a financial analyst and now runs her training business, Bfit. Nicole and Connor currently reside in East Leroy, Michigan, and have two children, Isaiah (2) and Aubree (1).

Maggie and Ben

Maggie (Dunn) ’21 and Ben Serrels ’20 attended Olivet High School but didn’t know each other well. During their first year at Olivet College, they sometimes saw each other around campus but never had a reason to say anything other than hello. Ben worked in ITS in the Roznowski Center (the lower level of Burrage Library) and Maggie had a habit of visiting the library at the same time every day and sitting on the couches near Judy Fales' office. One day, Ben approached Maggie and made small talk. Judy came and sat with them and helped the conversation along. After Ben left, Judy told Maggie that she and Ben would look nice together as a couple and encouraged the two to keep talking. The next day Ben sat by Maggie again and eventually asked her to the Willow Tree for coffee.

Professor Kirk Hendershott-Kraetzer, Ph.D., is one of Maggie’s favorite people, and they still keep in touch today. Professor Hendershott-Kraetzer noticed Ben and Maggie and encouraged the relationship by talking about how smart Ben was. Professor Laura Barlond-Maas, who knew Ben and Maggie from their Olivet High School days, also encouraged the relationship. The size of Olivet also was to their advantage since they regularly saw each other around campus. Ben and Maggie have been together since 2017, and she is sure they would not have gotten together if they didn’t attend Olivet College.

Connor ’17 and Nicole (Gilbert) ’18 Bauserman

Maggie (Dunn) ’21 and Ben Serrels ’20

Ben graduated with a degree in accounting and business and is currently an accountant at Auto-Owners Insurance. Maggie received a degree in psychology and entered an Interpreter Training Program for American Sign Language. She has been working at Auto-Owners as a PIP Adjuster. The couple is currently hosting a foreign exchange student from Denmark named Malle.

Justin and Ashlynn

Justin ’16 and Ashlynn (Grubb) ’17 Madar met in the spring of 2014 when Ashlynn transferred to Olivet College. It was love at first sight for Justin, but they didn’t start dating until fall 2014. Falling in love during college isn’t easy since dating competes with making new friends, studying and participating in sports, but the couple endured. Justin played football and Ashlynn played softball. The two dedicated athletes were named “Rookie of the Year” in their respective sports in 2015.

Justin graduated in December 2016 with a degree in business administration. Ashlynn graduated in May 2016 with a degree in health science. Today, Justin is an insurance agent and Ashlynn works for the State of Michigan. The couple lives in Dewitt, Michigan, and married on August 21, 2021. They welcomed their daughter, Remi Lynn, on October 30, 2022.

Robert and Kelsey

Robert ’18 and Kelsey (Knight) ’19 Johnson are both from Homer, Michigan. They knew each other in middle school but didn’t become friends until high school when they were on the track team. They dated on and off, and then Robert graduated in 2014 and headed to Olivet College for football. Kelsey graduated in 2015. After exploring different schools, she decided to attend Olivet College as a track team member. Both majored in business, studied abroad together and met several of their best friends while at college. Today, Rob works at DJS Systems, which builds packaging automation and robotic systems for major corporations. Kelsey is an operations supervisor for Automated Logistics Systems.

Ashley and Maurice

Ashley (Harwood) ’18 and Maurice (Mo) ’19 Young would not have met had Ashley not transferred to Olivet in her sophomore year in the fall of 2015. During Move-In weekend, Mo was helping Ashley’s roommate move into their Gillette apartment. The two began to hang out regularly to talk, cook meals and have game nights. Because Mo was on the football team, Ashley attended all of the Comet games.

The two were married in March 2021 and welcomed their son, Andre, into the world in June 2021. In December 2021, they moved to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, to be closer to family.

Do you have a relationship story to share?

The Alumni Office would love to hear from you. Stories will be shared on Facebook as part of a special Valentine’s Day feature. Email your story and photo to alumnirelations@olivetcollege.edu

Justin ’16 and Ashlynn (Grubb) ’17 Madar

Robert ’18 and Kelsey (Knight) ’19 Johnson

Ashley (Harwood) ’18 and Maurice (Mo) ’19 Young

THE POWER OF Connection

Thanks to building relationships with OC alumni, many young professionals are launching successful careers in the insurance industry in Chicago. Pictured (L

to R): Emmalee Yates ’20, Jason Conkin '97, Haley Bazzani ’14 , Eric Quinn ’08 and Matt Domitrovich ’07.

People often say it’s not what you know but who you know.

For Matt Domitrovich ’07, it was both.

Students who study business at Olivet College are part of a nationally ranked program with industry leaders as professors. They learn the ins and outs of their intended industry and receive personalized attention that provides an advantage. During his time at Olivet, Matt had three internships (one in Michigan, one in Chicago and one in Baltimore), which exposed him to many areas of the insurance industry.

“Olivet is a place where everybody knows everybody. The program set things in motion, and Olivet alums helped me along the way,” he said.

Olivet intentionally fosters a relationship-based education. Having transferred from a large university, Matt quickly noticed the difference it can make. The director of the insurance and risk management program at the time, Mike Hubbel, provided him with the contacts that led to his multiple internships.

