Shipherd's Record Summer/Fall 2016

Shipherd’s R E C O R D The Alumni Magazine of Olivet College

Looking Back and

Moving Forward President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D., reflects on his first six years at Olivet College, while looking ahead to 2020 and Beyond.

SUMMER/FALL 2016

President’s

UPDATE

Dear Friends: I hear repeatedly from alumni around the country that they look forward to receiving their Shipherd’s Record, connecting them to the Olivet College campus and the vast network of Olivet College alumni across the nation. I’m confident, this issue won’t disappoint.

Pay particular attention to several key articles. “Bringing Science to Life” is a great piece about alumnus Erik Larson ’97, executive director of Impression 5 Science Center in Lansing, an engaging hands-on science center right here in Mid-Michigan. An exciting program developing upperclass leaders and mentors for younger minority students is detailed in “Hiram Archer Scholars: Help Guide Younger Students to Success.” Pairing successful experienced students with new, younger students is already having a positive impact on both these students and the whole college. Finally, check out the article “Together. Giving the Promise of Hope.” In becoming one of three colleges, and the only private college, in the Lansing Promise program, Olivet College is positioned as the private college of choice for students in the Capital Region. Our entry into the Kalamazoo Promise program a year ago has resulted in 15 new students in this year’s entering class, one of the largest Kalamazoo Promise cohorts of any Michigan private college, and the Lansing Promise demonstrates similar potential to positively impact both the college and the Lansing community.

I know it’s cliché, but time really does fly when you’re having fun. This fall marks the beginning of my seventh year as the president of Olivet College. It’s been a real pleasure serving this great institution for these past six years, sweating, toiling, laughing and celebrating with our faculty, staff, friends and, most importantly, our students. These are certainly interesting and challenging times for higher education as we work to serve an increasingly diverse citizenry in uncertain and challenging economic and sociopolitical times. I’m pleased to say that Olivet College is fighting the good fight and winning most of our battles, striving to become a strong and vibrant college long into the future. We’ve had great success and have a lot of exciting work ahead. I enjoyed doing the feature article “Looking Back and Moving Forward” with Molly Goaley ’05; I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Finally, I want to extend heartfelt best wishes to Molly Goaley ’05 as she departs Olivet College for the next adventure in her professional life. If you glance back at Shipherd’s Record over the past decade, you’ll see Molly’s name on byline after byline. Her written voice has become the voice of Olivet College, artfully and effectively conveying the essence of Olivet College time and time again. Molly, we wish you well, you’ll be missed.

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

With very best regards,

Steven M. Corey, Ph.D. President

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

On the Cover

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Looking Back and Moving Forward

Features

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Bringing Science to Life: Erik Larson ’97

President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D. reflects on his first six years at Olivet College, while looking ahead to 2020 and Beyond.

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MAGAZINE STAFF

Hiram Archer Scholars

Tim Johnston Vice President for Marketing and Admissions

Help Guide Younger Students to Success

B.J. Hull Vice President for Advancement Molly (Reed) Goaley ’05 Director of Communications Hailey Barrus Director of Creative Services Marty (Mason) Jennings ’67 Director of Alumni Engagement Geoff Henson Sports Information Director

EDITORIAL

Inside Back Cover

Celebrating Michigan’s Best Leaders

Jackie Bounds Steve Vedder ’79 Send change of address notices to: Office of Advancement 320 S. Main St., Olivet, MI 49076 Olivet, MI 49076 • (269) 749-7630 mwallenberg@olivetcollege.edu 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.

Departments Around the Square 14 Advancement News 15 Comet Sports 17 Class Notes 2

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Remembering Three Extraordinary Comet Athletes SUMMER/FALL

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Around the Together. Giving the

SQUARE Introducing REAL. LIFE. NOW.

As alumni, you have constant

access to news, events and other happenings around campus, but do you ever wonder what happens behind the scenes as an Olivet College student? In the spring, the college introduced OCStories, a blog that details everyday life as a Comet.

From the curious details of a road trip that included job shadowing, broadcast producing and a Catwoman comic book, to a heartwarming account of a graduating senior’s last day as editor of the school paper, a team of four student bloggers bring stories of real life, as it happens, at Olivet.

The blog serves to provide prospective students with an indepth look at what happens beyond the classroom, and how the Olivet College student experience can take shape. Read the stories now at ocstories.olivetcollege.edu.

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Promise of Hope.

Olivet College is proud to announce a partnership with the Lansing Promise that will provide significant assistance to students from the Lansing School District. Leaders from all three organizations gathered during a press conference May 25 at the LSD Board of Education Office to officially launch the Olivet College/Lansing Promise Scholars Grant.

With this new partnership, Olivet College is the only private, liberal arts college represented as a Lansing Promise institution.

“Olivet College is pleased to be recognized as the capitol region’s private college of choice for Lansing Promise Scholars,” said Olivet College President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D.

“Anyone familiar with Olivet College’s unique history and mission knows that we Students and officials gathered to celebrate Olivet College’s are committed to providing partnership with the Lansing Promise during a press all students, no matter their conference May 25. background or socioeconomic circumstances, with the opportunity to pursue a higher education. As a Lansing Promise institution, we will be able to extend that opportunity even further to many deserving students from the Lansing School District.”

As the capitol region’s private college, Olivet College has committed to providing Lansing Promise-eligible students with the opportunity to have an immersive, residential educational experience below the cost of tuition, room and board at Michigan State University. Once a student is selected as a Lansing Promise Scholar, he or she will be awarded the Olivet College/ Lansing Promise Scholar Grant each academic year in which he or she also is a full-time, residential student at Olivet College. This grant is available immediately to eligible students entering the fall 2016 semester.

“With this partnership, students who seek the individualized, inclusive college experience that Olivet College provides will have a real, affordable choice,” Corey said. “Olivet College defines itself by who it includes, not who it excludes, and we recognize that making an education available for students from all walks of life is more critical than ever. We truly look forward to providing that opportunity to Lansing Promise Scholars who choose Olivet.”

Established in 2012, the Lansing Promise is a post-secondary education scholarship program that provides financial assistance to high school graduates within the Lansing School District geographic boundaries. More than 500 Lansing high school graduates will benefit from Lansing Promise dollars by the end of 2016, which also marks the year the promise will surpass $1 million in scholarship funds awarded.

Olivet College/Lansing Promise Scholar Grants are currently being awarded for the fall 2016 semester. To learn more, contact Lauren Kirkham, academic enrollment specialist, at 269.749.7226 or lkirkham@olivetcollege.edu.

Men’s Bowling Rolls in for Fall Olivet College Athletic Director Ryan Shockey has announced that men’s bowling will take to the lanes beginning in the fall of 2016.

Launched on the heels of the success of the women’s bowling team, the men’s program will operate as an intercollegiate club program and offer scholarship opportunities for interested students.

“This is an excellent opportunity for students who want to continue bowling after high school while also getting the unique educational experience Olivet College provides,” Shockey said. “We are really looking forward to the addition of this team.”

To learn more, visit olivetcomets.com.

Maria Davis, Ph.D., provost and dean, poses for a selfie with the Class of 2016.

A Red Letter Day Donning caps and gowns in Olivet red for the first time, the Class of 2016 celebrated Commencement May 14 at The Cutler Event Center. More than 200 graduates were recognized during this year’s ceremony. In addition, Doug Federau, retired insurance executive and Olivet College trustee, was awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, during the event.

To see the video highlights, visit Olivet College on YouTube.

Top five graduates honored The college recognized its top five graduates, along with the professor whom each deemed the most influential in his or her academic career, with the Donald A. Morris Award in May. This year’s honorees include: Lucia McNally and Jarred Scheese, who both selected Janine Peters, associate professor of math Olivet College’s top five graduates with President Steven M. and computer science; Corey, Ph.D. (from left: Traci Smith, Andrew Pabst, President Andrew Pabst, who chose Corey, Hailey Willett, Jarred Scheese and Lucia McNally).

Regina Armstrong, Ph.D., associate professor of criminal justice; Traci Smith, who selected John Homer, Ph.D., professor of economics; and Hailey Willett, who chose to honor Jeremy Duby, director of bands.

Watch for an Alumni Event Near You!

Olivet College is coming your way! Watch your mailbox (and inbox) for details about alumni socials and events happening in your area. You could join your former classmates on a wine or brewery tour, have dinner on a cruise ship, run a 5k together, and much more!

Interested in planning or hosting an event? Contact Marty (Mason) Jennings ’67, director of alumni engagement, at 269.749.7644 or alumnirelations@olivetcollege.edu.

See you this fall!

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Around the

SQUARE Students Help Area Business with New Moo-ve Students from Olivet’s Project Management course recently had the opportunity to team with an area business and help them plan their expansion to a new location.

Moo-ville Creamery, of Nashville, approached the class with an interest in working together to open a new location in Ionia. Students met with Moo-ville management, who includes alumna Tina Westendorp ’14, to understand and organize their strategic objective, operational requirements, and any locations the business was considering.

The OC team, comprised of seniors Michael Cach, Kyle Ranney and Marco Santos, developed a project plan including site assessment and selection. They contacted real estate brokers and owners in the area, analyzed traffic volumes, and delivered a report of options to the Moo-ville owners.

One of the options was selected and purchased, and Moo-ville plans to open their new Ionia location in 2017.

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Bringing Safe Water to Flint One of the best things about being part of the Olivet College community is witnessing students make a difference in the world on a daily basis.

The 2015-16 academic year was no different, as multiple students took the initiative to launch a campus-wide water drive for Flint.

The Black Student Union’s efforts started prior to Thanksgiving break, with the group collecting 3,200 bottles of safe drinking water for elementary students at Genesee STEM Academy.

Black Student Union members launched the After the crisis gained national college’s Flint Water Drive initiative in November. attention, the BSU committed to extending its water drive through Spring Service Day, March 30. According to junior De’Sherrionte Bridges, BSU president, students collected an additional 140 cases of water as well as monetary donations, which were delivered to Bell’s Warehousing and Manufacturing and distributed to Flint residents in need.

