Shipherd's Record Summer 2022

SHIPHERD’S ADVANCING KNOWLEDGE

THROUGH FACULTY SCHOLARSHIP

RECORD

T HE A LU MN I M AGA Z I N E O F O L IVE T CO L L EGE | S U M M E R 2022

IN THIS ISSUE:

SHIPHERD’S 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.

MAGAZINE STAFF Lisa Collins Graphic Designer & Brand Manager Connor Gilbert Website & Digital Media Coordinator

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An Act of Self-Revelation

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Bringing Real-World Experience into the Classroom

Audrey Helfrich Content Specialist Michele McCauley Executive Director of Communications & Marketing Vicki J. Stouffer, CFRE Vice President for Advancement EDITORIAL

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The Awesome Power of Grit

Asking the Right Questions

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Geoff Henson Sports Information Director Protecting our Water

Rachel Hiser SEND CHANGE OF ADDRESS NOTICES TO: Office of Advancement 320 S. Main St., Olivet, MI 49076 269-749-7630 mwallenberg@olivetcollege.edu Searching for Totality: Remembering the Eclipse Trip of 1972

DEPARTMENTS

4 Be More. Do Good.

25 Alumni

6 Comet Sports

26 Homecoming

8 Advancement

28 Class Notes

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GUEST CONTRIBUTOR

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.

RECORD

On the Cover: The strength of academic programs and a college's reputation are supported by ongoing faculty scholarship. Erin (Jarvie) Pavloski '13, assistant professor of environmental science, helped establish the Eaton County Collaborative Stream Monitoring Program. Funded through grants, the program gives students interested in careers in environmental science, biology or ecology an opportunity to gain hands-on experience collecting and assessing specimens and data.

| P R E S I DE NT ’ S U P DATE

Dear Friends, Welcome to the most recent edition of Shipherd’s Record.

As the cover announces, this edition highlights faculty scholarship and the contributions Olivet College faculty make to the body of knowledge and the impact active faculty scholarship has on the student experience. Simply put, scholarship is an activity that contributes to the body of knowledge, knowing something previously unknown, gaining different understandings of something already known, or discovering new ways of applying existing knowledge. Faculty engage in scholarship within their discipline, i.e., biology, history, art, etc., and, fundamental at an institution that values teaching, the meta-discipline of teaching.

Research tells us that undergraduate students involved with faculty in research and other out-ofclass advanced projects have a much higher quality educational experience and succeed at much higher rates than those that don’t. Olivet College faculty engagement in active scholarship helps to set the Olivet College student experience apart from others.

The 2020 National Survey of Student Engagement revealed that 97% of Olivet College students engage in one or more high-impact practices, with 41% of seniors engaged in research.

This issue features five professors whose scholarship is advancing knowledge in their discipline, impacting our students' learning outcomes and enhancing the College's reputation.

• Gary Wertheimer, M.F.A., Professor of Art • Thomas Humphreys, CPCU, CLU, ChFC, CIC, Director of the Olivet College Risk Management and Insurance Center; Associate Professor of Insurance and Risk Management • Nancy Van Hoozier, Ph.D., Professor of Health and Human Performance • Erin (Jarvie) Pavloski ’13, M.S., Assistant Professor of Environmental Science • John Moore, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Psychology This issue also celebrates the 50th anniversary of the summer 1972 journey to find the solar eclipse. For Bill Blair ’75 and the other adventurers that summer, what a wonderful reminiscence. For the rest of us, it’s an enjoyable opportunity to travel back in time together with them.

You will also find news of the ceremonial groundbreaking for the new Cutler Student Center.

Identified as part of the Olivet College 2020 and Beyond campaign and made possible through a

lead gift by David Cutler ’65 and other generous donors, the Cutler Student Center will become the centerpiece of a more vibrant and engaging student experience.

Site preparation is planned for June and July, with construction beginning in fall 2022 and the building opening in early 2024.

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 outstanding publication. Please know that you are always welcome on campus and we look forward to having you home in Olivet soon.

With very best regards,

Steven M. Corey, Ph.D. President

SUMMER 2022

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

MBA CANDIDATES AWARDED SPENCER EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS

(L to R) Kaylene Candela, Meredith Dearing and Gretchen Humphreys Congratulations to the following MBA students who earned Spencer Educational Foundation Part-Time Master’s Scholarship Awards (up to $10,000): Kaylene Candela, Meredith Dearing and Gretchen Humphreys.

The Spencer Educational Foundation was founded in 1979 and remains the premier organization funding the education of tomorrow’s risk management and insurance leaders. Spencer’s merit-based scholarships are awarded to students in the United States and Canada who aim to pursue a career in Risk Management and Insurance. Selection is based on academics, leadership, work/internship experience and demonstrated commitment to pursuing a career in the industry.

2022 PRESIDENT’S LEADERSHIP FELLOWS

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SHIPHERD’S RECORD

OC RANKED AS 2022-23 NATIONAL GOLDLEVEL MILITARY FRIENDLY SCHOOL Olivet College has been named a 2022-23 GoldLevel Military Friendly® School by Viqtory Media.

Over 1,800 schools nationwide participated in the 2022-23 survey. Olivet College was one of just 282 schools that earned the “gold” award status based on leading practices, outcomes and effective programs.

The College is ranked in the category of private schools not offering a doctorate degree.

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. The Military Friendly® School list is specifically designed to equip veterans, dependents, active duty and other military personnel with the ability to easily and efficiently navigate their educational opportunities.

Seventeen students comprised the 10th graduating class of the President’s Leadership Institute (PLI). The program has produced nearly 150 fellows with the leadership experience to guide positive change in organizations on campus and beyond. Congratulations to the 2022 PLI Fellows: Isaiah Bailey, graphic design; Maggie Berner, media production and communication; Breanne Bess, business; Shacarra Dawkins, sociology and anthropology; Michael Fisk, journalism and mass communication and sports and recreation management; Laura Fox, history; Hayden Germain, sport psychology and psychology; Destinee Hawkins, psychology; Makayla Kurchak, biology; MeKenzie Lamb, sport management; Julia Mellinger, media production and communication; Kaytlynne Morris, graphic design; Savannah Pavoni, exercise science; Ben Porter, media production and communication; Jacob Vickery, insurance and risk management; Dane Vos, sports and recreation management; and Andrew Waller, accounting.

CLASS OF 2022 TOP 10 GRADUATING SENIORS

OC INSURANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT PROGRAM RANKED AS NATIONAL STANDOUT Olivet College was ranked third in Best’s Review national survey of leading college insurance and risk management programs. The survey has been conducted biennially since 2018, and Olivet College has earned a top-three spot in the past two surveys.

(Front row, L to R) Chad Enwright, Delaney Peters, Elizabeth Fisher; Victoria Herson; Carsten Gregersen; Anna Baird; Mikayla Taylor; Cameron Ramos; Kiley Schneck; Kaylee Richardson and President Steven Corey. (Back row, L to R) Professor Michael Oyster; Professor Tom Humphreys; Jeremy Duby; Professor Janine Peters; Professor Phil Reed; Professor Will Hagerty; Professor Nick Juday; Professor Kaydee Perry; and Professor Jackie Looser.

Ten graduates of the Class of 2022 earned the Donald A. Morris Academic Excellence Award. Congratulations to Anna Baird, criminal justice; Chad Enwright, business administration; Elizabeth Fisher, insurance and risk management; Carsten Gregersen, actuarial science and mathematics; Victoria Herson, music; Delaney Peters, actuarial science; Cameron Ramos, exercise science; Kaylee Richardson, accounting and financial planning; Kiley Schneck, exercise science; and Mikayla Taylor, psychology.

PORTER SCHOLARS

Olivet College has historically been one of the smallest schools in the ranking, especially among the top contenders. Recruiters and industry executives who participated in the survey noted Olivet College’s ability to prepare and place students for jobs at top insurers. Of survey participants, 85 who cast votes for Olivet College were hiring managers.

WE’RE RANKED! OLIVET COLLEGE

Best’s Review national survey of leading college insurance and risk management programs

ARTHUR ASHE JR. SPORTS SCHOLAR AWARD

Kinjorski

(L to R) Noah Turner, Deontay Thomas, Laneace Menefee and Destinee Hawkins.

Four students have received the Dr. John W. Porter Community Responsibility Award: Destinee Hawkins, Laneace Menefee, Deontay Thomas and Noah Turner. Students earn the award for demonstrating Individual and Social Responsibility through their involvement and service to the College and community. Dr. Porter, a leader and trailblazer in education, was awarded the OC Leadership Award in 2001. He established an endowed scholarship for current students at Olivet College in gratitude.