“I owe Mike a lot,” Matt said. “I never would have left Michigan without my Olivet experience. Olivet was exactly what I needed.”

He had the right experience, but, when it came time to find a job, it was who he knew and the networking power of Olivet relationships that gave him the best opportunity. Professor Hubbel connected Matt to board of trustee member Jason Conkin ’97 who then introduced him to Kevin Pollard ’95. Kevin hired Matt at Colemont Insurance Brokers as a wholesale broker.

That was almost 16 years ago. Matt is now an executive vice president at Amwins (formerly Worldwide Facilities) in Chicago. He specializes in national excess transportation. Wholesale brokerage is a niche practice, and he helps companies find the coverage they need when the traditional commercial insurance route isn’t working. He’s known as an expert in the field.

Matt and Jason have remained friends and are connected through their industry work and Olivet experience. Jason is executive vice president at Arch Insurance Group Inc., another specialty insurance company, but the pair chat weekly and meet socially. Last year, they went to President Corey and asked to mentor underrepresented students interested in insurance. The two were paired with two female students they reached out to monthly.

“Historically, this has been a very white male-dominated field,” Matt said. “It was important to us to give opportunities to underrepresented students.”

Matt finds a lot of ways to give back. He guest lectures at Olivet in classes and exposes students to surplus lines and other areas of the insurance industry. “I’m interested in helping current college students in any way,” he said. “They don’t have to work for me.”

But some of them do end up working with him. As a member of the Amwins internship committee, he has helped select six Olivet students to participate in the company’s internship program. Amwins is one of the largest specialty insurance companies in the country, and, as Olivet has created a name for itself in the insurance industry, it’s not a surprise that Olivet students are standing out in the program.

“Amwins is committed to developing the next generation of brokers and underwriters and has invested heavily in a Brokers Development Program,” he said. “We will need interns every year. It’s not going away.”

Greg Petty ’17 was one of those interns. He was introduced to Matt by his friend Evan Simpson ’15, who had also completed an internship and was working for Matt. Greg got an internship his junior year working with Matt.

“I didn’t know much about insurance until the internship,” Greg said. “But in just eight weeks, I saw the potential in the industry, and it has become more enjoyable as I go.”

After the internship, they stayed in touch. When it was time for Greg to graduate, it was the only interview and job offer he needed. He’s been working there ever since. He’s currently a marketing broker in Casualty and Product Recall, and, even though he works in a different area of the company, Greg sees Matt as a mentor.

“He’s included me in a lot of things he hasn’t had to,” Greg said. “He’s given me meaningful career and personal advice. Good mentors are hard to come by and Matt is one of those people.”

Generations of Olivet alumni have moved from interns to coworkers to friends. While they are firmly grounded in the belief that what you learn at college is your foundation, sometimes who you know and the relationships you develop along the way can often be the most rewarding and fulfilling part of a career.

“I never thought those relationships would carry over so much,” Matt said. “Going to Olivet changed the trajectory of my professional career. So many people helped me get to where I am.”

Scan the code for information on the Insurance and Risk Management program at Olivet College.

“I never thought those relationships would carry over so much. Going to Olivet changed the trajectory of my professional career. So many people helped me get to where I am.”

— Matt Domitrovich ’07 Olivet College graduate and executive vice president at Amwins

Petty

SHARING IN THE Joy of Success

Professor Jackie Looser has been teaching accounting at Olivet College for five years and loves teaching her students on a personal level. The relationships she develops have positive impacts that go beyond the classroom.

"As a professor, I am always working to build a strong rapport with my students. This relationship is based on respect and mentoring. My goal is to help them develop an interest in the material they are learning, which in turn helps them develop strong academic skills and personal career coals," Professor Looser said.

Her passion for teaching shines through during her classes. “Teaching brings me true joy, so I bring that joy into the classroom. I would not say it is always easy. It takes work to continually develop new approaches to teaching that will motivate students to be engaged in their work,” Professor Looser expressed. "Students can tell I care about them, which is why I tend to develop strong relationships with students I advise."

One student Professor Looser had a significant impact on is Rachel Webb ’22. As an accounting major, Professor Looser was her academic advisor and first professor. “In my first year in the accounting program, Jackie tried to make her classes as enjoyable as possible. I remember she played a specific accounting video, “Debits = Credits,” and was dancing in front of the entire class. From then on, I knew that because she was such an energetic teacher, she would be relatable and a person I could reach out to."

Rachel came to Olivet College in 2018 from Sturgis because of the opportunity to play golf. “After going on my college visit at Olivet, I quickly realized that the campus felt like home and that everyone I met was nice and welcoming. When I chose to attend OC, I was hoping that I would be able to meet many great people and get a good education," she said. Throughout her four years, Rachel accomplished what she had hoped.

Rachel's choice of accounting as a major was the first stepping stone in the professor-student relationship with Professor Looser. Rachel's drive to do more, however, is what helped their bond go beyond the classroom. “Rachel knew she wanted to be an accountant from day one,” said Professor Looser. “So she was quick to ask me questions about schoolwork and life after college.”