Multiple students and organizations banded together to participate in the drive, including members of Gamma Iota Sigma, Mu Omega Pi and their alumni, Alpha Phi Kappa, Phi Alpha Pi and many others. In addition, the women’s lacrosse team hosted a charity game for Flint and donated the proceeds to the city’s community foundation.

“This crisis is happening right next door and will take years to overcome – this is only the beginning,” Bridges said. “We are so thankful for all those who contributed to a cause we’re passionate about.”

Students in the News Freshman journalism and mass communication ( JMC) major Brian Freiberger was one of three Michigan college students awarded a Larry Laurain Scholarship through the Brian Freiberger Addie Newell-Sturgill Hailey Willett ’16 Detroit Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. Freiberger, who will serve as editor of the Echo student newspaper for 2016-17, attended the society’s ceremony with Joanne Williams, associate professor of JMC, in April.

Senior Addie Newell-Sturgill has been accepted into the Summer Publishing Institute at New York University’s School of Professional Studies. Newell-Sturgill aspires to be a literary agent, and this prestigious program will put her in contact with major players in the field.

Hailey Willett ’16 took home the top prize in a recent entrepreneurs businesspitch competition called The Launching, co-sponsored by the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP). Willett’s presentation to investors and fellow entrepreneurs of her business concept for The Spiked Bean Exchange, a coffee bar that would offer artisan drinks with the ability to add spirits, won her $1,000.

Faculty and Staff in the News Jeremy Duby, director of bands, was chosen to serve as guest conductor when the Royal Oak Symphony and Metropolitan Detroit Chorale joined forces for a concert May 13 in Berkley, Mich. The season finale program featured “Fanfare for the Common Man”

by Aaron Copland, Symphony No. 1 by Howard Hanson and “Feel the Spirit” Jeremy Duby arranged by John Rutter and featuring the combined orchestra, chorus and soloist Randi Vincent.

Mike Fales ’77, director of service learning and campus ministries and assistant professor of interdisciplinary studies, hosted 16 scholars from Southwest University in Chongqing, China, here on campus in March. The scholars visited Olivet to learn how the Mike Fales ’77 college teaches diversity through service learning, and were also interested in the concept of a liberal arts education at a small private college. Fales offered a presentation on the history of Olivet College and the Service Learning Program, followed by a student panel and a group lunch in the Kirk Center.

Lisa Furman, Ph.D., director of education and assistant professor of music, has been elected by the membership of Michigan Music Education Association to serve as the organization’s president. Furman’s responsibilities

will include representing the state organization on behalf of the National Association for Music Education, as well as in national music education advocacy events.

Kelly Parker, insurance and risk management program administrator, is one of 11 insurance industry professionals nationwide to receive a master’s degree scholarship from the Spencer Educational Foundation Inc. Parker plans to use her scholarship toward the management in training and development online program at University of St. Francis in Joliet, Ill. Sherii Sherban, longtime adjunct instructor for Olivet’s Health and Human Performance Department, was one of 12 honorees to receive the Battle Creek Enquirer’s George Award, given annually to spotlight the city’s residents for their community service efforts. Sherban, who is executive editor of Battle Creek’s Scene Publications, is one of the founding members of Miles for Memories, a Calhoun County charity effort to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer’s research. She also serves as an educator for the Substance Abuse Council and the American Red Cross.

Lisa Furman, Ph.D.

Kelly Parker

Sherii Sherban

Students Recognized With Responsibility Scholarship Two exceptional students were honored with the John W. Porter Community Responsibility Scholarship at the college’s 20th annual Leadership for Individual and Social Responsibility Awards, May 11 at the Country Club of Lansing.

Ndamona “Mona” Hinamanu, a junior from Lansing, and Julianna Carter, a sophomore from Muskegon, were selected for demonstrating individual and social responsibility through their involvement and service to the college and their community.

At the age of 38, Porter was the youngest chief state school officer and the first black state school superintendent in the nation. In 1979, Porter served as president of Eastern Michigan University. From 1989 to 1991, he served as the general superintendent for Detroit Public Schools.

Porter was a 2001 Leadership Award recipient. In gratitude of this honor, he established an endowed scholarship for current students at Olivet College who demonstrate leadership and community involvement.

Julianna Carter (left) and Mona Hinamanu, pictured here with President Corey, were awarded the John W. Porter Scholarship at the 20th annual Leadership Dinner in May.

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Looking Back and

Moving

Forward President Corey reflects on his first six years at Olivet College, while looking ahead to 2020 and Beyond

By Molly (Reed) Goaley ’05

Shortly after President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D., took the helm in 2010, the Olivet College community came together to develop and embark on Charting the Course to Olivet College 2020 and Beyond, a strategic vision that would position the college to thrive in the years ahead.

Now at its halfway point, we’ve witnessed Charting the Course to 2020 and Beyond result in significant advances for the Olivet College experience – from new and enhanced academic programs, to unprecedented fundraising success, to a strong and balanced budget, to endless opportunities for students.

At its February meeting, the Olivet College Board of Trustees voted unanimously to renew President Corey’s contract through 2021. Ready to lead the college community through its next phase of collective work, President Corey reflects on the first six years of his presidency, as well as what we all can look forward to accomplishing in the years ahead.

Six Years at the Helm SR: You’re midway through your sixth year as Olivet College president, and you have unanimous support from the board of trustees to continue leading the college through 2021 – not to mention the support of alumni, students, employees and friends. How do you feel?

Corey: Grateful. I consider myself a steward of the legacy of others who’ve come before me during the 170-plus-year history of this great college and in preparation for those who 6

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will follow – hopefully for another 170-plus years. We have a great community here at Olivet College and I’m thankful to be a part of it, and to have the opportunity to make a difference for our students today and in the future.

During your inauguration speech, you spoke about the college’s deep-rooted commitment to welcoming all types of students, many of whom wouldn’t have had the chance to attend a small private college if not for Olivet. In fact, you’re often quoted for saying “Olivet College defines itself by who it includes, not who it excludes.” In today’s higher education landscape, why is this still important and how does it drive the college’s current work?

Society tends to think of things that are exclusive as more desirable and having higher value; this has certainly been true for colleges. The wealthier and more selective colleges are held in higher esteem. But, in order to be that way, they must be exclusionary. Olivet College has, since its founding, tried to fight against this notion. That’s why today Olivet College’s student body has one of the highest percentages of first-generation students, and is one of the most socioeconomically and ethnically diverse in the state.

We believe all types of students should be able to experience a high quality, immersive, relationship-based experience like Olivet College provides, not just the elite.

Looking back at the development of the 2020 and Beyond strategic plan, the college established eight key components, including facilitating the vibrancy of campus and community life, ensuring strong professional preparation within a contemporary liberals arts education, and strengthening the

college’s financial health, as top priorities. Why was it important to put these objectives first?

Olivet College is best suited to providing an immersive educational experience for students who live on campus, here in the intimate community of Olivet. If we’re to do our best, this experience has to be a vibrant and engaging one, so we’re working hard to make sure this is as true as possible. We also recognize that students and families today expect their college education will lead to not only jobs, but great careers.

We can’t accomplish any of this unless we have the strongest college possible – financial and organizational effectiveness ensures Olivet College can optimize its mission not only today but for many years to come.

Will you elaborate on some of the actions that have been taken to accomplish key objectives? What are the results of those actions?

Most of the focus for the past few years has been on building our capacity to provide a high quality student experience, and to attract and serve more students. This has meant significant review and expansion in academics.

Our faculty have been highly productive in revising the curriculum from top to bottom to ensure our offerings are strong, relevant and of quality. This has resulted in several new majors such as accounting, actuarial science, graphic design and business analysis, as well as the growth we’ve seen in several areas – such as the 50 percent increase we’ve seen in the insurance and risk management program.

There’s also been a real focus on increasing the prevalence and expectation that students have an experiential opportunity as part of their academic program. This means internships, co-ops, research projects and similar activities. The faculty set a goal of including one of these experiences in every academic program and we’re making real progress. Students are now much more likely to have one or two internships or similar vocationally-oriented experiences prior to graduation, and they are having more success in getting jobs and being better prepared for those jobs as a result.

We’ve also focused on increasing the breadth and depth of our co-curricular participation opportunities. In doing so, we’ve seen a dramatic increase in the number of students participating in athletics, instrumental music and gospel choir, for example. Not only is this driving enrollment, we’re seeing many more active, engaged and successful students as a result.

Of all of the college’s most significant advances since the beginning of your presidency, which are you most proud of?

I’d first say I’m most proud of our students and their successes, and our faculty and staff who help make this possible. We continue to attract one of the most diverse student bodies in Michigan and our students tend to graduate at double-digit percentage points higher than if they had attended the average college; I think that’s pretty good and I’m proud of it. Also, of our students who graduate, the vast majority do so in four years and I think that’s pretty good too.

Charting the Course to Olivet College 2020 and Beyond As we look toward the Olivet College of 2020 and Beyond, we envision a future where the college: Embodies in its curriculum and campus life our values-based mission of education for individual and social responsibility.

Facilitates the vibrancy of campus and community life, where students are empowered and engaged learners; where we support a culture of diversity and global inclusion; where each person feels included, supported and respected; where we build community and have fun together; and most importantly, where faculty, staff and students want to be, live and learn.

Provides a unique educational opportunity, where students from a wide assortment of backgrounds and abilities succeed as engaged learners, and where "providing opportunity" is defined by enhanced academic achievement, high graduation rates, or vocational placement of our graduates, and the social contributions of our alumni.

Facilitates through an international perspective the development of productive and responsible global citizens who think critically, communicate effectively, work well with a diverse array of others, and embody individual and social responsibility.

Ensures an educational experience that is strong in professional preparation within a contemporary liberal arts foundation and develops critical, independent thinkers who possess a strong ethical compass.

Prepares students for a rapidly changing, technologically-enabled global economy and society.