Congratulations to Liam Kinjorski and Rachel Webb on earning the Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholar Award. Inspired by tennis legend Arthur Ashe Jr., the award is given to students of color who have excelled in the classroom and on the athletic field. To be nominated, a student must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher, a demonstrated record of service to the campus or broader community and be an active member of an intercollegiate athletic team during the current academic year.

Webb

SUMMER 2022

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| COM E T SP O RTS

KING OF THE MAT:

WRESTLER DONOVAN KING EARNS ALL-AMERICAN HONORS Olivet College’s Donovan King finished second in the 285-pound bracket to earn All-American honors at the 2022 NCAA Division III Wrestling Championship. But his journey to get to this point in his Comet career has been remarkable.

As a senior at Farmington High School, Donovan won the heavyweight title at the 2019 Michigan High School Athletic Association Division II Championship. He was unsure of his plans after graduation, but he knew they would include wrestling.

Olivet College head coach Brandon Brissette reached out to Donovan to see if he would be interested in becoming a Comet.

After a visit to campus a month later, Donovan knew Olivet would be the right place for him to continue his education and wrestling journey.

“We knew Donovan was going to bring some skills that were above and beyond our normal recruit,” said Brissette. “He had the mentality of a champion already, and the experience at the national level usually reserved only for wrestlers at higher NCAA levels.”

In his first collegiate tournament, the Muskegon Community College Open, Donovan won his weight class with a 4-0 record at 285 pounds with three pins. Shortly after, he was side-lined when he needed surgery to repair a torn ACL and received a medical hardship waiver from the NCAA.

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Donovan worked hard to build his strength back up and get into shape during the off-season. The pandemic made Donovan’s recovery much harder. Since the students returned home, Donovan did not have the in-person support of the OC athletic department or his team.

The Comets returned to competition in the spring of 2021.

Donovan finished the season with an 8-1 record, his only loss being a season-opening dual match against NCAA Division I Central Michigan University. Donovan also lost the opportunity to compete for an NCAA title when the 2021 NCAA Division III Championships were canceled due to the pandemic.

On a high note, Donovan began the 2021-22 season by winning the 285-pound title at the season-opening Trine (Indiana) University Invitational. He started the year with seven straight falls to climb up to the No. 3 spot in the National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) rankings.

One of the biggest wins of Donovan’s season came at the end of January when Olivet faced Adrian College at the MIAA Dual Meet Championships. With the Comets clinging to a narrow one-point lead entering his match, Donovan faced Isaiah Espinosa, the No. 11 ranked wrestler and returning NCAA All-American. The outcome would decide the winner of the dual match and which school would win the 2022 MIAA Championship. Donovan was on top to start the second period and, with five seconds left,

pinned Espinosa to hand the conference title to the Comets for the fourth straight year.

“From the outside, it looked like it would be a tight match,” said Brissette. “But all of us who see Donovan every day in practice knew he would be able to get the win. It was one of the year's best moments when the team erupted in excitement when Donovan got the pin.”

The next stop in the journey was the 2022 NCAA Division III Central Regional at Adrian. Donovan won his first two matches easily with first-period pins. An 8-4 decision in the semifinals punched his ticket to the national championships. In the championship match, Donovan wrestled the top seed, Max Bishop, from Wabash College in Indiana, but a penalty point in the second period would be the difference; Donovan fell by a 2-1 score.

For his performance at regionals and during the season, Donovan earned the No. 7 seed at the national championships in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In his first match, Donovan won with a third-period pin to set up a match against the No. 2 seed, Kaleb Reeves from Coe College in Iowa, in the quarterfinals. Off a throw attempt in the first period, he threw Kaleb to his back, and on the roll through, Donovan locked up a cradle to end the match by fall in 55 seconds. The win was probably the biggest of Donovan’s career, as Kaleb entered the match with a 28-0 record, including 23 pins.

The next match on the docket was a semifinal match against Tyler Kim from Augsburg University in Minnesota. A takedown late in the first period ended up being the difference in the match, as Donovan won 3-1. Donovan fell short of his goal to win a national championship with a 2-0 loss to No. 5 seed Jordan Lemcke from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

“The national championship was an eye-opener for Donovan,” said Brissette. “He came in having not seen much of the field. He had to prove he belonged and was a contender even as a low seed. Donovan was at his first NCAA championship, with freshman eligibility, and just started scoring points. It led to more confidence and growth match-to-match. He then opened the eyes of the nation with a huge win over the top pinner in all of NCAA wrestling this season.”

and

Donovan finished the 2021-22 season with a 17-3 record. Of his 17 wins, 14 were falls. Donovan has a 30-5 record in his three seasons on the mat, but his journey at Olivet is not done.

“Donovan may have come up short on his goals this year,” said Brissette. “But he showed he still has so much room to grow as a wrestler. How can we not be excited for Donovan’s future and the future of the Comet wrestling program?”

Fans can get the latest updates on the athletics social media pages by following

@OlivetAthletics

on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Lansing Promise Scholars

WRESTLING The wrestling team provided the biggest highlights of the 2021-22 winter sports season for Olivet College. Due to COVID protocols, the Comets were forced to win four dual matches on the same day to win their fourth straight Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) title: 36-16 over Alma, 25-18 over Adrian, 33-21 over Albion and 23-15 over Trine. In addition, Owen Guilford was voted the MIAA’s Most Valuable Wrestler for the 2022 season.

OC Wrestling Team

TRACK AND FIELD In February, Lillian Albaugh won the shot put title at the 2022 MIAA Indoor Track & Field Championship and the 2022 MIAA Outdoor Track & Field Championship in May. With those two wins, she ended her Olivet career by winning the conference shot put title at each of the seven Albaugh possible MIAA Championship she competed in. Lillian is the first student-athlete in Olivet history to earn seven All-MIAA citations. In addition, she is the only MIAA female athlete to win the same event at four indoor championships.

ALL-MIAA ATHLETES FOR WINTER AND SPRING SPORTS • Lillian Albaugh (indoor & outdoor track/field) • Dylan Briggs (wrestling) • Jordon Brown (outdoor track/field) • Justin Carnahan (wrestling) • Hayden Germain (indoor track/field) • Owen Guilford (wrestling) • Hunter Hillard (indoor track/field) • Gabby Jolliff (outdoor track/field) • Gabriel Kirck (baseball) • Jennifer Mann (swimming & diving) • Chase Mendham (indoor track/field) • Zac Schneck (indoor track/field) • Eddie Thigpen (men’s basketball) • Reese Wallis (wrestling) SUMMER 2022

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MEET THE

ADVANCEMENT

Team at OLIVET COLLEGE

The Department of Advancement works to further the mission, values and vision of Olivet College by building lasting relationships with alumni, friends and donors who care about the college as much as we do.

communications for more than 10 years. Emily meets with alumni all over Michigan and wants to hear about your Olivet College experience to revive your connection to Olivet. Contact Emily at elash@olivetcollege.edu.

VICKI STOUFFER Vice President for Advancement After a career spanning more than 20 years in educational advancement work, Vicki Stouffer is pleased to serve as vice president for advancement. Her passion for educational fundraising was inspired by her father, a first-generation college student who balanced working full time, night school and his family. Vicki believes every young person who wants to go to college should have the opportunity to do so because she has personally experienced the change in family circumstances a college degree can bring. Contact Vicki at vstouffer@ olivetcollege.edu.

ERIN HOMER Director of Alumni Engagement Erin Homer joined the alumni department as the director of alumni engagement in April 2022. Erin has five years of experience in higher education and holds a master’s degree in higher education administration. Erin believes through education comes great opportunities to learn and become invested and involved in one’s alma mater. Contact Erin at ehomer@olivetcollege.edu.

DELSTENE ATKINSON Special Assistant for Academic Strategic Initiatives Delstene Atkinson has over 30 years of extensive executive leadership and management institutional experience to assist in strengthening fundraising, organizational development and capacity building for nonprofit organizations. In her current position as special assistant for academic strategic initiatives, Delstene works to advance strategic academic and student engagement funding priority initiatives. Contact Delstene at datkinson@olivetcollege.edu.

ROBIN HINMAN Assistant Vice President for Advancement Robin Hinman joined the advancement team as the assistant vice president for advancement in January 2022. Robin holds 10+ years of experience in nonprofit and higher education fundraising and three years in the insurance industry. Robin enjoys meeting with alumni in ALL states to hear your Olivet memories. She hopes to provide you with opportunities to find fulfillment in supporting Olivet today in honor of those memories. Contact Robin at rhinman@olivetcollege.edu.