Because Professor Looser took the time to get to know Rachel and recognized her potential, she encouraged Rachel to be on the board of the Accounting Student Organization. “Through Jackie's encouragement, I was able to grow from being on the executive board as a student representative to being the vice president my senior year," Rachel said. Professor Looser also encouraged Rachel to participate in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA), which Rachel was a key member of in her four years at Olivet. “This allowed our relationship to develop far past professor/student and into the realm of co-workers. We did things outside the classroom that allowed us to become friends,” explained Professor Looser. “For example, we had outings that involved bowling, laser tag and a trip to Chicago. These events and VITA allowed us to get to know each other outside the classroom and on a much deeper level.”

To Professor Looser, the effort she puts into building relationships with her students is essential. "I believe that the relationships we develop with each other are the most important thing we do in life. These are what allow us to connect,” she explained. “Developing strong relationships with my accounting students beyond the classroom helps me grow as an individual. Relationships beyond the classroom allow students to grow in ways they would not have without those connections."

“Without Jackie and everything I have learned from her, I would not have grown as much as I did throughout my college career,” said Rachel. “Jackie helped me realize that the sky is the limit for my career. She helped me grow and succeed at Olivet, which has helped me succeed in my first few months of my career.”

After graduating in May of 2022, Rachel started work as an audit associate at Maner Costerisan. In this role, Rachel has been able to put what she learned from Professor Looser and other professors at Olivet into the real world of public accounting.

“The main reason I continue my relationship with students after graduation is that I truly care about them,” explained Professor Looser. “I want them to succeed and stay in touch. Whether on Facebook or via email, it gives them the ability to always reach me. It also allows me to share the joy of their success. I also stay in touch to allow them access to other students following in their footsteps. Current students relish talking to alumni who transitioned from college to career.”

“I have built such a great relationship with Jackie that even after graduating, I still feel as though I can reach out to her with any questions about anything to do with life after graduation,” Rachel said. “Especially now that I am starting the process to become a CPA, I know that if I ever need anything, she will always do what she can to help.”

"I think Rachel and I are kindred spirits as we both have high expectations for ourselves and a deep desire to succeed. She challenged me to be a better teacher, and I hope I challenged her to be the best student she could be. I am so proud of her success," Professor Looser said.

Scan the code for information on the Accounting program at Olivet College.

“The main reason I continue my relationship with students after graduation is that I truly care about them. I want them to succeed and stay in touch. . . It also allows me to share the joy of their success."

— Jackie Looser Professor of Accounting

Parker

Olivet Love: CARING THAT GOES ABOVE AND BEYOND

When Kalamazoo-native Mia Parker ’21 was searching for the right college, a family friend reminded her it wasn't just a four-year decision but a 40-year decision.

“He said, ‘it affects who you are and what decisions you will make throughout your life,’” Mia said.

Mia made good decisions at Olivet. She was a double major in accounting and financial planning, was president of the Accounting Student Organization, was a member of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program and played volleyball for four years as well as other activities. But it ended up being the people she met (her friends, Olivet alums, her professors) who impacted her career decisions the most.

“I’m intentional about building relationships and trust with students so they can succeed,” said Jackie Looser, accounting professor. “When they realize I really do care, they open up.”

Professor Looser was Mia’s advisor for four years. She teaches accounting classes and a seminar where she exposes students to networking opportunities and gets to know them on a deeper level. These are another way Olivet helps build connections between faculty and students.

“I’m able to work with students from the time they start to their graduation,” Professor Looser said. “Mia had it all together. She was an exceptional student and was always willing to go that extra mile.”

Mia started as a business major, but was convinced by Professor Looser to switch to accounting. Another professor, Michael Weglarz, CPCU, passed along her resume to a friend and CEO, which helped her secure an internship in the summer of 2020 when the country was shut down. That internship went so well that she was hired to continue working there as a Business Solutions intern during her senior year.

“Thank goodness for my professors,” Mia said. “They showed me the light of what was possible. Their guidance and belief in me gave me opportunities to grow.”

Professor Looser stays connected to her students after graduation through an alumni group she created. Mia is a part of that group and even presented to current Olivet students during one of Professor Looser’s seminars discussing her life after graduation. It’s a way Olivet helps foster connections between alumni.

“[Professor Looser] cares about student success,” Mia said. “She puts her whole being into teaching. She’s amazing and it benefits students.”

Mia had a great foundation, she just wasn’t sure where to take it. That’s when an Olivet friendship proved helpful. Mia had become friends with fellow student and business major Levi Mefford ’20. He knew of her desire to explore, so he invited her to visit his family in Dallas over a holiday break.

“It was the experience I had been yearning for,” Mia said. “I was curious about the world and other people. I knew I wanted to move somewhere new. I fell in love with the city.”

Levi’s father and Olivet Board of Trustee member, Chuck Mefford ’76, met Mia when she came to Texas that first time. They hit it off right away, and he and his wife, Roanne, were only too happy to help her out.

“It’s really the essence of what Olivet is all about,” Chuck said. “Everyone I know who went to Olivet has a story where someone reached out a hand to help them.”