Is financially healthy and stable, and effectively directs financial resources at achieving priorities.

Has a regional and national reputation as a college that effectively prepares students to be not only economically successful, but to take responsibility to make positive change in their local and global communities.

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Strengthening the vitality of the campus community is another attribute I’m proud of. We have almost 200 continued more students living on campus than we did a few years ago. While we still have further to go to reach our goals, this is significant progress in a very short time.

What have been the biggest challenges? How has the college addressed those challenges, or overcome them?

In short, these are challenging times for colleges and universities of all types: big, small, public, private, wealthy, and with limited resources. Reduced public funding for higher education, a changing demographic resulting in fewer high school graduates over time, stagnant economic conditions for the shrinking middle class, and legitimate concerns about affordability and the value of a college degree have all combined to present real challenges to colleges, students and their families. All of this has happened at a time when we have set a goal for strengthening the college through increasing our number of 18- to 22-year-old students in residence here at Olivet.

The good news is that we’ve built significant capacity in our ability to do so and have seen real growth in a number of key areas. The downside is that we’ve lost some students in other areas, resulting in a relatively flat overall enrollment. The other upside is that many other colleges have seen precipitous declines in their enrollment while ours has been pretty stable. Overall, I think we’re weathering the storm pretty well, are building our capacity to move forward, and are ready to make big advances in the next several years.

Looking Ahead to 2020 and Beyond The Olivet College community recently examined and reaffirmed its strategic plan, with the board of trustees readopting the vision in May. As Olivet College continues Charting the Course to 2020 and Beyond, what are the next priorities we will look to accomplish?

Over the next several years there will be continued focus on expanding the enrollment and improving retention.

We’ll also see continued expansion of the curriculum, adding areas of study to attract students we aren’t able to serve today, including a select number of graduate programs. There will be a continued focus on ensuring and articulating the value of an Olivet College experience – including the opportunity to graduate within a fouryear period of time, and strong vocational advantages through internship, research or other experiential options for all students. The next several years will also see a dramatic increase in the globalization of the Olivet student experience, ensuring that our graduates are prepared for the modern global economy and community of the future.

Finally, I’d also recognize that we must continue to strengthen the financial health of the college. We’ve made big strides in the past several years and must continue to do so through effective, disciplined fiscal management. This also includes setting the stage for a significant increase in the college’s endowment in the years to come. In order for this to happen, we must partner with our alumni and friends in estate gift planning for the long-term future, securing those plans for today that will realize the endowment gifts of the next 20, 30 or 40 years.

Projects have included: • • • • • • • The new student and collegiate center will serve as the central hub of student life on Olivet’s campus.

Improving and updating the campus remains a top priority. We carefully assessed the state of the campus and its needs and capacity for the future, which led to the development of a college campus facilities master plan that is now guiding our fundraising effort and renovations.

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• • •

the complete renovation of the science labs; athletic improvements, including the new Pyne Pavilion; numerous classroom renovations; major renovation of the Kirk Center dining hall; the expansion and renovation of the band office and practice facility; major renovation and expansion of the Welcome Center at Dole Hall; renovation of almost 100 bathrooms in the residence halls; the acquisition of Oak Hill Apartments, which adds 70 new beds to campus; renovation of the library to establish the Roznowski Learning Commons; and acquisition of a number of neighboring properties to give us room to expand in the future.

The college recently launched the initial phase of its largest comprehensive campaign in history, with plans in the works to greatly enhance all facets of campus life for Olivet students. Why is successfully completing this campaign over the next few years so critical for the institution?

The first and most compelling answer is that our students require it. If we’re going to have the quality, thriving Olivet College of tomorrow, our students must have the programs and physical tools that make that happen. The strengthening of existing programs and expansion of new ones requires resources. The modernization of an aging campus and the addition of new facilities are essential for the students of today, and the students we need to attract and serve tomorrow.

We’re at a critical junction, placed within the context of a highly competitive and challenging external environment.

We’ve made great strides in the past several years, but success is not yet assured. Securing the resources to make this next phase of incremental investment in our programs and facilities is critical to continuing on the positive upward trajectory we’re on right now. Without it, we’ll likely be overtaken by others and lose our current opportunity to advance Olivet College in very significant ways.

Recent fundraising success has already allowed the college to invest in key resources and facilities for academics, athletics and student life. This will only continue with the multi-year campaign. Of all the projects on the horizon, what are you most looking forward to seeing in the near future?

By far the most significant project of the campaign is the new student center. We desperately need a central hub for student life on campus as we work to make this full commitment to an immersive, engaged, and participatory residential experience in Olivet a true reality. Without the new student center, this becomes extremely difficult over time. All this is not to say that modernizing the academic facilities, expanding athletics, improving the general campus and other projects are not also important; they’re all part of a larger integrated approach to our future. However, the student center is the key element, the cornerstone you could say, for it all.

As you’ve discussed, ensuring students have a high quality, immersive college experience, and enrolling students for whom Olivet is the right fit have always been high on your priority list. For these reasons, the college has reengineered its enrollment process, enhanced and increased academic and athletic offerings, and provided more participation opportunities for students. As the college's growing residential population proves, Olivet is a place where students want to be, live and learn. Of course, there is still work to be done. In your mind, what does the ideal student experience of the future look like?

For our core, residential student I believe this means having the opportunity to grow and evolve intellectually,

Modernizing academic facilities, including the C.S. Mott Center, will continue as part of the college’s comprehensive campaign.

spiritually, physically, socially and emotionally through in-depth and continuous engagement on campus and abroad through a variety of immersive activities. While this general statement would be true for all students, the exact ingredients, the specific programs and experiences, that each student would include in their Olivet College experience would vary based on their unique interests and goals. In many ways this is true today, but we must strengthen students’ ability to have this experience into the future.

In many ways, Olivet graduates are a direct reflection of the educational experience they receive here. They span the globe, making a difference and leading responsibly in their professions and communities. In your words, why is it so critical for Olivet to prepare its graduates in this unique way?

The highest quality and most valuable educational experiences for students in the traditional age group (18 to 23) are those that allow students from all backgrounds to grow and develop in a comprehensive and holistic way, grounded in a set of values that advances both their individual success and instills a sense of commitment to the betterment of others. I believe this is best done through an immersive experience within a diverse community of others all seeking to accomplish the same thing for themselves and their peers. This has the highest probability of developing graduates who go on to positions of leadership and engagement in organizations and communities, and who do so with an underpinning set of values that make those organizations and communities better in the process. The evidence is clear – college graduates have the opportunity to attain levels of success that others likely won't have. Olivet College graduates recognize that with that success comes a responsibility to make their communities a better place; I think that makes a world of difference, and a different world.

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Bringing

Science to Life

On more than one occasion Erik Larson ’97 utilized an Olivet College laboratory experiment for his part-time job. The innovative biology major gleaned knowledge from his morning biology lab and revised it as a lesson plan for his evening work at Impression 5 Science Center, an interactive science museum in Lansing. As a college student, Larson shared his newfound science expertise in an educational role at the science center.

In fact, Larson’s Olivet experience – small class sizes and hands-on learning combined with guidance from his professors – set the course for his professional life in numerous ways.

“I appreciated my biology courses and the way they directly connected to my life,” said Larson. One memorable experience for him was in Dr. Leah Knapp’s ornithology class. “I had a morning class and we were out in the field observing birds,” he said. “I remember coming back to campus and writing lesson plans for the science center and teaching them as I worked that evening.”

Larson also recalled sitting in Dr. Maria Davis’s chemistry class. “She asked the class to explain polymers,” he said. “I was the only one who knew it was a chain of molecules. I previously taught that lesson in a very handson way by making slime at Impression 5.”

Growing up, Larson’s family valued volunteerism and community service. He began volunteering at Impression 5 at age 14, and later transitioned to an educational role working part-time through high school and college. A Haslett native, Larson was recruited to Olivet to play basketball, but after two years he discovered his real interest was science. He worked closely with professors Davis, Knapp, and others, as he honed his love for biology.

Larson recalled that group work was a large part of his liberal arts courses. “Sometimes it’s a pain, but it’s a way to identify natural leadership,” he said. “Students understand when it’s time to step-up and lead, or it forces them to gain confidence in doing so. I learned how to develop relationships, and when I started working, I was able to communicate with different cultures and navigate the work environment.

“My liberal arts education taught me how to develop relationships and friendships that prepared me to go and find what I wanted to do,” said Larson. He remembers graduating 10

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Erik Larson ’97 at Impression 5 Science Center.

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By Jackie Bounds

I had a morning class and we were out in the field observing birds. I remember coming back to campus and writing lesson plans for the science center and teaching them as I worked that evening.”

– Erik Larson, ’97

from Olivet ready to learn and used his critical thinking skills to find work combining his passion and love for science.

For the past eight years, Larson has served as executive director of Impression 5 Science Center. He balances his time between strategically planning for exhibits, administrative management and developing relationships for fundraising.

The center is in the middle of a six-year reinvention with new exhibits and educational upgrades under way.

“We have a phrase at work called head-down and plowing through the forest,” he said. “But you could waste lots of energy going through the wrong forest so you have to pay attention to your goal.” Larson noted that learning continues with on-the-job training in the workforce.

“At Olivet, we learned how to learn,” he said. “We practiced our critical thinking skills and learned how to assess situations. Sometimes we are afraid of failure, but it happens and we learn from it.

“For me, Olivet College was a wonderful learning environment with small class sizes,” he said. “The concept of social responsibility made a lot of sense, as Olivet teaches students to be involved in society and become well-rounded citizens.”

In Paris, a Transformation

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By Molly (Reed) Goaley ’05

Decades of history and culture have taught us that Paris is a place where burgeoning talent goes to blossom.

Where young beauties with aspirations as high as the Eiffel Tower become runway renegades and silver-screen stars; where expatriates have long gone to plant new roots in art, literature, fashion, music, culture.