EMILY LASH Development Officer Emily Lash has been a part of the advancement team, as a development officer, since February 2020. Prior to her career in fundraising with Olivet, she worked in advertising and 8

SHIPHERD’S RECORD

MICHELLE WALLENBERG Gifts and Data Management Specialist Michelle Wallenberg serves as the gifts and data management specialist for the Office of Advancement. She has been a member of the Olivet College family for more than 10 years and is passionate about connecting with alumni and donors in their support of the College. Contact Michelle at mwallenberg@olivetcollege.edu.

LORI OTTO Administrative Assistant to the President & VP for Advancement Lori Otto joined Olivet College in December 2021 and enjoys working with the advancement staff. Working in the president’s office also allows her to meet new and returning students, which is one of the many highlights of her job.

Contact Lori at lotto@olivetcollege.edu.

FAITH BURNS Advancement and Alumni Assistant Faith Burns joined the advancement team as the advancement and alumni assistant in May 2022. Faith earned her bachelor of science in advertising management. Faith hopes to build the connection between alumni and Olivet by sharing photos, videos, and personal interviews on social media. Contact Faith at fburns@olivetcollege.edu.

Pictured: Back row L to R - Erin Homer, Robin Hinman, Emily Lash, Faith Burns and Michelle Wallenberg. Front row L to R - Lori Otto and Vicki Stouffer. Not pictured, Delstene Atkinson.

ADVANCING KNOWLEDGE

THROUGH FACULTY SCHOLARSHIP “The advancing of knowledge is the fundamental purpose of the academic enterprise and scholarship is an intrinsic element of this endeavor.” Olivet College Policy 6.3.2 We often hear the phrase “faculty scholarship,” but what is faculty scholarship and does it matter at smaller teaching institutions, such as Olivet College? Isn’t it only large public universities that focus on faculty scholarship through funded research projects?

“Faculty scholarship is a critical component of intellectual life at all institutions of higher education, including Olivet College. A community of scholars forms the foundation of any college or university. The strength of academic programs and a college's overall reputation are supported by ongoing faculty scholarship,” said Karen Chaney, Ph.D., associate provost and dean of the college. “It is through the engagement with faculty who are inspired about their own disciplinary work that students become inspired by the life of the mind as well. Students become independent and critical thinkers and develop their own creative and intellectual talents in an environment led by engaged, curious and innovative faculty.”

At Olivet College, all full-time professors are expected to produce scholarship that makes a substantive contribution to one or more fields of study. It is critical for faculty to stay current and informed of progress and change in their disciplinary area. This engagement within the discipline forms the foundation for an active program of scholarship.

Olivet College supports the broad understanding of scholarship developed by educator Ernest Boyer (1990). Along with original research, scholarship includes works of integration and interpretation of existing knowledge, application of the knowledge of one’s field to matters of the community or society, and scholarly activities advancing the pedagogy of one’s discipline.

In disciplines within the fine arts, original creative work may constitute scholarship in its extension of knowledge, understanding and interpretation.

Significant faculty scholarship includes published scholarly works, presentations at academic conferences, original creative works and other related scholarly activities that advance faculty members' distinction among their peers locally, regionally and nationally and their visibility in the broader academic community.

On the following pages, you’ll meet five professors whose scholarship is advancing knowledge in their discipline, impacting the learning outcomes of our students and enhancing the reputation of the College.

• Gary Wertheimer, M.F.A., Professor of Art • Thomas Humphreys, CPCU, CLU, ChFC, CIC, Director of the Olivet College Risk Management and Insurance Center; Associate Professor of Insurance and Risk Management • Nancy Van Hoozier, Ph.D., Professor of Health and Human Performance • Erin (Jarvie) Pavloski ’13, M.S., Assistant Professor of Environmental Science • John Moore, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Psychology

SUMMER 2022

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An Act of

SELF-REVELATION 10

SHIPHERD’S RECORD

Walk the Olivet College campus, and you'll find yourself drawn to two incredible sculptures. At first glance, you see a stone acorn on one pedestal, and on another pedestal, you see bronze oak leaves – scraps of nature found in abundance on our campus. However, take a moment for a closer look and you'll see and feel more: it's a determined acorn forcing its way through rock. It's oak leaves that die and return to the earth to nourish the next generation of oak trees. Looking at the sculptures, you can't help but feel pride, hope and resolve. Upon reflection, you realize that the sculptures represent every Olivetian that has walked our campus since 1844. The works of art represent you.

The commissioned sculptures are the creative endeavor of art professor Gary Wertheimer, MFA. He draws inspiration from commonplace activities in the animal and plant kingdoms and represents them as visual metaphors for our own lives. The process of conceptualization, particularly the challenge of marrying media to subject, is one that he finds both alluring and demanding.

Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, Wertheimer credits his parents and their summer family vacations to upstate New York for his passion as an artist and sculptor. Each summer, he came alive, exploring a world of colors, textures and sounds rare in the city.

A country boy at heart, Wertheimer immersed himself in nature and saw the beauty in what others retreat from, like snakes, frogs, turtles, insects and more. "Without that experience, I wouldn't be the person I am today," he shared. "The love of this stuff comes from my youth."

Wertheimer thought he'd be a marine biologist. Soon after entering Brooklyn College, he realized his passion was art. In 1973, he attended Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture in Maine and met sculpture instructor Philip Grausman, who eventually became Wertheimer's mentor.

Over the next decade, while serving as Grausman's assistant, Wertheimer learned the traditional techniques of bronze casting, metal finishing, repoussé and stone carving.

"That's where I learned how to make a sculpture. He taught me what he learned when he was in Rome as a young man. I feel blessed. I sort of have in my hands, in my head and in my muscle memory the kind of technical skills handed down for hundreds and hundreds of years, which a lot of artists don't have," Wertheimer said.

Three things inspire Wertheimer in his art. The first is nature. He said, "My work is based on the struggles of existence, staying alive, being born, sibling rivalry; the things we go through no matter what kind of creature we are."

The second is how other artists have dealt with the subjects Wertheimer chooses to focus on in his work. "I want to be part of the conversation. I want somebody to look at my work 200 years from now and get something out of it the way I look at work from 200 years ago, and it resonates with me," he explained.

"Opportunity" was commissioned by Tom Kolassa '69 and dedicated in 2011. The pedestal engraving reads, "When given an opportunity do what you can do with it."

“I want to be part of the conversation. I want somebody to look at my work 200 years from now and get something out of it the way I look at work from 200 years ago. . .”

– Gary Wertheimer

The third inspiration is traditional sculpture materials: stone, bronze, wood and metal. "There is something very alluring about them, both their possibilities and their limitations," Wertheimer said. "Carving out of stone is different from modeling in clay, where you can go back and forth, add and take away. Carving stone is purely reductive, so you're challenged with that limitation of just reducing things down."

Wertheimer is not a chaser of the art world. He's more interested in creating work that draws out an ordinary person's reaction. "The things I make are relatively small and intimate, meant for individual private consumption. It's not meant to be put into a museum. I want somebody to see something across the room and come up to it and look at it closely," he said.

It's also about craftsmanship. "I was determined that if I was going to make things, I want my grandmother to at least look at this thing and go, 'wow,' even if she doesn't understand the subject or what's behind it; to see the craftsmanship," Wertheimer said. "When you create something that is well crafted, people are drawn to it. And then they realize, 'Oh my God, it's a snake, but it's beautifully done.' They are taken with the craftmanship."

Wertheimer tells his students that the creation of art is an act of self-revelation. "You make things and realize what attracts you over time. You begin to see a thread in your work.

As you mature as an artist, those threads become very clear and what you want to do is explore the things you are in love with in terms of making images," he explained.

One of Wertheimer's biggest thrills is seeing students that are not art majors do things in the classroom that they never thought they could do. "They came in, almost dragging their feet. At the end of the semester, they say, 'I can't believe I drew that.' I tell them, I'm just guiding you along. Everything you do, all of these accomplishments are yours; you own them," he said. "All we provide is the scaffolding."

Wertheimer's oak leave sculpture near the entrance of the Office of Admission in Dole Hall was dedicated in 2005 in gratitude to the generous donors to the Heritage Campaign.

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BRINGING REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE INTO THE

CLASSROO There are a lot of letters in Thomas Humphreys’ title. As a life-long insurance professional, Humphreys, CPCU, CLU, ChFC, CIC, director of the Olivet College Risk Management and Insurance Center and assistant professor, understands that most people don’t know what the letters stand for, but they demonstrate one of the many ways he is dedicated to continued education and professionalism.

Over his past seven years at Olivet, Humphreys has become a model of Olivet’s commitment to engaging beyond the hill. Through building connections with the outside world, his academic scholarship has helped foster a distinctive reputation for Olivet that continues to reap rewards for the campus community.