It’s easier to make a huge life decision when you have the support of your family, professors and friends. Mia moved to Dallas in November of 2021, 1,000 miles away from her home. She stayed with the Meffords while she looked for a job and an apartment.

“Olivet taught me it’s okay to try new things even if you don’t know what the outcome will be,” she said. “You need to make it happen for you, whatever ‘it’ is.”

Her leap of faith worked out. Mia had a job lined up before Christmas. She is now working at Calvetti Ferguson, an independent CPA firm in Dallas. They work with middle market clients and provide tax, audit, risk and accounting services. As an Assurance Associate, she works with a team to analyze and verify the accuracy of financial records and information. It’s been a great fit for her. “Olivet cares about who you are as a person — how are you out in the world, what is your character,” she said. “I found a company that also invests in their people that way.”

Mia has stayed connected with the Meffords. “They are such good people. The grace that they show; they are open-minded and compassionate,” she said. “They’ve supported me so much. I call them my Texas family.”

As someone who understands the culture shock of moving from the midwest to Texas, Chuck was glad to help Mia make the transition and see her succeed. It’s what any Olivet alum would do. “I call it Olivet love,” he said. “It’s caring that goes above and beyond.”

Mia looked for a college where she could major in business and play volleyball. What she found was a place that challenged her, supported her and fostered connections that will impact her life for the next 40 years and beyond.

“I’ve realized the true value of relationships,” Mia said. “I thank Olivet for that. They opened my eyes, my world.”

“I've realized the true value of relationships. I thank Olivet for that. They opened my eyes, my world.”

— Mia Parker ’21 Olivet College graduate and assurance associate at Calvetti Ferguson

C. Mefford

Mia Parker (far right) with OC teammates Audrey Lama (left) and Laken Groll.

Life after College, SETTING STUDENTS UP FOR

Hunter Teare ’16 came to Olivet College from Connecticut to play lacrosse. He left with the friendship of a professor he now considers family.

Lacrosse was the reason Hunter was in college and the only reason he was at Olivet College. Unfortunately, lacrosse didn’t work out as planned. With lacrosse out of the picture and as an out-of-state student, Hunter questioned whether to stick it out at Olivet College. Then he got to know Professor Mike Oyster ’77.

“The thing that drew me to Mike was that he had lived and worked in New York and on the East Coast, and his wife, Beth, is from New Jersey. I was the only East Coast person at Olivet College. It was a very different climate – everyone is so nice. I wasn’t used to that,” Hunter said with a laugh. “I connected with Mike about things like that. And we’d talk about things on the East Coast and New York City. It was comforting since I felt like I was in some foreign world.”

Professor Oyster saw that Hunter had something in him to succeed off the playing field. Hunter had the grit; he just needed some encouragement. “Hunter was finally able to see what he could become by allowing himself to believe there was more to him than he’d been led to believe previously,” Professor Oyster said. “A lot of what is instilled here in our students is that they should try new things and not be afraid to take risks. They worry that they’ve only learned certain things in their classes and think that limits them to what they can do outside the classroom. We say, no, you are good at what you do and you need to aim higher.”

“Mike’s end result isn’t to give you a grade. It’s to set you up for life after college. Let’s face it: you may be here for football, track or volleyball, but it’s likely not going to be your career.”

— Hunter Teare

'16 Olivet College graduate and associate brand manager for BIC

Teare

“Mike’s end result isn’t to give you a grade. It’s to set you up for life after college,” Hunter added. “Let’s face it: you may be here for football, track or volleyball, but it’s likely not going to be your career.”

Professor Oyster realized Hunter didn’t thrive in the traditional classroom structure and encouraged him to find ways to put into action what he learned in the classroom. When the opportunity to participate in a Shark Tank-type competition presented itself, Hunter had a great idea but not the confidence to put himself out there.

“I’m a very creative and fast-paced person, and I’ve always loved marketing in general. Mike always told the students if they had an idea to step forward and we could do one of the competitions. I wasn’t sure. Public speaking for anyone, let alone a college student, is a very tough thing to do. But he encouraged me,” Hunter said. “I met with him numerous times to review my slide deck and rehearse what was to be a five-minute pitch. When we went to the competition hosted by Michigan State University, I ran through my presentation in about one and a half minutes, but I did it.”

“He had a good presentation down, but we had to take him back to the public speaking courses he had taken and sit down with Professor Art Williams for personal coaching. Hunter realized he was putting his classroom learning into action to prepare for the competition. It wasn’t about a grade but about using what he learned in class. He just needed someone to help him see that,” Professor Oyster said.

“The competitions are when Mike and I really began the friendship. It felt like the competitions weren’t just beneficial to me. We were building something larger,” Hunter said. The friendship extends to Mike’s wife, who has become a mentor to many students. “Beth is very loving. She’s like a mom and asks about the things moms care about. She’s willing to have deep conversations, too,” Hunter said. “One year, on Easter, two other lacrosse teammates, one from Oregon and one from Canada, had nowhere to go. Mike and Beth invited us over for dinner, and we had a heck of a time. It was great.”