For a select group of Olivet College students who were invited to share their own talents in the City of Light, the Paris they discovered was as awe-inspiring as the stories lead us to believe. This group, all members of Olivet College Bands, experienced a magical transformation – going from students to professional musicians in the span of 10 days.

The bands were scouted and hand-picked by Youth Music of the World, an organization that specializes in international performances, to participate in La Grande Parade de Paris – Champs-Élysées 2016, the spectacular New Year’s Day Parade on France’s most famous boulevard. Their excursion, which took place from late December to early this January, also included a gala concert at the city’s American Cathedral.

“My favorite part of the trip was watching these students, who think they are students, become musicians in the truest facet of the word,” said Jeremy Duby, Olivet College’s director of bands. “I watched them take over their performances and change right before my eyes.”

Duby has always asserted that, at Olivet, student musicians can come to a school that’s small and be part of something big. In the past few years, the college’s

Music Program has experienced a resurgence that has included increased performance opportunities, the addition of a prestigious recital series, enhancements to performance spaces and much more. Now, members of the band have had the opportunity to perform in one of the greatest cities in the world.

Duby said the parade performance and gala concert, as well as solos from saxophonist Levi Armstrong ’15 and senior vocalist Taylor Thorn, allowed students to “see what that next level is like… To perform as professional musicians.”

But beyond the stellar performances, something much more intimate happened between the Olivet students and the people of Paris – a feeling that often requires the power of music to come to fruition.

When the Olivet group arrived, the city was still recovering from the terrorist attack that had occurred in midNovember 2015. And while things were slowly getting back on track, it was evident the people of Paris were still healing.

“I had a conversation with one of the curators at the cathedral and we discussed how the people of Paris were just now getting to feeling like it was Christmas,” Duby said. These concerts to them were very moving because it got them out of their houses and back to ‘normal.’”

Seeing a city rebound from a tragedy of that scale not only opened the students’ eyes to a broader world awareness, Duby said, it enhanced their performances. “After the gala concert, the pastor got choked up and thanked the students, explaining, ‘I don’t think you know how important this is to us. We’re still shaken up, and this means a lot to us.’”

Continued on page 13

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Hiram Archer Scholars Help Guide Younger Students to Success

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By Steve Vedder Hiram Archer Scholars celebrated their first year as a society in April. From left:

Christopher Taylor, Ayren Parrish, coordinator of student success initiatives Re’Gene Thompson wasn’t going to miss a golden Jasmine Hardy ’04, Re’Gene Thompson and Reno Sims. opportunity to pay it forward.

So when the Olivet College junior was presented with were students of color, compared to 15 percent at public the opportunity to mentor younger African American institutions. In the same time period, 19 percent of Olivet students as part of the college’s fledgling Hiram Archer College students self-identified as students of color. By the Society, Thompson jumped in. The chance to impact fall of 2015, that number had risen to 22 percent. others through her own experiences was something that “The college is already ahead in terms of recruiting she wanted to be a part of. students of color but graduation rates for these students are “Having really great mentors throughout my life is consistent with national averages,” Hardy said. “Our new what helped me get where I am today,” she said. “The goal is to better support, retain and keep these students Compact of Olivet College says that I am responsible for on the path to graduation, and raise the graduation rates contributing to the success of others, of our students of color and I'm excited to share what was significantly above national given to me. I want to contribute to averages.” other students’ success.”

“The Compact of Olivet College

Hardy says the Hiram Established this spring, the Archer Society’s strategies to Hiram Archer Society is named says that I am responsible for achieve these goals are based for one of the first known Africancontributing to the success of on three components.

American students to graduate

The first is to connect from Olivet College. Archer, who others, and I’m excited to share freshmen and sophomores attended Olivet from 1889 to 1895, with junior and senior level what was given to me. was a member of Olivet’s varsity peer mentors who will help baseball team and was one of the I want to contribute to other them make the transition into first black college athletes in the college and become engaged United States. He was also active in students’ success.” with the campus. music and other creative endeavors.

Secondly, students Archer went on to complete his – Re’Gene Thompson connect with professional men Ph.D. at Meharry Medical School and women of color who serve and served as director of science as career mentors. Society and assistant principal in the Agricultural and members are given the opportunity to meet, job shadow Mechanical College in Normal, Ala. (Alabama A&M). and intern with these local professionals. Faculty members Jasmine Hardy ’04, coordinator of student success are also invited to mentor members, serve as guest initiatives, said establishing a leadership collective for speakers, and support and engage with the scholars.

Olivet’s students of color was a top priority for the college.

As the third and final component, students participate Doing so in this historic figure’s name was a way to in networking and learning opportunities such as recognize the college’s progressive past, as well as its focus workshops, specialized advising, and graduate school or on future initiatives for African American students. career preparation programs.

The student of color population at Olivet College Hiram Archer scholars say one of the attractions is one of the highest for similar institutions in the state. that excites them about the society is the chance to share According to the most recent data from the Integrated their experiences through mentoring. Thompson said she Post-Secondary Education Data System, 16 percent looks forward to showing students there are people in the of college students in private four-year institutions 12

SHIPHERD’S RECORD

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“

Hiram (continued from page 12)

Paris (continued from page 11)

campus community who genuinely care about them.

Junior and Hiram Archer scholar Christopher Taylor says he joined the program to provide the extra help underclassmen need, but oftentimes don’t know where to find.

“Mentoring had everything to do with my decision to join this program,” Taylor said. “I love helping others and seeing the progress of a mentee over time. It’s easier to communicate with someone who can relate to your background. It gives both mentors and mentees a chance to formulate lifelong friendships.”

According to Hardy, forming those relationships often makes all the difference in a first- or second-year African American student’s experience.

“So much of what freshmen and sophomores go through is identification, and formulating who they are and what they want out of life,” Hardy said. “I think it helps for them to see other people who have similar backgrounds. Likewise, giving them access to career mentors and professional experiences is equally important to ensuring their success,” she added.

Hardy noted that Olivet College’s history of serving others and celebrating diversity resonated with her as the society began its first full year on campus.

“The theme this year has been taking a holistic approach to each student – to recognizing their individual needs and being true to our aspirations for them. We look forward to seeing its impact.”

Duby said the people’s response and welcoming attitude were a big help in easing any travel nerves, and making the students “feel like celebrities.”

“Hundreds of thousands of people were at the parade and they were so excited to interact with our students,” he said. “Levi Armstrong soloed with us, and as he walked down the street people would notice him and say, ‘You’re that saxophone player.’”

Armstrong said the entire experience is something he will never forget. “One moment that stands out in my memory is around dusk on New Year’s Eve,” he said.

“Outside of the western façade of Notre Dame, a group of us were walking across a bridge leading over the Seine River when the church’s bell collection started to toll. The sound of those massive bells chiming knocked the strength out of my knees, took my breath away, and resonated with the bottom of my soul. In that moment, I experienced an awe-inspiring peace.”

Olivet College values the opportunity for international travel as part of students’ overall college experience. So in addition to their performance opportunities, the bands got to experience all the best Paris has to offer – from sightseeing to French cuisine and the city’s rich history.

“I think world travel is important to everybody,” Duby said. “It opens a whole new world of thinking, and I’m proud of how brave our students were to try new things.”

Your Philanthropy at Work

Thanks to generous alumni support, two Greek houses were able to improve upon their living spaces. Kappa Sigma Alpha (left), founded nearly 100 years ago, dedicated their newly constructed house during Homecoming on Oct. 8, 2016. Phi Alpha Pi (right), the oldest society at Olivet College which was founded in 1847, also honored renovations made to the first floor of the house. Both projects will enrich many students’ experiences at Olivet and were made possible by alumni, friends and trustees of the college.

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Comet

Sports

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2015-16 Comet Sports Highlights The football team finished the 2015 season with a 9-1 overall record, with the nine wins being the most in school history for a single season. Olivet shared the MIAA championship with a 6-1 mark. The 12 AllMIAA selections were the most by one school.

The women’s golf team placed second in the final 2015 MIAA standings. The Comets have now finished either first or second in the MIAA standings every year since 2004-05.

Three teams – women’s soccer, women’s basketball and men’s lacrosse – advanced to the semifinals of the MIAA Tournament. The women’s soccer team made its first trip to the MIAA Tournament since 2010. The women’s basketball team was in the MIAA Tournament for the fourth straight season. The men’s lacrosse team advanced to the MIAA Tournament for a third consecutive year.

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SHIPHERD’S

RECORD

2 Kimberly Barber scored points in all four of her individual events and either broke or tied the school record in three of the events at the 2016 MIAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships. She was third in the long jump, fifth in the 200-meter dash, sixth in the 100-meter and seventh in the triple jump. The distance in the triple jump (10.46m) broke the record, while the mark in the long jump (5.40m) and time in the prelims of the 100-meter (:12.79) matched the record.

3 Men’s lacrosse player Dakota Badder ended his career at Olivet as the all-time scoring leader with 218 points on an all-time best 136 goals and 82 assists. He also set the career record for shots with 371.

4 Men’s volleyball completed its inaugural season as an NCAA sponsored sport. A highlight of the season was a four-set victory over Adrian College in its season-finale for the first-ever Midwest Collegiate Volleyball League win.

Remembering Three Extraordinary

COMET ATHLETES Whether you’re a student-athlete, coach, alum, fan or friend, if you’re involved in the Olivet College Athletic community, you’re part of a family – and, like in any family, saying goodbye to one of our own means experiencing the toughest loss of all.

In the past year, the college lost three individuals who made a tremendous impact – here, for Comet athletics, and in their communities.

Kari (Searles) Jolink ’06 – Feb. 24, 2016

Kari, 33, graduated from Marshall High School in 2001 where she excelled as a studentathlete. She earned her degree in education from Olivet and was a member of the women’s basketball team. While attending OC, she met Joel Jolink ’06 and the two were married on July 19, 2008 at the Olivet Congregational Church.

With her love for the Marshall community, Kari was hired to teach at Marshall Middle School. She had been teaching sixth grade science for the past 10 years.