“Most of the professors at Olivet have extensive experience in the fields we’re teaching. That allows us to bring the real world into the classroom,” Humphreys said. “It helps students prepare for the industry because I can ask them, how would you handle this situation and how would you interpret this situation? It’s a good way to sharpen their critical thinking skills.”

Humphreys’ designations of Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter, Chartered Life Underwriter, Chartered Financial Consultant and Certified Insurance Counselor were earned through coursework and exams and kept through continuing education.

“It shows I’m committed to the industry. I’m increasing and sharpening my knowledge,” he said.

Humphreys came to Olivet after establishing a successful insurance career. He created a scratch insurance agency, taught courses at Kaplan University and was an independent insurance agent. He was appointed to the Michigan Auto Insurance Placement Facility’s Board of Governors by the State of Michigan’s Director of Insurance in 2017.

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The industry seeks out Humphreys’ expertise. He is a consultant to the Big “I” Michigan Agent’s Technical Committee, which reviews policy language and legislation for coverage concerns. He has written material for insurance magazines, including being a resource for the Lansing State Journal. He is also an education consultant for the National Alliance for Insurance Research and Education, which provides training, professional development and continuing education for current insurance professionals. Humphreys updates class materials and writes exams to keep them current in the field of insurance and risk management.

Olivet’s insurance and risk management program (IRM) has been around for 30 years, a rarity and advantage for students, and one of the reasons that drew Humphreys to the College in the first place. His teaching career, professional development and industry networking overlap and sometimes blur, benefiting the other.

“I came to Olivet for its reputation and size,” he said. “I knew I’d have the freedom and ability to help students be successful and have experiences outside of class. The relationships we get to build with students provide them with opportunities to travel and learn about the industry.”

Humphreys takes students to conferences three to four times a year, such as the Extreme Risk Takers Symposium in Chicago or the RIMS (the largest IRM organization in the country) annual conference in San Francisco. This past spring, he spent two weeks with students in London at Lloyds, known as the birthplace of modern insurance.

“I want to open my students' eyes to opportunities beyond Michigan. Some want to become local insurance salespeople, and we can help them do that, but we can also show them the bigger world of insurance. They’ll learn how to insure homes, but what about sports stadiums or cryptocurrencies?”

An internship is required for students in the IRM program; however, most students graduate with two or three. This is possible due to Humphreys’ and other professors' connections with the industry and the program's reputation.

OM

“I want to open my students' eyes to opportunities beyond Michigan. Some want to become local insurance salespeople, and we can help them do that, but we can also show them the bigger world of insurance. . .”

— Thomas Humphreys

“Companies come to Olivet looking for our students,” Humphreys said. “Insurance is a specialized area of business, and students here at Olivet learn the purpose, mechanics and intricacies of contracts. They’re able to hit the ground running. Our students have a great understanding of the breadth of this industry and a wellrounded liberal arts background. They are in high demand and often have jobs lined up before graduation.”

One such student was Zoie Walters ’22, an insurance and risk management and financial planning double major who credits Humphreys with helping her land her dream job. “Professor Humphreys brought so much experience to the classroom. He was able to give us real-life examples, and I found it was easier to grasp the concepts that way,” Walters said. “He pushes students to reach their full potential and brings his network connections to campus.”

During her time at Olivet, Walters earned three professional designations, had three internships and attended numerous conferences across the country. “I was able to explore potential roles in different companies and different areas of the industry.

This helped me find my path,” she said. She is currently an associate underwriter at Amwins Insurance Brokerage in Denver.

Humphreys has received recognition for all his hard work. He recently won Olivet’s faculty Riethmiller Scholarship Award and has been awarded Faculty Member of the Year from Gamma Iota Sigma, an international professional fraternity that promotes student interest in insurance, risk management and actuarial science.

Accomplished faculty, industry connections and successful outcomes are a few of the many reasons Olivet’s IRM program is not only popular on campus, but is consistently ranked among the best in the nation. Humphreys sets an example of what it means to be engaged in scholarship and outreach that can be seen in the classroom, on campus and in the wider community.

“Love what you do and it’s not really work. I eat, sleep and think about insurance. I enjoy the never-ending task of learning,” Humphreys said. “It’s been a joy.”

SUMMER 2022

13

THE AWESOME POWER OF

GRIT

Health and Human Performance Professor Nancy Van Hoozier, Ph.D., has worked with student-athletes as a coach, assistant athletic director and faculty member throughout her professional career. She’s seen a lot of grit on the court and playing field. She’s also seen a lot of grit in the classroom.

Psychologist and author Angela Duckworth defines grit as the persistence and passion for achieving goals over a long period. Van Hoozier uses the example of athletes to explain grit. “Some individuals are really athletic and can use their talent to succeed. Others have less talent but are more determined in their skill development. These individuals will often succeed because they are determined to achieve,” she said. “Often, the grit of these less talented individuals gives them an edge over those who are talented but are less committed to their goal.”

Currently, the Grit Scale is a measure of grit in everyday life across all of life’s domains — work, school, house cleaning, exercise and more. “It doesn’t take long to realize grit can wane from one domain to another. We all have areas where we will display a dogged determination to achieve success while in other areas, we have little interest in giving effort except that we have to,” Van Hoozier said. “For example, people who submit a manuscript and get rejected keep doing it repeatedly because they have a passion for writing. Grit has to be a combination of a passion for something and the willingness to put the time and effort into it.”

Knowing that grit falters depending on the domain made Van Hoozier question using a general grit survey to predict grit across all domains. Her recent doctoral research examined how global/general, sport and school grit scores predict academic performance in student-athletes.

“The purpose of my research was to investigate whether grit should be measured as a specific domain construct rather than a general domain construct. Determining whether grit should be measured as a specific construct would mean that grit scales will need to be devised for various grit domains – academic, sport, work, life and more,” Van Hoozier explained.

Van Hoozier’s research found a need for grit to be measured as a specific construct. “There was a statistically significant relationship between academic grit and cumulative grade point average. No such relationship exists between global/ general or sport grit. This was encouraging as it supports my premise that grit should be measured as a specific construct rather than a general one,” she said.

Previous sports psychology research conducted by Van Hoozier focused on imagery and visualization in a sport.

“One of the studies used relaxation techniques to have the individual relax; then we walked them through a visualization

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of what it means for them to step to the line to shoot a free throw by going through the routine and making the shot.

They practice it mentally, and then, when needed, they have a routine to step to the line, be relaxed and make the shot.” Van Hoozier continues to use these mental skills training in her role as a performance coach for individual athletes and teams.

Returning to the classroom and conducting research as a doctoral candidate gave Van Hoozier a new perspective: the student’s point of view. “The demands and juggling act our students perform regularly can be a little daunting if they don’t have the support and resource network necessary to succeed. Many doctoral students will get to the dissertation process and stop. They will finish their coursework and remain ‘all but dissertation’ because the process is difficult to navigate,” Van Hoozier shared. “Fortunately, I had an excellent chair and dissertation committee who provided guidance and support from the start of the dissertation process. Although I am an intrinsically motivated individual, without the support of my chair and committee, I might have taken longer to finish my dissertation. Moving through the doctoral program at the same time as Professor KayDee Perry, Ed.D., was immensely beneficial. We were each other’s sounding board and lifeline.”

Given her dissertation experiences,Van Hoozier realized she needed to ensure students know they have a support system at Olivet College. “We have many first-generation college students. They need additional guidance,” she said. “I try not to make assumptions about what they know and make sure they know my office door is always open for them. For other students, this guidance may translate into pushing them to submit their research for a conference or complete a class as an honors class. For all my students, I want them to know knowledge is power.”

One of the most rewarding moments Van Hoozier has had as a professor was when she attended a basketball game and saw one of her students sitting across the court reading a required book, “Thinking Body, Dancing Mind.”

“The basketball game is going on, and the student’s head is in the book. Later, he said he needed to get through the book because, as an All-American golfer, he felt it would help him get through the next stage. He actually put it in his golf bag and carried it with him on the golf course. He would specifically mark passages to read if he needed it,” Van Hoozier recalled. “I also hear other students recommend the book to others or give their book to another student they believe would benefit from reading it. Or they tell me it’s one book they’re not selling back at the end of the semester.

That’s awesome.”

SUMMER 2022

15

PROTECTING OUR

WATER Erin (Jarvie) Pavloski ’13 grew up surrounded by the great lakes. From the east side of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, she was only a stone’s throw from Lake Superior, Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.

“I always had an interest in water and a love of nature,” she said. “I wanted to do anything I could do to protect our water resources and educate others about natural resource issues.”