The enormity of what Professor Oyster does for his students hit home for Hunter when he made the drive from campus to the Oyster home in Lapeer. “He cares. He doesn’t have to be here. He doesn’t have to do this. He doesn’t have to drive nearly two hours from Lapeer both ways, every single day.”

“It’s not about delivering a product. It’s about delivering a relationship in a way that is rewarding to me,” Professor Oyster said. “Hunter inspires me. Whether he sees each step along his journey as a huge success, the fact that I’m along with him on that journey is very rewarding, and it motivates me to keep doing more. That’s what we’re here for.”

Today, Hunter is an associate brand manager for BIC. Previously, he worked for Nestle Waters. He started his marketing career on the creative side at Catapult Marketing in Connecticut before moving to Grey Group in New York City.

Teare (front row, second from right) with Mike Oyster (far right front row) and OC classmates in Antigua.

Teare (far right) at Olivet College graduation 2016.

Teare (middle row, center) with the Olivet College President's Leadership Institute graduating class 2016.

Oyster

REACH YOUR PROFESSIONAL GOALS WITH AN OLIVET COLLEGE MBA

Ask About the Olivet College Alumni MBA Grant!

Olivet College alumni are eligible for a tuition discount of nearly 25% at a reduced rate of $695 per credit hour. This grant will save you approximately $7,000 over the entire program (11 courses).

• Live, instructor-led 100% online classes or “Flexschedule” to meet your individual needs for your success.

• Complete a total of 33 credits (21 core MBA credits and 12 concentration-specific credits).

• Professional designation, such as a CPCU, CPA, CFA or FRM, may count toward up to 12 credits (equivalent of four courses).

• Engage with faculty who are industry executives and professionals; learn from those with real-world experience.

• Opportunity to network and collaborate with classmates from all over the United States with different experiences.

• Equip yourself with leadership skills, sound reasoning, analytical rigor and professional insight to accomplish your career goals.

• Take what you learn in class and immediately apply it to your current profession.

THREE CONCENTRATIONS

MBA in Insurance

Olivet College’s premier graduate program is our MBA in Insurance. This MBA concentration provides interested and current insurance professionals the ability to further their knowledge and lead industry and practice improvements. Two course options from this concentration include Business and Insurance Law and Surplus Lines Insurance Operations.

MBA in Enterprise Risk Management

The MBA in Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) specifically equips professionals who are in or looking forward to careers focusing in the rapidly expanding and critical field of risk management. This concentration recognizes the interdisciplinary nature of business and integrates insurance, finance, accounting and management concepts.

MBA General Concentration

The general MBA degree program is versatile, allowing you to tailor the curriculum based on your specific career or future goals, such as consulting, human resource management, operations, leadership or global management.

MBA Student Body

We traditionally have 50-60 MBA students enrolled in a given term with five 8-week terms (August, October, January, March, and June) throughout an academic year. Over the past five years, our student body has been comprised of industry professionals across 31 states.

COMET COMET Connect for Life with

Comet2Comet is a higher education career access platform. Comet2Comet is for students and alumni at any point in life and offers personalized, lifelong career support, including job opportunities, career support, alumni-tostudent mentoring, network building and resources. It also offers resume advice and helps you hone your interview skills.

Comet2Comet is also where professionals can share their career stories and answer questions. It connects learners to jobs and people who want to help applicants get hired! It’s both an alumni career support for networking and a solution for keeping alums connected to their alma mater.

JULIA MELLINGER ’23 Media Production & Communications Major

I have used Comet2Comet to contact alumni in my field. The site provided prompts I could use when connecting with alums, which was quite helpful. The alums I reached out to were swift with responses, and one alum was even willing to meet up for lunch to discuss my future in film. This is a positive tool for anyone willing to utilize it properly!

to make hard decisions from situations they've experienced. A tool like Comet2Comet is unique, giving you access to successful Olivet alumni that can guide you along your journey and help you figure out what career path and moves are right for you. You don't have to be alone out there.

BARRON EVANS ’77 Alumni Council Chair

Mentoring is a lifelong personal development opportunity; it’s not limited to only school years or just following graduation. With the introduction of Comet2Comet, students, alumni, professors, administration and Olivet friends now have a way to bring their time and talents together on a simple, onestop platform. It’s intuitive to complete and allows multiple pathways for individuals to find one another. Whether for career guidance, professional support or focused networking, Comet2Comet creates opportunities to link, learn and enlarge anyone’s prospects. Comet2Comet is a crucial asset for alumni engagement — one of the four Priority Platforms your Alumni Council is pursuing this year.

JARRED

LACHANCE

’18 Account Manager at Toptal

When I graduated, I knew I wanted to enter the business field but had no clue what path to take or where to begin. I was lucky enough to be connected to a few Olivet alumni with different business/sales-type backgrounds who have been my mentors to this day, including Barron Evans and Rod Sanders. When I started job searching and interviewing, I applied to all types of roles; my mentors helped me weed out the bad ones and helped me understand which career path I wanted. Having mentors you can talk to when you need advice or help navigating the world outside college is so important. They can also give you the confidence

Hear what students and alumni are saying about Comet2Comet!