Kari enjoyed helping her students learn in and out of the classroom and coached many of them in sports, from basketball to cross country. Kari was an inspiration to the Marshall High School Girls Basketball team, who went on to win the 2016 Class B Championships in her honor.

She enjoyed helping out the Marshall community and giving back and will be remembered as a great inspiration for the people of Marshall. Kari’s enjoyment of her life was helping friends in any way and spending time with her family as a wife and mother.

Stuart Parsell – Nov. 19, 2015

Stu, 87, spent his entire life as an educator and coach. Serving as head football coach at Olivet from 1959-70, he compiled a 47-58 overall record in 12 seasons, making him the winningest football coach in school history.

Stu led the Comets to the 1961 Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association championship with

an 8-1 overall record and was named the Michigan Coach of the Year. He also served the college as athletic director from 1960-71 and was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame in 1977.

In his later years, Stu continued to be active in education. He coordinated student teacher assignments and reviews, and was a state lobbyist for education. He also continued to serve young athletes as an assistant coach.

George Pyne III ’65 – Nov. 26, 2015

A former trustee and distinguished alumnus, George, 74, earned a Bachelor of Arts in business from Olivet College.

A standout athlete, he starred and lettered in football for four years and was a member of the All-MIAA Football Team in 1962, ’63 and ’64. In addition to All-MIAA recognition he was nominated and selected for two successive years to the All-State Team.

After graduating from Olivet College, George was drafted in the 16th round by the American Football League’s Boston Patriots. He appeared in all 14 games during the 1965 season. Following his stint with the NFL, George went on to a very successful 20-year career with Mass Mutual Insurance Company. He also found success in the realm of land acquisition and development, having constructed more than 500 homes in Massachusetts.

In addition, he established a career buying, renting and selling heavy construction machinery through Hillview Equipment, a company now operated by his son, David.

George was appointed to the Olivet College Board of Trustees in 2003 and served until 2009. He served as Homecoming marshal in 2003, and in 2013 he received the college’s Distinguished Alumni Award. In 2014, the college unveiled the Pyne Pavilion at the Cutler Athletic Complex, in honor of George.

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Class

Denine (Johnson) Foulks ’66 has written two books. The most recent is a story for children born with Pfeiffer Syndrome, a craniofacial disorder. The book features a dragon born with Pfeiffer Syndrome who overcomes social and medical obstacles to reach adulthood and happiness. Her first book, “Mouse Word Ho,” is factual trivia presented with humor. Denine is married to Bob Foulks ’67 and the couple lives in Sanbornville, NH. Their son, R. Andrew Foulks ’90, lives in Nashua, NH. Email Denine at dafoulks@netzero.com.

Notes 1950s Rev. Art Stratemeyer ’51 and wife, Alice, were presented with the Chalice Award for “dedicated service to God’s ministry” at the annual meeting of the Illinois Conference of the United Church of Christ on June 5, 2015. Art served in the US Navy on the USS Intrepid from 1944-46 before attending Olivet College, where he played basketball and was a member of the Adelphic society.

Rev. Art Stratemeyer Art and Alice celebrated their 60th wedding ’51 anniversary in December. They have four children and three grandchildren. Email Art at astrat@sbcglobal.net.

Larry Lewis ’53 won the gold medal in tennis singles competition and silver medal in tennis doubles in the 85-to 89-year-old division of the 2015 National Senior Games at the University of Minnesota in July 2015. In the last four national games, Larry has totaled one each of gold, silver and bronze in singles, and a silver and bronze in doubles with tennis partner Stu Bender. Email Larry at lelewis2013@comcast.net.

1960s Mohammed Waheed Rana ’64, Ph.D., was honored Nov. 5, 2015, by the Interfaith Partnership of Greater St. Louis, Mo., for his many years of interfaith activities. Waheed is a professor emeritus in the School of Medicine at Saint Louis University. Email Waheed at ranap2@slu.edu.

Mohammed Waheed Rana ’64, Ph.D.

Dave Cutler ’65 was inducted into the DeWitt High School Athletic Hall of Fame Oct. 9, 2015. He was a four-sport athlete who earned 16 varsity letters in football, basketball, baseball and track. He also won All-League and All-State honors. Richard Cross, DeWitt’s baseball coach during the 1960 season, remembered Dave well, saying, “He was most likely the best overall athlete in the school during his senior year. Not enough can be said of him. He also was outstanding in his academics and gained great stature among the faculty and student body.”

Dave Gosselin ’65 visited George Krepps ’38, a brother Adelphic, in Connecticut in January. George spent many years with General Motors, retiring after 45 years. He passed away Jan. 24 at the age of 100. Dave is thankful to have spent time with Dave before his passing. Email Dave at gosselin2@mindspring.com.

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Larry Hice ’68 volunteers with a group called Christmas in Action of Oakland County, doing free home repairs for low income seniors. He also volunteers with the Christmas Basket Project. Email Larry at larryhttp@aol.com.

Bela ’68 and Christy “Irma” (Thomas) ’69 Krusac performed in the NBC Movie of the Week, Dolly Parton’s “Coat of Many Colors,” in December. Bela has played numerous roles in movies over the years. Email Bela at bkrusac@comcast.net and Christy at christykrusac@comcast.net.

Larry Hice ’68 sprays insulation in a local senior’s attic as part of his volunteer work.

Jon Rupright ’68, D.O., retired as professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at the University of Missouri, School of Medicine, after 28 years. In 2014 he was named professor emeritus at the university. Jon and wife, Karen, have a daughter, a son and one grandchild. Email Jon at jon@fivepetals.net.

1970s

Tom Appel ’65 spent the summer of 2015 in Africa, enjoying two safaris in Namibia, as well as an excursion to Cape Town. Email Tom at tappel1864@aol.com.

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Terry Donnelly ’68 recently published his third book, a memoir about the baby-boomers generation, titled “From Zero to Puberty and Other Life Stories.” All three of his books, including “First You Hear Thunder” and “Unfinished,” feature Olivet settings, and Terry said the students and faculty from his days at Olivet inspired several of the books’ characters. All are available in Burrage Library or Amazon.com.

Email Terry at terryjdonnelly@yahoo.com.

Marilyn (Ryden) Stolberg ’70, D.D.S. was honored with the Lake Michigan College Clarence Beckwith Distinguished Alumni Award on May 1. Marilyn earned her associate of applied science at LMC before transferring to Olivet; she then went on to earn her Master of Arts from Western Michigan University and her dental degree from Northwestern University Dental School. Although she retired in 2013 as chief dental officer at Family Health Care in Baldwin, she continues to advocate for the dentally underserved and works part-time at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans.

Robert Glenn ’72 featured an alumni exhibition titled “African Art in the Cycle of Life: Work from the Collection of Robert Glenn” from Feb. 18 to March 31 at the college’s Riethmiller Art Building Kresge Gallery. Robert started collecting tribal African art in 1989. His collection now totals more than 300 objects consisting primarily of wooden, bronze and terracotta pieces from Angola, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, Mali, Nigeria and Zaire. Email Robert at glennresi@aol.com.

Yoruba beaded crown, Nigeria. From “African Art in the Cycle of Life: Work from the Collection of Robert Glenn”

Yvonne (Goudreault) Caamal Canul ’73, superintendent of the Lansing School District, was the presenter at the 15th Annual Women’s Leadership Council Lighting the Path Luncheon at the Country Club of Lansing on May 4. She spoke of her life and lessons learned along the way. Nine Olivet friends attended the presentation.

E-mail Yvonne at ycaamalcanul@aol.com.

Mary Peacock ’76 and Bernadette Pauling ex’74

Bernadette Pauling ex’74 and Mary Peacock ’76, roommates in Dole Hall their freshman and sophomore years, reunited at Mary’s daughter’s wedding in August 2015, in Kalamazoo.

Bernadette is employed by hospitals in Pontiac; Mary is in private practice in mental health in Battle Creek. Email Bernadette at bonnytats@msn.com and Mary at peacock.maryc@gmail.com.

Michael (Strong) Mason ’75 became a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated in December 2015. She is a legacy and was excited to embrace this essential aspect of her late mother’s legacy, Joan Strong of Detroit. Michael lives in Miami, Fla. Email her at groverjr@msn.com.

Cheryl (Fisher) Schaefer ’75 retired from Carrollton Public Schools in June 2015 after 40 years of teaching. During her tenure, she taught second grade through high school, coached and was the district media specialist. Email Cheryl at cherylfisherschaefer@gmail.com.

Cynthia Compton ’76 works for Osage Development Corporation and Beach Properties in South Haven. Email Cindi at cindicomptonrealtor@gmail.com.

Les Rowsey ’77 and wife, Karen, celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary July 12, 2015. Les has served as director of choral music at Jenison High School for 30 years. He is a former Michigan School Vocal Music Association Teacher of the Year and finalist for Michigan Teacher of the Year. Email Les at lrowsey@jpsonline.org.

Rev. Edward Dawson ’78 lives in Phoenix, Ariz., and is active with several religious organizations. He serves as a minister, teacher and radio personality, and volunteers with churches in a number of capacities. He also teaches world religions at South Mountain Community College and is active in their music department. Visit Edward’s website at www.selahministries.synthasite.com and email him at RevED@rock.com.

Kevin Hayward ’78 works in risk management in regulatory compliance in the Southeast United States. He and wife, Martha, celebrated their 32nd wedding anniversary May 19. They bought a condo in Gulf Shores where they enjoy strolling the sugar white beaches and watching the beautiful sunsets. E-mail Kevin at kevin102654@aol.com.

Randy Jorgensen ex’78 had a chance to meet former Echo editor Mitch Galloway ’16 (right) at the annual Michigan Press Association Convention, Jan. 28-29 in Grand Rapids.

Mitch was awarded an MPA scholarship, and Randy received individual and overall newspaper honors at the convention. Randy is president of Page One, which oversees publication of the Tri-City Times, Page

One Printing, and Woods-N-Water News Magazine. He also owns the Castle Creek Golf Club in Attica. Email Randy at rjorgensen@ pageone-inc.com.