“Some watersheds have issues like E. coli bacteria, excessive nutrient or pollutant inputs or sedimentation and might be classified as impaired waters,” Pavloski said. “These kinds of issues reduce the watershed’s ability to support coldwater fisheries and other aquatic life, inhibit aquatic recreation and support weed and algae growth, all of which impact human health.”

As assistant professor of environmental science at Olivet, Pavloski is able to live out that conviction. This past year, she helped establish the Eaton County Collaborative Stream Monitoring Program through a partnership with the Eaton Conservation District.

Michigan has over 36,000 miles of streams within 86 watersheds. There is a clear need for this type of monitoring program, and Pavloski and Olivet are stepping up.

“It really began with an idea about providing our students with the opportunity to learn and practice specific field skills in environmental science and biology while also helping make connections and raise awareness about water quality beyond our hill and in local communities,” she said. “This partnership was organic, and I am so glad that our students and community members have the opportunity to participate in this program.”

Collecting Data The foundation of the program lies in sustainable macroinvertebrate collection and habitat assessment data.

Long-term data is the best way to identify and verify problem areas to decide where restoration efforts can be implemented.

The program, funded through grants awarded in 2021 and 2022 from the Michigan Clean Water Corps (MiCorps), collects data from stream sites throughout the Upper Thornapple River Watershed, which flows into the Grand River Watershed and eventually into Lake Michigan.

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Olivet’s unique Intensive Learning Term (ILT) provided Pavloski with the perfect way to include student learning with outside research. She designed an annual stream monitoring course that includes data collection days during the three-week term in May. “As a professor, it’s incredibly important to me to consider what the student experience and learning will be. After taking the course, students should have the ability to explain

watersheds and examine local water quality issues, apply the proper field techniques and safety, work cooperatively in group settings to collect specimens and data, and assess and identify the macroinvertebrate specimens. All of these skills are beneficial to students pursuing future careers in environmental science, biology or ecology.”

During collection days, students sample the stream sites for macroinvertebrates (aquatic larval stage insects and other animals) from microhabitats in the stream. The number and variety of insects collected at each site can indicate overall stream health and water quality. Olivet and the Eaton Conservation District host a one- and two-day collection event in the fall. Students trained during the ILT can join community volunteers to participate on that day.

“This teamwork and collaboration allow for continuous and sustained data collection that will allow for greater understanding of the watershed's patterns and health,” Pavloski said.

Educating and Engaging Pavloski understands the value of integrating and engaging community members into these environmental issues. “My previous research includes working with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and involved community-engaged research,” she said. “This kind of research is where scholarship can help address community needs and involve community members and their knowledge, concerns and ideas.”

Involving community members in the community scientist roles as part of the ILT spring collection has multiple benefits, from engaging the community and raising awareness to showing a clear example of how collaboration is often essential with this kind of research.

“These hands-on experiences allow students to gain skills that will help them in future careers and understand that for many conservation organizations, projects don’t happen without partnerships and community involvement. Connecting with Eaton Conservation District staff and others that care about the environment is what makes this course unique and provides our students that kind of collaborative perspective,” Pavloski said.

Restoring Nature The data collected by programs like the Eaton County Collaborative Stream Monitoring Program informs watershed projects by state agencies and organizations. By assigning a stream quality score for each site, the program will contribute its collected data to a statewide database that provides important information to conservation districts and other natural resource organizations in watershed planning, management efforts and restoration projects.

“These hands-on experiences allow students to gain skills that will help them in future careers and understand that for many conservation organizations, projects don’t happen without partnerships and community involvement.”

— Erin (Jarvie) Pavloski ’13

“I’m excited to have this opportunity for my students to see that their work has real-world benefits,” said Pavloski. “This data can help to assess stream quality, which is one piece of a larger puzzle in addressing stream health. They’re learning how to collect data and see how it is used and all the benefits it creates. It’s a great takeaway for students.”

Creating an Impact Allowing Olivet’s faculty to pursue their passions has clear benefits for both campus and the wider community. As professors like Pavloski are able to research, engage and take action on important issues, Olivet students get a front-row seat to see how to create impact and make a difference.

This fall, Pavloski will begin her first year as a tenure-track professor, and it’s clear coming back to Olivet will enable her to continue protecting the water she loves. “We all need clean water. The health and quality of our environment are interrelated to human health,” she said.

“This is the kind of fieldwork that I love. I found my place.”

SUMMER 2022

17

ASKING THE RIGHT

QUESTIONS Psychology majors and minors are required to conduct research during their college journey. Thanks to the experience of Associate Professor John Moore, Ph.D., Olivet College psychology students are engaging in curiosity by researching what they want to know about the world, the people, their discipline, or a specific topic and creating questions around that.

"It can be profoundly difficult just to put together a simple questionnaire. Students just want to ask people a couple of questions, but you have to do that so carefully in so many ways," Moore said. "Helping students put together a powerful questionnaire is more complex than you'd think.

But because I have this research background, I can help them do this much more effectively."

Moore's area of research has centered on discursive psychology, the study of psychological issues from a social interaction perspective. Discursive psychology investigates how people practically manage psychological themes and concepts such as emotion, intent, or agency within talk and text and to what ends.

"My interest in research has always been about trying to figure out what people have to say about things and what people want to say about things. My experience in language and human interactions means that I understand the very fine detail about what happens when you talk to people and how we can respond based on exactly what's said.” Moore said.

One of Moore's studies looked at how people diagnosed with depression spoke about their own depression and the kinds of language practices they used, how they would describe the depression and how they would use analogy and metaphor to describe what they were experiencing.

"I thought that was a very powerful way of going beyond the typical psychological research in this area and giving the people who are actually living with this issue their own voice in the research. That really sparked my interest in looking at how people talk about things and how powerful that can be and what we can get from research into how people talk about stuff," Moore said.

Another research project Moore was a part of sought to determine how best to manage people crying when they call into a helpline. The call takers served as informal psychologists, social workers, counselors and information providers.

Moore found that the five different call takers were all doing exactly the same thing when a caller would cry.

"They didn't know that they were doing this and had not

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been trained to do this, but they came out in the research doing what we call an empathetic formulation: a way of demonstrating empathy," he said. "They'd say things like, 'that sounds very distressing' or 'this seems very upsetting.' It was never, 'you are distressed' or 'you are upset.' None of us like to be told how we feel."

The difference between 1/10 of a second of silence and 3/10 of a second of silence between people speaking also intrigues Moore. "It absolutely matters," he said. "We are very finely tuned into these things when we speak so that that detail can make such a huge difference."

Moore used the example of asking someone if they wanted to go to lunch. "You’ll notice that if there’s about 2/10 of a second delay before the other person responds, the first person will say, ‘oh, but if you’ve eaten already or are not hungry…’ We are that finely tuned in to everything that happens that even 2/10 of a second delay tells us that the other person is not going to take us up on what we just offered, and so we fix it: we pull back the invitation,” he explained.

Dedicated professors like Moore are aware of the importance of staying up on current psychological research. "In psychology about 50% of what's in a textbook needs to be addressed in some way every 10 years, not necessarily rewritten. So, we have to stay on our toes because if we don't, our students are going away potentially with an incorrect understanding of something. Even something that we may have been speaking on for 20 years or more may have something about it come to light that means we have to change it somehow," he said.

That's one reason why other researchers replicate studies.

The replicability of research findings keeps researchers honest and lends confidence to the research. Psychology, like all science, is dynamic. “Researchers are always trying to make sure they know the best version of what they are studying and that we have the best possible answer at this time. Then you can comprehend why we have an understanding that may change in five years' time, changing a couple of years after that again. We're always making sure our knowledge is up to date," Moore said.

There will always be a need for research. Moore said, “There will always be questions to ask. We’re going to need people to ask those questions in the right way so they can find the most correct answer available.”

SUMMER 2022

19

HONOR A FACULTY MEMBER WHO INSPIRED YOU Make your gift today using the envelope found in this magazine, or give online at www.olivetcollege.edu/give, GIVE NOW, and select the Faculty Research and Scholarship Fund.

Faculty scholarship demonstrates our commitment to academic excellence and enhances Olivet College’s reputation.

When working with students, faculty members exemplify the teacher/scholar ideal and serve as examples to their students as they engage beyond our hill.

If you would like to support Olivet’s faculty in their scholarship and research pursuits, please consider a gift to the Faculty Research and Scholarship Fund. The costs associated with attending conferences, travel for faculty and students to present research findings, subscriptions to journals, lab equipment and other necessary tools can be cost-prohibitive.