Mellinger

LaChance

Evans

Learn more about the Olivet College ADVANTAGE Scholarship by scanning the QR code or visiting www.olivetcollege.edu/advantage

Free Tuition Offered, Thanks to New Olivet College ADVANTAGE Scholarship

On Dec. 8, Olivet College and high school seniors across Michigan had reason to celebrate. With Governor Gretchen Whitmer at his side, President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D., announced the College is investing millions of dollars in creating the Olivet College ADVANTAGE Scholarship. The scholarship makes an Olivet College education tuition-free for students who qualify for the new Michigan Achievement Scholarship and are eligible for a federal Pell grant.

The program will begin with the fall 2023 semester and aims to guarantee new students, especially first-generation students and those from low-to-moderate-income families throughout Michigan, a quality, relationship-based college experience. Non-Pell students will also benefit from the Olivet College ADVANTAGE Scholarship.

“The Olivet College ADVANTAGE Scholarship will be life-changing for many Michigan students and their families,” President Corey said. “An Olivet College education alters the trajectory of a person’s life. A four-year degree increases a person’s lifetime earnings, opens the door to countless career possibilities, broadens life experiences, and provides opportunities to build lasting friendships and mentorships with diverse populations.”

More than 80% of first-time students will be supported through the Olivet College ADVANTAGE Scholarship. The undergraduate student body at Olivet comprises 92% Michigan residents, including 26% from diverse populations and about 50% Pell-eligible students.

Students will be automatically considered for the Olivet College ADVANTAGE Scholarship when they apply to the College and submit the required Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form.

Students will be responsible for the cost of room and board and may apply a federal student direct loan toward those costs.

Cutler Student Center Update

Michigan’s winter weather is not holding up the new Cutler Student Center construction. Shortly after Homecoming in October, the first phase, site preparation, began. This phase involves clearing trees and debris, leveling the ground for building, constructing a temporary road for equipment access, moving materials to and from the site, and burying utilities. As of this publication of Shipherd’s Record, the goal was to pour the footings in December and begin laying the foundation in January.

“Now that construction is underway, there’s a new sense of excitement on campus,” President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D. said. “Students and staff are already talking about how the new space will be used, and our prospective students and families are happy to see new construction on our campus. The Cutler Student Center will be a vibrant, inviting, contemporary campus space built for the students and it will quickly become a hub of activity. We remain on track to open the building to students in January 2024.”

Dear Friends of Olivet College,

In Fiscal Year 2022, Olivet College raised $1,800,000, an increase of more than $500,000 in total giving from the previous year. To every donor that helped us achieve such success, on behalf of our students, faculty and staff, I say thank you.

Faculty and staff worked thoughtfully and diligently with President Corey to bring his strategic vision to life — The Olivet College 2030: Vision for a Prosperous Future. We were pleased to host a series of national alumni gatherings that provided a chance for alumni to ask questions about the plan and to renew acquaintances after two years of virtual engagement.

I am pleased to introduce our new director of alumni engagement, Lori Otto. Lori and Olivet College’s Alumni Council have surveyed alumni regarding the type of events they want to attend. As a result, they formed a solid plan for national alumni events over the next year, culminating in an alumni weekend at Mackinac Island in June. Be on the lookout for more details!

We know philanthropy will play a more significant role in providing the financial resources to help the College on its path toward excellence as well as fueling the strategy of engaging students, our campus and the community. We are thrilled to be starting construction on the new Cutler Student Center. Because we want everyone to be a part of helping create a bright, welcoming hub for student activity, there will be opportunities available for naming at a variety of levels. This is a great opportunity to be a part of Olivet College’s future!

The impact of philanthropy is evident everywhere on Olivet College’s campus. In the pages of this issue of Shipherd’s Record, you’ll read about just a few of the experiences that your generosity makes possible. We thank you for making Olivet College a priority in your lives by volunteering your time and supporting us financially. Our graduates help make our communities stronger and our economy more vibrant. Your philanthropy helps make that happen. Thank you.

Vicki J. Stouffer, CFRE Vice President for Advancement

ALUMNI COUNCIL Meet Your

Lydia (Allen) Brennan '98

Kim (Boyer) Flitton '93

Beth Shunkwiler '06

Angelique (Korstanje) Cook '11

Craig Jenkins '08

Eric Thomas '94

Dennis Daugherty '70

Alexander Miller '00

Sue Topping '77

Branden Dyer '14

Mauricio Palli '07

Tala Welch '77

Barron Evans '77, Chair

Michael Ryan '07

Woody Wiley '68

Alumni Council members serve as ambassadors of Olivet College and the Office of Alumni Engagement by volunteering during events such as Homecoming, reviewing Alumni Council Scholarship applications, hosting events, contacting fellow alumni and making lifelong connections. Thank you to the following alumni who support Olivet College by serving on the Alumni Council. Your Alumni Council wants to hear from you!

Scan the QR code to get to know the Alumni Council members

Greetings alums!

I am excited to be writing you as your new director of alumni engagement. My career with Olivet College began over a year ago as the executive assistant to President Corey. However, my relationship with the College began long before that. As a student of Bellevue Community Schools, I recall participating in a math day competition at the College when I was in junior high. My classmate and I competed in a dual digs math contest and won. We received an award in Mott Auditorium and then had lunch at the KC, which was an excellent experience in my young adult life! I also visited Burrage Library for research in my advanced literature class as a senior in high school. These two experiences were my first on a college campus, and I immediately fell in love with pursuing higher education.