1980s Tim St. Aubin ’80, Jim Crocker ’77, Roy Piligian ’80, Jon McIver ’80 and Ricky Sampson ’81, former football teammates, reunited during the Olivet versus Albion game in the fall of 2015.

Stuart Blacklaw ’82 is provost and executive vice president for academic St. Aubin ’80, Crocker ’77, Piligian and student affairs at Community ’80, McIver ’80 and Sampson ’81 College of Allegheny County, Pittsburgh, Pa. Stuart served on the faculty at Olivet College for 12 years. Email him at stblacklaw@gmail.com.

John Stanley Ross ’88, D.M.A., was honored in February as faculty member of the week at Appalachian State University, where he is director of bands and associate professor of music. John conducts the Appalachian Wind Ensemble and Appalachian Concert Band, and guides all aspects of the ASU Bands program. He earned his Master of Music degree in wind ensemble and band conducting from the John Stanley Ross ’88, University of Michigan in 1992 and his Doctor D.M.A. of Musical Arts in instrumental conducting from Michigan State University in 2000. He lives in Boone, N.C. Email John at rossjs@appstate.edu.

Jerome Webster ’88, Ed.D., the sixth president of Terra State Community College in Fremont, Ohio, was honored during TSCC’s homecoming, Oct. 9 as an Outstanding Alumnus for 2015, representing the college of social justice and human service. Email Jerome at jwebster@terra.edu.

1990s Scott Sigler ’91 recently released his 10th book, “Alight: Book Two of the Generations Trilogy.” Scott is a New York Times best-selling author and the creator of 15 novels, six novellas and dozens of short stories.

“Alone,” the third book in the trilogy, is set to be released in October.

Email Scott at scott@scottsigler.net.

Cindy Hudson ’92 made a career change after 26 years in the Lansing State Journal newsroom. She is now the communications manager for the Michigan Sea Grant Extension program at Michigan State University. Michigan Sea Grant supports research, outreach and education to enhance sustainable use of Great Lakes resources. Email Cindy at hudsoncy@msu.edu.

Keith Green ’95 has been named principal for Hemlock High School, beginning with the 2016-17 academic year. He had served as the elementary and K.C. Ling principal for the previous five years, and before that he was athletic director and assistant principal at Hemlock High for six years. Email Keith at green@hemlockps.com.

Randy Jorgensen ex’78 and Mitch Galloway ’16

Danny Smith ’97, digital communications project manager at Dow Chemical Company, just finished his fifth year as the men’s baseball coach

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at Delta College. The team qualified for the post-season for the third consecutive season, owning a 118-70 record for four seasons. Danny graduated from Central Michigan University with a master’s degree in administration in December. Danny and wife, Mindy, live in Midland and have three children, Summer, 13, Allison, 11, and Truman, 6.

Landon Wilkes ’97 became the dean of students and athletic director at Maple Valley Junior/Senior High School in July 2015.

Landon had been the middle school social studies teacher and girls’ varsity basketball coach. Email Landon at lwilkes23@gmail.com.

Andrew Sargeant ’98 is the assistant director of parks, recreation and cemeteries for the City of Jackson. He and wife, Angela, have two children, Nolan, 10, and Abby, 6. Email Andrew at asargeant@cityofjackson.org.

Richard Craig ’99 published “African Americans and Mass Media: A Case for Diversity in Media Ownership” through Lexington Books.

Richard is assistant professor in the department of communication at George Mason University in Fairfax, Va. Email Richard at richtcraig@hotmail.com.

Mary Peacock ’76 and Bernadette Pauling ex’74

Alumni Coaches Named to Football Hall of Fame

Congratulations to Lowell Head Coach Noel Dean ’91 (second row, left) and Ithaca Head Coach Terry Hessbrook ’89 (front, fourth from left) on being named to the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association 2016 Hall of Fame!

March 12, 2016

2000s Shawn Dowling ’00, M.D., is now the medical director of physician learning program at the University of Calgary in Canada. He and wife, Stephanie (Kerwin) have three daughters, Chloe, 8, Juliette, 6, and Annabelle, 3. Email Shawn at skdowling@gmail.com.

Craig Bailey ’01, M.D., was the keynote speaker during Founders’ Day at Olivet College, Feb 17. In 2008 Craig earned his Doctor of Medicine at Wayne State University. He is committed to providing knowledgeable and compassionate primary care to the city of Detroit where he has owned and operated a private practice, Bailey Medical Group P.C., since 2013. Craig is one of the youngest primary care physicians in the Detroit area. Email him at cabaileyhh@gmail.com.

Rebecca (Lukasiewicz) Curnalia ’01 was honored as one of Mahoning Valley Young Professionals 25 Under 35 MVPs. Rebecca is a communications professor at Youngstown State University in Ohio.

She works with charities serving underprivileged women and children.

Email Rebecca at rmcurnalia@ysu.edu.

Phil Denny ’01 released his latest album, “Upswing,” in 2015. Based in the Lansing area, Phil is an acclaimed smooth jazz saxophonist who performs all over the United States. Although he earned a degree in business administration from Olivet College, his first love has always been music. Visit Phil’s website at www.phildenny.com and email him at letschat@phildenny.com.

Lamontraile Hale ’01, one of five founders of Mu Omega Pi, joined current student members of the fraternity in delivering water to Flint in February. Lamont always enjoys helping out and getting Olivet College students involved in meaningful acts of volunteerism. Email Lamont at lhale49076@gmail.com.

Steve Delaney ’03 learned to be a part of a successful team when he wrestled at Olivet College. In his ninth season as head wrestling coach at Grand Ledge High School, his alma mater, he was named the Lansing State Journal Wrestling Coach of the Year. His team won its conference title for the second straight year and qualified for the state tournament. The Grand Ledge Comets won their first Division I regional title and state tournament appearance in 11 years. Email Steve at coachdcomet@yahoo.com.

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SHIPHERD’S RECORD

Melody Betts ’04

Melody Betts ’04 currently plays the role of Mother Abbess for Rogers and Hammerstein’s touring production of “The Sound of Music.” Melody was last seen as the Rain Lady in Second Stage’s production of “Invisible Thread.” Her tour schedule can be found at www.thesoundofmusicontour.com. Email Melody at melody.betts@yahoo.com.

McKinsey Golfin ’05 received a citizenship award Feb. 5 from the Michigan Department of Corrections for conduct resulting in a significant contribution to his local community and public. McKinsey is a corrections officer for the MDC. He also marked a milestone as a basketball player at Ultimate Hoops by hitting the over-10,000-point mark within 452 career UH games. Email McKinsey at mckgolfin@ gmail.com.

Zachre Phillips ’06 is director of business development at Learfield Sports of St. Cloud (Minn.) State Sports Properties. He has spent more than 10 years in the sports industry, working for teams such as the Minnesota Timberwolves and Detroit Pistons, and as an NCAA scout.

Email Zachre at zachre.phillips@gmail.com.

Courtney Ivan ’07 is the athletic director/director of fitness and wellness center at Glen Oaks Community College in Centreville.

Courtney earned her master’s degree in organizational leadership from Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pa., where she coached women’s basketball. She is also a member of the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association. Email Courtney at navi3317@yahoo.com.

Kelli (McKee) Lile ’08 earned her Master of Arts in Communications with an emphasis in training and development from Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Mo. Kelli works in enrollment management as a campus director for the university. She and husband James Lile ’07 live in Cottleville, Mo. Email Kelli at kelli.lile9@gmail.com.

Mike Manning ’08 is assistant women’s soccer coach at University of South Carolina Beaufort. Manning had served as a volunteer assistant for the USC Beaufort Sand Sharks soccer team since its inaugural season in 2011. Email Mike at manning3@uscb.edu.

Megan Colby ’11 is a home health physical therapist for Optimal Home Care in Denver, Colo. In her spare time, she hikes with her boyfriend and her German shepherd, and volunteers and meets with other Olivetians in the area. Email Megan at colbymn4@gmail.com.

Mackenzie Heator ’09 recently returned from living and working as an au pair in Sydney, Australia. She enjoyed her time traveling and exploring the area, and also took surfing lessons at Manly Beach.

Email Mackenzie at mheator3@gmail.com.

Judith Tellez-Gonzalez ’11 is the assistant to the director and the main teacher for the San Felipe del Progresso School in Mexico.

The school was established for young people with disabilities and has been so successful that it now also serves students without disabilities. The school is part of the “School of Tomorrow” program, which focuses on utilizing modern technology for major degrees.

Email Judith at rainbow.judith@gmail.com.

Kelly Schulze ’09 is assistant objects conservator at the Cincinnati Art Museum.

She restored “The Vine,” a bronze statue which had been damaged by wind, rain and other elements. Currently she is working on samurai armor and swords Mackenzie Heator ’09 for an exhibition, “Dressed to Kill,” opening in February 2017. Kelly earned her master’s degree at the University College in London, England. Email her at km.schulze16@gmail.com.

2010s Michael Glenn ’10 is a property adjuster with USAA Insurance Company in Arizona. He had previously been living in Washington.

Mike and wife, Corina, live in Phoenix with their son.

Loree Bradacs ’12 earned her juris doctorate from Western Michigan University – Thomas M. Cooley Law School Jan. 24. Email Loree at lo.bradacs@gmail.com.

Paige Sedgewick ’12 is a production coordinator at Warm Springs Productions in Missoula, Mont. The company produces shows for major networks, including HGTV, The History Channel, Fox News and others.

Email Paige at pasedgewick6@gmail.com.

Kelsey (Singer) Smith ’12 earned her medical degree from University of Toledo and is at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., doing her residency in neurology. Email Kelsey at kelsey.singer@rockets.utoledo.edu.

Levi Stegeman ’12 is walking the Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Washington.

He started his journey in April and plans to end in September. Email Levi at levistegeman@gmail.com or follow his trail journey at www.trailjournals.com/hangmanpct.