Please consider making a gift to the Faculty Scholarship and Research Fund in honor of an Olivet College faculty member who inspired you, gave you a deeper understanding of a subject or encouraged you to thrive. With a gift of $1,000 or more, you will not only become a member of the President’s Circle, but the advancement staff will send a special note to the faculty member who inspired you to let them know of their impact on your life.

CUTLER STUDENT CENTER GROUNDBREAKING TAKES PLACE On May 20, the Olivet College community gathered for a ceremonial groundbreaking of the new Cutler Student Center.

The College is investing $21 million into the 35,000 square foot building, which will be funded through a USDA Rural Development Loan and donor gifts. The building’s centerpiece will be a rotunda and fireside lounge in addition to dining, activity and meeting space. The Cutler Student Center will open in January 2024.

Students, faculty, staff, alumni and the board of trustees celebrated the groundbreaking of the new Cutler Student Center on May 20. Senior Elijah Collins, Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Timothy Hodge '83, Olivet Mayor Laura Barlond-Maas, and Olivet College President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D., participated in the groundbreaking. Also pictured are members of the Olivet College board of trustees.

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“Students, alumni, faculty and staff often refer to the Olivet College community as a family.

Until now, we have lacked a central space where students can come together,” said Olivet College President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D. “The Cutler Student Center will create an exciting, inclusive place where students will build new and stronger relationships, resulting in an even greater sense of community and a more vibrant and immersive student experience.”

AND

ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP AWARD RECIPIENTS Annually, with the support of our alumni and donors, the Olivet College Alumni Association recognizes students for their academic achievement and career aspirations through various scholarships and awards.

Congratulations to the following students for their dedication to learning.

Alumni Scholarships Laura Fox was the recipient of the David C. Pywell ’69 Endowed Memorial Scholarship. Laura has proven that she exemplifies Olivet College’s mission and has demonstrated her commitment to volunteerism and community service.

Savannah Baker received the Ellyn ’36 and Lane ’40 Breidenstein Endowed Scholarship. Savannah, a business major, illustrated her scholastic achievements, service to Olivet College and participation in social/ extracurricular activities.

Mary Mitchell was awarded the Joan Johnson Wagner ’45 Scholarship for her commitment and service to Olivet College while demonstrating her strong scholastic achievements.

Amber Ralston is an active Greek member who received the Marty (Mason) Jennings ’67 Endowed Scholarship. Her leadership qualities and giving back to her college and community were instrumental in earning this scholarship.

Spencer Murphy received the Rev. Grafton ’37 and Ruth ’38 Thomas Scholarship by exhibiting scholastic achievements, service to Olivet College and community participation in social/extracurricular activities.

Logan Allen, an Olivet College athlete, was awarded the Stu Parsell Endowed Scholarship. Her leadership, strong potential in her chosen field of study and service to Olivet and the community earned her this scholarship.

Alumni Awards Olivia Velasquez was selected as the William Buchanan Awardee. Olivia impressed the selection committee with her written essay on how journalism and media have impacted her life.

Carly A. Braginton was selected as the Lenora Belle Hazard Memorial Award recipient. Carly demonstrated her writing skills by expressing how music education will influence her life after graduation.

Penelope Katz was awarded the Jim Coleman Prize. Since 2008, students have been awarded this honor for being published in the Garfield Lake Review. Penelope's work, Ragnorak, can be found in the 2021 Garfield Lake Review.

Pictured: Assistant Vice President for Advancement Robin Hinman, right, awards Savannah Baker the Ellyn '36 and Lane '40 Breidenstein Endowed Scholarship.

SUMMER 2022

21

Searching for Totality: REMEMBERING THE ECLIPSE TRIP OF 1972 CAN YOU IDENTIFY THE PEOPLE IN THE ABOVE PHOTO? The College would love to put names to the faces of the historical photo above. If you recognize these summer adventurers, scan the QR code below or go to www.olivetcollege.edu/historicalphotoid.

In the summer of 1972, a group of Olivet College students left campus and began a long journey in search of a solar eclipse.

Although July 10, 2022 marks the 50th anniversary, the memories and impact of that spectacular and inspiring trip are still felt by those who attended.

“If you’re able to see the sun 100% covered and experience the changing character of light… it’s almost a religious experience,” said Bill Blair ’75.

For Blair, the trip became part of his story of finding his way. After Olivet, he went to the University of Michigan to study astronomy. He eventually became involved in research and operations for several NASA and international space astronomy missions, including the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope.

“Looking back on it now, the Great Olivet Eclipse Trip of 1972 piqued my budding interest in science and ultimately led me into a long, interesting, fruitful career in astronomy,” he said. “It was a seminal activity in my professional development.”

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon blocks out the sun as it travels between it and the Earth. While a lunar eclipse can be seen from an entire hemisphere, you must be within a slim geographic zone, which can be different each time, to see a solar eclipse.

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For this eclipse, the group headed toward eastern Canada. Led by physics professor Joe Fleming, they left campus in Olivet’s two vans outfitted with extra roof storage for food and camping equipment and the telescopes, cameras, and experiments. They camped throughout the journey stopping at notable places, including Presqu'ile Provincial Park, Quebec; Rivière-du-Loup on the St. Lawrence River; the Bay of Fundy; Camden, Maine (for a lobster dinner); Hoosick, New York; and Niagara Falls.

They didn’t have a specific destination in mind. “This was in the pre-internet and pre-cell phone days. We were left to local newspapers and transistor radios trying to judge the weather conditions and decide where to head for the best chance of a clear view,” Blair said. “We decided to head further east to Nova Scotia to stay ahead of a front that was approaching.”

Olivet wasn’t the only college group traveling to see the eclipse, but they were one of the few undergraduate groups. Edith (Rosenthaler) Gerber ’74, a physics major who attended the University of Michigan to study actuarial science after Olivet, felt very fortunate to attend the trip.

“It was special that we were undergraduates. Most of the other groups we saw were graduate students from the Ivy Leagues,” she said. “It really showed the special attention we got treated to at Olivet as undergraduates.”

When the day arrived, the group ended up near the town of Arisaig in an open field on a bluff looking out over the Northumberland Strait. They set up telescopes, loaded fresh rolls of film (color and black and white) into the cameras, set up their experiments and waited for the eclipse to begin.

Hilary Speare ’75 was assigned to the camera with a big binocular lens to capture pictures of the sun as the eclipse transpired. “We went from total daylight to dim darkness very quickly,” she said. “I wondered what our early ancestors thought of these events. They didn’t know that it would just be temporary and that the daylight would return.”

Speare was a biology major who went on to get a nursing degree from Columbia University. “When the daylight began to disappear as the eclipse started, there was an eerie feeling in the air,” she said.

“I remember the wonderful feeling of being part of something bigger than oneself.”

“It was very still and quiet,” said Gerber on the impactful nature of the eclipse. “The wind died and there was very little air movement.

It was such a wonderful experience. It magnified my interest in astronomy.”

“Looking back on it now, the Great Olivet Eclipse Trip of 1972 piqued my budding interest in science and ultimately led me into a long, interesting, fruitful career in astronomy.”

— Bill Blair ’75

The group was able to experience totality (the time the moon completely covers the sun) for just over two minutes before some cloud cover rolled in, but they made the most of that precious time.

“After the event, we were all elated and had ourselves a good celebration. Outdoor dinners and campfire companionship are memories that I will always savor,” Speare said. “This kind of hands-on education and learning is so important for students. It was emblematic of the best of what Olivet College can provide; meaningful education and perspective to all.”

Fifty years later, Olivet continues to provide life-changing experiences for all students through conferences, internships, research and international travel. It’s one of the many benefits Olivet students take into the world.

“As my career winds to a conclusion, I look back fondly on this experience, made possible through the vision of Professor Joe Fleming and a college willing to support this life-changing adventure for students,” said Blair. “It was a great adventure, full of suspense and beauty, camaraderie and learning.”

SUMMER 2022

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THE JOHN HOMER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Honoring “Doc” – an Esteemed Professor, Mentor and Friend John Homer, Ph.D., “Doc,” began teaching at Olivet College in 1979. Dr. Homer taught economics courses with specializations in resource economics, international trade and economic development throughout his tenure. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree and a doctorate in economics from the University of Hawaii before establishing his roots at Olivet.

His passion was teaching and making connections with students, faculty and staff. Dr. Homer touched countless lives throughout his 42 years serving our campus with his caring personality and ability to make students feel seen and heard. He was widely known for his cursive requirements in class and his ability to locate a cookie anywhere on campus.

Dr. Homer won numerous awards at Olivet College, most of which were voted on by his students. He was awarded the Drs. Gorton and Peggy Riethmiller Advisor of the Year Award and the Drs. Gorton and Peggy Riethmiller Teacher of the Year Award four times.