Although I didn’t attend Olivet College, I have learned so much about it and what makes it unique. One key aspect continuously mentioned is the focus on relationship-based educational experiences. This issue of Shipherd’s Record highlights how the College remains true to its mission of building impactful relationships between faculty, staff, coaches and students. Alumni can help carry on our mission of a relationship-based education after graduation and beyond. Comet2Comet, our new career networking site, can play a role and increase alumni engagement. The platform will help build and maintain student-to-alum and alum-to-alum relationships that can last a lifetime! Comet2Comet is a central component of the College’s strategic plan.

To further increase alumni engagement, we have designed new events based on the feedback we received from the Council survey responses. Your opinions have been heard and we look forward to seeing you at these events.

Lastly, I encourage you to stay connected with your alma mater and fellow alumni via social media, e-newsletters and future editions of Shipherd’s Record.

I look forward to meeting you at one of our future events! Go Comets!

Director of Alumni Engagement

JAN. 28

TOAST TO 2023!

Join us for a cocktail reception to kick off the new year. The event will include food, drinks, t-shirts and admission to the day’s men’s and women’s home basketball games.

4-6 p.m., Roznowski Center, Burrage Library

ALUMNI MEET & GREET

FEB. 25

A casual reception hosted by Gary ’71 and Kathy ’70 Burt. Appetizers and drinks will be served.

4–6 p.m., Coral Gables, 2838 Grand River Ave., East Lansing

ALUMNI DINNER

MARCH 1

Join in the fun at this Alumni Meetup! Hosted by Walt Parker ’58, this is a great time to “meet, greet and eat.” Hear college updates from President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D. All are welcome!

6–8 p.m., Ocala Hilton, 3600 SW. 36th Ave., Ocala, Florida

ALUMNI MEET & GREET

Join us for a cocktail reception hosted by David Bowers ’77.

4-6 p.m., Jones Foster, 505 S. Flagler Dr., #1100, West Palm Beach, Florida MARCH

ALUMNI MEET & GREET

Watch for details!

4-6 p.m., Chicago APRIL

ALUMNI & STUDENT OUTREACH EVENT Watch for details!

Time TBA, Toronto, Canada

MAY 6 WINE TOUR

Watch for details!

Time TBA, Harbor Country Adventures Southwest Michigan/Northern Indiana

MAY 20 OC COMMENCEMENT

1 p.m., Cutler Events Center

JUNE 9-11

MACKINAC ISLAND WEEKEND

It’s sure to be a weekend full of fun on the Island, including a Friday evening cocktail reception, carriage tours, biking, island exploration, a sip ‘n sail cruise, and a farewell brunch.

Mission Point Resort, One Lake Shore Dr., Mackinac Island

JUNE TBA

COCKTAIL RECEPTION

Watch for details!

Detroit Athletic Club Detroit

JULY 16

WEST MICHIGAN WHITECAPS BASEBALL GAME

Whitecaps vs. Lansing Lugnuts

2 p.m., LMCU Ballpark Comstock Park, Michigan

AUG. 18 NEW STUDENT MOVE-IN DAY

Come greet our newest Comets!

highlights

1950s

John Snyder ’57 and his wife, Margaret, celebrated 65 years of marriage on June 29, 2022. John served in the Army and was a medical sales representative.

1970s

Rosemary Aukerman ’72 lives in Lakeland, Florida and is a retired art education teacher. She has three children (Chris, Kara and Ryan) and seven grandchildren.

Paul VanGessel ’78 is the Indigent Defense Administrator for the City of Wyoming, Michigan and oversees the appointed criminal defense attorneys in the 59th, 62-A and 62-B District Courts, which covers Wyoming, Grandville, Walker and Kentwood. Previously, he served as the Assistant Wyoming City Attorney. Paul and his wife, Susan, have four children and six grandchildren (with one more on the way). The couple resides in Grandville.

1980s

Dana Arbor ’86 entered the 101st Airborne after graduation. She served as a personnel records specialist inside the adjunct general clerk’s office. She attended the DeMarse Corrections Academy, became a correctional officer and was promoted to resident unit officer. Dana is now semi-retired.

1990s

Danny Smith ’97 accepted a position with Koch Industries as IT program manager for the Disruptive Technologies division. He and his wife, Mindy, celebrated 20 years of marriage in October. Danny enjoys watching his daughter, Summer, compete in softball for Olivet College.

1960s

Oliver Tuthill ’68 has a new feature film, “The Right to Bear Arms,” a crime thriller starring John Savage, that was picked up by Red Lion Distribution out of Los Angeles and is on streaming platforms. His boxing novel, “When the Sunlight Goes Dark,” will be released in early 2023 by Austin Macauley Publishers. Oliver works as a film producer and script consultant.