Amy Zeisiger ’12 received her certificate of achievement for successful completion of Sign Language Interpreter at Lansing Community College. Email Amy at djamyz@aol.com.

Jennie Malm ’10, Ashley Elston ’09, Mackenzie Heator ’09, Ashley Adams Kautman ’09, Kim Travis ’10 and Lindsey (Tarrant) Sanchez ’09 all former volleyball players, had a reunion at Champs in Lansing in August 2015.

Email Mike at mglenn2037@gmail.com.

Ted Pick ’10 has been a park interpreter for Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in El Paso for two years. Email Ted at ted.pick@tpwd.texas.gov.

Ben Sherman ’10 was promoted from defensive coordinator to head football coach at Grand Rapids Forest Hills Eastern High School. He also is athletic events coordinator for FHE and FHN. After graduating from Olivet, Ben was an assistant football coach at Olivet for a year.

Email Ben at bsherman@fhps.net.

Aaron Campbell ’11 now serves as a road deputy with the Eaton County Sheriff’s Office, after having served with the City of Ypsilanti Police Department from 2012-14. He is a K-9 handler with the sheriff’s department and is on the meth response team. His wife, Sarah (Beckon) ex’13 is an officer with the East Lansing Police Department. Email Aaron at acdcampbell29@gmail.com.

Ben Sherman ’10

Levi Stegeman ’12

Mario Rodriguez ’13 is a social services worker for the State of Michigan in Calhoun County. He works with foster care children and helps parents with the reunification process. Email Mario at rodriguezM7@michigan.gov.

Katie Dobis ’14 earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing Dec. 12, 2015, from Purdue University in Hammond, Ind. Email Katie at katiedobis@gmail.com.

Justin Leonard ’14 is a model for Ford Models Chicago and the Matthew Agency. Before modeling, he wrestled and assisted with coaching at Olivet College, and was a two-time national qualifier. Email Justin at Justin.leonard197@gmail.com.

Levi Armstrong ’15 has accepted a graduate assistantship from Eastern Illinois University. It is a two-year program in music performance with a jazz studies concentration. Email Levi at leviticus1013@gmail.com.

Hayley Drummond ’15 is the internet sales manager at Red Cedar Auto Sales in Williamston, and her part-time job is at Picture People in Okemos. Hayley won honors in the 2015 Better Collegiate Newspaper contest for her work as a staff member for the Echo, Olivet College’s newspaper. While a senior, Hayley was a photographer for the Echo and the editor for the 2015 “Garfield Lake Review.” Email her at hayleydrummond780@gmail.com.

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Marriages

Births

Leslie (Shuttleworth) Legg ’69 and Darrell M. Smith, April 2.

Murfreesboro, Tenn. Email Leslie at leslieleggtn@gmail.com.

Carrie (Abbott) Carlow ’06 and husband, Christopher, a son, Camden Walter, Dec. 31, 2015. Email Carrie at cabbott48413@hotmail.com.

Martin Kapff ’72 and Robert Merliss, Aug. 1, 2015. Email Martin at socialbear@aol.com.

Deanna (Thompson) Larson ’06 and husband, Joe, a daughter, Mackenzie Marie, Feb. 25. She joins sister, Abigail, 3, and brother, Joseph, 1. They live in Virginia Beach, Va. Email Deanna at deannamthompson@hotmail.com.

Mark Girardin ’75 and Laurie Meier, Dec. 22, 2015. Northport. Email Mark at mgirardin@northbayproduce.com.

Laura Brinkley ’07 and Amanda “A.J.” Johnston ’07, July 15, 2015, in front of Burrage Library, Olivet. Mike Fales ’75 performed the ceremony.

In the wedding party were Olivetians Aimee (Villanueva) Reed ’02, Laura Brinkley ’07 and AJ Johnston ’07 Annie (Hoban) Burgess ’03, Melissa Chovance ’05, Meghan (Egan) Kunzelman ’06, Jenna (Little) Long ’07 and Samantha Johnston ’14 (AJ’s sister).

Email A.J. at msjohnston54@gmail.com.

Juan Aguirre ’08 and Jamie Lee Simon, Jan. 16, Orlando, Fla. Olivetians in the wedding were Abbie Utberg ex’08, Justin Hulsebos ’09, Brian Jaffee ’09, Andrew Wasson ’10 and Jon Hon ex’12. Email Juan at jaguirre24@gmail.com.

Mike Harden ’12 and Sarah Hiser, Sept.

12, 2015, Laurel Ridge Country Club in Waynesville, N.C. Groomsmen were Rafe Maxwell ’11 and Jean Paul Cortes ’09.

Mike is an analytics consultant for Deloitte, environmental consulting firm, in San Francisco. E-mail Mike at hardenmc@gmail.com.

Hristo Kozhuharov ’07 and wife, Ann, a daughter, Mirella Hristov, March 6. She joins sister, Galena, 2. Email Hristo at hkozhuharov@yahoo.com.

Ryan Newberry ’07 and wife, Ashley, a son, Ryder Anthony, Aug. 19, 2015. Ryan is the general manager at Black River Tavern in South Haven. Email him at rnewberry006@gmail.com.

Justin Smelter ’07 and Abbey Hammond-Smelter ’09, a daughter, Emerson, Sept. 29, 2015. She joins sister, Evelyn, 2. Email Justin and Abbey at jsmelter01@yahoo.com.

Jessica (Petkus) ’08 and Greg Jarratt ’09, a daughter, Grace Marie, March 19. She joins brother, Ross, 2. Email Greg at gregory.jarratt@gmail.com.

Ryan Key ’08 and wife, Hillary, a son, Nolan Michael, April 24. He joins brother, Colton, 1. E-mail Ryan at ryan.k.key@gmail.com.

Ashley (Ollenburger) ’08 and James Reynolds ’10, a daughter, Mackenzie, Nov. 9, 2015. She joins brother, Dominic, 2. Email James at jdreynolds@aaamichigan.com.

Jacob ’09 and Crystal (Adams) ’11 Dungey, a daughter, Nora Lynn Marie, Feb. 27. Email Jacob and Crystal at dungey.jacob@gmail.com.

Mike ’12 and Sarah Harden

Maria Ximena Loza-Lopez ’14 and Krikor Mouradian, Nov. 4, 2015, Cristo Rey Church, Lansing, with the reception at Eagle Eye Banquet Hall in Bath. Haley Bazzani ’14 was the maid of honor; bridesmaids were Kattie Stahl ’14, Allison Stockmeyer ’14, Aubrey Stockmeyer ’14, Roya Shokorzadeh-Shokohi ex’14 and Meghan Taylor ’14. Email Maria at mlozalopez@outlook.com.

Megahn Piper ’15 and Nick Lammers, Aug. 29, 2015, Sandstone Congregational Church, Parma. Bridesmaid was Leighla (Line) Smith ’14. Email Megahn at megahn@umich.edu.

Friends’ Marriages Brandon Brissette and Amber Simon, Sept. 25, 2015. St. Gerard’s Catholic Church, Lansing. Reception was at the Ramada Inn, Lansing. Brandon is Olivet College’s head wrestling coach. Email him at bbrissette@olivetcollege.edu.

Sarah (Fitzpatrick) Herrmann ’09 and husband, Ryan, a daughter, Zoey Elizabeth, Dec. 12, 2015. Sarah has been working at Kent County Department of Health and Human Services for five years. Email her at herrmannsarah@gmail.com.

Joanne (Osborn) Miller ’09 and husband, Greg, a daughter, Emma, Aug. 28, 2015. She joins brother, Samuel, 2. Email Joanne at jmiller4613@gmail.com.

Kevin Shettler ’09 and wife, Kelly, a son, Bennett Gerald, May 17. He joins sister, Quinn, 1 and brother, William, 4. Email Kevin at kevinshettler@gmail.com.

Mary (Bock) ’10 and Nicholas Coppersmith ’12, a son, Beau Gerald, Sept. 23, 2015. Email Nick at Nick@aimasphalt.com.

Jeremy Underwood ’10 and wife, Alexis, a daughter, Aria Grace, Nov. 25, 2015. Email Jeremy at underwoodoc@gmail.com.

Megan (McCarty) ’11 and Tony ’12 Phillips, a daughter, Peyton Leigh, Dec. 28, 2015. Email Megan at lilmegs381@yahoo.com and Tony at motorcitybball@aol.com.

Katie (Koralewski) Smith ’11 and husband, Zachary, a son, Jestin Zachary, Jan. 12. Email Katie at katie.koralewski@gmail.com.

Taylor (Ellis) ’13 and Joshua ’14 Reynolds, a daughter, Violet Christine, Oct. 7, 2015. Email Taylor at taylor.reynolds8@aol.com.

Matthew Weaver ’13 and wife, Taylor (Snyder) ex’14, a son, Talin Edgar Gene, March 22. He joins sister, Taysen, 2. Email the Weavers at theweavers310@gmail.com.

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SHIPHERD’S RECORD

In Memoriam George Krepps ’38, Jan. 24, Avon, Conn. He was predeceased by wife “Toni” (Olsen) Krepps ’39. Donations in his memory may be sent to Olivet College.

Laura Zonyk ’73, Jan. 5. Mendon. Survived by brothers Jeff Zonyk ’69 and Eric Zonyk ’71.

Wendy (Slayton) McCarty ’76, April 18. American Fork, Utah.

David Lange ’77, Oct. 2, 2015. Mesick.

Mary (Beard) Dowlding ’39, March 28. Menomonee, Wisc.

Titus Walters ex’82, Sept. 26, 2015. Detroit.

Margaret (Berghorst) Wall ’42, Feb. 11. Plymouth. Husband, Carl Wall ’40, and sister, Laura (Berghorst) Verplank ’38 predeceased her. Survived by granddaughter, Laura (Schryer) von Allmen ’00, and her husband, Chris von Allmen ’96.

Cynthia (Locke) Harris ’85, Dec. 24, 2015. Charlotte.