He was a very active member in the Olivet community and known by all. Dr. Homer was affectionately known as the “water boy” to the Olivet College football team. He was also active with the Olivet High School band and assisted with the long jump on the Olivet High School track team. Dr. Homer even attended the state meet every year to rake the pit.

Doc was more than a professor, and he was more than a mentor.

He was a friend.

To learn more about the Dr. John Homer Memorial Scholarship, contact Emily Lash, development officer, at elash@olivetcollege.edu or 269-749-6691.

Make your gift to the Dr. John Homer Memorial Scholarship by scanning the QR code or visiting www.olivetcollege.edu/ give. Click on “Give Now” and select the John Homer Memorial Scholarship Fund.

We are turning to you on behalf of our family and Olivet College to ask for support of the Dr. John Homer Memorial Scholarship. Our father was a professor, advisor, collaborator and friend to thousands at Olivet College for more than four decades. We’ve been told by many about his dedication to his students and the great care and compassion he showed for them over the years.

As you know, the cost of higher education can be a challenge for many. Unfortunately, these high costs can deter students from pursuing their educational dreams. It is very important to us to honor our father and carry on his legacy through a scholarship for students. Those that apply should hold a sophomore status or higher and will need to submit a hand-written cursive essay (minimum one page) on what Olivet College means to them and the impact it’s made on their lives. This kind of scholarship will help students achieve their goals and receive the Olivet education that was afforded to so many of us.

Please consider supporting the Dr. John Homer Memorial Scholarship through a one-time gift or a pledge over time. Every donation of any amount helps our students realize their potential. It is our hope that our father’s memory and impact live on for years to come. He was a beloved mentor, colleague and friend who possessed the ability to educate and inspire and filled us all with joy with his quick wit and kind words.

We are grateful for your consideration and look forward to hearing from you

by October 1, 2022, when we hope to announce gifts totaling $50,000 for the establishment of the Dr. John Homer Memorial Scholarship.”

– The Homer Family

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| A LUM N I A S S O C IATIO N

Dear Alumni, It is my pleasure to write to you as the new director of alumni engagement. From the moment I stepped onto the grounds of Olivet College, I was surrounded by warm greetings and congratulations. Many alumni have stopped by the office to share their experiences with me about how Olivet impacted their lives. To see their smiles broaden and faces light up as they share their stories is a testimony of this great college.

Together Again Hometown Gatherings It has been wonderful to meet so many alumni at our Together Again Hometown Gatherings. Since my arrival in April, we have hosted four alumni events in Michigan (Lansing, Grand Rapids, Detroit and Traverse City). New relationships and connections blossomed during these events, while others were strengthened through rich history, memories and story sharing. Before my arrival, alumni had the opportunity to reconnect at similar events in Florida and Chicago. Our goal for these events is for alumni to not only remain deeply rooted and connected to Olivet but to bring Olivetians together to reconnect with each other.

Introducing a New Alumni Mentoring and Networking Platform We are excited to announce our new mentoring platform that will allow alumni to network with each other and with current students. Students and alumni can find careers within this platform, seek guidance, provide mentoring partnerships and build Olivet communities. Watch for more information and how to register in the upcoming e-newletters.

What a Homecoming It’s Going to Be We are excited to be bringing back some traditional activities during Homecoming, including tailgating, ghost tours/historical tours and food trucks!

This year, we’ve added new events, including a wine and canvas painting, the musical stylings of OC’s own choral and Gospel choirs, a book reading by alumnus Robert Shegog and a cornhole tournament. There’s plenty of fun for the kids, including painting, pumpkin decorations, caricatures and inflatables.

Friday will kick off with an All-Alumni Luncheon on campus, with the Distinguished Alumni Awards Ceremony and the Athletic Hall of Fame dinner in the evening.

Conveniences have been added, including Friday shuttle services from the airport and train stations to hotels. Alumni will receive discounted room blocks at local hotels in Marshall and Charlotte.

Enhance Your Alumni Experience – Here’s How You have a gift! I’m often asked what makes a successful alumni engagement program. The question isn’t necessarily what but WHO makes it successful. The answer is simple: You. Gifts come in many forms, but the one I’m going to focus on is the gift of time. Our alumni department is striving to build, strengthen and sustain alumni relationships at Olivet College and we cannot do it without you.

The more you become involved, the more robust and valued our community becomes, and let’s not forget the more fun we will have. Contact the alumni department and ask for upcoming volunteer opportunities.

HOMECOMING

Here's Your Chance: Shuttle volunteers are needed! If you only have a couple of hours (2 hours) to volunteer during Homecoming, we have a seat for you!

2022

Respectfully,

Erin N. Homer Director of Alumni Engagement

OLIV E T

COLLE GE

SUMMER 2022

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HOMECOMING OCT. 7-9

2022 Welcome home!

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FRIDAY, OCT. 7 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Registration – Welcome Center Located at the tailgate field across the street from Cutler Event Center. Stop by, check-in and pick up your free t-shirt (while supplies last)!

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

College Store Open – Kirk Center Be sure to check in at Homecoming Registration first to find out about OC swag specials. Be sure to mention that you are an OC alum to receive 10% off your purchase!

11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

All-Alumni Luncheon – Oaks Dining Room, Kirk Center Kick off Homecoming weekend by joining President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D., special reunion classes, Distinguished Alumni Award and Athletic Hall of Fame honorees and others for an all-alumni luncheon. Ticketed event.

5:30 – 8:00 p.m.

Distinguished Alumni Awards & Athletic Hall of Fame Celebration – Cutler Event Center Join President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D., the alumni council, honorees and their families and special guest to celebrate the 2022 DAA and AHOF award recipients.

Ticketed event.

SATURDAY, OCT. 8 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Registration – Welcome Center Located at the tailgate field across the street from Cutler Event Center. Stop by, check-in and pick up your free t-shirt (while supplies last)!

9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Historical Tours OC’s own Michael Fales ’75 will lead a walking tour of campus, sharing the College’s rich heritage, humble beginnings and a few stories. A great way to kick off the day and reminisce with friends. Meet in the Square!

9 – 10 a.m.

Alumni Book Review – Gruen Engagement Center Join alumnus Robert Shegog ‘74 as he shares his book, “Wrestling with the Truth.” Robert is one of the oldest living people with HIV. Driven by his passion for wrestling, the coach needed to make sure his student-athletes were on track with their classes, able to graduate high school and ready to continue their postgraduate pursuits.

10 – 11 a.m.

Parade Prelude with the President – Hosford History Center Join President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D., before the parade for refreshments, pastries and conversation on the Hosford History Center and Lawrence Archives lawn.

11 – 11:30 a.m.

Parade Be part of the action and feel the energy! Join in the fun as we follow Clyde and Haley, the football team, the cheer team and the Marching Comets from campus to Cutler Field.

Congratulations

TO THE FOLLOWING GREEK SOCIETY MILESTONES

11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Red & White Tailgate: The Best of the Best Judging Takes Place Get in on the chance for bragging rights by showing your Comet pride at your tailgate. Three categories will be judged: best food, best decorations and most spirit. The winners from each category will receive a $50 Amazon gift card! Keep your eye out for Clyde and Haley!

11:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Photos with Clyde and Haley – Welcome Center Clyde and Haley would love to have their photo taken with you! Bring your phone and say cheese!

11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Canvas & Wine Painting – Welcome Center Grab a friend or bring your family and let your inner artist out. Our talented host artist will guide you in creating a fall-inspired masterpiece. Ticketed event.

1 p.m. to End of Game Pyne Pavillion Spirit Store – Cutler Field Be sure to check in at Homecoming Registration first to find out about OC swag specials. Be sure to mention that you are an OC alum to receive 10% off your purchase!

2 – 5 p.m.

Football – Cutler Field Cheer on the Comets when they take on the Kalamazoo College Hornets in the Homecoming Main Event. Distinguished Alumni Award, Hall of Fame honorees and Greek societies celebrating milestones will be recognized at halftime.

Ticketed event.

5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Artist Reception – Riethmiller Art Building An annual Homecoming favorite is the artist reception. This year’s feature artist is Emeritus Professor Donald Rowe. His exhibition is entitled, “Donald Rowe: Real and Imaginary Spaces.” Hors d'oeuvres and beer and wine will be served.

5 – 7 p.m.

Caricatures by Corey – Welcome Center Smile your cheesiest smile and capture your memories of OC Homecoming 2022!

5:30 p.m. to Close All Alumni After Party, Choose from Parties at Two Different Locations Join alumni council members and fellow alumni for food, conversation and laughs. There are two locations to choose from – or, better yet, stop by both: Schuler’s (Marshall) and Firekeepers Casino Hotel (Battle Creek). Ticketed event.