2000s

Dr. Robert Clay ’00 was named chief equity and inclusion officer and assistant to the president for community engagement at Luther College. He will oversee the Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support and will serve

Charles Weidendorf ’55 and his wife, Celia, celebrated 65 years of marriage on November 17, 2021.

VanGessel

Tuthill

Snyder

Weidendorf

Smith

Clay

as a strategic partner and advisor to students, faculty and staff on diversity, equity, inclusion and community engagement.

Craig Bowen ’00 was named principal of Ionia High School. He earned his master’s degree from Fort Hays State University in Kansas with a concentration in instructional technology and has been an educator for 22 years.

Katherine Reeves ’03 was named the middle school theatre director and arts director for the Osceola County School for the Arts in Kissimmee, Florida. She is also the instructor of high school theatre and thespian/jr thespian director for Troupe #6640.

Ken Bradley ’03 was named head coach of the Leslie High School football team. Ken was a member of the baseball team and coached football at Olivet College. He is currently the health and physical education teacher at Leslie Middle School.

Stephen Kolomyjec ’05 was granted tenure and promoted to associate professor of biology at Lake Superior State University.

Allison (Shakinis) Aldrich ’06 has been named principal of Ionia Middle School. She earned a Master of Science in Education from Purdue University. Allison has spent 14 years as an educator.

Amanda (AJ) Johnston ’07 was named principal of Haas Elementary in Genesee.

2010s

Jay Magro ’14 was named the principal at Genesee Jr/Sr High School.

Zachary Gropp ’16 was named head coach of the Kent City Eagles high school football team. He previously coached one season at Portage Central after graduating from Olivet College where he played linebacker.

2020s

Huston Snyder ’20 is a commercial underwriter for Ally, Detroit. He earned his property and casualty (P&C) license and graduated from the Olivet MBA program in May 2022. Huston is now working toward his chartered property casualty underwriter designation (CPCU).

Births

Katie (Graebner) Ingraham ’05 and her husband, Kyle, welcomed a baby girl, Violet Kay, on August 10, 2022.

Brandon ’07 and Karine (Campbell) ’06 Walters welcomed Axel Conrad on September 2, 2022. Axel joins Madeline, Gunnar and Gwenivere. Tamyra Walters ’80 is the proud grandma.

Brooke Garver ’21 and Cameron Lemon ’21 were engaged on November 8, 2021.

Reeves

Kolomyjec

Johnston Magro

Garver/Lemon

Ingraham

Walters

Blake ’10 and Macy (Rose) Walters ’13 welcomed a daughter, Violet Jewell, on July 29, 2022. Tamyra Walters ’80 is the proud grandma.

Adam ’13 and Kathleen (Bukoski) ’15 Gross welcomed their daughter, Amelia Kaye, on July 13, 2022.

Andrew ’14 and Allison (Stockmeyer) ’14 Green welcomed their son, Benjamin Ian, on August 12, 2022. Sean and Aubrey (Stockmeyer) Alexander ’14 are the proud aunt and uncle.

Patrick

8, 2022.

Jennifer (Baum) Yerkov ’12 and her husband, Charlie, welcomed a baby girl, Josie Annemarie, on Sep. 29, 2021.

Jessica Duell ’15 and Ryan Armstrong ’15 welcomed their first child, Elijah Robert, on May 21, 2022.

Marriages

Leahy ’10 and his wife, Libbey, welcomed twin boys to the world on April

Louis Vasilion ’00 and Katie Marie-Phillippe married on December 13, 2021.

Walters

Leahy

Yerkov

Green

Duell/Armstrong

William Kerns ’57 passed away on June 4, 2021.

Kenneth and Carol (Blumenthal) Milner ’58 have both passed away. Carol passed on June 22, 2021.

Kenneth passed away on July 23, 2022. He served on the Board of Trustees at Olivet College from 2012-2016.

Rev. Edwin Clark ’63 passed away on June 6, 2022.

Elizabeth “Liz” Livedoti ’65 passed away on June 25, 2022. Liz was the wife of beloved football coach Dominic Livedoti ’65.

Coach Robert “Bobby” Dozier ’68 passed away in April 2022. As a freshman, he played on the Olivet College football team and then coached at Olivet for two years.

Lynn Dee Barnett-Westfall ’70 passed away on June 6, 2022.

Laura (Underhill) Dully ’82 passed away April 21, 2022.

David Whitfield ’06 passed away on Dec. 15, 2021.

Levoid Lynn Vickers III ’11 passed away on Aug.18, 2022.

Seth Hanton ’15 passed away on May 27, 2022. While at Olivet, he met the love of his life, Alexis Nichols, ’16. They were married in May 2017.

Gregory Hurst ’17 passed away on May 17, 2022. He was a Phil Alpha Pi Fraternity member and highly passionate about Olivet's insurance and risk management program.

MISSION POINTE RESORT

Kerns

Milner

Clark

Barnett-Westfall

Dully

Whitfield

Hanton

Hurst

Dozier

Office of Alumni Engagement

320 S. Main St. Olivet, MI 49076

RELATIONSHIPS the OLIVET WAY

Olivet intentionally fosters a relationship-based education, where students, faculty, staff and alums help one another reach their goals in the classroom and in their careers. These are relationships the Olivet way.