Geraldine Wallace ’43, Dec. 12, 2015. Milford, Ohio.

Kari (Searles) Jolink ’06, Feb. 24. Marshall. Survived by husband, Joel Jolink ’06.

Florence (Browning) Olmstead ’45, Jan. 24. Portland.

Margaret (Grab) Lehman ’48, Feb. 23. Tampa, Fla. Husband Charles Lehman ’79 predeceased her. She is survived by daughter, Ann Lehman ’77.

Richard Haw ’49, Sept. 28, 2015. Kalamazoo. Donations in his memory may be made to Olivet College.

Opal Ream ’49, April 30. Punta Gorda, Fla. William “Bill” Welte ’49, May 28, 2015. Gales Ferry, Conn. His wife, Margaret (Goodsir) Welte ’49, predeceased him. Survived by daughter, Elizabeth (Welte) Herzig ’75.

Nancy (Werrbach) Gilroy ’51, April 24. Saint Augustine, Fla. Gretchen (Shinn) Nixon ’54, March 4. Marysville. She is survived by husband, William Nixon ’51.

Perry Dulong ’55, March 8. The Villages, Fla.

Ann (Vogelreuter) Bartus ’87, Sept. 15, 2015. Ada. Patrick Glennie ex’92, Aug. 25, 2015. Alpena.

Darcell Williams ex’10, Dec. 27, 2015. Lawrence.

In Memoriam - Friends of Olivet Wesley Garner, Aug. 24, 2015. Centreville. Former professor of education from 1992-98. Survived by wife, Suzy (Lips Fittro) Garner ’96 and MAT ’00.

Jan Hayhow, May 8, Novi. She is survived by Olivet College Trustee Emeritus David Hayhow.

Stu Parsell, Nov. 19, 2015. Suttons Bay. Olivet College football coach during the 1960s. Survived by wife, Cecilia Parsell, former nurse at Olivet College.

Leah Woodman, Dec. 29, 2015. Altamont, Tenn. Former housekeeper at Olivet College for 33 years.

Larry McMillan ’59, Oct. 11, 2015. Fountain Hills, Ariz.

William “Cliff” Dean ’60, May 13. Beverly Hills. He is survived by wife of 55 years, Marilyn (Purse) Dean ’60. Donations in his memory may be sent to Olivet College.

Carolyn (Erbes) Morse ’62, Jan. 1. Frederick, Md. Survived by husband, Rev. Michael Morse ’61.

Don Winger ’62, Dec. 17, 2015. Midland. Survived by brother, Doug Winger ’71.

James Stoia ex’63, D.D.S., March 28. Troy.

George Pyne III ’65, Nov. 26, 2015. Milford, Mass.

Tom Nesbitt ’64, Aug. 2, White Lake.

David Burns ex’66, Dec. 15, 2014. Charlevoix. Survived by brother, Robert Burns ’59.

John Byle ’66, 2015, Tel Aviv, Israel. John taught art at Olivet College 1965-1967.

Doug Sowle ’66, Jan. 18, 2015. Breckenridge.

Richard “Richie” Smith ’66, April 27. New Port Richey, Fla. Daniel Rhodes ’67, Aug. 9, 2015. Chicago.

Joyce (Hoerauf) Boehmer ’72, April 30. Mount Morris. She is survived by sister Grace (Hoerauf) Boxwell ’72.

Shearly (Patterson) Wilson ’72, Nov. 15, 2015. Albion. Survived by husband, Woody Wilson ’69.

Rev. James Bruce Redner ’73, Oct. 11, 2015. Halls Head, Western Australia.

SUMMER/FALL

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21

Support OC with a Charitable Gift Annuity, Receive Guaranteed Income for Life

Donor(s)

Income tax deduction and fixed payments for life

Age CGA Rate

60 65 70 75 80

4.4% 4.7% 5.1% 5.8% 6.8%

Cash, stock or other assets

(*Based on ACGA rates and tables as of June 2016)

Charitable Gift Annuity

Remainder to Olivet College

Ben and June make a gift of $10,000 in stock to fund a charitable gift annuity with Olivet College. Ben is 65 and June is 64. They funded their gift with $10,000 of appreciated stock that they bought for $6,000 (their cost basis).

In exchange for this gift, Ben and June will receive a charitable deduction of $2,160.60 this year and will receive an annual 4.2 percent of payment each year for the remainder of both of their lives – 44 percent of which they will receive tax-free.* What is a charitable gift annuity?

A charitable gift annuity is a simple contract between you and Olivet College. In exchange for your irrevocable gift of cash, securities or other assets, Olivet College agrees to pay one or two annuitants you name (most often you and/or your spouse) a fixed sum each year of your life. The older the designated annuitants at the time of the gift, the greater the fixed payments your recipients will receive from Olivet College.

In most cases, part of each payment is taxfree, increasing each payment’s after-tax value. If you give appreciated property you will pay capital gains tax on only part of the appreciation. In addition, if you name yourself as the first or only annuitant the capital gains tax will be spread out over many years rather than be all due in the year of your gift.

Payments are usually made in annual, semiannual or quarterly installments.

Benefits include: You will qualify for a federal income tax deduction the year the gift is made.

1. The annuitants you name will receive fixed annual payments for life.

2. If you fund the annuity with a long-term appreciated asset (one you have held for more than one year), such as stock, you will incur tax on only part of the gain. If you name yourself as annuitant, this tax will be spread out over multiple years.

To set up your charitable gift annuity with Olivet College or to make a gift, contact the Advancement Office at 269.749.7932.

3. Your estate may enjoy reduced probate costs and estate taxes.

4. You will provide generous support to Olivet College.

CELEBRATING

Michigan’s Best Leaders

By Molly (Reed) Goaley ’05 From left: President Corey with Jim Robinson, Sarah (Engle) Lawrence ’56, Calvin Jones and Bob Lawrence ’57

Every year, Olivet College recognizes some of the most dedicated leaders in the state during its Leadership for Individual and Social Responsibility Awards Dinner.

Honorees are chosen for exemplifying leadership in their chosen professions and for reflecting the college’s vision of Education for Individual and Social Responsibility. The 2016 Leadership Award recipients are:

Calvin Jones, Director of Governmental Affairs, Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) Calvin Jones believes in the power giving back to others. Born and raised in Lansing, he’s dedicated his life and career to serving the needs of Lansing citizens. His work at the BWL includes the coordination of the city’s Chili Cook-Off, which annually raises thousands of dollars for charity through this beloved tradition. He also organizes Silver Bells in the City, an event that attracts thousands to downtown Lansing each year. Jones was named a Distinguished Alumnus of Lansing Community College is 2011 and is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. He is also a graduate of Michigan State University’s Political Leadership Program and the Michigan Chamber of Commerce Leadership Michigan Program.

Robert “Bob” ’57 and Sarah (Engle) ’56 Lawrence Bob Lawrence, who has served on the Olivet College Board of Trustees for many years, led a 40-year career in the chemical industry. He retired as group vice president – polyurethanes from BASF Corporation in 1997. As an Olivet College trustee, Bob has contributed to the leadership of the college in many ways.

He received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the college in 2000.

Sarah Lawrence, who grew up in Olivet, is the former Henry Ford Museum archivist and registrar. She taught high school mathematics for a number of years, but her interest in history prompted her to earn a master’s degree in library science with a specialty in archival records.

Together, the Lawrences are among Olivet College’s most significant supporters. Their most recent contributions led to the reorganization and preservation of the college archives, including the addition of a full-time archivist.

Jim Robinson, Chief Executive, Farm Bureau Insurance of Michigan Jim Robinson is the fourth chief executive to lead Farm Bureau Insurance of Michigan in the company’s 67-year history. As CEO, he is responsible for leading the entire Farm Bureau Insurance operation in the state, which includes three major insurance companies: Farm Bureau Mutual, Farm Bureau General, and Farm Bureau Life. Robinson is also a long-time advocate for his community, dedicating his time to serving the boards of the Mid-Michigan Travel Coalition, Sparrow Foundation, Roy Westran Scholarship, Lansing Economic Area Partnership, and Ele’s Place Lansing, a healing center for grieving children and teens.

Thank you to our sponsors!

Program Level Barnes & Thornburg LLP The Collaborative CSM Group Farm Bureau Insurance of Michigan Rod ’81 & Amy Hathaway Tom ’69 & Gayle Kolassa Robert ’57 & Sarah (Engle) ’56 Lawrence Leadership Level Amerisure Insurance Chartwells Dining Services Maria Davis, Ph.D. Eaton Federal Savings Bank Enterprise Fleet Management Excellence in Action, Inc. Fifth Third Bank Hayes Green Beach Memorial Hospital Timothy ’83, D.O., & Tami Hodge Dave ’84 & Sonya Labrecque Jeff & Beth (Larson) ’90 Wildern Event Level Abbott Road Center for the Family Air-Way Manufacturing Company Independent Bank Maner Costerisan, PC Robert ’68 & Diane Parrella SME Karen (Wilson) ’81 & Keith Van Hentenryck Wells Fargo Bank Ahmad ’05 & Janet (Stam) ’07 Zeaiter

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Homecoming 2016 6

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1. Comet football players make their grand entrance into Cutler Athletic Complex for the Homecoming game on Oct. 8, 2016. 2. Alpha Lambda Epsilon hangs their winning banner in the Square after the Banner Competition during Homecoming. 3. A plaque on the gate of Cutler honors Thomas Nesbitt ’64, Charles McPhail ’64 and George Pyne III ’65 4. Students admire art by Frank Corl ’94 and Amy (Gardner) Dean ’92 in the Kresge Foundation Art Gallery. 5. Travis Sleight ’06 speaks during the award celebration honoring his induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame and several other award recipients. 6. Young Comets show off their school spirit during the Homecoming football game, resulting in a 35-6 victory over Kalamazoo College. 7. Winners of the Family Feud competition pose with their prize during events to kick off Homecoming. 8. The Olivet College marching band performs on field for one of the first times in 30 years during Homecoming.

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