SUNDAY, OCT. 9

10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Homecoming Worship Service, Olivet Congregational Church

Planning is underway! Events are subject to change.

Watch for details and registration information coming soon.

175 YEARS

100 YEARS

25 YEARS

Soronian (Iota Kappa Omicron) Strong in Love, Firm in Right

Kappa Sigma Alpha Wisdom Conquers All

Nu Gamma Xi To promote unity, sisterhood and high academic standards among women

Phi Alpha Phi Progress, Truth and Friendship

Alpha Lambda Epsilon Bear Well the Torch

Alpha Phi Kappa The Righteous Endure till Judgment

SUMMER 2022

27

| CL A S S N OT E S

1950s

Clint Alexander ’88 was named the Blue Ridge School head football coach on Feb. 21, 2022.

John Vanderlind ’50, MSW, retired from The Maple Clinic in Traverse City where he worked as a therapist.

1970s

Rose McKinney-James ’73 was appointed to the board of directors for Pacific Premier Bancorp, Inc. and Pacific Premier Bank on March 28, 2022.

Chris Arvidson ’78 published a poetry chapbook, "The House Inside My Head." This is her first poetry book; it joins three previous nonfiction anthologies.

1990s

Stacey Locke ’97 works in Washington, D.C. in a position assisting people with disabilities at the federal level. She provides support to over 100 nonprofits in the North Central territory of the United States, traveling to seven states.

Locke

Danny Smith ’97 accepted a position with Koch Industries as IT program manager for the disruptive technologies division.

2000s

Sara Tate-Pederson ’04 was a founding member of the University of WisconsinMadison Women in Information Technology Community, a group that advocates for more women in information technology roles in the Big Ten Conference.

Tate-Pederson

Dr. Stephen Kolomyjec ’05 was granted tenure and promoted to associate professor of biology at Lake Superior State University on Jan. 21, 2022.

Hammond

Marie S. (Dekutoski) Hammond ’78, Ph.D., published her first book, "Building your Career in Psychology" (Routledge). Marie is a professor of psychology at Tennessee State University, a Historically Black, Land Grant University (HBCU), and she was awarded the title of "Distinguished Researcher" in 2020.

1980s

Dr. Jay Pierson ’81 accepted a position as the interim director of music at Davie Street Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Jeffery Lang ’86 graduated from the United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio, with a Doctor of Ministry (D.MIN.) in prophetic preaching and praxis in May 2022.

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SHIPHERD’S RECORD

Lang

Reed

Molly Reed ’05 was appointed Kolomyjec the strategic communications director for the Private Academic Library Network of Indiana in February 2022.

Beth Shunkwiler ’05 has been teaching in South Carolina for 10 years. She is the sophomore class student government adviser, the high school pageant director and prom coordinator.

Beth has helped organize many special events and community service opportunities such as food drives, Salvation Army bell ringing, adopt a family in need over the holidays, campus clean ups and others. She also volunteers at the local animal shelter and in community events.

2010s

Andrew Shaver ’12 was promoted to the supervisor of supply chain at McLaren Greater Lansing.

Shaver

Josh Kofflin ’15 was sworn in to the Milan City Council on Jan. 1, 2022.

Carlos Barajas ’17 earned his Ph.D. in applied mathematics from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. His Kofflin thesis was titled “Deep Learning Sanitization of Compton Camera Prompt Gamma Detection Data for Prompt Beam Therapy.”

Shaunie Hankins ’17 was named the Chandler Park High School women’s head varsity basketball coach.

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

Barajas

Devon Mayse ’17 was sworn into the Michigan Bar Association after graduating from law school in May 2021 and passing the bar exam.

Mayse

Grace Wheeler ’20 earned a master's degree in forensic psychology from Arizona State University.

Jacob Jodway ’19 was inducted into the Quincy High School Athletic Hall of Fame on Feb. 4, 2022. He was a member of the Olivet College football team.

Loren Smalley ’19 and Brianna Sevcech ’20 were engaged on June 22, 2021.

Smalley/Sevcech

2020s

Dylan Gann ’20 graduated from Marine Corps Basic Training on Jan. 7, 2022.

Jordyn Osterland ’20 presented her master’s thesis to complete her master’s degree in pathology from Gann Boston University. Jordyn’s thesis was "Characterizing the Molecular and Pathological Alterations of the Sulcus versus Crest in Early and Late Stages of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy." She also began a position at Thrive, an exact sciences company, as a research associate.

Garver/Lemon

Births

Maria (Gouda) Carlow ’06 and her husband, Derek, welcomed their daughter, Evelyn Joyce Carlow, on Feb. 20, 2022.

Kyle '09 and Laura (Markin) ’11 Labrecque welcomed their daughter, Corinne, on Dec. 9, 2021.

Labrecque

Megan (Colby) Andrus ’11 and her husband, Luke, welcomed their baby, Bennet James, on March 22, 2022.

Kyle ’11 and Lauren (Campbell) ’12 Modad welcomed their first child, Kyler Campbell Modad, on Nov. 17, 2021.

Connor ’17 and Nicole Modad (Gilbert) ’18 Bauserman welcomed their daughter, Aubree Bauserman, on Oct. 25, 2021.

Bauserman SUMMER 2022

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| C L A S S N OT E S

Marriages

In Memoriam

Mary (Harwood) Katerberg ’84 married Steven Katerberg.

Lenore Sternlight ’45 passed away on March 4, 2021.

Mike Hescott ’87 and Terri Hatfield were married on Nov. 19, 2021.

Albert Sovine ’52 passed away on Feb. 22, 2021.

Sternlight

Rev. Charles Schepel ’60 passed away on Dec. 21, 2021.

Sovine

Paul Lamb ’62 passed away on Sept. 3, 2021.

Nola Bonandrini ’65, of Canton, passed away on March 21, 2022, at the age of 78. Nola met her husband, Bennie Bonandrini, at Olivet College.

Hescott

Louis Peter Vasilion ’00 and Katie Marie-Phillippe Vasilion were married on Dec. 13, 2021.

Robert Ebbert ’66 passed away on Dec. 10, 2021, after a battle with cancer. He was a member of Phi Alpha Pi.

Ebbert

Dale Barber ’68 passed away on Dec. 14, 2021.

Maggie (Dunn) ’19 and Ben ’20 Serrels were married on Sept. 25, 2021.

Camille (Scilla) Bartush ’69 passed away on Jan. 19, 2022.

Barber

John Wicht ’69 passed away on March 28, 2020.

Calin Langridge ’70 passed away on Dec. 10, 2021. He was a standout pitcher and four-year starter for the Comets.

Orin “Tom” Larson ’70 passed away on Dec. 26, 2021.

Dunn/Serrels

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SHIPHERD’S RECORD

Dudley Cliff ’71 passed away on Nov. 16, 2021. He was a member of the Phi Alpha Pi society as well at the Olivet College football and baseball teams.

Martin Kapff ’72 passed away on June 1, 2021.

Steven E. Dimos ’85, age 57, passed away on March 4, 2022. He studied business and was a member of the football team at Olivet College.

Cliff

Margaret (Priest) Fowler ’77 passed away on Sept. 20, 2021.

Kapff

Cynthia Louise Beals ’79 passed away on Jan. 6, 2022. Cynthia spent her career working in higher education.

Lisa Barry ’81 passed away on Nov. 30, 2021. She was an award-winning journalist and host at WEMU, the public broadcasting service of Eastern Beals Michigan University.

While at Olivet College, Lisa was a member of the Sigma Beta Society, choir, Barry WOCR and the Garfield Lake Review.

Jean Foreman ’91 passed away on Oct. 21, 2021. She was a member of the Sigma Beta Society.

Foreman

David R. Whitfield ’06, age 40, passed away on Dec. 15, 2021.

Jeremy Droscha ’07 passed away on Mar. 5, 2022, after sustaining injuries while saving his daughter following a house explosion.

Joyce Denison, friend of the College, passed away on March 23, 2022.

Dr. Bryan Reddick passed away on Dec. 3, 2021. Dr. Reddick previously served as chair of the English department and dean of the faculty at Olivet College.

Rossman-McKinney

Reddick

Kelly Rossman-McKinney, a member of the Olivet College Board of Trustees, passed away on Nov. 9, 2021.

Ronald “Squeak” Bergstrom ’82 passed away on Feb. 23, 2022.

He was a member of Phi Alpha Pi and the beloved brother of Don “Ernie” Bergstrom ’81, also a member of Phi Alpha Pi.

SUMMER 2022

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

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S G R A D UAT E S CLASS OF 2022